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Special Report: Child care industry

Nonprofit Guide 2021

NONPROFIT GUIDE 2021 Presented by The Chronicle & The Chief

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FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2021

VOL. 129, NO. 42 Serving the Lower Columbia Region since 1891

Clatskanie, Rainier population rising slightly in the five-county area, and the only complete metropolitan area. It also has accounted for 58% of the growth in Benton County since 2010. The next largest “city” in Benton County isn’t a city itself; it’s an area commonly called North Albany and is part of the city of Albany, which lies mostly in Linn County. Preliminary population estimates for 2020 aren’t yet available for North Albany so its population is the estimate for 2019. The area had 8,255 residents in 2019, adding 1,792 people since 2010. North Albany is also the fastest growing part of Benton County, averaging 2.5% per year since 2010.

JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

Clatskanie’s estimated population rose to 1,795, gaining 58 people since the 2010 census and Rainier has gained 45 people with a current population of 1,940, according to a new state report. St. Helens leads Columbia County cities in population, at 13,915, with Scappoose second at 7,360, Columbia City’s population is at 1,980, Vernonia at 2,110 and Prescott at 55, according to the report by Oregon Employment Regional Economist Erik Knoder. St. Helens gained 1,032 new residents with Scappoose gaining 768. The largest influx was in the unincorporated areas of the county at 2,033 for a total estimated current population of 24,125. Vernonia saw a decrease in population of 41 people since the 2010 census. Most of Columbia County’s population increase has been concentrated in its southern portion, such as Scappoose and St. Helens, where commuting distances to the core Portland job market are shorter, and in unincorporated parts of the county. Knoder said unincorporated areas of Columbia County account for 52% of the growth in the county since 2010. About 45% of the county’s population resides in unincorporated areas. Most of Columbia County’s population is on the flat bottomlands next to the Columbia River. The only major interior community is Vernonia, located in the southwest portion of the county. Vernonia has experienced a drop in population since 2010, probably due in part to a large flood the town experienced. Despite being hit hard by the Great Recession, Knoder said Colum-

Clatsop County

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The Columbia River is one of the attractions helping boost population and commerce growth in Clatskanie, Rainier and across most of the county.

bia County has been adding people at a good clip. “Columbia’s population growth is fueled by its proximity to the rest of the Portland metropolitan area,” Knoder said. “Housing in the county is typically much less expensive than in adjoining Washington County, which is attractive to commuters.” Columbia County’s population grew by 530 in 2020, about 300 less than in 2019. This was still more people than any other county in the region. Northwest Oregon numbers The population of Northwest

Oregon, including Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, Lincoln and Benton counties, increased by 1,035 to an estimated 262,235 in 2020. The average annualized growth rate since 2010 has been 0.7%, similar to the prior decade and much slower than the 1.5% annual growth during the 1990s. Growth in the region has slipped back to similar numbers in 2012 when the region was starting to recover from the Great Recession. Knoder said the population growth appears tied to the economic performance in the region. The region grew by 2,000 or more people each year from 2005 through 2007. It slowed as immigration slowed during the recession and

early recovery. In 2014 population growth jumped by 1,900 and growth had been more than that every year until 2020. All five counties in Northwest Oregon have been growing over the long run and are expected to continue doing so, Knoder’s report states. Benton County Benton County (aka the Corvallis Metropolitan Area) provided 36% of the area’s total population and 29% of the growth in 2020. The county’s resident population increased by 305 in 2020. Corvallis is by far the largest city

Clatsop County had the fastest growth of the three non-metro counties in Northwest Oregon, but growth slowed abruptly in 2019 and remained low in 2020. The county added only 125 residents in 2019, the smallest gain since 2013. The county has had an average growth rate of 0.6% since 2010, slower than Benton County (1.0%) and slower than Columbia County (0.8%). The county’s population is older on average than Columbia County and relies more on migration for population growth. Clatsop County’s fastest growing city has been Warrenton, which is on the coast and has land for development. But even Warrenton’s growth has averaged only 0.7% since 2010. Astoria has been hampered by a shortage of buildable land. More than one-third of this county’s population resides in unincorporated areas and unincorporated areas account for twothirds of the county’s growth since ­­­­ See POPULATION Page A8

State revenues up, ‘kicker’ possible half of the biennium, Oregon’s general fund revenue outlook was inches away from the 2% kicker threshold when the pandemic hit. “After filling all of the recessionary hole, the March 2021 forecast calls for collections to exceed the threshold by $170 million (0.9%), resulting in a kicker credit of $571 million. However, this kicker credit is far from a sure thing. With one more tax season left in the biennium, much uncertainty remains.” Under Oregon law, if state revenues come in above 2% of initial projections some personal tax collections are returned to residents. Reaction

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Oregonians could share in a $571 million kicker rebate due to the surging state economy, according to the latest Oregon revenue forecast released at the state capitol in Salem Wednesday, Feb. 24. JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The latest state revenue forecast gives hope that Oregon’s financial affairs are brighter. “The economy is emerging from a dark winter. The resurgent virus of a few months ago is in full retreat. The outlook brightens with every inoculation,” the forecast summary reads, stating that following a booming first

Clatskanie Grows .... A4 Opinions ................... A4 Classified Ads ......... A5 Legals ..................... A5-6 Obituaries ................. A6 Police Blotters...........A6 Sports.........................A8

Gov. Kate Brown said the revenue forecast brings good news. “Even with this good news, it is important to move forward cautiously, as the road ahead remains unpredictable,” Brown said. “We also know that many Oregonians are still struggling with job losses, underemployment, and making ends meet.” Oregon House Speaker Tina Kotek released a statement following the release of the financial report saying the positive revenue forecast is good news for the state’s budgetary efforts. “However, I’m troubled by the disconnect these numbers and the economic pain on the ground for so many Oregonians,” Kotek said. Senate Republican Leader Fred Girod also issued a statement about the quarterly state revenue forecast. “I prefer to focus on the revenue coming into Oregonians’ bank accounts,” he said. “The reality is that 150,000 Oregonians have been put out of work because of the pandemic and the economic lockdowns. Tens of thousands are struggling to make rent, afford child care, and put food on the table.” Girod said the revenue forecast indicates that the state has taken in over $800 million in excess revenue. “The state has been bailed out by the federal government,” he said. “We are looking at billions more coming our way in the coming weeks from Congress and the Biden Administration. According to Girod, the Oregon Legislature should not be considering new taxes or rolling back COVID relief. ­­­­ See REVENUE Page A3

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The Clatskanie School District will ask voters in May to approve a plan to separate middle and high school spaces at this building as well as fund other renovations.

Voters to decide on $10m school bond JEREMY C. RUARK jruark@countrymedia.net

The Clatskanie School District will seek voter approval of a $10 million general obligation bond measure to conduct renovations to Clatskanie Middle/High school and at Clatskanie Elementary School. The funding issue will be on the May 18 election ballot. If the bonds are approved, they will be payable from taxes on property or property ownership that are not subject to the limits of sections 11 and 11b, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution, according to the ballot measure statement. The measure also reads that the Clatskanie School District has been awarded a $4,000,000 state grant, which will be available only if the bonds are approved. The funding would cover: • Renovating and constructing Clatskanie Middle/High School (CMHS) to separate middle and high school spaces • Upgrading Clatskanie Middle/ High School auditorium to industry standards for school and community use • Safety and security improvements, including controlled entry, at Clatskanie Elementary School (CES) and Clatskanie Middle/High School • Renovating, furnishing, replacing, improving, remodeling district facilities, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, internal/external finishes, and parking/driveway areas

• Pay bond issuance costs In the following conversation with The Chief, Clatskanie School Superintendent Cathy Hurowitz gives insight into this funding measure. The Chief: What is your overall vision that the $10 million in school building renovations would do for students’ ability to learn, and teachers and school staff ability to teach, and the districts efforts for safety? Hurowitz: The overall vision is to physically separate the middle school students from the high school students without building an additional facility. We are also focused on the safety and security of our buildings. The vision includes a redesign of the front entry ways of both CMHS and CES to provide a line of sight for anyone entering our buildings and a security system. We want to bring our CMHS auditorium up to current standards so that it can be better used by our schools and community. We have aging HVAC systems that need to be replaced and our buildings need new roofs. The Chief: Could you give us the financial breakdown of the specific areas where the $10 million would be spent and why those areas? Hurowitz: I have included a slide. (See attached to this story). The slide does not include the $4 million in matching funds and only lists the priorities.

The Chief: You discussed the need for additional security at the schools following the threat incidents at the middle/high school and at the elementary school last year. Specifically, what security is needed and where? Hurowitz: See Question 1. We also need security at our bus garage as our busses have been vandalized. We will redesign the schools entrances for line of sight and install a security system. Right now anyone can enter the buildings and reception staff is not able to see who is coming in until they are physically in the building. We need to have a system where we can see who is coming in as well as be able to go into immediate lockdown of all doors. The Chief: How is the district working to inform voters of the need for the successful passage of this bond in May? Community meetings planned, when, where? Hurowitz: Once we get through our 7 day waiting period we will schedule community meetings to share Bond information and answer questions. We will also put out FAQ sheets and use social media to share information. The Chief: Would the district website/Facebook have an area dedicated to patrons’ questions and the administrators’ answers about ­­­­ See BOND Page A6

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Friday, February 26, 2021

County remains at ‘high risk’ level STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Both the county’s case rate and test positivity rate have risen since the last risk assessment two weeks ago. The county is currently in ‘high risk,’ and will remain there for at least another two weeks. Had new cases dramatically increased or decreased, the county would be changing risk levels this Friday, but the numbers have stayed within the ‘high risk’ range. From Feb. 6-20, there were 77 new cases of COVID-19 in the county, which puts the county at a case rate of 146 per 100,000 people. The test positivity rate was 5.3% for that same time period. High risk counties need a case rate between 100-200 new cases reported over 14 days, and a test positivity rate between 8% to 10%, so Columbia County is still safely in ‘high risk’ territory, which allows restaurants to operate with indoor dining at 25% capacity. The last time the county’s

risk level was assessed by the state two weeks ago, there were 69 new cases reported over 14 days (from Jan. 24-Feb. 6) which put the case rate at 130.8 per 100,000 people and the test positivity rate was 4.2%. If cases in the county continue to trend higher, there is a chance the county could move back up to ‘extreme risk’ and have stricter restrictions reinstated. If cases lower enough in the county, it could move down to ‘moderate risk’ and restaurants and indoor activities could expand capacity to 50%, among other eases of rules. As of now, the county will remain in the ‘high risk’ category until the next risk assessment on March 9; any changes to the risk level will take effect on March 11. The framework The state’s risk level framework tracks each county’s COVID-19 case rate and test positivity rate over a two-week period

of Feb. 22. The statewide total number of cases is 153,134 and the death toll at 2,155. Statewide classifications

Courtesy photo from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Health authorities continue to stress that slowing the pandemic means everyone should be washing their hands frequently, practicing social distancing and wearing face coverings when out in public.

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. In high risk, indoor dining and indoor entertainment is allowed at 25% capacity. The number of people al-

lowed to participate in outdoor events is also expanded from 50 to 75. Case totals Within Columbia County, there have been 1,217 cases of COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, and 21 pandemic-related deaths as

Tuesday, Feb. 23, Gov. Kate Brown announced that 16 counties improved in risk level, with 10 of those improving from Extreme Risk. County risk levels under the state’s public health framework aim to reduce transmission and protect Oregonians from COVID-19. The framework uses four different risk levels for counties based on COVID-19 spread—Extreme Risk, High Risk, Moderate Risk, and Lower Risk—and assigns health and safety measures for each level. Effective Feb. 26 through March 11, there will be five counties in the Extreme Risk level, 11 at High Risk, 10 at Moderate Risk, and 10 at Lower Risk. “For the second time in a row, we are seeing great progress in stopping the spread of COVID-19 across

Oregon and saving lives,” Brown said. “Oregonians continue to step up and make smart choices. While these county movements are welcome news, we must continue to take seriously health and safety measures, especially as more businesses reopen and we start to get out more. As we see infection rates going down and vaccinations ramping up, now is not the time to let down our guard. Continue to wear your masks, keep physical distance, and avoid indoor gatherings.” The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) will examine and publish county data weekly. County risk levels will be reassigned every two weeks. The first week’s data will provide a “warning week” to prepare counties for potential risk level changes. The next assignment of risk levels will be announced March 9 and take effect March 12. Updates to Warning Week data and county risk levels will be posted to coronavirus.oregon.gov.

Spring political season underway The filing deadline for candidates running for local districts in Oregon for the May 18 election is March 18 and already there is interest for the Port of Columbia County Board. Position 5, held by Chris Iverson, and Position 4, held by Robert Keyser, are opening. Keyser has filed for reelection. Lifelong Columbia County resident Brian Fawcett has filed to run for port board Position 5. According to the Port of Columbia County’s website, there are five commissioners elected to four-year terms by the voters of the Port district. The board serves as the governing body for the Port of Columbia County.

Commissioners are responsible for setting port policy, overseeing the executive director, adopting the annual budget, approving all major expenditures, and developing and approving short and long-range plans for the port. Commissioners are accountable to the citizens within the port district. Chris Iverson currently holds Position 5 on the port board. Fawcett is a professional engineer and has worked at Clatskanie PUD since 2011, where he is currently the utility’s conservation and key accounts lead and works with industrial accounts and governmental entities

on economic development, energy efficiency, and electric vehicle programs. In a release, Fawcett said he also serves on the Port of Columbia County Scappoose Bay Marine Park Advisory Committee, Rainier Chamber of Commerce Board, and Hope of Rainier Food Pantry Board. “I have the experience in industrial infrastructure and economic development projects that makes me an ideal candidate for Port Commissioner,” Fawcett said. “My mission as port commissioner will be to help bring well-paying jobs to the county and promote port assets that provide recreational opportunities for

our citizens and visitors. Local jobs afford our residents more time to be with their families, frequent local businesses, and become more involved in building a thriving community.” Fawcett graduated from St. Helens High School and has a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Oregon State University. He currently lives in Prescott with his wife Meagan and his two step sons. Fawcett describes himself as an avid fisherman, outdoorsman, and youth basketball coach. The Chief has reached out to Chris Iverson to see if he will be running for reelection. We had not received a reply by press time.

Brian Fawcett.

Courtesy photo

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Friday, February 26, 2021

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Grants available for veterans STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

Metro Creative Connectionn / The Chief

Common injuries in construction include falls; work-related musculoskeletal disorders including joint inflammation, tendonitis and pinched nerves; and wounds sustained after being struck by objects.

Construction industry injuries

Time-specific safety interventions needed MOLLY MOSBACH Chief Guest Article

Workers in the construction industry are most likely to suffer traumatic injuries during the first four hours of their shift, and those who work evening or night shifts experience more severe injuries than their day-shift counterparts. The details are featured in an Oregon State University study as one of the first to analyze workers compensation injury claims data by the hour of work, which means its results can be used to better tailor specific safety interventions in the workplace, according to Liu Yang, the lead author and doctoral graduate in OSU’s College of Public Health and Human Sciences. “I really hope that people could learn from this and realize that the chance of getting injured or getting more severe injuries are related to the hours of your work,” Yang said. What the study shows The study looked at 12,222 workers’ compensation claims from the Oregon construction industry from 2007-2013 that were accepted by insurers as disabling. “Disabling” claims mean the work-related injury or illness caused the worker to miss at least three days of work, or the injury required overnight hospitalization or could result in permanent disability or death. Common injuries in construction include falls; work-related musculoskeletal disorders including joint

inflammation, tendonitis and pinched nerves; and wounds sustained after being struck by objects. The overall disabling claims rate decreased significantly from 2007 to 2013, but construction is still one of the most dangerous industries for injury claims, and Oregon fares worse than other states. Census data shows that Oregon’s non-fatal work-related injury and illness rate in the construction industry was 1.6 times higher than the national rate in 2017. The injuries According to the OSU study, nearly 80% of injuries occurred among workers ages 25-54, though older workers incurred much higher medical costs and missed more work days when they were injured. Overall, the average medical compensation awarded per injury was $12,000 and the average loss of work was 80.5 days. During the work day, workers were most likely to sustain an injury during the fourth hour of work. The hourly injury rate decreased after that but increased slightly at the end of an eight-hour shift. While injuries were less frequent after the fourth hour of work, injuries that were reported at that time tended to be more severe. Based on the data, Yang speculated that most construction workers take a mid-shift rest or meal break and experience some restorative benefits, but if they are unable to, they may risk more severe injury. She hopes future study can verify what impact breaks — or lack thereof — have on in-

jury frequency and severity. The study also looked at injuries among workers who start after 6 p.m. and work evening or night shifts. It was a small sample, as only a few subsectors of construction work at night, but evening and night shift workers suffered more frequent and more severe injuries than day shift workers. Young workers aged 16-24 were also a vulnerable population, experiencing the highest rates of injury. Yang is working with the Oregon Health Authority to look more closely at the risk factors among young workers in hopes they might pinpoint specific safety measures to help avoid injury on the job. Interventions Two interventions that could help are increased workplace supervision and work organization, which takes into consideration hours of work, and strict enforcement of mandatory rest breaks and meal breaks, Yang said. “In Oregon, we have regulations about breaks; however, it is unclear what workers experience in practice,” she said. “The construction industry is fast-paced; they may need to finish their task at a certain time, so they may not really take their rest and meal breaks as required.” The OSU study appears in the Journal of Occupational Health.

The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is still accepting applications for the Veteran Educational Bridge Grant, a grant program that was implemented last year to help Oregon veterans complete their educational goals. The Veteran Educational Bridge Grant Program provides financial assistance to veterans who are unable to complete their education or training due to the unavailability of one or more required classes or periods of training. The program, which the Oregon State Legislature established in 2019 with the passage of House Bill 2201, provides grants to eligible student veterans to alleviate the financial stress during a gap period when required courses are unavailable, allowing them to stay in school or their apprenticeship training and finish their program. Under the program, eli-

REVENUE From Page A1

“That will simply hinder economic recovery and the chances of Oregonians getting back to work,” he said. Senate President Peter Courtney said he was very surprised with the March 2021 quarterly economic and revenue forecast. “The forecast is way up.,” Courtney said. “This allows us to start really dealing with the pain and suffering of Oregonians.” Rainier City Administrator Scott Jorgensen said the state revenue forecast is surprisingly optimistic, given the tremendous challenges facing the economy over the last year. “Oregon’s economy remains resilient, despite the government-mandated closures and restrictions across multiple business sectors,” Jorgensen said. “Federal aid was apparently effective in achieving its aims of providing stability for workers who were facing temporary layoffs.” Jorgensen said Rainier is preparing a city budget that is conservative in its approach and seeking to maintain the status quo, in terms of levels of services provided to its residents. “Our budget is not largely

gible student veterans who are unable to complete their education due to the unavailability of required classes or training may receive grants of up to $5,000. Recipients must be a veteran eligible for GI Bill® benefits, must be an Oregon resident and must be enrolled in an Oregon-based academic or training program that is approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. To date, ODVA has awarded over $200,000 to more than 40 veterans in academic and training programs that include traditional degrees, professional certificates, flight programs and apprenticeships. The average award has been $4,382 and the average turnaround from the receipt of a completed application has been just five days. “ODVA is grateful for the opportunity to help so many worthy veterans complete their education or vocational training, which we know can have a lasting, meaningful impact on the quality of life they are

able to lead for themselves and their families,” ODVA Director Kelly Fitzpatrick said. “Particularly in the midst of the unprecedented circumstances brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, we recognize the barriers many student veterans face in achieving their educational goals, and our team stands ready to help in any way we can.” Veterans may also be eligible for retroactive funding in certain circumstances. Any veteran who believes they meet eligibility requirements is encouraged to apply.

dependent on state revenue sources, which merely supplement the dollars drawn from the local property taxes that fund the bulk of our daily operations.,” he said. “The city will continue to stand and work with its business owners as they find ways to open their doors to customers in the safest ways possible. It’s also important that our homeowners and property owners be financially sound and stable.”

increased vaccinations, large and swift federal policy responses, and a more resilient underlying economy, results in a cycle unlike anything experienced before. Most encouraging is that the amount of economic scarring to date in terms of business closures and permanent layoffs is much better than first feared. Total personal income is higher today than it was prior to the pandemic, despite Oregon having 160,000 fewer jobs. Households, particularly those in the middle and upper parts of the income distribution have built up considerable amounts of savings. “As the pandemic continues to wane, pent-up demand will be unleashed, fueling growth in the months ahead. The shift in spending out of physical goods and back into labor-intensive, in-person consumer services will raise employment significantly. While the labor market remains in a deep hole today, a bit more than half of these lost jobs will be regained this year. The rest will be regained next year. Oregon’s economy will return to full employment by early 2023, or 6-9 months sooner than expected in previous forecasts.”

Why the revenue forecasts are important The Oregon Economic Forecast provides information to planners and policy makers in state agencies and private organizations for use in their decision making processes. The Oregon Revenue Forecast opens the revenue forecasting process to public review. It is the basis for much of the budgeting in state government. The forecast reports are issued four times a year: March, June, September, and December. The summary The March revenue forecast summary released Wednesday, Feb. 24, by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services states that the stage is set for stronger economic growth. “The combination of

For more information about the Veteran Educational Bridge Grant Program or to apply, visit the ODVA website at www.oregon.gov/odva/agency-programs/grants/Pages/ Educational-Bridge-Grant. aspx. Questions may be directed to ODVA Veteran Educational Bridge Grant Coordinator Joe Mah at ebg@odva.state.or.us or by phone at 503-400-0540.

Read the full Oregon Revenue Forecast with this story at thechiefnews.com

Molly Rosbach works at the OSU Department of Marketing and Research. She may be reached at molly. rosbach@oregonstate.edu

Scholarship applications now open As winter fades to spring and students return to class rooms, it’s time for some high school seniors to begin to apply for scholarships. The Clatskanie Foundation offers a pool of funding for current Clatskanie Middle/High School seniors and alumni. Only one application needs to be filled out by each students, but the foundation offers multiple scholarships. Each scholarship has its own set of requirements, but

members of the awarding committee may connect students with scholarships they might not have applied for. Applications for this year’s scholarships are due by midnight April 9. Some of the scholarship require specific responses to questions in the application and all students will be required to provide personal information about their schooling history and intended future. Over the last two decades,

the foundation has awarded over $325,000 in scholarship aid to local students. Last year over 15 students received funding and in 2019, the foundation awarded $38,000 in scholarships. To apply, visit clatskaniefoundation.com/scholarships to download materials. Questions about the process of the scholarships can be fielded to Kathy Engel, scholarship chair, at kathy.r.engel@ gmail.com.

Columbia County Fair and Rodeo dates have changed! The New dates are now: July 12th, 2021 - July 18th, 2021. Fair schedule coming soon! Columbia County’s trusted local news source

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Friday, February 26, 2021

•C latskanie G rows • •

Clatskanie Grows: Storm lessens, dormant sprays trees include white oaks (but as noted above, our native species is touchy), red maple, gingko, and sweetgum. Some other things we learn from these events are the value of good friends and neighbors and the need to be prepared to survive without external food, heat, and water for several days if needed. Plan for our next emergency now.

CHIP BUBL Chief Guest Column

Ice storm lessons We get an ice storm about once every 10 years and were probably overdue. I really thought we had escaped again when we weren’t “iced” early in the storm cycle but communities to the south and east of us were. The Sunday icing was not as heavy as it could have been, but it was bad enough. Trees broke and/or toppled on houses, structures, power lines, and roads. Many homes were without power for several days. The line crews that worked diligently to get power restored were fantastic by all accounts. And I think preventative maintenance along the power lines over the last ~10 years paid dividends. So what are some of the lessons that we learned? Some trees are just plain ice-fragile and probably aren’t the best landscape trees. They include birch (also weakened by the bronze birch borer but that is another story), poplars and cottonwoods, big leaf maples, black

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The country’s flight The first seven years of my military service I worked in avionics servicing communication, navigation, and flight control systems. There are three physical laws of flight; yaw, pitch and roll which must all work together for a plane to maintain flight. These three laws can also be applied to politics. Yaw points the plane

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and honey locusts, walnuts, and mimosas. Douglas fir toppled by the droves. They have amazingly shallow root systems and quite a few have some level of root rot that is the residue of planting Douglas firs repeatedly without other tree crops to break the root disease cycle. Our white (Garry) oaks also seem more prone to limb shedding than other oaks. There are some things we can do to reduce risk, even with “fragile” trees. Pruning to thin out some limbs and branches will lighten an ice load. On young trees, we can save limbs that attach to the trunk at a good branch angle (~45 degrees) and eliminate ones that are much more acutely attached. The more upright limb attachments have what is called a “bark inclusion” where the limb joins the trunk, making for a weaker connection. Small trees that topple over can sometimes be pulled upright but it isn’t easy and never do it with a vehicle and a chain. I know several who bent the frame of their trucks to save a tree. Trees that split down the middle generally are poor salvage prospects. Some stronger landscape

of the

Dormant sprays Most fruit care lists talk about winter dormant sprays. But there is some confusion about which ones to use and what they accomplish. The most important ones are used on blueberries and the

cultivated blackberry group (Marion, Logan, Boysen, etc.) for disease control. The best choices are wettable sulfur, lime sulfur (if you can find it) or the copper sprays. All are considered “organic” and have been used for years. There is a misconception that you can control apple scab and the “worms” in apples by sprays this time of year. They need to be con-

trolled later in the season. You can apply a “scab” spray just before the apple flower buds open and get some control but you get more benefit by applying after the fruit is set. Scab incidence is strongly determined by weather. The wetter the spring, the worse the scab. Repeat spraying on dry days in a wet

Clatskanie Grows

spring will help. Once we get into our dry summer, scab doesn’t get worse. If you are just planting a fruit orchard, consider planting scab resistant varieties. There are many excellent choices and you can ignore these scab control instructions. There are two major “worms” in apples. The “worm” (actually a caterpillar) that makes the large

path to the core is the larva of the codling moth. The males and females can fly fairly long distances so you can be getting codling moth parties from many sources. But the party doesn’t start until there are apples on the tree since that is what the caterpillars eat. So spraying for them doesn’t make sense until about a month after full bloom. For us, that is usually about the middle of May unless the spring has been unusually warm or cold. A repeat spray is done in about three weeks and one in early July. The July spray also catches the emergence of the second “worm”, the apple maggot. This rascal is the product of a fly that waits until the fruit is fairly far along and then gets in a breeding mood. Eggs are deposited on the apple and the little maggots burrow in and wander about the flesh making a few (or in bad years) lots of tiny tunnels. For this pest, you might need one more spray in early August. The best choice for homeowners are products that contain “spinosad” as the active ingredient. This is a compound produced by fermentation of a microorganism and is considered an organic product. It is not perfect but pretty good if used appropriately. As always, read and follow all label instructions. Picture from University of South Florida ETC collection. Have questions? If you have questions on any of these topics or other

home garden and/or farm questions, please contact Chip Bubl, Oregon State University Extension office in St. Helens at 503-397-3462 or at chip. bubl@oregonstate.edu. Free newsletter The Oregon State University Extension office in Columbia County publishes a monthly newsletter on gardening and farming topics (called County Living) written/edited by yours truly. All you need to do is ask for it and it will be mailed or emailed to you. Call 503397-3462 to be put on the list. Alternatively, you can find it on the web at extension. oregonstate.edu/columbia and click on newsletters. Many Extension publications available online Are you putting up salsa, saving seeds, or thinking about planting grapes? OSU has a large number of its publications available for free download. Just go to catalog. extension.oregonstate.edu. Click on publications and start exploring. The Extension Service offers its programs and materials equally to all people. Contact information for the Extension office Oregon State University Extension Service – Columbia County • Address: 505 N. Columbia River Highway, St. Helens, OR 97051 • Phone: 503-397-3462 • Email: chip.bubl@ oregonstate.edu

C ommunity • •

(country) in the direction the pilot (administration) wants to go. Pitch is used to lower or raise altitude (economy), nose (interest rate) down gains speed, nose (interest rate) up reduces speed. Roll is used to maintain left and right balance during maneuvering, to yaw right you need to roll right to maintain flight (social) stability. For years American politics have been like an airline whose pilots who no longer maintain their flight training requirements and planes which no longer

meet minimum maintenance requirements. We’ve had a president who applied too much right pedal, a congress which hasn’t applied enough right stick, and an economy which has been placed nose down too long. Now we have a president who is applying too much left pedal, a congress who isn’t applying enough left stick and still has the nose pointed down. It’s no wonder our country is losing its stability. Joe Turner Columbia City

•C ommunity E vents • •

February 27 • Columbia County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Columbia County Transfer Station at 1601 Railroad Ave. in St. Helens. Check the county’s website before the event in case it is impacted by changes to COVID-19 restrictions from the state. For more information call 503397-7259.

Saturdays • The Rainier Oregon Historical Museum is open from noon - 4 p.m. (except major holiday weekends). Located inside Rainier City Hall on the 3rd floor. Go in side entrance and take an elevator to the 3rd floor. Call 360-751-7039 for questions. On Going • Rainier City Hall re-opens to the public March 1 for its usual

operating hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. • The Rainier Public Library resumes regular hours of 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Fridays and 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Saturdays. It will be closed Sundays and Mondays. No more than six patrons will be allowed inside the library at any given time.

Carbon monoxide danger Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, toxic gas produced when anything is burned. Gas and oil furnacFour people have died and a dog was killed in three es, water heaters, fireplaces as well as wood burning separate carbon monoxide and gas stoves are common poisonings in Clackamas sources in the home. County during the recent If used inappropriately, snow and ice storms. items that emit heat can Investigators said the produce dangerous levels of accidental deaths came after carbon monoxide. one man attempted to gain Common symptoms of heat from a charcoal bricarbon monoxide poisoning quettes fire inside his home, are headaches, dizziness, other incidents involved weakness, nausea, vomitpropane heaters. ing, chest pain and confuMedical experts at the sion. Exposure to carbon Oregon Health Authority monoxide can cause loss of (OHA) said winter stormconsciousness and death. If related power outages and carbon monoxide poisonloss of electricity have some ing is suspected, seek fresh Oregonians using alternate air and consult a health care heating sources, many of professional right away. which come with the added The only way to know risk of carbon monoxide if you are being exposed to poisoning. carbon monoxide is by using a detector. The danger The OHA urges people to Columbia County’s trusted local news source STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

follow these important steps to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning: • Use caution with kerosene or gas space heaters; use vented space heaters whenever possible and make sure they are clean and inspected. • Never use a gas range or oven to heat your home. • Check exterior exhaust vents to be sure they are clear of snow, ice and fallen debris • Do not use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. • Never run a portable generator or any gas-powered engine in a basement, garage or other enclosed area, even if doors and windows are open. For more information on carbon monoxide safety, visit the Oregon Health Authority website.

Weekly Online Poll

Last Week’s Results

Are you subscribing to the high school sports game streaming systems?

Did you enjoy the snow?

Yes

No

60% Yes

40% No

Vote online at thechiefnews.com

The Chief

The Chief (USPS 116-360) is published weekly by Country Media, Inc. 1805 Columbia Blvd, St. Helens, OR 97051

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Chief PO Box 1153, St. Helens, OR 97051

SUBSCRIPTION RATES: 1 month in/out county: $8 One year in county: $60 One year out of county: $80

Contact Us • Phone: (503) 397-0116 • Fax: (503) 397-4093 Website: www.thechiefnews.com • Editorial Email: chiefnews@countrymedia.net Advertising Email: atrull@countrymedia.net Letters policy This newspaper’s letters to the editor are limited to a maximum of 250 words and will be edited for grammar, spelling and blatant inaccuracies. Unsubstantiated or irresponsible allegations, or personal attacks on any individual, will not be published. Letters containing details presented as facts rather than opinions must include their sources. Writers are limited to one published letter per month. All submissions must include the author’s full name, local street address and telephone number (only the name and city of residence will be published). By submitting a letter, writers also grant permission for them to be posted online. Opinions expressed on this page are the writer’s alone and do not represent the opinion of the newspaper or its parent company, Country Media, Inc.

www.thechiefnews.com

Friday, February 26, 2021

A5

Marketplace

It’s easy to place a classified ad in The Chief.

Just call 503.397.0116

Listings are updated daily at www.thechiefnews.com 150

502

502

502

502

502

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702

Misc Services

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Garage Sales

Paul’s Tree Service Inc. No bush too small, no tree to tall- Call Paul! Specialized in danger trees, take downs, storm clean-up. Time to prune- pruning Lace Leafed Maples & ornamental shrubberies, chipping, senior or veterans discount, free estimates. CCB# 217173 Lic., Bonded & Insured. 503-440-0723 or 503-543-8274

is highly desirable. Knowledge in pool maintenance, water chemistry testing and related is helpful. Experience and Training: Experience preferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant, Pool Manager and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; First-Aid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) Certifications. You can request an application by phone at 208-249-7144 or by email at warren. cyndi@yahoo.com. Applications and resumes can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie, OR 97016 or by email to warren. cyndi@yahoo.com. If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 208-249-7144. Applications with resumes will be accepted until 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2021.

willing to work flexible evening and weekend hours. Successful candidates will demonstrate superior customer service skills to provide tactful, courteous, efficient service with attention to details. To be considered for the position, candidates must have a high school diploma or GED. Job description and details may be found at www. clatskanielibrary. org. WAGES & BENEFITS Starting wage: $12.00 per hour; Pro-rated vacation and sick leave for regular, part-time employees; Hourly, nonexempt, at-will employment status. To apply, please submit your resume’ and a hand-written cover letter to the attention of Hiring Supervisor at: Clatskanie Library District, PO Box 577, Clatskanie, OR 97016 or ad min@clatskanie library.org no later than the closing date of March 12th, 2021. Clatskanie Library District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Executive Director. The Library Executive Director performs responsible and varied administrative and professional work related to planning, organizing, and directing all aspects of library services for the Clatskanie Public Library. They work extensively with staff, volunteers, the Clatskanie Library District Board, Friends of the Clatskanie Public Library, and others in and outside the library to ensure that the library continually evolves to meet community needs. The Clatskanie Library District Board is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To Apply A complete job description and application can be accessed through the Clatskanie Library District website at clatskanielibrary. org. All applicants must provide a cover letter, current resume and a completed Clatskanie Library employment application. Incomplete application packets will not be considered. Mail, email, or fax your application, cover letter, and resume to: Clatskanie Public Library CED Application, c/o Jim Gibson, Board Chair, PO Box 577,

ESTATE SALES by JANET janetes tatesales@gmail. com 971-645-3320

Director, Emergency Management Columbia County, OR EOE Deadline 3/19/2021 Apply at ColumbiaCounty OR.gov

ful. Work with pool related chemicals and be familiar with State and Federal regulations regarding outdoor pool operations. Experience and Training: Experience preferred. Or the willingness to work within an agreed upon time frame between applicant and Board of Directors to obtain the required and suggested certifications for the position; First-Aid, CPR, AED certifications, Lifeguard Instructor and Training, Water Safety Instructor and CPO (Certified Pool Operator) Certifications. You can request an application by phone at 208-249-7144 or by email at warren. cyndi@yahoo.com. Applications and resumes can be returned by mail to: Clatskanie Park & Recreation District, PO Box 737, Clatskanie, OR 97016 or by email to warren. cyndi@yahoo.com. If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi Warren, 208-249-7144. Applications with resumes will be accepted until 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2021.

Clatskanie, OR 97016. Jim Gibson, Board Chair, jgib son@clatskanie library.org, Fax # 1-888-313-0650. Applications must be received by 5:00 pm on Friday, March 5th, 2021.

Clatskanie Library District is seeking a parttime library clerk and candidates for our substitute pool. Applicants must be

POOL MANAGER Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications and resumes for a Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Train, manage and evaluate approximately 20 lifeguards; beginning in February and continuing into September. Plan, organize and schedule programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool. Be responsible for scheduling adequate staff for the safety, supervision, cleanliness, water chemistry and mechanical operation of the pool for youth and families in our District. Maintain pool and employee records. Perform such other duties as assigned by the Operations Manager and/or Board of Directors from time to time. Knowledge and Skills: Strong administrative skills, recreational aquatic programming skills, leadership and managerial skills, pool maintenance and water chemistry skills and good public relation skills are a must. Thorough knowledge of policies, procedures and equipment used in daily outdoor pool operations help-

502

Help Wanted

ASSISTANT POOL MANAGER Clatskanie Park & Recreation District is now accepting applications and resumes for an Assistant Pool Manager. Responsibilities: Beginning in February and continuing into September assist the Pool Manager with training, managing and evaluating approximately 20 lifeguards. In addition, this position helps in planning, organizing, scheduling and teaching programs offered at our seasonal outdoor pool. Knowledge and Skills: Experience in pool management, supervising employees, administration, leadership and good public relation skills

The Clatskanie Library District Board is seeking a Library

The Rainier Cemetery District is looking for PartTime Office help (20-25 hours per week). Must be at least 18 years of age and able to pass a background check. Duties are, but not limited to; answering phones, meeting with the public and record keeping. Skills required for this position are, but not limited to; Excel, Word, data entry, attention to detail, customer service and the ability to work independently. The position is available immediately. Please send your resume to: Rainier Cemetery District, PO Box 307, Clatskanie, OR 97016. You can also email your resume to cyndi@ dconnercpa.com or drop off at 365 S Nehalem Street, Clatskanie. If you have any questions, please contact Cyndi at 503-728-2038. Resumes will be accepted until 3 p.m. on Monday, March 8, 2021.

Classified Ad deadline: Please submit ads to The Chief by Wednesdays by noon. Late submissions are not guaranteed to make it into the paper.

738

Livestock/Supplies

Chehalis Livestock Market always welcomes cattle from Oregon. Auctions every Friday & first Saturday of the month at 1 pm. Oregon cattle must have Oregon Brand Insp before crossing into WA state. Cattle deliveries accepted Thurs, from 10-8 and Friday morning starting at 8 am. Call or see our webpage: clmauctions.com for further information, 360-746-3191.

860

Storage

CLATSKANIE Mini Storage

Hoarder’s Paradise! 20 sizes, Inexpensive RV Storage, Carports, Hand trucks, Locks, Fully-lined, Insulated, Condensation free, all units lit. On-site Manager

503 728-2051 503 369-6503 Visa/MC/Amex

Public Notices PROTECTING YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

CC21-1379

CC21-1383

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE STATE OF NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF BALLOT TITLE Filed in the Office of 11 and 11b, Article XI of would mature in 20 years OREGON FOR THE COUNTY OF COLUMBIA County Clerk 2/22/2021 the Oregon Constitution. or less from the date of Department of Probate In the Matter of the Estate of LARRY W. GEORGE, Deceased. No. 21PB00972 NOTICE TO INTERESTED PERSONS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed and has qualified as Personal Representative of the estate. All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present their claims, with

proper vouchers, within four months after the date of first publication of this notice, as stated below, to the Personal Representative at: Olsen, Horn LLC, 1510 St. Helens Street, Suite B, St. Helens, Oregon 97051, or the claims may be barred. All persons whose rights may be affected by the proceedings in this estate may obtain additional information from

the records of the court, the Personal Representative, or the attorney for the Personal Representative. DATED and first published this: February 24, 2021. James R. George, Personal Representative. Address: 79576 Stewart Creek Road, Clatskanie, OR 97016. James C. Horn, Attorney OSB# 822815, 1510 St. Helens Street, Suite B, St. Helens, OR 97051.

CC21-1381

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF BALLOT TITLE Filed in the Office of County Clerk 2/22/2021 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a ballot title for a measure to be referred by Clatskanie School District 6J has been filed with the Columbia County Clerk February 22nd, 2021. A measure election will be held within the boundaries of School District 6J on May 18th, 2021. The election will be conducted by mail. The ballot title caption is: Five-Year Local Option Tax for Cemetery Operations. Caption Authorizes General Obligation Bonds to Improve and Update School Facilities Question Shall Clatskanie School District No. 6J issue $10,000,000 general obligation bonds for school capital costs, receive $4,000,000 grant? If the bonds are approved, they will be payable from taxes on property or property ownership that are not subject to the limits of sec-

tions 11 and 11b, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution. Summary The District has been awarded a $4,000,000 State grant, which will be available only if the bonds are approved. If approved, bond and grant funds would finance capital costs within the District, including: • Renovating and constructing Clatskanie Middle High School to separate middle and high school spaces • Upgrading Clatskanie Middle High School auditorium to industry standards for school and community use • Safety and security improvements, including controlled entry, at Clatskanie Elementary School and Clatskanie Middle High School • Renovating, furnishing, replacing, improving, remodeling District facilities, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, internal/ external finishes, and parking/ driveway areas • Pay bond

issuance costs Bonds would mature in 20 years or less from the date of issuance and may be issued in one or more series. If approved, the bond tax rate is estimated to maintain the current bond tax rate of $0.91 per $1,000.00 of assessed value. Actual rates may vary based upon interest rates incurred and changes in assessed value. Any elector of the district may file a petition for review of this ballot title in the Columbia County Circuit Court no later than 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021 (which is the 7th business day after receipt). The challenger must notify the Columbia County Clerk’s Office in writing not later than 5:00 p.m. on the next business day following the day the petition for review is filed (ORS 255.155). This notice is published pursuant to ORS 255.145(5) by Elizabeth E. Huser, Columbia County Clerk.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a ballot title for a measure to be referred by Clatskanie School District 6J has been filed with the Columbia County Clerk February 22nd, 2021. A measure election will be held within the boundaries of School District 6J on May 18th, 2021. The election will be conducted by mail. The ballot title caption is: Five-Year Local Option Tax for Cemetery Operations Caption Authorizes General Obligation Bonds to Improve and Update School Facilities Question Shall Clatskanie School District No. 6J issue $10,000,000 general obligation bonds for school capital costs, receive $4,000,000 grant? If the bonds are approved, they will be payable from taxes on property or property ownership that are not subject to the limits of sections

Summary The District has been awarded a $4,000,000 State grant, which will be available only if the bonds are approved. If approved, bond and grant funds would finance capital costs within the District, including: • Renovating and constructing Clatskanie Middle High School to separate middle and high school spaces • Upgrading Clatskanie Middle High School auditorium to industry standards for school and community use • Safety and security improvements, including controlled entry, at Clatskanie Elementary School and Clatskanie Middle High School • Renovating, furnishing, replacing, improving, remodeling District facilities, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, roofing, internal/ external finishes, and parking/ driveway areas • Pay bond issuance costs Bonds

issuance and may be issued in one or more series. If approved, the bond tax rate is estimated to maintain the current bond tax rate of $0.91 per $1,000.00 of assessed value. Actual rates may vary based upon interest rates incurred and changes in assessed value. Any elector of the district may file a petition for review of this ballot title in the Columbia County Circuit Court no later than 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021 (which is the 7th business day after receipt). The challenger must notify the Columbia County Clerk’s Office in writing not later than 5:00 p.m. on the next business day following the day the petition for review is filed (ORS 255.155). This notice is published pursuant to ORS 255.145(5) by Elizabeth E. Huser, Columbia County Clerk.

CC21-1385

NOTICE OF CITY COUNCIL MEETING The Clatskanie City Council will meet on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the ballroom of the Clatskanie Cultural Center, 75 South Nehalem St. (2nd floor). Agenda items include, but are not limited to: approval of the minutes of the February 3rd, 2020 regular meeting, a public hearing for the second reading of an ordinance

revising City water service meet for: Executive Session delivery, and a presentation per ORS 192.660 (2)(d); To of the proposed 2021-22 conduct deliberations with fiscal year Capital Improvepersons designated by the ment Projects. An updated governing body to carry on agenda will be available at labor negotiations. Executive City Hall by February 26th, Session per ORS 192.660(2) 2021. The council will also (h); To consult with counsel conduct two Executive Sesconcerning the legal rights sions and return to regular and duties of a public body session following. Followwith regard to current litigaing the regular meeting, the tion or litigation likely to be Clatskanie City Council will filed. Columbia County’s trusted local news source

www.thechiefnews.com

A6

Public Notices

Friday, February 26, 2021

•

CC21-1380

Richard “Ritch” Robertson

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR FUNDING The Westport-Wauna RFPD is applying to the USDA Rural Development, SEARCH program for funding of a Quick Response/ Command vehicle. The estimated project cost would include the grant at approximately $60,000 with the de-

partment portion estimate of $15,000. The Westport-Wauna will hold a board/council meeting open to the public to discuss the application and provide an opportunity for the public to comment. The meeting is a requirement of the USDA application.

The meeting will be held at 7:00pm March 10, 2021 at the Westport Community Center, 91177 Westport Ferry Rd., Westport, OR 97016. For more information on the USDA Rural Development application please contact Greg Brody 503-407-7783.

•O bituaries • • Sept. 1, 1947 ~ Feb. 16, 2021

Richard “Ritch” Robertson 73, passed away at his home on Feb. 16, 2021. Ritch was a decorated Vietnam Veteran. He loved fishing and hunting. He was a kind and loving man and a devoted friend. I will miss you my dear friend. Love you “B.” Groulx Family Mortuary is taking care of the arrangements.

John Unversagt

March 5, 1952 ~ Feb. 16, 2021

CC21-1384

NOTICE OF CITY APPLICATION FOR GRANT ELIGIBILITY The City of Clatskanie is eligible to apply for a 2020 Community Development Block Grant from the Business Oregon. Community Development Block Grant funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The grants can be used for public facilities and housing improvements, primarily for persons with low and moderate incomes. Approximately $12 million will be awarded to Oregon non-metropolitan cities and counties in 2020. The maximum grant that a city or county can receive is $2.5 million. The City of Clatskanie is preparing an application for a 2020 Community Development Block Grant from the Business Oregon for a new Waste-water treatment plant to replace the aging sewer plant. It is estimated that the proposed project will benefit at least 1795 persons, of whom 56.34 will be low or moderate income. A public hearing will be held by the

City Council at 7:00pm on March 3rd at the Clatskanie Cultural Center Ballroom located on the 2nd floor at 75S. Nehalem St. The purpose of this hearing is for the City of Clatskanie to obtain citizen views and to respond to questions and comments about: community development and housing needs, especially the needs of low- and moderateincome persons, as well as other needs in the community that might be assisted with a Community Development Block Grant project; and the proposed project. Written comments are also welcome and must be received by March 2nd, 2021 at 75. S. Nehalem, Suite D; or P.O. Box 9, Clatskanie OR 97016. Both oral and written comments will be considered by the City Council in deciding whether to apply. The location of the hearing is accessible to persons with disabilities. Please contact Greg Hinkelman, City Manager at (503) 728-2622 if you will need any special accommo-

dations to attend or participate in the meeting. More information about Oregon Community Development Block Grants, the proposed project, and records about the City of Clatskanie’s past use of Community Development Block Grant funds is available for public review at City Hall, 75. S. Nehalem St. during regular office hours. Advance notice is requested. If special accommodations are needed, please notify Greg Hinkelman, City Manager at (503) 728-2622 so that appropriate assistance can be provided. Permanent involuntary displacement of persons or businesses is not anticipated as a result from the proposed project. If displacement becomes necessary, alternatives will be examined to minimize the displacement and provide required/reasonable benefits to those displaced. Any low- and moderate-income housing that is demolished or converted to another use will be replaced.

CC21-1386

NOTICE OF REGULAR MEETING The regular meeting of the Clatskanie Park & Recreation District will be held on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 6:00 at 555 SW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR, Port of Co-

lumbia County Offices (the Old Middle School). Items on the agenda include, but are not limited to: General park maintenance and pool renovation update(s). Board

Chair, Andrew Mustola. ALL SOCIAL DISTANCING RULES IN PLACE AT THE TIME OF THE MEETING WILL BE STRICTLY FOLLOWED.

John Unversagt 68, of Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away Feb. 16, 2021 at home.

Jon Gillman

July 13, 1944 ~ Feb. 20, 2021 Jon Gillman 79, of Clatskanie, Oregon, passed away Feb. 20, 2021 at home.

Leslie “Bob” Henderson July 29, 1934 ~ Feb. 10, 2021

Leslie “Bob” Henderson 86, of Rainier, Oregon, passed away Feb. 10, 2021 in Rainier, Oregon.

Sam Tift

Feb. 8, 1929 ~ Feb. 21, 2021 Sam Tift 92, of Rainier, Oregon, passed away Feb. 21, 2021 in Longview, Washington.

Storm food loss help STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is able to replace food purchased with SNAP benefits if there was a loss of food due to the recent power outages. Food may be replaced for SNAP recipients who: • Lost food due to a power outage, home damage or other misfortune • Make a request to replace the food loss within

10 days of the date the food is destroyed in a household misfortune. SNAP households that lost or tossed food that was unsafe to eat, can request SNAP replacement benefits but they need to do so within 10 days of the loss. For example: If your food was damaged February 13, February 23 would be considered the 10th day. Replacement benefits are not automatic. The amount of replacement benefits each SNAP household will receive

is based on the value of the food that was destroyed. 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.

Hurowitz: We cannot hire staff with the bond funds. In order to hire additional staff we would need an operation levy, which we are not asking for as that would mean additional taxes.

be done in phases so as not to disrupt class time?

More information is available online at www.oregon.gov/dhs/ASSISTANCE/ FOOD-BENEFITS/Pages/ Replacement%20-Benefits. aspx.

BOND

From Page A1

CC21-1387

Clatskanie School District #6J Public Hearing for a Supplemental Budget for FY 2012020-2021 A public hearing on a proposed supplemental budget for the Clatskanie School District #6J for the fiscal year July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 will be held on Monday March 8, 2021 at 6:00pm in the Middle School gym located at 660 NW Bryant St, Clatskanie OR. Interested persons may attend in person or via Zoom. A link to join the meeting via Zoom will be available on the district website. The purpose of the hearing is to discuss the supplemental budget with interested persons. A copy of the supplemental budget resolution will be available at the District Administration office located 660 NW Bryant St, Clatskanie, OR and on the district website on Wednesday, March 3, 2021. SUMMARY OF PROPOSED BUDGET CHANGES FUND 217 ESSER II 218 - Comprehensive Distance Learning 220 - Grant Revenues Fund 221 - IDEA Grant 222 - Title I A Grant 223 - Title II A Grant 231 - ESSA D&SI Engagement Grant 232 - Title IV-A 251 - SIA 252 - HSS Measure 98 253 - City of Clatskanie Cares 254 - Rural Broadband Reason: New or revised allocations 270 - Transportation Equip/Rese

Resource

Amount

Federal

509,450

Federal

129,404

Federal

9,216

Federal

210,897

Federal

170,904

Federal

28,942

Federal

45,770

Federal

11,588

State

191,599

State

219,721

Local

52,178

Program Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support Instruction & support

Local

22,000

Support

211,437

509,450 129,404 9,216 210,897 170,904 28,942 45,770 11,588 191,599

52,178

211,437

Reason: Transfer for shop truck

• 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. 20 • Just after midnight, the Oregon State Police was on a traffic stop along Highway 30 near milepost 24 when a silver Chevy passenger car, traveling faster than the normal flow of traffic, failed to

move over and narrowly missed the patrol car. A traffic stop was conduced and the driver stopped in the middle of the right hand turn lane onto Bennett Road. The driver, a 21-year-old, was driving outside of the restrictions on a permit and had no insurance. The driver was cited for failing to maintain a safe distance, driving outside restrictions and driving uninsured. The vehicle was towed as a hazard. • At around 8:15 a.m., the police attempted to stop a maroon Nissan Rogue SUV headed westbound on Highway 30 near milepost 48 for failure to drive within lane and reasonable suspicion of driving under the influence of intoxicants. The vehicle accelerated at a high rate of speed westbound and took the Lewis & Clark Bridge into Longview, Wash. There was no pursuit by OSP or other agencies.

Columbia County’s trusted local news source

The Chief: What is the current estimated student population and is that up or down over the past few years?

219,721

22,000

Equipment

Hurowitz: Yes, because of the limitations of the pandemic that discourages live large meetings we will use FB, our websites, and ZOOM to answer questions and inform our community.

Hurowitz: Right now we are at 648 which is down around 70 students, however, in the last month we have see our numbers increasing. We typically have approximately 720 students. Decreasing enrollment is a statewide issue during the pandemic. I believe many of our students will return as school becomes more “normalized” for lack of a better word.

Amount

Local

the bond to help in community education?

The Chief: What is the current estimated teacher and staff population, and will this bond allow hiring more teachers and staff? If so, what teachers/staff would be needed?

The Chief: What is the current operating budget for the Clatskanie School District is that up or down (how much) compared to the past few years and why? Hurowitz: $9,496,060 Is our current general fund operating budget with approximately 85% going to salaries, benefits, PERS. During the last biennium the State School Fund was increased and we were able to maintain our current levels of service and staff. The Chief: If the bond is approved, where and when would we see the renovations begin and would they

Hurowitz: If approved, we will be able to begin work in June. The Chief: If the bond is not approved, what would be the next step(s) by the district? Hurowitz: This is a difficult question. We do everything in our power to be good stewards of the taxpayer’s money and serve our community. If the bond fails we would not be able to completely separate the middle school students from the high school students. We will concentrate our facility and maintenance budgets on the most needed repairs to keep the buildings functional. For more information, visit the Clatskanie School District’s webpage.

•B lotter • •

Feb. 21 • At approximately 1 a.m., the Oregon State Police contacted a silver Chevy passenger car that was blocking Highway 30 eastbound near Bennett Road in Warren. During the contact it was discovered the driver, a 45-year-old St. Helens woman, was suspended misdemeanor level and driving uninsured. The driver was taken into custody and transported to the Columbia County Jail without incident and the vehicle was towed. • Troopers were dispatched to a traffic complaint on Highway 30 westbound near milepost 13 involving a grey Toyota sedan speeding and failing to drive in its lane. Troopers stopped the vehicle and saw the driver, a 23-year-old man, was displaying indicators of impairment. The driver consented to performing

the standardized field sobriety tests and was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of intoxicants. The driver consented to a breath test and was booked and released from the Columbia County jail and the vehicle was towed. Feb. 23 • At approximately 7:35 p.m. OSP troopers assisted Rainier Police with a road rage incident resulting in an assault with a weapon in the driveway of a private residence on West C Street in Rainier. An involved party was transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Rainier Police has an ongoing investigation. Feb. 24 • Oregon State Police assisted the Columbia County Sheriff’s

Office with an armed suicidal subject, located in Rainier, Oregon. It was reported that a male subject was holding a gun to his head and wanting to commit suicide. An OSP negotiator began negotiations with the subject while additional troopers responded to the scene. Negotiations were successful and the subject exited the residence unarmed. St. Helens Police Department Feb. 15 • Police cited and released a 27-year-old for an outstanding warrant out of the Multnomah County Circuit Court in the 100 block of Wonderly Drive. Feb. 16 • Police investigated a vehicle versus pedestrian traffic crash

in the 500 block of South Columbia River Highway in St. Helens. • An arrest warrant was served on a 22-year-old at 901 Port Avenue, St. Helens. • A 33-year-old was arrested for a probation violation in the 100 block of North Fourth Street in St. Helens. Feb. 17 • A 37-year-old was criminally cited for driving while suspended — misdemeanor level and theft III on Gable Road, St. Helens. Feb. 18 • Police officers investigated a cold theft in the 400 block of South Ninth Street, St. Helens.

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Friday, February 26, 2021 ecial Report Sp

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A LOOK AHEAD

2021 T h e C hief

Special Report: Oregon’s child care industry JESSICA NELSON Chief Guest Article

Editor’s Note: With so many families in Columbia County depending on child care services and the challenges they are facing during the pandemic, Oregon Employment Department Economist Jessica Nelson provides us with insight into this important state industry. Many working parents in Oregon rely on the child care industry for safe, affordable, and educational care for their children. The importance of the industry has been highlighted in the pandemic recession, as child care centers and providers faced new restrictions and risks of providing care in Oregon communities. Employment in the industry dropped a staggering 35% in one month between March and April 2020, and regained about one-third of those losses by September 2020. As with so much of our lives, the virus and its spread continue to impact child care jobs and the parents who depend on the care provided by them. Even with the recent spike in unemployment, most parents are in the labor force and employed, translating into a lot of children needing child care. Elementary school closures and distance learning have changed the day-to-day dynamics of many households, as well as shifting their need for child care. Some families currently need fewer hours of care, or can do without a formal child care arrangement entirely as children learn at home. Some families, including those of essential workers, face limited options for care outside the home and the constant uncertainty of schedule changes and availability of care when parents need to be at work. Scare slots Child care slots were too scarce in most of the state prior to the pandemic. The Oregon Child Care Research Partnership found that in 2018, “Child care supply is inadequate across the state with 72% of Oregon communities being child care deserts, meaning there are only enough regulated slots available for less than a third of a community’s children.” For infants and toddlers, 84% of Oregon communities were found to be child care deserts, compared with 61% when seeking care for a preschooler. Parents of young children already faced limited child care options in our state, and the pandemic has caused changes in community-level demand combined with constrained supply. On top of that, the cost of care continues to rise, with families of young children often spending more on child care than on rent or their mortgage – a trend that existed long before the pandemic but that has been highlighted as parents have left the labor force to care for children at home during COVID-19. For too many families, the juggle and struggle of finding, keeping, and paying for child care during the pandemic has not been worth the pay at lowwage, and suddenly high-risk jobs. In responses to a Washington University study from the Social Policy Institute, summarized by the Annie E. Casey Foundation in a December 2020 report Kids, Families and COVID-19, about a third of parents responded in the Aug. 10 2020 to Sept. 2 2020 survey period that they somewhat or strongly agreed they were less likely to return to work in the fall due to a lack of child care (32%). Latino parents were the most likely to report they somewhat or strongly agreed, at 39%. “Whether these parents are finding such care is no longer available, they can no longer afford it or they themselves have been thrust into additional caregiving roles, an enormous portion of

Metro Creative Connection / The Chief

The importance of the industry has been highlighted in the pandemic recession, as child care centers and providers faced new restrictions and risks of providing care in Oregon communities.

the nation’s workers could be sidelined from being able to support themselves and their families,” the study stated. Disruptions in child care might seem like a householdlevel problem, but when pervasive and persistent, they become a large economic and business problem. Parents make up a sizeable share of Oregon’s labor force. Labor force participation rates are higher among parents than among those without children under the age of 18. Among parents of young children under the age of six, nine out of 10 fathers and seven out of 10 mothers are working. Parents of children under six years of age make up 14 percent of Oregon’s workforce, and those with children ages six to 17 make up another 17 percent. Oregon employers benefit from the services of child care providers because these services help their workforce continue to be stable, reliable, and productive.

how that will affect local child care marketplaces as the economy recovers from the pandemic. Over the long-term, child care has seen strong growth. Since the industry has a reliable seasonal pattern, with a drop in jobs during each summer, the 12-month moving average is included in the graph to make the overall trend a bit easier to follow. From 2009 to 2019, Oregon’s child care businesses grew 36%; just about as strong as the 38% growth in private-sector health care and social assistance, the broader sector of which child day care services is a small part. Overall employment grew 21% between 2009 – the depths of the Great Recession – and 2019. With data available only through September 2020, the 12-month average hasn’t yet caught up with the steep drop in April 2020. Child care businesses tend to be small operations. In 2018, Oregon’s privateSmall businesses and big sector child care businesses pandemic problems numbered 1,308 and employed 12,453 workers. Half The child care sector of the businesses had four was hard hit at the onset of or fewer employees. Fifteen the pandemic recession and percent of child care busiheavily affected by the renesses employ 20 or more strictions put in place to stop workers. the spread of COVID-19. Average wages are low Due to the nature of such a in the industry. Total payroll close-contact business as car- of child care businesses with ing for children, and addiemployees in 2019 was about tionally to the many changes $301 million – this averwe all dealt with in the ages out to almost $24,000 spring that suddenly shifted per worker, less thanLLC half ETERSEN LARKE LLC ETERSEN LARKE both demand for and supply the private-sector average t tt oo rrofnn$54,000. AA thad ee yy ss The low averof child care, employers to shift rapidly in the spring age wage is due to the low (503) 556-4120 to reopen with new(503) safety 556-4120 wages of the occupations precautions and limitations that dominate the industry. to group sizes,Columbia cohorts, and a For example, the median Columbia County’s County’s Premier Premier new, much smaller, staffing wage of a preschool teacher Personal Injury Injury Attorneys footprint. Personal in Oregon in 2020 is $14.71 Attorneys icceennse sedd in in OOrreego gonn & &W Waash sh ingto gto At the onset ofLLiCOper hour, and thenn median in VID-19, the private-sector wage for childcare workers child care industry dropped is $12.90. These two occupa35% of its jobs in the space tions account for more than of one month, moving from two-thirds of the employment near peak employment of in the day care industry. about 13,000 jobs in March to 8,400 jobs in April. As of Sticker-shock costs and September, the most recent insufficient pay hamper month of available data, Orchild care market ETERSEN LARKELLC LLC ETERSEN LARKE egon’s child care businesses had regained just 1,300 of the The Center for the Study AA tt tt oo rr nn ee yy ss jobs lost this spring, reaching of Child Care Employment about 9,700 jobs. (503) at the University of Califor(503) 556-4120 556-4120 The number of businesses nia, Berkeley has studied the didn’t change much between dynamics of the child care Accidents •Personal Injury Injury •Wrongful Death Accidents •Personal •Wrongful Death the first and third quarters marketplace, which functions of the year, dropping from with far less public support 1,417 to 1,392. SoNo far,Fee withUntil than other areas of education. No Fee Until Recovery Recovery data through September, al“Most families who rely gonn && W Won shchild ingto gtoncare n OOrreego aash in most all child care businesses are heavily had survived the pandemic. burdened by the cost, and by FREE INITIAL INITIAL CONSULTATION FREE With COVID-related restric- CONSULTATION the time their fees are applied tions lasting well into 2021, to all the expenses it takes it remains to be seen whether to run a program, very little more widespread business is available for the educaclosures will take place, and tors themselves. As a result,

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educators end up subsidizing the true cost of high quality services with their low wages,” the study states. Investments in the public good of high-quality, stable, and accessible child care will benefit all of us, yet they remain a difficult public-policy sell. There are good reasons, in terms of equity and economic stability, to increase such investments. In its study Oregon Early Learning Workforce, the Oregon Child Care Research Partnership notes, “Lower levels of compensation have been shown to be associated with higher teacher turnover, lower teacher morale, and

lower levels of observed quality.” Turnover among regulated child care facilities far exceeds turnover at K-12 schools. Teacher turnover negatively impacts children directly by disrupting the relationships with the adults caring for them, and indirectly through lower morale among remaining teachers. Between 2012 and 2018, the annual turnover rates in child care facilities ranged from 16 to 29% per year. In all, just 32% of Oregon’s 2012 child care workforce were still working in child care in 2018. Programs paying lower wages tended to have lower

levels of teacher retention than the industry norm. As the importance of early childhood education is embraced and more fully supported, efforts are underway to better measure and support the professional development of child care workers and preschool teachers and more fully align their training and compensation with the broader array of educators. The study concluded, “Low wages are associated with high turnover rates in both early learning and K-12. High turnover rates harm children and challenge professional development investments; although in Oregon’s early learning workforce we find that those in whom we made professional development investments were mainly in the group who remained in the workforce.” The child care industry has grown over the long-term in response to the increasing numbers of families in which both parents work, and to the increasing number of households headed by women. The pandemic recession has harmed the industry a great deal, and its implications for business survival and retention of the child care workforce are still developing as we struggle to get COVID-19 under control. Families and businesses rely on a stable child care industry. Increasing availability and affordability of reliable child care options will be necessary to getting Oregonians back to work in the economic recovery after the pandemic. Jessica Nelson is an economist with the Oregon Employment Department. She may be reached at jessica.r.nelson@oregon. gov,or at 800-262-3912, Ext 71276.

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Building Bridges to Self Sufficiency

Community Action Team

COVID COMMUNITY OUTREACH TESTING OHSU IS OFFERING COVID TESTING AT NO COST TO YOU!

Location: St. Helens High School, 2375 Gable Rd., St. Helens, OR Beginning Wednesday, March 3, the event will be moved to the Columbia County Fairgrounds located at 58892 Saulser Road. Dates: Wednesdays 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 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.

Are you a veteran?

You may be entitled to benefits for serving your country.

Contact your Veteran Service Officer • 503-366-6580 Call CAT at (503)397-3511 to find out if you qualify. Rental and energy assistance applications are available at 125 N. 17th St., St. Helens, OR. Also available on our website at www.CAT-TEAM.org

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Friday, February 26, 2021

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OSAA returns Season 2 ‘culminating week’ to schools STAFF REPORT chiefnews@countrymedia.net

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) has opted to forgo conducting state championships for Season 2, returning control of the sixth week of the season – or culminating week – to the schools. The executive board, which has reviewed the issue in a work session, reached a consensus to return the week to the schools “to coordinate and execute local/regional culminating events at their discretion.” Season 2 – which includes traditional fall sports football, soccer, volleyball and cross country – begins with contests March 1 and ends with the culminating week April 5-11. Contingency groups from those sports provided input to the board. “The board has spent a lot of time on this over the last couple months,” OSAA executive director Peter Weber said. “The realities

POPULATION

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2010. Clatsop County’s major population centers are along the coast and the Columbia River. Lincoln County Lincoln County also relies heavily on migration for population growth. The county added only 45 residents in 2020, down 82% from 2018. The county’s population has grown slowly since the Great Recession, only 0.5% per year. “The county attracts retirees, and the recovery of the stock market and national housing prices have probably helped people who want to retire to Oregon’s beautiful

of trying to conduct large events, given where things stand right now, didn’t seem advisable in their minds. A lot of different issues come into play.” Organizing state championship events during the COVID-19 crisis is riddled with complications, according to the OSAA. In a release, the board cited issues such as establishing equitable qualifying procedures, district-adopted travel restrictions, county gathering-size restrictions, and impacts from schools forming regional pods as key factors. The board also noted that some schools will not be able to start their seasons on time, and others may have their seasons fragmented or shifted due to outbreaks. The board said that it did not want to “put any undue pressure” on schools to compete in a state championship event that could have health risks for their students and community. coast.” Knoder said. “Slow job growth, lower wages, and high housing prices limit the county’s ability to attract more migrants.” Most of Lincoln County’s population also lives along the coast. Siletz is the only truly interior city. Although Lincoln City has grown by 935 since 2010 the published change includes about 360 residents added by an annexation. Lincoln City contains 41% of the growth since 2010. The two biggest cities, Newport and Lincoln City, and unincorporated areas are adding the most residents. Unincorporated areas account for about 27% of the growth since 2010.

Jeremy C. Ruark / The Chief

The OSAA board said that it did not want to “put any undue pressure” on schools to compete in a state championship event that could have health risks for their students and community.

It cited recommendations from the Oregon Health Authority that advise against unnecessary travel between counties, especially those at different risk levels. The potential for overnight stays

Tillamook County

ten outnumber births and the county relies on migration for growth. The county’s population increased by only 30 in 2020 and down 71% from the previous year showing the least growth since 2011. From 2010 to 2018 the county grew only 0.5% per year. Tillamook County has the smallest population of the five counties in Northwest Oregon and its cities are also smaller. About 63% of the county’s population lives in unincorporated areas. “The principal city of Tillamook has not had a significant population change since 2010,” Knoder said. “Almost all the growth (81%) has occurred in unincorporated areas.”

Tillamook County’s population is nearly as old as Lincoln County’s. Deaths of-

See the Northwest Oregon population chart with this story at thechiefnews.com

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also was a concern. “Criss-crossing the state at this point, or bringing a large group of people to one venue, just wasn’t something that they were supportive of at this point,” Weber said.

Weber said the board considered the different dynamic of a championship event for cross country, an individual sport, and the other team sports, which require more time for playoff rounds. But overriding factors remained. “Part of it goes back to where things are in the state right now,” Weber said. “The idea of schools staying local and regional for their regular season, then to turn around in the sixth week and say, ‘OK, now we’re going to put that aside and brings kids from all over the state to one location,’ if we could even find a location to do that, just didn’t make sense to the board at this point.” Considering the season already has been shortened, the board views returning the sixth week to the schools as an opportunity for additional participation. “That would include subvarsity, etc. They would be able to participate that week,” Weber said.

The football contingency group has considered creating a “bowl week” of sorts since its early discussions. For example, the sixth week could include crossover “bowl” games between nearby leagues. Whatever the schools decide, the OSAA has pledged its support. “Our staff is going to support schools as much as we can as they try to organize those things,” Weber said. “We certainly want to help promote. But ultimately, that will be the local decision as to what they do.” The decision on Season 2 has no bearing on championship plans for Seasons 3 and 4. The OSAA will review options for those seasons in the coming months. The board reaffirmed its support for conducting virtual events for cheerleading, dance/drill, solo music, band, orchestra, choir and speech. Those events will take place as scheduled on the OSAA calendar.

Illustration courtesy of the Oregon Employment Department