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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

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Serving Columbia County since 1881

Arrest follows gas line break JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Metro Creative Connection / The Chronicle

St. Helens approved the preparation of a roughly 100-acres timber sale in the Milton Creek Watershed.

City to prepare timber sale STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Following a profitable Douglas fir timber sale in 2020, St. Helens is preparing to sell more timber this year.

The St. Helens City Council approved preparing a timber sale of around 100 acres in the Milton Creek Watershed. The city will get bids on the timber price and approve or decline the sale at that time.

Brent Keller, associate at the city-contracted forest management firm Mason, Bruce & Girard, told city councilors the price for timber is higher now than it has been in the past.

“Prices right now are well above the five-year average,” he said, and that prices were at an all time high last summer. If the city chooses to sell 50 acres of timber, he expects there could be $625,000 in income, and he recommended two cuts equaling around 100 acres and increasing the profit.

The 2020 timber sale, which spanned 66 acres, netted just under $1.4 million. Mills in the small log market are paying competitive timber prices, Keller said, largely due to the strong housing market.

Small logs are typically produced into dimension lumber that is used in the construction industry. Most of St. Helens timber is small Douglas fir saw logs.

Those logs range from $700$800 per million board foot (MBF), which is higher than it was at this time last year. Stumpage prices for the city’s timber would range from $450-$550 per MBF, Keller said.

The city councilors and Mayor Rick Scholl agreed that it would be good for the city to take advantage of the competitive market.

“We have so many big projects going on, and the market seems right,” Scholl said. “I’m not saying cut all the timber and not all the watershed, we’re talking a small fraction of the watershed. He recommended two cuts of about 100 acres, and I would like to go with what he recommended knowing we have projects in mind.”

The Milton Creek Watershed has ­­­­ See TIMBER Page A9

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Vol. 139, No. 6

A St. Helens man was arrested after allegedly hitting a large natural gas pipe off Highway 30 near Deer Island Thursday night, Feb. 5.

St. Helens Police responded to a report of a hit and run driver in the area at approximately 5:39 p.m. and discovered the damaged natural gas pipe at that time.

The pipe was spraying natural gas into the air, causing police to immediately close the roads in the area and setting up a safety perimeter, according to a release from the St. Helens Police Department.

Columbia River Fire & Rescue and NW Natural assisted with securing the natural gas line, and residents in approximately 100 homes were alerted to shelter in place. “Due to the nature of the incident, to protect life safety, we asked that folks stay inside and avoid the area,” CRFR spokesperson Jennifer Motherly said. “CRFR staff knocked on the doors of some of the homes near the area on Deer Island Road. The homes located down below the Columbia Humane Society were notified via reverse 911 by Columbia 911.”

By 7:30 p.m. NW Natural crews were able to turn off the gas line and make repairs, allowing the closed roads to reopen shortly after and the shelter in place order to be lifted.

The original hit and run report identified a dark colored vehicle hitting an unidentified object, discovered to be the gas pipe, on the side of the road before driving off. Officers checked the area for the suspected vehicle, which was

Courtesy of David McFarland

This is the site of the gas leak as seen from reader David McFarland.

last seen driving toward Crestwood Village.

Police learned of a resident with a black Chevrolet Camaro matching the description of the hit and run vehicle while checking the area. The owner of the Camaro, Mark Alan Erhardt, 53, was seen leaving the neighborhood in a brown Jeep moments prior, police said.

A nearby police officer who spotted the described Jeep as it passed the police cruiser conducted a traffic stop and took Erhardt into custody. Erhardt was charged with two counts of driving under the influence of intoxicants, reckless driving, reckless endangering and failure to perform the duties of a

driver.

He was booked and released at the Columbia County Jail. Erhardt’s court date is pending.

Motherway said the incident is a good example for local residents to be signed up with the county’s ‘CAN’ notification system.

According to Columbia 911’s website/CAN link, dispatchers can activate a high speed telephone dialing service to notify citizens and businesses of important information.

“The dialing service is called “CAN” which stands for Columbia Alert Network. Notifications are delivered to targeted geographic areas by a telephone call or electronic messages like text messaging or

email,” Motherway said.

The notification system was initiated by the Columbia Emergency Planning Association (CEPA) in 2000. CEPA is a partnership organization of industry, public safety and local governments in Columbia County for the purpose of emergency preparedness and planning.

“Registration is necessary to participate in the CAN notification system, otherwise the members of the community risk not getting notified of emergencies,” Motherway said.

Find out more at Columbia County’s website, columbiacountyor.gov

County expects change to “high risk” MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Switching from “extreme risk” to “high risk” means: • Indoor dining is allowed at 25% capacity • Indoor entertainment and recreation is allowed at 35% capacity • Certain outdoor recreation and entertainment are allowed 75 people maximum

Declining COVID-19 case rates in Columbia County may allow the county to move down to the ‘high risk’ category and bring back limited in-person dining, along with other indoor activities, as soon as Friday, Feb. 12.

The official announcement was made on Tuesday, Feb. 9, after the press deadline of The Chronicle, but the metrics used by the state to assess each county’s risk placed Columbia in the “high risk” category down from “extreme risk.” Visit thechronicleonline.com for up to date information.

The metrics

The state’s risk level framework framework tracks each county’s COVID-19 case rate and test positivity rate over a two-week period to determine what set of restrictions that county will follow to reduce the spread of COVID-19. There are four levels: extreme risk, high risk, moderate risk and lower risk.

Counties with over 200 new cases per 100,000 people reported over a two-week period and a test positivity rate of over 10% are considered at an extreme risk. To move to high risk, a county must report between 100 to 200 new cases per 100,000 people over a two-week period and a test positivity rate of between 8-10%.

Based on the data from the most recent two-week period (Jan. 24-Feb. 6), Columbia County is eligible to move down to high risk. From Jan. 124-Feb. 6 there were 69 new cases reported, which equals a case rate of 130.8 cases per 100,000 people and a test positivity rate of 4.2%.

The metrics follow a downward case trend in the county. In the previous two-week period, (Jan. 17-30) there were 74 new cases reported, which puts the county case rate at 140.3 per 100,000 people, and the test positivity rate was 4.7%.

For reference, the statewide case ­­­­ See PANDEMIC Page A10

Sweet Pea’s favorite sky high perch JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

You might spot Sweet Pea crouching proud and true, high a top the St. Helens Library.

The cat has gained a lot of attention while sitting peacefully on the roof of the building.

The neighborhood St. Helens Public Library has received phone calls, emails, messages on social media, in-person queries, and

Morse code asking if the cat that has recently taken up residence on the library’s roof is stuck.

“We would like to reassure everyone that she is not,” according to the library’s post in the City of St. Helens latest newsletter.

“Sweet Pea lives in the neighborhood and recently discovered that she can get on the library roof and now she spends her days surveying her kingdom.”

When not on the roof, the

library staff reports that Sweet Pea also likes to pounce on insects in the lawn and warm herself on the hoods of staff cars.

Next time you drive by the St. Helens Public Library, see if you can spot Sweet Pea and tell her hello.

“But please don’t fret (or call the fire or police departments) we promise she can get off the roof on her own,” the library’s newsletter post reads.

2021 CHRONICLE

Courtesy photo

Sweet Pea on her perch atop the St. Helens Public Library.

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April 17th April 18th VENDORS WANTED Contact Amy at 503-397-0116 or atrull@countrymedia.net SPONSORED BY

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

State to speed up vaccination timeline a relatively short supply of vaccines.

ZACK DEMARS worldnews3@countrymedia.net

Oregon seniors may receive doses of the COVID-19 vaccine faster than previously expected.

Thanks to additional planed doses of the vaccine to come from the federal government, Oregon has plans to speed up its statewide vaccination timeline, Brown and state health officials announced during a news conference Feb 5.

The state’s now projecting three quarters of health care workers educational staff and seniors to become eligible within the next four weeks will have received a first dose of the vaccine by early April, about a month ahead of the state’s previous projection.

“This is really good news.

However, we still have a long way to go,” Oregon Governor Kate Brown said.

A quicker timeline for vaccinating seniors means the state will be able to reach other groups sooner too, according to Oregon Health Authority Director Patrick Allen.

“That’s good news for seniors,” Allen said. “It’s also good news for frontline workers, people with underlying health conditions, and others who are next in line.”

The new projection comes after federal health officials promised the state an increase in vaccine doses in the coming weeks, Allen said. He laid out the three factors which impact how quickly the state can distribute vaccine: The number of

Degree of chaos

Courtesy graph

available doses, the size of the eligible population and the rate at which vaccination sites across the state could be distributing vaccine.

That third factor isn’t an issue, as Allen said the state could be vaccinating twice as many people as it currently is.

“That leaves supply and demand as the limiting factors,” Allen said.

More doses According to Allen, new dose allocations announced by the federal government mean the state will see more than 75,000 doses of the vaccine a week. The increase includes 11,600 more doses a week in the state’s standard allocation, and 12,000 new doses a week through a federal pharmacy partnership program.

Starting this week, Al-

len said the state will begin using 5,000 doses a week to vaccinate adults in custody in state prisons and county jails, as well as eligible youth in custody of the Oregon Youth Authority, in line with a federal court order issued Feb. 3 mandating the state vaccinate prisoners.

There could be more improvements on the horizon, too, as Allen said the state’s timeline doesn’t take into account the possibility of a third vaccine, produced by Johnson & Johnson, which could enter the supply chain by early March pending federal approvals.

Still, despite the accelerated distribution projection, Friday’s press conference came the same day the state announced its 2,000th virusrelated death.

“Each life lost to this horrible virus is one too many,” Brown said. “I know each number here is someone’s

mother or father, child, best friend or colleague. It’s difficult, and it’s heartbreaking, and my thoughts are with each of these families.”

I’m asking older Oregonians for patience, in exchange for this promise: While it will take time, every senior who wants to get vaccinated will get a vaccine in the coming weeks. ~ Pat Allen, director of OHA

Health officials also are preparing for difficulties over the next several weeks, when hundreds of thousands more Oregonians are in line for

“Next week, when seniors begin to become eligible, we will see some degree of chaos,” Allen. “Next week, many older adults will inevitably voice frustration.

Next week, you will not have to look hard to see people experiencing confusion. We will fall short.”

The smooth rollout of vaccines to Oregon’s elderly will require patience and understanding, he emphasized.

He noted that not everyone who becomes eligible will get a vaccine right away, but may have to wait several weeks to move to the front of the line.

“As we’ve said all along, our limitation isn’t capacity,” Allen said. “It’s supply.”

Some pharmacies across the state will soon have doses of the vaccine to administer to eligible individuals, Allen said. That’ll be one option for seniors to get vaccinated, alongside vaccine clinics, local public health authorities and long-term care facilities.

According to the state’s vaccination timeline, individuals 80 and older became eligible for vaccines Feb. 8.

Those 75 and older will be eligible on Feb. 15, and those 70 and up will be eligible on Feb. 22. On March 1, anyone 65 or older will be eligible for a vaccine.

How to receive a vaccine Health officials have developed several methods for providing information about getting a vaccine. The

state’s covidvaccine.oregon. gov website contains general information about the vaccine and vaccination eligibility.

That website is now home to a “Get Vaccinated Oregon” tool developed to help individuals determine their eligibility for a vaccine, find vaccination events across the state and register for alerts about their eligibility.

The tool won’t guarantee a place in line, as vaccination appointments are made by vaccine providers.

People call also text “ORCOVID” to 898211 to get text updates about nearby clinics in English and Spanish, or email ORCOVID@211info.org with questions.

Statewide vaccine eligibility information also is available by calling 211 or 866-698-6155, though officials caution that wait times may be very long given the high call volume, and Allen suggested seniors should wait until their age group is eligible before reaching out for more information.

“I’m asking older Oregonians for patience, in exchange for this promise: While it will take time, every senior who wants to get vaccinated will get a vaccine in the coming weeks,” Allen said.

Read more about Oregon’s vaccination program at covidvaccine.oregon.gov/ and follow COVID-19 updates online at thechronicleonline. com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

Accident damages county fiber lines, disrupts internet, phones STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Internet and telephone services through provider Comcast were disrupted for several hours Monday, Feb. 8, in St. Helens and other parts of Columbia County.

The Chronicle was also

impacted by the services disruption.

According to Crystal King, the City of St. Helens spokesperson, city officials noted the disruption around 9:30 a.m.

King said that Tim Goodman, Senior Director Government Affairs at Comcast,

contacted all city managers in the region with the following information: “I just wanted to alert you that there was some type of vehicular accident resulting in our fiber being damaged which is impacting Comcast business and residential customers in each of your cities.

We had crews onsite around noon today and they hope to have an alternate fiber in place to restore service by 5 p.m. today. We will keep you updated if this outage is prolonged by some unexpected issues.”

An unconfirmed report to The Chronicle said the fiber outage occurred in the Corne-

lius Pass Road area.

“Our email, internet, and phones were down at city buildings,” King said. “Staff was able to work on alternate projects and tasks during the disruption. Emergency and non-emergency dispatch continued to work during the outage.”

Comcast had restored most Internet and phone services by 3:30 p.m. Monday.

The Chronicle’s calls to Comcast for specific details about what caused the outage and if customers would be refunded for the service disruption had not been returned as of press time.

2 escape boat fire

A crew from Columbia River Fire & Rescue carefully check out the vessel.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Fire crews rushed to the St. Helens Marina late Wednesday afternoon to a report of a boat on fire.

When crews arrived they found the two occupants out of the 30-foot boat sitting along the marine boardwalk and light smoke coming from the boat.

Craten Sanders said he and his wife, Kathy, were changing batteries on the boat when smoke began filling the vessel.

“Smoke came out and we called the fire department,” Sanders said. “We hooked up a hose and began spraying water inside the boat where we thought it would be hot.”

Sanders complained of smoke inhalation, otherwise

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

the two said they were able to get off the boat uninjured.

The two St. Helens residents were preparing to go crabbing when the incident occurred on their boat.

“So now it will be a few weeks before we can go, but we’ll get it figured out.”

Sanders said.

Damage estimates to the boat were not immediately available.

ine l n o Bid ing start. 14 Feb Online

OHSU IS OFFERING COVID TESTING AT NO COST TO YOU!

Location: St. Helens High School, 2375 Gable Rd., St. Helens, OR Dates: Wednesdays, beginning Jan 20, Feb 2, Feb 10, Feb 17 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sign up: www.ohsu.edu/COVIDVans

SIGN UP TO GET YOUR TEST AT THIS LOCATION

Auction

The Columbia County Fairgrounds is auctioning off a brown Jack Daniels Barrel with plaque celebrating the 100th Columbia County Fair from 2015.

The estimated value of this barrel is $499.00. Item will be available at the Columbia County Fairgrounds Online Auction on their Facebook page starting next Sunday 2/14/21-2/21/21. Item will be sold to the highest bidder with all bids being capped at $2500.00.

Auction is free to attend, commenting on items is limited to BIDS only but you may call the fair office for more details @ 503-397-4231.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

COVID COMMUNITY OUTREACH TESTING

How do I get tested?

- Go to URL to sign up for your timeslot.

- Please carefully follow registration and scheduling instructions.

What else do I need to know?

- This is an outdoor testing event, so please dress for the weather.

- Testing is for those older than 2 months.

- If you tested positive before and do NOT have symptoms, you must wait 90+ days before getting another test.

- COVID vaccine will not be provided at these events.

www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

A3

Columbia County releases vaccine interest form

February 21st 9 am classes

Best Western

CONCEAL CARRY PERMIT CLASS

585 S. Columbia River Highway, St. Helens Courtesy of CRFR

Vaccination clinics were held in January for members of the Columbia River Fire & Rescue District and other first responders part of the Phase 1A group of the state’s vaccination plan.

MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net

Columbia County has released a vaccination interest form, for people who want to sign up to be notified when they are eligible to receive a vaccine.

The form asks for name, address, contact information and employment information to help determine when people may be eligible. People who submit an interest form will also be updated on vaccine status in the county. Sign up at form.jotform.com/ColumbiaCountyPHD/vaccinationinterest.

Those without internet access who are interested in receiving the vaccine are asked to call 503-397-7247 to sign up for the list.

County Public Health Director Michael Paul anticipates that demand for vaccine will continue to outweigh the supply for a while, but asked residents for patience throughout the process.

“We just want to make sure that people know vaccines are scarce,” Paul said a county commission meeting Wednesday. “More information is coming in the coming weeks, and just know that there will be many more people who want to get vaccinated than there are vaccines available.”

Eligibility Adults age 80 and older became eligible to receive vaccines starting this week.

People age 75 and older become eligible next week on Feb. 15; people age 70 and older on Feb. 22 and lastly people age 65 and older on March 1.

Across Oregon, there are approximately 795,000 people age 65 and older, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA). The U.S. Census Bureau estimates around 19.2% of people in Columbia County are age 65 or older, which would mean about 10,000 people will be eligible for vaccinations by March

1. However, some of those people may have received the vaccine earlier if they were part of a Phase 1A, group which includes people in longterm care centers and health care workers.

As of Feb. 8, nearly 3,000 people have received vaccinations in the county. Of those, 784 have received both doses and are considered fully vaccinated. Both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines require two doses to be fully effective.

The county is working with local health providers to administer vaccines. Agencies like Columbia Health Services receive the county’s allocations of vaccine and administer the shots to people when they are eligible and scheduled. The county is working to enroll more providers in the vaccination program.

“Moving forward, this is going to be a major undertaking and huge challenge for all counties we need it to be a community effort and countywide effort,” Paul said.

As Oregon communities and social services agencies continue to struggle under the strain of the multiple waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, CareOregon is investing an additional $500,000 to support communities served by its coordinated care organizations Columbia Pacific and Jackson Care Connect.

Each organization will distribute $250,000 to community based organizations serving their communities.

“The cumulative stresses of this pandemic are adding up and people are hurting,” CareOregon CEO Eric C. Hunter said. “That’s why we are working in partnership with our coordinated care organizations to get resources out in a way that can really make a difference on the ground. Our coordinated care organizations know their communities best and I’m excited to support their efforts to address the most urgent needs of those they serve.”

Columbia Pacific and Jackson Care Connect teams will work to identify where these funds will have the greatest impact in their regions, which include Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, and Jackson counties.

“This is one of many ways that CareOregon’s connection to Columbia Pacific

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Insurance Health plan benefits are required by the state to cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations.

State Public Health Director Rachael Banks mandated that private health plans operating in Oregon not charge for costs related to providing the vaccine, including the cost of the vaccine doses and supplies, and expenses of administering the shot like staff time.

Both the Oregon Health Plan and Medicare programs do not charge patients for the costs of vaccinations either.

People with questions about their insurance coverage should contact their insurance company directly.

Newsletter To stay updated on COVID-19 information in the county, sign up for the public health department’s new newsletter at http://eepurl.com/ hpu5R5

Columbia County to share $250,000 in pandemic relief STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Oregon • Multi-State • Valid in 35 States

helps empower our local communities to determine the best direction for this COVID-19 related funding grant,” Columbia Pacific Executive Director Mimi Haley said.

“This additional infusion of funding from CareOregon will help us provide continued support to organizations that are filling critical needs in our community, where we are seeing the dual impacts of both COVID-19 and the disastrous fires from last summer,” Jackson Care Connect CEO Jennifer Lind said.

Since the pandemic hit, Haley said CareOregon has mobilized financial resources to ensure access to health services, which includes offering both provider support and community-based grants to address social determinants of health. The funding will allow both Columbia Pacific and Jackson Care Connect to continue to offer support where most needed in their communities.

Columbia Pacific CCO coordinates health services for Oregon Health Plan members in Columbia, Clatsop and Tillamook counties. For more information about Columbia Pacific, please visit www. colpachealth.org.

Jackson Care Connect CCO coordinates health services for Oregon Health Plan members in Jackson County.

For more information about Jackson Care Connect please visit jacksoncareconnect.org/

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Let us know what YOU think EMAIL YOUR LETTERS TO: CHRONICLENEWS@COUNTRYMEDIA.NET

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Opinion

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Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Viewpoints

Pandemic 2021: Work the numbers, work together PAUL VOGEL Chronicle Guest Article

We’re surrounded by a sea of changing numbers around COVID: confirmed cases, hospitalizations death rate, vaccinations, and more.

They’re all very sobering and keep us mindful of those who we have lost personally and as a nation, those who are at greatest risk from the virus as well as the economic downturn, and those who are working fearlessly and tirelessly on the front lines of treatment.

Encouragingly, on Monday, February 8, the U.S. reported fewer than 100,000 new cases for the previous day, and hospitalizations continued to decline. For the same Sunday, Oregon reported 305 new confirmed and presumptive cases and

just one additional death – although our state sadly crossed the threshold of more than 2,000 deaths over the weekend. Mercifully, only three new infection cases were reported in Columbia County for Sunday.

The fact that our county has maintained relatively low new case count numbers over the past few days provides a small ray of hope, both medically and economically.

We need to seize both the opportunity and responsibility that goes with it. There is significant community and personal interest at stake.

If we maintain low numbers throughout the next week to 10 days, Columbia County stands a decent chance of being moved from the Extreme Risk category to High Risk— which may not sound like much but means a lot.

First, it means fewer people are getting sick; that’s good. Second, it means there can be further easing of restrictions that will allow our businesses, especially gyms and restaurants, to operate differently and welcome some guests indoors. Any improvement in that regard is a help to our entire community. What’s more important, though, is making sure they can stay more open, and not get whipsawed so our numbers go back up and they close down. Again.

For a county to make it (down) to the High Risk level there has to be a COVID-19 case count of less than 200 per 100,000 people, and a test positivity rate of less than 10%. Even Washington County is currently below the case count for the 14 day assessment cycle. Columbia

County can do this.

What it will take is to keep on doing what we’re doing, and sustain it. Wear your mask or face covering. Keep your distance. Don’t hang out with anyone new. Wash your hands – a lot. Clean surfaces – your phone, your keys, your wallet, everything that may get exposed to the virus when you’re out. And keep being responsible.

Being responsible means what we’re doing here, apparently: avoiding outbreaks by avoiding crowds. And parties.

And events.

Businesses are being responsible by testing, relentlessly cleaning, shielding, limiting customers and adapting in order to keep doing business. Things like self-serve carts and merchandising, take out, expanding web pages for online order-

ing and information – as well as e-commerce and Zoom customer service. They want to be working as much as you want them to be. And you’re helping make it work by being responsive and respectful. The honor-system at the flower cart is keeping that business alive, and brightening the days of people you care for.

The vaccines are slowly getting out there. As frustrating as they are, the systems seem to be improving. But it’s tough on many, especially those without reliable broadband (a lot of people here). Help your neighbors, especially seniors. Go online, figure out the sign-up and then register them for a shot.

Throw on a mask and shield and drive them to it. The sooner front-liners, teachers, seniors and those with

compromised health get vaccinated, the sooner the rest of us will too.

Remember back when we were talking about response, recovery and respect? We were also talking about a fourth R: Resilience. Resilience means doing everything we can to keep the numbers down, get businesses reopened, and keep them reopened. Give business owners the confidence to commit to the next steps toward normal by doing everything you can to reduce your own risk, and that of our county.

Let’s get to High Risk next week, and Low Risk by March. We can do this.

Paul Vogel is the executive director of the Columbia County Economic Team. He may be reached at 503-4101061.

Legislature Report: COVID impact, hemp production BRAD WITT Chronicle Guest Article

The work of the Oregon Legislative Assembly continues, with committee meetings held virtually and in-person floor sessions.

Pandemic impact Our work has been impacted by COVID-19 restrictions which has made our efforts even more challenging.

It has been a year since COVID-19 was discovered in our nation, taking the lives of more than 440,000 Americans, and demonstrating our nation’s failure to adequately respond to the worst public health crisis in a century. The United States simply wasn’t prepared to handle a pandemic. Neither was Oregon. So now we play catch-up while our fellow citizens continue to die at an alarming rate.

Vaccines are now available, but their distribution to rural areas has been slow and cumbersome. It doesn’t have to be. As a legislator, one of my roles is to find ways

to make Oregon’s agencies more efficient and effective, and I have found that citizens often offer the best ideas on how to accomplish needed improvements.

In this case, my constituent, Dr. Maureen Mays, offered to have her team deliver vaccines in the underserved Columbia County. But we discovered there wasn’t an easy way to do this, or a plan to incorporate volunteers into the vaccine delivery effort. That’s why I’ve worked with Dr. Mays on HB 3087 which will require the Oregon Health Authority to develop a program for volunteer medical professionals to assist during times of health emergencies.

Right now, volunteers could be helping to administer vaccines, in other times they could offer additional services to serve their communities. I will use every opportunity to ensure that my constituents who want a vaccine are able to get one in their local area. This legislation will also make it easier for other rural Oregonians to receive the vaccine, should other rural health providers

wish to follow Dr. Mays’ lead. We can’t forget about rural Oregon when it comes to delivering health care.

Vaccine availability gives me hope. But bold leadership, innovative solutions, and partnerships with healthcare provider networks will be required to ensure Oregon is prepared to face this type of health crisis or any other disaster as we move forward.

Bills under review The House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee focused on industrial hemp production last Thursday.

HB 2281 Develops rules for a pilot program and brings Oregon hemp rules into compliance with federal rules.

HB 2284 Establishes an Oregon Hemp Commission under the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

HB 2296 Allows Oregon Department of Agriculture to enter into an agreement to enable law enforcement agency to assist ODA in carrying out certain inspections of industrial hemp.

Oregon’s unique geographic location makes our state the most productive hemp producing region on earth. Hemp has been described as the perfect plant, it can be used for clothing, food and beverages, paper, building supplies, plastics, fuel, and chemical clean-up.

Keeping Oregon in compliance with federal hemp regulations, and growing this expanding industry is supported by individual producers, the Oregon Farm Bureau, Oregon State University’s Global Hemp Innovation Center, OSU Extension, and the OSU Agriculture Experiment Center. But we also must be mindful of enabling our law enforcement partners to be able to inspect industrial hemp operations to ensure they are not subverting the law and growing consumable marijuana plants.

During last Tuesday’s House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee meeting we covered a variety of topics, from tsunami building design standards, to marine sanctuary designation requirements, protection and enhancement of our bee

population and use of agricultural buildings.

HB 2612 directs the Oregon State Department of Agriculture to develop state grades and standards of quality and identity of unpasteurized butter. This a growing market, with businesses and consumers whose demand for the product outstrips the current supply. The sale of raw butter is legal in states in 11 states including our neighboring states of Idaho and California, and could be a niche market to help producers and the customers they serve.

HB 2548 relates to funding and construction of wildlife corridor road crossings.

This can become a good policy and an investment for Oregon Wildlife and travelers on Oregon roads and highways. Among the many groups advocating for these corridors are the Oregon Hunters Association, Defenders of Wildlife, Oregon Wild, the Humane Society of the United State and the Rocky Mt. Elk Foundation.

We will have many varied issues coming before the House Agriculture and

Natural Resources Committee, and as Chair of that committee, I will continue my bi-partisan approach to good governance and bring a balance of bills up for consideration.

Be engaged Please remember that I can best serve your interests when I hear from you. If you have a comment or concern about pending legislation, please reach out to my office.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, email is probably the best way to have your opinions recorded. If I can help you navigate an issue or problem with a state agency, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Rep. Brad Witt serves House District 31. He may be reached at: • Email: Rep.BradWitt@ oregonlegislature.gov • Telephone: 503-9861431 • 900 Court St NE, H-382, Salem, OR, 97301 • Website: www.oregonlegislature.gov/witt

Voices of the Community Support for the public safety facility I am the recently-retired Columbia County director of emergency management.

I write in support of funding the new St. Helens Public Safety Facility.

The current facility was built in 1971 and is inadequate for the needs of a modern, professional police force. There is inadequate space to conduct routine operations, the spaces are in disrepair and do not meet current police accreditation standards.

The building is not seismically safe and will fail catastrophically during the Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSV) earthquake.

HazVu shows that shaking from a CSV event will be very strong and soil liquefaction moderate. The existing building will not survive this event. Those in the building at the time will become casualties when we most need a strong response to protect lives.

The plans for a new facility include a backup emergency operations center (EOC). This is a critical need for both the city and

county. The county EOC is small and has no surge capacity for large disasters. The backup EOC will provide redundant technology capability critical to response to a major catastrophe.

The new public safety facility will have public spaces suitable for meetings including resilience and preparedness training.

This training is critical for citizen safety as each resident must prepare for emergencies as in any medium to large scale incident you may be on your on for a few days to a few weeks depending on the severity of the disaster.

I strongly encourage residents to support our public safety professionals.

Steve Pegram St. Helens

Ban coyote killing Many Oregonians may not be aware that coyote killing contests continue to occur in Oregon. Prizes are awarded to the person who kills the most coyotes by weight.

Killing as many animals

as possible for cash, prizes and entertainment violates Oregonians’ humane values and the spirit of traditional hunting ethics and damages Oregon’s reputation.

Ethics aside, scientific studies do not support indiscriminate, mass killing of coyotes as an effective means of reducing coyote populations, minimizing conflicts with pets or livestock, or increasing numbers of game species.

Studies show that by killing members of stable family packs, an increased rate of reproduction can occur in future generations.

This is not an example of the urban and rural divide; a majority of Oregonians in both urban and rural areas care about the state’s wild animals and find this type of entertainment cruel, irresponsible and a complete disrespect for life.

I urge Oregon state lawmakers to follow in the footsteps of Washington, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, Massachusetts and Vermont who have already banned wildlife/coyote killing contests by passing House Bill 2728.

Kathryn Balogh Scappoose

The Chronicle

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

When the county moves to high risk, will you dine indoors or get takeout from restaurants?

Would you take the COVID-19 vaccine when it is available to you?

Dine indoors

Takeout

71% Yes

29% No

Vote online at thechronicleonline.com The Chronicle (USPS 610-380) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 S. Columbia Blvd., P.O. Box 1153 St. Helens, Oregon 97051 Periodicals postage paid at St. Helens, OR 97051

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› “Fool’s Gold” (2008, Action) Matthew McConaughey, Kate Hudson.

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NOVA Glass, rubber and plastic.

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Sharyl Attkisson

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In Concert at the Hollywood Bowl (11:30) 2021 Daytona 500 The 2021 NASCAR Cup Series begins with its crown jewel event, the 63rd running of the Daytona 500. (N) (Live) To Be Announced 30 for 30 To Be Announced “Zombies 2” (2020) Meg Donnelly, Milo Manheim. (:35) Big City Greens Big City Greens Bunk’d Animal Rescue Dog Tales The Immortals Believe: The Barack Obama Story Paid Program Wipeout Bowled Over; Chocolate Shop.

Friends Friends Friends Friends

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(11:30) College Basketball Iowa at Michigan State. (N) (Live) College Hoops College Basketball Villanova at Creighton. From CHI Health Center in Omaha, Neb. (N) Believe: The Barack Obama Story To Be Announced College Basketball Duke at NC State. From PNC Arena in Raleigh, N.C. (N) (Live) College Basketball North Carolina at Virginia. (N) (Live) Bunk’d Bunk’d Raven’s Home Raven’s Home Jessie Jessie Jessie “101 Lizards” Jessie Liv and Maddie Liv and Maddie

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Mission Unstoppable Hope in the Wild (N) Pet Vet Dream Team March Madness Prev College Basketball Auburn at Kentucky. From Rupp Arena in Lexington, Ky. (N) Street Outlaws (N) Chasin’ the Sun Moonshiners “Mason Jar Shortage” Moonshiners “Caught Red-Handed” Moonshiners Distillers compete to make gin.

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To Be Announced Miraculous: Ladybug Miraculous: Ladybug Big City Greens Big City Greens (N) Big City Greens Miraculous: Ladybug Miraculous: Ladybug Secrets-Sulphur Secrets-Sulphur Paid Program Southern Liv The Carbonaro Effect Grow Hair Fast!

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The Good Doctor (N) (DVS) Bull Bull adjusts to a virtual court system.

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black-ish (N) mixed-ish (N) FBI A serial killer must be stopped.

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KOIN 6 News at 11 Late Show-Colbert Moonshiners: Master Distiller KGW News at 11 (N) Tonight Show African Americans: Many Rivers 11 O’Clock News (N) (:35) People (N) SportsCenter Bunk’d Sydney to the Max Family Guy Family Guy Conan The Misery Index

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Clarice Clarice investigates serial killings.

KOIN 6 News at 11 Late Show-Colbert BattleBots “A Family Affair” Teams start to feel the heat.

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College Basketball Kansas at Iowa State. From Hilton Coliseum in Ames, Iowa. (N) (Live)

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SEAL Team Sonny considers planting roots. S.W.A.T. “3 Seventeen Year Olds” KOIN 6 News at 11 Late Show-Colbert Airplane Repo Airplane Repo A vintage Stearman biplane.

Chicago Fire “Blow This up Somehow” (N) Chicago P.D. “Equal Justice” (N) KGW News at 11 (N) Tonight Show NOVA Glass, rubber and plastic. (N) Europe’s New Wild Wildlife comeback. (N) Food -- Delicious Science (:02) Name That Tune “Episode 6” (N) 10 O’Clock News (N) 11 O’Clock News (N) (:35) People (N) SportsCenter With Scott Van Pelt (N) (Live) SportsCenter With Scott Van Pelt (N) (Live) SportsCenter Raven’s Home Raven’s Home Big City Greens Bunk’d Bunk’d Sydney to the Max 9 O’Clock News (N) The Big Bang Theory The Simpsons Family Guy Family Guy The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Full Frontal Conan Full Frontal

Bunk’d Bunk’d (N) Secrets-Sulphur Gabby Duran The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory 8 O’Clock News (N) ›› “Central Intelligence” (2016, Action) Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart. (DVS)

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Jessie Family Feud Family Guy

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Celebrity Wheel of Fortune (N) Young Sheldon (N) (:31) B Positive (N) BattleBots “Qualify! Or Wave Goodbye!” (N) Mr. Mayor (N) Superstore (N) Oregon Art Beat Oregon Field Guide Hell’s Kitchen “Metal & Marina” (N) SportsCenter With Scott Van Pelt (N) (Live)

10:00

Extra (N) Ent. Tonight MacGyver (N) Magnum P.I. “Someone to Watch Over Me” Blue Bloods “In Too Deep” (N) KOIN 6 News at 11 Gold Rush: Pay Dirt “The Viking Detective” Gold Rush “No Questions Asked” (N) Straight Talk (N) Inside Edition (N) The Blacklist “The Wellstone Agency” (N) Dateline NBC (N) KGW News at 11 (N) PBS NewsHour (N) Father Brown “The Kembleford Dragon” Call the Midwife Press on Masterpiece “Resonance” Thou Shalt Not Kill People (N) Family Feud (N) WWE Friday Night SmackDown (N) 10 O’Clock News (N) 11 O’Clock News (N) NBA Basketball Memphis Grizzlies at Los Angeles Lakers. From Staples Center in Los Angeles. (N) (Live) SportsCenter (N) (Live) SportsCenter (N) (Live)

SUNDAY EVENING KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

8:30

9:30

KOIN 6 News at 6 (N) CBS Evening News Gold Rush “Freddy to the Rescue” KGW News at 6 (N) KGW News at 6:30 Two for the Road BBC World News 6 O’Clock News (N) NBA Basketball: Pelicans at Mavericks

SUNDAY AFTERNOON KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

8:00

9:00

Jeopardy! (N)

SUNDAY MORNING KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

8:30

KATU News at 6 (N) (Live)

SATURDAY EVENING KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

7:30

Jeopardy! (N) Wheel of Fortune (N) Extra (N) Ent. Tonight BattleBots “Now or Never” (N) The Good Stuff (N) Inside Edition (N) PBS NewsHour (N) People (N) Family Feud (N)

SATURDAY AFTERNOON KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

8:00

Jessie Jessie Raven’s Home Raven’s Home Jessie Jessie Bunk’d Bunk’d Family Feud Family Feud (N) The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory 8 O’Clock News (N) 9 O’Clock News (N) The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory Go-Big Show The opening round ends. (N)

SATURDAY MORNING KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

7:30

Jeopardy! (N) Wheel of Fortune (N) The Goldbergs (N) American Housewife Extra (N) Ent. Tonight Tough as Nails (Season Premiere) (N) Airplane Repo “Diving for Repos” Airplane Repo “Partners and Rivals” (N) The Good Stuff (N) Inside Edition (N) Chicago Med (N) (DVS) PBS NewsHour (N) Nature Wildlife of Rio Grande’s Big Bend. (N) People (N) Family Feud (N) The Masked Dancer (N) (DVS) NBA Basketball Milwaukee Bucks at Phoenix Suns. (N) (Live) Raven’s Home Raven’s Home Sydney to the Max Sydney to the Max The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory 8 O’Clock News (N) The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory The Big Bang Theory

6:30

FRIDAY EVENING KATU ^ KOIN & DISC _ KGW ( KOPB * KPTV , ESPN C DISN I KPDX Q TBS W

7:00

A5

www.thechronicleonline.com • 503-397-0116 • 1805 Columbia Blvd.

Courtesy photo

SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately one million eligible, low-income families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities.

STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon Department of Human Services will continue to offer increased food benefits through February in an effort to help Oregonians struggling as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This benefit increase applies to current Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients who are receiving less than the maximum allotment.

Additionally, in response to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis, there is also a temporary increase in SNAP benefits of approximately 15% for all recipients.

SNAP recipients do not have to take any action to receive additional benefits as they will be placed directly on their Oregon EBT cards. Households receiving SNAP benefits will see the additional supplement to their benefits based on a maximum allotment scale.

For example, if there are four individuals in a household and that household is currently receiving $500 in benefits, the emergency allotment supplement will raise their benefits to the maximum allowed for households of four, which is $680 per month – or an increase of $180. With the additional increase in benefits, the total food benefits for that household would be $782 for the month.

Total supplemental benefits will differ based on each household’s regular monthly allotment.

Additional benefits will be issued on February 10 and February 25. The February 25 benefits are for anyone who began receiving SNAP February 10 or after. Households only receive one allotment.

For more information about emergency supplemental allotments or to review frequently asked questions, visit www. oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/About-SNAP. aspx.

Oregonians who receive SNAP can contact their local Self-Sufficiency Programs, Aging and People with Disabilities, or Area Agency on Aging office for more information.

Find a local office at www.oregon.gov/DHS/Offices/Pages/index.aspx or call 2-1-1.

Background This is the 11th month Oregon has issued emergency supplemental allotments. Administered by ODHS, SNAP is a federal program that provides food assistance to approximately one million eligible, lowincome families and individuals in Oregon, including many older adults and people with disabilities.

Oregonians in need can apply for benefits, including SNAP, childcare, cash assistance and Medicaid.

Learn more at govstatus.egov.com/or-dhs-benefits. For local resources in your area, such as food or shelter, please call 2-1-1 or reach out to the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) at 1-855-ORE-ADRC or 1-855-673-2372.

A6

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

www.thechronicleonline.com

The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies.

All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change.

For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.

Oregon State Police Feb. 3 • At 4:46 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a two vehicle, non-injury crash on Highway 30 near milepost 19.

A black Nissan was westbound on Highway 30 and made a left turn from the center median onto Juniper Way, directly in front of a silver Ford. Driver of the Nissan was cited for failing to obey a traffic control device. Both vehicles were blocking the slow lane of EB 30 and were towed.

• At 6 p.m., the Oregon State Police assisted the Columbia River Fire and Rescue with a hazardous material release along Highway 30 and milepost 29.5. A suspect vehicle struck a NW Natural gas line located on Oregon Street, and fled the scene. A large natural gas release occurred for approximately 1.5 hours, requiring one lane of Highway 30 westbound to be shut down. OSP and ODOT assisted with traffic control until the gas line was turned off. The

St. Helens Police Department is leading the investigation.

Feb. 5 • The Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 71 at 7:45 p.m..

Investigation revealed eastbound a green Mini Cooper departed the highway when the driver fell asleep while driving. The driver, a 77-year-old man, appeared to have sustained under-carriage damage from traveling approximately 100 feet off of the highway shoulder into a bog. The car was marked and left for the owner to coordinate a tow. The driver sustained a head injury but denied medical attention.

Feb. 6 • At around 1:15 p.m., the Oregon State Police responded to a single-vehicle crash on Highway 30 near milepost 44.5.

A black Acura was westbound on Highway 30 when it left its lane of travel and crashed into the eastbound guardrail, causing extensive damage to both the guardrail and the vehicle.

The driver, a 24-year-old man, displayed indicators of impairment and admitted to being too impaired to drive. The driver consented to voluntary field sobriety tests where he continued to display indicators of impairment.

The driver was arrested for DUII and transported to the Columbia County Jail. The driver provided two valid breath samples with a blood alcohol content of 0.21%.

The driver was turned over to jail deputies on a book and release for DUII, reckless driving, reckless endangering and criminal

mischief 2. ODOT assisted with traffic control. The vehicle was towed.

Feb. 7 • Police received a report from an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife employee on Sauvie Island regarding three men who were goose hunting on the closed wildlife area at the north unit and had killed a drake mallard duck, whose season ended on Jan. 31. All three men admitted to goose hunting and stated they did not know the wildlife was closed to hunting and did not bother to check the regulations. Two of the men admitted to each shooting the duck once, each knowing that duck season was closed. The men then breasted the duck out and hid the carcass, which was recovered by the ODFW employee. All three men were issued citations for hunting closed area and the two men who shot the duck were also cited for take/possession of game bird closed season. The duck meat was seized and will be donated to charity • At 10:30 a.m., troopers were dispatched to a traffic complaint on Highway 30 near milepost 27 eastbound. Scappoose Police was able to locate and stop the vehicle on Highway 30 near West Road in Scappoose. When troopers arrived they found that the driver was in violation of a release agreement out of Deschutes County. The protected party was the passenger in the vehicle. The driver’s probation officer was notified and he decided to place a detainer on the driver. The driver was subse-

quently arrested for violation of his release agreement and on a detainer. The driver was booked and lodged at the Columbia County jail on those charges.

The passenger was given permission to drive the vehicle and continued on her way.

Scappoose Police Department Jan. 24 • Police were dispatched to a disturbance in the 52000 block of SW Fourth Street. Police contacted a subject there and advised him to leave the area.

Not long after that incident was cleared, police were called to the Scappoose Middle School to another disturbance with the same subject. Following the investigation, a 51-year-old Scappoose man was taken into custody for Disorderly Conduct.

The man was then transported to jail where he was booked and released.

stole items from the vehicle. This case is pending further suspect information.

• Police responded to the report of a traffic accident in the 52000 block of Columbia River Highway. No injuries were reported and one driver was issued a citation for following too closely.

• Police were dispatched to the report of a possible DUII leaving a residence in the 33000 block of SW Havlik Drive. Following the investigation, a 25-year-old from Portland was taken into custody for DUII – Drugs and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance. Mr. Kroll was transported to jail where he was booked and released on his charges.

Jan. 25 • Police took a report of stolen trailer in the 52000 block of SW Fourth Street. It was reported that an unknown suspect took a 16-foot utility trailer from the residence of the victim. This case is pending further suspect information and locating the trailer.

Jan. 27 • Police were dispatched to report of a driving complaint on Highway 30. It was reported that the suspect driver was weaving in and out of traffic, crossing over the median, crossing over the fog lines, and tailgating other drivers. Police conducted a traffic stop with the suspect vehicle and following the investigation, the driver was taken into custody for DUII – Drugs. The driver, a 35-year-old from Warren, was transported to jail and booked and released on his charge.

Jan. 26 • Police took a report of criminal mischief in the 52000 block of Columbia River Highway. The victim reported that their vehicle was broken into while parked in parking lot. It was reported that a male suspect broke out some of the windows of the vehicle and

Jan. 31 • Police responded to the report of a criminal mischief near the intersection of SE Davona Drive. and SE Sixth St. It was reported that a community mailbox had been damaged and mail had been stolen. This case is pending further suspect information.

Rainier Police Department Jan. 22 • An officer went to check on a suspected house fire. Fortunately, the residence was safe and the ‘flames’ were being emitted by electric candles.

Jan. 23 • A call about a suspicious vehicle on the railroad tracks led to a DUII arrest.

• A 23-year-old from Longview was taken into custody and lodged at the jail.

Jan. 25 • An officer checked on the welfare of a man on the bridge reportedly looking over the edge. He checked out okay.

Jan. 26 • A citizen reported that an unknown person attempted a telephone scam claiming to be collecting a debt from an online cash advance company.

• A 28-year-old Clatskanie man was taken into custody for DUII. Jan. 27 • A vehicle parked on King Drive was vandalized. Damages were reported in excess of $2,000.

• An officer responded to a two-vehicle, non-injury accident on Highway 30 near Rockcrest Street. Both parties exchanged information without incident.

• Officers responded to a false residential alarm.

www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

A7

Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CH21-1598

CH21-1577

PUBLIC NOTICE - INVITATION TO BID POWERLINE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF RIGHT OF WAY MULCHING COLUMBIA RIVER PUD OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Notice is hereby given that Columbia River People’s Utility District (PUD) will receive sealed bids for one (1) year of Powerline Right of Way Mulching services. Bids will be received by the PUD, 64001 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054 until 3:30 p.m., pacific prevailing time, on February 24, 2021, at which time the bids will

be publicly opened. The bids will be available for public inspection at the PUD office after the bid opening.

The bid documents may be examined at the office of the PUD, 64001 Columbia River Highway, Deer Island, Oregon 97054. Electronic copies of the bid documents may be obtained by sending a written request to bstaehely@crpud.org or by calling

(503) 366-3244. Columbia River PUD reserves the right to reject any and all bids that are not in compliance with the bid documents and prescribed public bidding procedures and to reject, for good cause, any or all bids upon a finding by the PUD that it is in the public interest to do so. Dated: February 2, 2021 at Columbia River People’s Utility District.

CH21-1600

The Columbia County Development Agency (Agency) has published the FY 2019/2020 Annual Report It is on file at the offices of the Board of County Commissioners located in the Columbia County Courthouse, Room 331, at 230 Strand Street, St. Helens, OR 97051 and with the Agency.

The full information is available to all interested persons.

In FY 2019/2020, the Agency received $3,433,327 in property tax revenue. Expenditures from FY 2019/2020 were $1,257,739. The estimated tax revenues for FY 2020/2021 are $2,665,000.

The 2020/2021 budget includes $9,508,000 in revenues and expenditures. The impact of carrying out the urban renewal plan on the tax collections for the preceding year for all taxing districts is shown in the table below.

The remaining maximum indebtedness for the Area is $15,465,462.75. Taxing Jurisdiction Foregone Revenue to CCDA Foregone Revenue as % of Total Permanent Rate Levy. Columbia County $485,432 6.20%, Columbia

4H & Extension $19,551 6.10%, Col 9-1-1 Comm District $88,819 6.20%, Columbia Vector $44,223 7.20%, Rainier Cemetery $24,580 24.30%, Clatskanie Park & Rec $121,142 35.20%, Clatskanie Library $99,735 34.80%, Port of Columbia County $30,764 7.20%, Columbia SWCD $34,570 6.20%, Clatskanie RFPD $598,438 35.70%, NW Regional ESD $53,068 0.40%, Clatskanie 6J School District $1,602,919 30.80%.

CH21-1602 NOTICE OF ELECTION OF DISTRICT BOARD MEMBERS February 3, 2021 Notice is hereby given that on Tuesday, May 18, 2021, an election will be conducted by mail for the purpose of electing board members to office for the following special districts: Clatskanie School District 6J Rainier School District 13 Scappoose School District 1J St. Helens School District 502 Vernonia School District 47J Clatskanie Rural Fire Protection District Columbia River Fire & Rescue Mist-Birkenfeld JT Rural Fire Protection District

Scappoose Rural Fire Protection District Vernonia Rural Fire Protection District Clatskanie Library District Scappoose Public Library District Clatskanie Park & Recreation District Greater St. Helens Aquatic District Port of Columbia County Columbia 9-1-1 Communications District Rainier Cemetery District

Electors residing within a district above may file a declaration of candidacy with the Clerk’s office of Columbia County, Oregon, beginning February 8, 2021 and ending March 18, 2021. The offices due to be filled at this election include those that must be filled due to vacancy. Positions/zones, terms of office and zone requirements (if any) are as follows: CLATSKANIE SCHOOL DISTRICT 6J Four Year Term Position 3 Position 4 Position 5

RAINIER SCHOOL DISTRICT 13

Candidates must live in and be nominated by zone; elected by entire district

Four Year Term Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 5 Zone 7 (zone is at-large)

SCAPPOOSE SCHOOL DISTRICT 1J Candidates must live in and be nominated by zone; elected by entire district

Four Year Term Zone 3 Zone 4 Zone 5

ST HELENS SCHOOL DISTRICT 502 Four Year Term Position 1 Position 3 Position 4

Two Year Term Zone 4

VERNONIA SCHOOL DISTRICT 47J Four Year Term Position 1 Position 4 Position 5 Position 6 Two Year Term Position 3 Position 7

CLATSKANIE RFPD

Four Year Term Position 1 Position 2 Position 3

In the Matter of the Estate of DALE A BOYD, Deceased. Case No. 20PB07869 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of Dale A Boyd, Deceased. Notice is hereby given that Anita Blumlein has been appointed as the personal representative of the above estate. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them

to the undersigned personal representative in care of the undersigned attorney at: 5250 S Landing Dr, Ste 206, Portland, OR 97239, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, as stated below, or such claims may be barred.

All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this estate may obtain additional information from

CH21-1585

INVITATION TO BID The Department of State Lands is accepting bids for the lease of a tract of submerged land in the Multnomah Channel east of Scappoose Bay for a spud barge and associated vessel moorage for marine industrial use. Sealed bids will be accepted by mail only until the close of business on March 5, 2021, to be opened and read

the following business day.

The tract measures 2.87 acres (125,000 square feet) and is fronting tax lot 200 on the Columbia River in Northeast One-Quarter of Section 16, Township 4 North, Range 1 West, Willamette Meridian, Columbia County, Oregon.

Lease applications and information about bid requirements and costs are on the

Four Year Term Position 4 Position 5

MIST-BIRKENFELD RFPD

VERNONIA RFPD

Four Year Term Position 1 Position 5

CLATSKANIE LIBRARY DISTRICT

Four Year Term Position 3 Position 4 Position 5

Four Year Term Position 1 Position 2

SCAPPOOSE LIBRARY DISTRICT

SCAPPOOSE RFPD

Four Year Term Position 1 Position 2

Four Year Term Position 3 Position 5

CLATSKANIE PARK & REC

Two Year Term Position 2 Position 4

Four Year Term Position 1 Position 4 Position 5

GREATER ST. HELENS AQUATIC DISTRICT Four Year Term Position 1 Position 2 Position 3

PORT OF COLUMBIA COUNTY Four Year Term Position 4 Position 5

COLUMBIA 9-1-1 COM. DISTRICT Candidates must reside in, be nominated by and be elected by zone

Four Year Term Zone 3 Zone 5

RAINIER CEMETERY Four Year Term Position 2 Position 3

Each candidate for an office listed above must file a declaration of candidacy (filing form SEL-190) with the Elections Department of Columbia County within the period beginning on February 8, 2021 and ending no later than 5:00 p.m. March 18, 2021.

Currently Columbia County offices are open to the public via a "by appointment" model. The Elections office phone number is (503) 397-7214. Please call ahead to make an appointment to deliver candidate filings.

Each declaration of candidacy must be accompanied by either a filing fee of $10.00 or a candidate nominating petition (form SEL-121) signed by at least 25 registered voters residing in the district. Filing forms are available on-line at the Oregon Secretary of State website (http://sos.oregon.gov/elections/Pages/electionforms.aspx).

The forms are also available at Columbia County Elections Dept., 230 Strand St., St. Helens, OR. Dated this 3rd rd day of February, 2021. Betty Huser, Columbia County Clerk

Dated this 3 day of February, 2021.

Department’s website: www. oregonstatelands.us. Please reference Application #62982 SEAKED BID” on the envelope. Mail to The Department of State Lands, 775 Summer St. NE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301-1279. Additional information is available from Alexis Richins: 971375-7489 (Salem); Alexis.

Richins@state.or.us.

CH21-1584

NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS Case No. 20PB09041 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON IN AND FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DEPARTMENT In the Matter of the Estate of BRIAN DAN FLETCHER, Deceased.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the undersigned

Personal Representative at the offices of Maite Uranga, Attorney at Law, 333 SW Taylor, #300, Portland, Oregon 97204, Personal Representative’s Attorney, within four (4) months after the date of first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may

be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the records of the Court, Personal Representative, or the attorneys for the Personal Representative, Maite Uranga, Attorney at Law. Dated and first published February 3, 2021.

Kimberly Fletcher Personal Representative.

CH21-1578

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA Probate Department: Case No. 20PB09177. NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS In the Matter of the Estate of RONALD G. CROUSE, Deceased. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that JUDITH CROUSE has been appointed Personal Representative. All persons having claims against the estate are required to present them, with vouchers attached, to the Personal Rep-

resentative in care of the undersigned attorney for the Personal Representative at the following addresses: Attorney for Personal Representative: LOREN A. (DREW) GRAMSON OSB #061889, PO Box 28453, Portland OR 97228, (503) 666-4567, Fax: (503) 465-5825, E-mail: drew@ gramson.com. Claims must be presented within four months after the date of

CH21-1603

COLUMBIA RIVER FIRE & RESCUE

the records of the Court, the personal representative or the attorney for the personal representative. Dated and first published January 27, 2021 Anita Blumlein, Personal Representative. Kerry Chipman, OSB# 790243 Attorney for Personal Representative 5250 S Landing Dr, Ste 206 Portland, OR 97239 503281-3436 Email: chipmanlaw@comcast.net.

first publication of this notice, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings may obtain additional information from the court, the Personal Representative, or the attorneys for the Personal Representative. Dated and first published on January 27, 2021 by Judith Crouse, PO Box 28453, Portland, OR 97228.

CH21-1587

NOTICE OF AUCTION NOTICE OF The Columbia County Fairgrounds is auctioning off a brown Jack Daniels Barrel with plaque celebrating the 100th Columbia County Fair from 2015. The estimated value of this barrel is $499.00. Item will be available at the Columbia County Fairgrounds Online Auction

on their Facebook page starting next Sunday. Item will be sold to the highest bidder with all bids being capped at $2500.00. Auction is free to attend, commenting on items is limited to BIDS only but you may call the fair office for more details @ 503-3974231.

CH21-1604

NOTICE OF BOARD MEETING McNulty Water PUD Board Meeting will be held February 16, 2021 at 7pm via Zoom. If you would like

to attend this Zoom meeting please contact Shannon at 503-397-1301 for information.

CH21-1599

NOTICE OF MEETING CCRTAC meeting on Tue, Feb 16, 2021 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM (PST). Please join this meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone. https:// global.gotomeeting.com/

join/305586365 You can also dial in using your phone.

United States (Toll Free): 1 866 899 4679, United States: +1 (571) 317-3116. Access Code: 305-586-365

MEETING

The Greater St. Helens Aquatic District board meeting will be held on February 15, 2021 at 5:00 pm at Eisenschmidt Pool, 1070 Eisenschmidt Lane, St. Helens. Due to COVID restrictions, please call 503397-2283 prior to attending the meeting.

CH21-1583

NOTICE OF WORKSHOP

The Columbia County Fairgrounds is holding a Workshop - February 18th, 2021 at 6:30pm in the Pavilion at 58892 Saulser Road, St.Helens, OR 97051 and virutally by calling 1 877 309 2073 and using access code: 895-819-405.

Betty Huser

CH21-1601 Columbia County Clerk

COLUMBIA RIVER PEOPLE’S UTILITY DISTRICT This legal notice is to be published pursuant to ORS 255.075 by Elizabeth E. Huser, Columbia County Clerk

Special Meeting – Workshop on February 16, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.

The Board of Directors for Columbia River PUD

will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, February 16, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.

The Board will meet in a workshop setting to

discuss strategic planning for the remainder of 2021, for 2022, and any other business that may come before the Board. This

meeting is accessible to persons with disabilities.

A request for further accommodations should be made at least 48 hours in

advance by contacting the Administrative Assistant at 503-366-9916. Columbia River PUD Board meetings are conducted pursuant to

the public meeting laws of the State of Oregon and anyone wishing to attend is welcome. By: Michael J. Sykes, General Manager

The Public Notice deadline is Fridays by noon.

Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechronicleonline.com

A8

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Rock pit murder case in court A Clatsop Court judge is expected to decide if a Rainier teen facing murder charges should be remanded to adult court during a weeklong hearing that began Monday, Feb. 8.

The juvenile, Kyle Snook, is facing murder charges after he allegedly drove through a gathering at the Hunt Creek rock pit in Clatsop County, killing one person and injuring others.

On July 25, at approximately 4 a.m. Clatsop County deputies were called to the rock pit, east of Nicolai

Mountain off Highway 30, for a report of a hit and run.

Deputies investigating the incident learned that a large gathering had occurred at the rock pit and Snook left the area after allegedly driving his vehicle through a crowd of people.

Three people in the crowd received serious injuries from being hit by the vehicle. Robert Betschart, of Rainier, died as a result of his injuries, according to the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office.

Snook was later arrested

in Rainier by members of the Clatsop County Major Crimes Team.

Snook is charged with murder in the second degree, manslaughter in the first degree, five counts of felony vehicular assault and driving under the influence of intoxicants. Snook was being held at the Cowlitz Detention Facility. Young offenders are sent to that facility because Clatsop County does not have a juvenile detention center.

Clatsop County District Attorney Rod Brown told

The Chronicle that if Snook remains in the juvenile justice system he would likely face less penalties if convicted under Oregon law and remain in that system until he turns 25 years old. Brown added that the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) would have the option of confining the convicted offender or releasing the offender into the community.

According to the OYA, if the youth remains in the juvenile system they would still be held accountable and face penalties, just with dif-

ferences in where the youth can be placed while in OYA custody and a difference in how long they can stay in custody.

Brown said since the Oregon Legislature adjusted the state’s law that changes sentencing for juveniles it makes prosecuting offending juveniles much more challenging.

“It is a lot higher hurdle than we used to have when prosecuting juveniles,” he said.

If the judge accepts Brown’s recommendation to

place Snook into adult court, a trial could be held, and if convicted, Snook would likely face prison time.

Brown said the law adjustment is frustrating.

“It is very frustrating to see that offenders may or may not face penalties associated with the crime, especially when it involves death and serious injury.”

Follow developments of this case at thechronicleonline.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Chronicle.

Scappoose Fire joins national risk reduction program STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

The Scappoose Fire District has been selected by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to participate in the second phase of a pilot program to build a digital community risk assessment (CRA) tool.

Aligned to NFPA 1300, Standard on Community Risk Assessment and Community Risk Reduction Plan Development, the tool, or “dashboard,” enables community leaders to gain insights and make datainformed decisions around fire prevention and other risk-reduction activities in their communities.

According to NFPA, the concept of community risk reduction (CRR) - a process that identifies and prioritizes risks and ensures impactful mitigation initiatives- has been gaining traction across North America for more than 20 years. Innovative technology, access to data, and a shifting focus on prevention

have resulted in new energy around this process. Reflecting that momentum, NFPA’s CRA tool works to help fire departments aggregate and disseminate data that pinpoints where risks exist within a given community.

“Access to accurate data will allow CRR leaders to use insights and make informed decisions about where to focus efforts and resources,” NFPA Community Risk Reduction Strategist Karen Berard-Reed said.

“While many fire departments have struggled to work with data sets, NFPA’s CRA tool will do the complex work behind the scenes to compile relevant data allowing stakeholders to create effective community risk reduction plans that incorporate five priorities - education, engineering, enforcement, economic incentives, and emergency response - in the most impactful ways possible.”

The first phase of the pilot project, which included participation from 50 fire departments across the coun-

Courtesy photo from Scappoose Fire District

A member of Scappoose Fire District performs a community risk reduction inspection.

try, helped identify features of the digital dashboard that will work effectively and those that need fine-tuning.

During the second phase of the program, which involves participation from 250

departments nationwide, the Scappoose Fire District will provide insights around the use of dashboard through June of 2021 to help continue refining and enhancing its effectiveness.

“Participation in this project allows each fire department to provide important feedback that will be used to improve future versions of the dashboard, positions the community among CRR leaders in the United States, and signals an interest in leveraging technology to drive high-quality community safety initiatives,” Berard-Reed said.

As a participant in the pilot program, Scappoose Fire District will have free access to the dashboard, which includes customized visualizations (maps, charts, graphs) that illustrate each community’s risks and hazards across a variety of categories such as demographics, geography, building stock, economics, infrastructure, and event loss history.

The dashboard also provides a snapshot of local capacity for risk reduction activities with information about public safety response agencies and community service organizations. In addition to dashboard access, participants will be provided

rich networking and professional development opportunities with other communities engaged in CRR. “We are thrilled to be participating in this important project,” Scappoose Fire District Chief Jeff Pricher said. “Not only will access to the tool give us invaluable information about our community’s needs, but it’s rewarding to know that using the tool will increase its effectiveness and help other fire departments in the long run.”

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Founded in 1896, NFPA is a global self-funded nonprofit organization that strives to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

For more information, visit www.nfpa.org. All NFPA codes and standards can be viewed online for free at www.nfpa.org/freeaccess.

Volunteer sought for library board STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

St. Helens is accepting applications for people interested in volunteering on the St. Helens Library Board.

Terms are four years and the current open position’s term expires on June 30, 2024.

The board typically meets once per month at 7:15 p.m. on the second Monday at the Columbia Center Auditorium but may meet more often

depending on what projects are in the works. The board is currently meeting electronically via the video conferencing website Zoom.

The City Council created the board and appoints the members; the board is advisory to the council and stays informed of trends in library services, identifying growthrelated needs, long-range planning for services and providing recommendations to the City Council.

Applications are due by 5

p.m. Feb. 26. To apply, visit www.sthelensoregon.gov and navigate to the “Boards and Commissions” page under the “Your Government” tab.

The application form and additional information will be available to download.

Filled out applications should be completed and returned to City Hall, Attn: Kathy Payne, 265 Strand St., St. Helens, OR 97051.

InRoads Credit Union is taking applications for the next round of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

The efforts is to help small business owners weather the financial hardships brought by COVID-19 A membership with InRoads is not required for initial application. This round of funding has tighter guidelines for approval, but the credit union points out,

every business should check the qualification criteria.

“We’re here to help local business owners get the PPP funding they need and deserve,” InRoads President/CEO Brooke Van Vleet said. “These loans are backed by the SBA and the money is there to ensure you can pay your employees during the pandemic.”

Those interested in applying through InRoads Credit Union should send an email to payrollprotection@inroadscu.org. An InRoads team member will reply with the link and instructions to submit an

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PPP funding applications available STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

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Budget Committee Vacancy

The City of St. Helens is currently recruiting for a new member to fill a position on the City’s Budget Committee. If you are interested, please go to the City’s website at www.sthelensoregon.gov, click on Your Government, select Boards & Commissions, and download a Boards & Commissions Application.

Please call Kathy Payne if you have any questions at 503-366-8217.

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www.thechronicleonline.com

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 ecial Report Sp

A Look Ahead

2021 Th

A9

e C h r o nicle

Chambers set 2021 priorities JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

We were flexible, we got creative and we continued to be a resource to our members.

MONIQUE MERRILL chronicle2@countrymedia.net

The Chronicle: What are the chamber’s priorities for 2021?

Editor’s Note: This is the third in a series of special reports by The Chronicle providing insight from members of our community into what we might expect in 2021.

The following report focuses on a viewpoints from the South County Chamber of Commerce and the Clatskanie and Rainier Chambers of Commerce.

We begin our report with a conversation with South Columbia County Chamber representative Dan Rocha.

The Chronicle: From your vantage point with the chamber, what will 2021 look like?

Dan Rocha: We are optimistic that 2021 will transition to a year of business recovery and learning how to thrive under whatever emerges as the “return to normal business.”

The Chronicle: What has been learned from 2020?

Rocha: How to be flexible. From the chamber’s perspective, we learned how to continue to serve our members through a board president transition and in the absence of an executive director. We did this by tapping our amazing volunteer base, creating committees to run different functions of chamber operations, and rebuilding a stronger board of directors.

Rocha: Our priorities echo that of many small businesses in South Columbia County, the transition from surviving back to thriving.

We plan to hire a part-time executive director. We will continue to find and reach out to non-member businesses to share the benefits of joining the chamber. We will also continue to work with our current members to make sure they are maximizing their chamber membership.

The top four reasons for being a chamber member are: • Business promotion - chamber members can promote their business through our weekly email, on our Facebook page and each member receives a business directory listing on our website. Chamber members also enjoy referrals from other chamber members.

• Networking - this one has been challenging during pandemic gathering restrictions. We have a twicemonthly virtual coffee and commerce, hosted by a member business. All members who join have the opportunity to introduce themselves and there is always a drawing to win a free 30-second commercial for your business at the next coffee and commerce. We, like everyone, can’t wait until these networking meetings can return in-person.

• Involvement - There are many opportunities to get involved in the community.

Clatskanie and Rainier Chambers

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

The South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce office is located 2194 Columbia Blvd in St. Helens.

Participate in a chamber committee, apply to join our board, help us welcome new businesses in our community, or lead a class in your area of expertise. Members who get involved raise their profile in our business community.

• Knowledge sharing Our collective member base possesses a wealth of knowledge. If a business owner needs help in a particular area of running their business, there is a good chance there is a chamber member who can assist.

The Chronicle: What business-related projects are planned?

Rocha: For the chamber in 2021, we have a couple of office suites for rent. We also have a co-working area that is available for all members to use. We plan to offer more business training classes. We also are working on a plan to hire a part-time Executive Director in the first half of the year. We will continue to look to expand our membership.

We are a member-supported organization and exist to serve our members. The larger our member base, the more diverse our member base the more opportunities ALL members have to maximize business promotion, networking, involvement, and knowledge sharing.

The Chronicle: What community-related projects are in the works?

Rocha: We are working on a 100th-anniversary celebration for the summer.

That’s right the South Columbia County Chamber is turning 100 this year. We also plan on offering our community gift-shop one weekend a quarter this year. The gift shop is a bazaar selling items made by local artisans. It’s a great way for us to support micro-businesses in our county.

To reach the South Columbia County Chamber of Commerce call 503-3970685.

2020 was a year like none other for individuals and businesses around the world.

Sweeping pandemic restrictions closed the doors of many local businesses, some of which are still unable to operate as usual.

For Clatskanie Chamber of Commerce Board President Monica Siedl, the last year was all about adapting.

“I think as a chamber, we have learned that we must adapt to change,” Siedl said.

“That we also need to try and keep everyone as informed as possible.”

Rainier Chamber of Commerce Board President Natasha Parvey echoed a similar sentiment about the lesson of 2020.

“Communication is key.

As a chamber, we focused on communication with our members,” Parvey said. “This communication included newsletters to relay important news and social media.”

In Clatskanie, the chamber will focus on keeping the community informed and supported, Siedl said. Due to the financial hardships many businesses have faced and continue to face, annual membership fees will be waived this year. Instead, the group will collect the contact information of businesses and continue to invite them to attend the monthly chamber meetings on Zoom.

“Our priority is to also get back to life with consideration for safety,” Siedl said. “We are looking at annual activities like Bulky Waste and Heritage Days. The laws and safety of the community are important to stay focused on.”

Siedl said the chamber provides service activities and information to local businesses and owners, including information about the state chamber.

“We strive to stay relevant and helpful during this difficult time,” Siedl said.

In Rainier, the emphasis for 2021 will be about encouraging residents to shop local as much as possible.

“We need to shop local and support our Rainier businesses and nonprofits,” Parvey said. “Our restaurants could use our support by purchasing take-out and gift cards. As a community we need to spend where we live, and that includes hiring local professionals and donating locally.”

As a chamber, Parvey said the priorities will continue to center around connecting, supporting and advocating for members.

The group hosts month meetings on Zoom as well to allow businesses to network and bring in speakers focused on economic issues that would affect or benefit members.

“Our board also understands the importance of serving as advocates to support and represent Rainier’s local business community for business issues,” Parvey said. “We look forward to partnering with local businesses and organizations for more ribbon cuttings in 2021 to provide networking opportunities.”

Learn more about the Clatskanie and Rainier chambers of commerce at clatskaniechamber.com and rainierchamberofcommerce. com.

‘Peaceful’ road name approved STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Columbia County will be becoming a little more peaceful, in name at least. County commissioner approved “Peaceful Valley Drive” as the new name for an existing private drive off of Robinette Road. There are three new

Timber

From Page A1 2,075 acres of commercial forestland, with the oldest available stand of timber at 45 years old. Of those 2,075 acres, approximates 340 acres are over 40 and within the next five to 10 years another 500 acres will mature into the 40-year category, the mini-

home sites off of the road.

Peaceful Valley wasn’t the only name suggestion.

Weyerhauser, the company that that owns the land suggested several r oad name ideas for county staff to select.

Other options were “Paradise Lane,” “Peaceful Valley Way,” “Redhawk

Lane,” “Hideaway Hills Road,” “Hideaway Lane,” “Hideaway Road,” “Sweetwater Lane,” and “Forest Glen Lane.”

County staff ultimately narrowed down the choice to Peaceful Valley as some of the other name suggestions already exist within the county.

mum age to be sold.

As city-owned forest land ages and grows into the 40-year-plus category, there is an option to have a sustainable annual or semi-annual harvest program, Keller said.

the city and the nonprofit St. Helens Economic Development Corporation (SHEDCO) to partner the agency with the city as it reorganizes and restructures its board of directors. SHEDCO is a division of the Oregon Main Street Program and, under the MOU, will make recommendations to the city about programs and projects to revitalize the main street business district in St. Helens.

Other council news • The St. Helens City Council approved the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between

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Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol deputies will be conducting public boat inspections Feb. 13 at the Scappoose Marina.

Boat Inspection Day Feb. 13 JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office marine patrol deputies are scheduled to conduct boat inspections from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 13, at the Scappoose Marina at 57420 Old Portland Road in Warren.

Deputies encourage boat

owners to pull their vessels in, display the correct paperwork, and required safety equipment, then receive a 21 Safety Sticker.

Safety items required: • One life jacket per person • Fire extinguisher • Sound producing device • Boat registration • Boater education card • 21 validation sticker

• Clearly marked identification number • A type IV throwable If your boat is an inboard, deputies remind you that a flame arrestor must be clean, and your blower must be functional.

For more information. contact the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office at 503-3664611.

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A10

Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Migration increasing vehicle collision danger

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

Wildlife officials said the increasing animal migration has been triggered by the cold weather and the search for food.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

You may see deer congregating along grassy areas of roadsides in St. Helens, Scappoose and throughout Columbia County.

Law enforcement and state transportation officials said the seasonal cold weather has triggered increasing wildlife migration.

Natural food sources are lean in the upper elevations in the coast range during the winter as snow falls, covering the ground. This time of year with snow accumula-

tion in the coast range and freezing temperatures periodically down to sea level, elk and deer may move to even lower elevations to find adequate food.

These additional movements often mean that the animals are crossing major roads both day and night which creates hazards to motorists.

Each year from 20142018 in Oregon there were an estimated 7,000 crashes involving deer and elk causing an average of 2.2 human fatalities with over 453 people injured. The crashes resulted in $44 million in

vehicle damages, according to the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).

ODOT reports that October and November are the busiest months for vehiclewildlife collisions. Now, during the winter months, the animal search for food is increasing the danger of collisions with vehicles.

Wildlife officials caution that the animals are often stressed as they search of food.

Signs placed in particularly popular areas for wildlife crossing are one tool to help drivers avoid collisions.

Being especially watchful

The USDA Forest Service will waive fees at day-use recreation sites in Washington on Oregon on Monday, Feb. 15, in honor of Presidents’ Day. With many recreation opportunities unavailable to the public during the global COVID-19 pandemic, outdoor recreation has become especially important to individuals and families in the northwest this past year, according to a release from the forest service, which offers several fee-free days annually to encourage Americans to explore the outdoors and visit their public lands.

“We welcome new visitors to our 17 National Forests in Washington and Oregon and ask the public to recreate responsibly so we can maintain these opportunities for all to enjoy,” the release states.

Visitors should keep the following in mind when planning their trip: Know before you go Weather conditions can change quickly, especially at higher elevations. Research your route. Understand that cell phone service may not be available in some forest areas, and many Forest Service roads are not maintained for winter travel – drivers routed onto unmaintained roads

by GPS maps have been stranded, sometimes with

devastating results.

Be ‘Snow Safe.’

• Make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter travel • Carry traction devices at all times, where required • Pack warm clothes, water, food, hazard flares, a spare cell phone battery or charger, and anything else you’ll need to shelter safely and signal for help if you get stuck • Allow extra travel time for your trip • Do not park illegally in parking areas or on highways – this puts pedestrians at risk.

In an emergency, crowded conditions will prevent others from clearing the way and slow the arrival of medical aid and other first responders Sno-Park or no parking?

It’s been a relatively mild winter season in the Pacific Northwest; not all Sno-Parks have snow and those that do are in high demand. Most Sno-Park parking fills early, especially on weekends. If your preferred site is full, do not park illegally on the highway. Have a non-snow activity planned as a back-up.

When travelling to a SnoPark, have your permit ready.

Washington Sno-Park permits are issued by Washington State Parks. Oregon Sno-Park permits are issued by the Oregon Department of Transportation. These state-issued

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around sunrise and sunset is another tip that can help reduce vehicle-wildlife incidents, according to ODOT. Be aware of the possible dangers associated with animals on or near roadways.

When you see a wildlife, reduce your speed, and try to stay in your lane. ODOT urges drivers and passengers to always wear safety belts.

Steps to avoid a deer crossing • Watch for the rest of the gang. If you’ve seen one, you haven’t seen them all.

• Wear a seat belt. It’s

won’t prevent a collision, but wearing one can reduce injuries.

• Take a moment to reflect. Look for road signs.

And always stay away, aware and sober.

• Illuminate. Use high beam headlights if there’s no oncoming traffic. The light will reflect in a deer’s eyes.

• Honk. One long blast can scare deer to of the road.

• Timing is everything.

Be extra cautious during the spring and fall and at dusk and dawn when deer are most active.

If a collision is unavoidable • Stay on course. Don’t swerve, brake firmly and stay in your lane.

• Alert other drivers.

Pull off the road and put on flashers.

• Contact authorities.

If you collide with a large animal, you are legally required to report it to law enforcement.

• Report animals you move. Refer to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife webpage for animal salvage guidelines.

Preservation grants available

Forest service waives fees STAFF REPORT chroniclenews@countrymedia.net

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chronicle

A family of deer can often be seen along the roadway leading to Clatskanie Middle High School.

Metro Creative Connection / The Chronicle

Outdoor recreation has become especially important to individuals and families in the northwest this past year, according to a release from the forest service.

permits raise money for snow removal at winter recreation sites; the state’s permit requirement is not waived on Forest Service fee-free days.

The forest service fee waiver includes many picnic areas, boat launches, trailheads, and visitor centers.

Fees for camping, cabin rentals, or other permits still apply. Fees will continue to be charged at recreation sites operated by concessionaires unless the individual manager chooses to participate. To find a recreation site near you, visit our interactive recreation map.

The Forest Service manages 24 million acres of national forest lands in the Pacific Northwest and over 3,000 world-class outdoor recreation areas, facilities, and programs.

No fees are charged at any time on 98 percent of national forests and grasslands, and approximately two-thirds of developed recreation sites in national forests and grasslands can be used for free.

To learn more about the Forest Service in the Pacific Northwest, visit www.fs.usda. gov/r6.

The State Historic Preservation Office is offering grants for work on historic properties and for archaeology projects. The annual grants fund up to $20,000 in matching funds for preservation projects. Both grant programs support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan.

The Preserving Oregon Grants fund preservation of historic properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Work may include non-maintenance preservation like window repair, roof work, foundation projects, plumbing, and electrical needs. Recently funded projects include preservation of the following historic properties.

• Odd Fellows Building in Astoria • Butte Creek Mill in Eagle Point • Grand Ronde Depot Building • Fort Stevens Guard House • Carnegie Library in

PANDEMIC From Page A1 rate average during the same two-week period was 225.9 cases per 100,000 residents a 5.3% test positivity.

‘High risk’ restrictions Columbia County has been at an “extreme risk” since the framework was put into place at the start of December, which has limited certain business operations and capped gathering sizes at

Gresham • SP&S Locomotive in Portland • Brunk House in Polk County • Watts House in Scappoose • Triangle Lake Round Barn in Lane County • Long Branch Building in Weston Preserving Oregon Grants can also fund archaeology projects for significant work contributing toward identifying, preserving and/or interpreting archaeological sites.

Past projects include the analysis of the Britt Gardens archaeological investigations

by Southern Oregon University and study of sites in Lincoln County.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grants help restore or reconstruct the facades of buildings that have been heavily altered over the years. These grants return buildings to their historic appearance and potentially qualify them for historic register designation (local

or national). Recent façade projects have taken place in Astoria, Harrisburg, Lebanon, Klamath Falls, Portland, and Sheridan.

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support.

A free, online grant workshop specific to these grant programs and how to use the online grant application will be offered. Visit the Oregon Heritage grants webpage to register.

2-3 p.m. March 3 for Diamonds in the Rough building façade projects.

1-2 p.m. March 5 for Preserving Oregon Grants archaeology projects.

2-3 p.m. March 5 for Preserving Oregon Grants historic property projects.

Recorded trainings and tips are also online.

six. Transitioning to high risk will allow indoor dining and indoor entertainment to return at 25% capacity. It will also expand the number of people allowed to participate in outdoor events to 75, up from 50 allowed in extreme risk.

This impacts K-12 sports and outdoor fitness classes.

Some restrictions will remain unchanged in the transition to high risk, however.

Social and at-home gatherings inside are still capped at six people from a recommended limit of two households total and retail stores are still limited to operating at 50%

capacity with curbside pick-up encouraged.

To learn more about the grants and workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.

Gill@oregon.gov or 503986-0685.

Case totals Within Columbia County, there have been 1,145 cases of COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, and 20 pandemic-related deaths as of Feb. 8.

The county is no longer averaging 10-15 new daily cases, but instead around five.

The daily case rates have dropped statewide as well. The statewide daily case counts have been under 1,000 since Jan. 16, according to Oregon Health Authority (OHA).