OCTOBER 2004

PUBLIC HEARING OCTOBER 7, 2004

During their September meeting, the Planning Commission recommended revisions to the City’s Development Code. The proposed revisions will allow canvas storage structures to be placed in the side and back yards of residentially zoned property under certain conditions. The revisions also prohibit the parking or storage of RVs, boats, trailers, etc., in the front 20-foot setback unless they are parked or stored in a paved driveway measuring no greater than 720 square feet.

The recommended changes have been forwarded to the City Council for consideration. The Council will hold a public hearing to gather input about the changes during their October 7, 2004 meeting. The public hearing will begin at 7:30 p.m. Written input will also be accepted prior to the meeting and during the public hearing.

For additional information about the proposed changes, please contact City Hall by calling (503) 397-4010.

Yard debris may be burned outdoors beginning on Saturday, November 6 and ending on Sunday, November 21. Columbia City residents do not need to obtain a burn permit from the Fire District to burn yard debris during the outdoor burn period. However, they do need to call the "Burn Line" at (503) 397-4800 each day to see if it is a burn day.

This November drop boxes will be available for the disposal of yard debris at no charge to Columbia City residents. The drop boxes will be located on Third Street behind the City shop. Residents using the boxes are asked please keep the area neat and clean. This service is provided to our citizens by Hudson Garbage Service, Inc.

The Columbia City Police Department has Trick or Treat bags available for young children at no charge. The bags are available at City Hall and may be picked up by parents and/or children.

The Planning Commission approved a 17-lot subdivision located north of Park Drive during their September meeting. During the Planning Commission meeting, concerns were raised about the City’s land use notification process. As mandated by State law and City ordinance, the City notified all of the property owners of record and those living within 100 feet from the border of the proposed subdivision, and published a notice in a local newspaper. In addition to the required notices, the September 2004 Newsletter contained a front page article about the subdivision application, and it included the upcoming Planning Commission Meeting date and time. The Planning Commission Agenda contained information about the subdivision application, and the agenda was faxed to local newspapers and radio stations. The agenda and the public notice were also posted on bulletin boards outside of City Hall and at the Columbia City Sports Club, and posted on the City's website. In addition, the agenda is e-mailed to a list of citizens who have asked to receive the City's meeting agendas by e-mail. City Hall staff is always willing to help anyone with questions regarding a planning issue, and we work hard to help keep our residents informed about upcoming planning matters.

If you would like to receive meeting agendas and/or meeting minutes by e-mail, please submit your request, along with your e-mail address, to City Hall.

Jim Bundy Memorial Park will be dedicated on October 16, 2004, at 10 a.m. This park was named after Jim Bundy who was our Public Works Superintendent until he passed away from cancer. Jim loved his job and loved this City, and he was dedicated to serving the needs of the residents. Please join us for the dedication of Jim’s park.

HOME COMPOSTING

It's as easy as 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5. If you do absolutely nothing but dump your yard debris in a big pile, it will eventually turn to compost just as it does in nature. However, if you want compost sooner rather than later, follow these five simple rules:

1. Uniform particle size: Chop all your yard debris down to 1-inch pieces or smaller. Use clippers, chipper/shredder or mower.

2. Mix: Mix equal volumes of browns, (dried leaves, etc.) and greens (fresh grass, weeds, etc.)

3. Pile size: Add enough material to create a 1 cubic yard pile (3' x 3' x 3').

4. Moisture: Add water to pile if necessary so it feels damp, like a wrung out sponge.

5. Aeration: Turn/stir your pile once a week for several months.

If you do your best to follow these five rules, the microbes that turn your yard debris into compost will be happy and active and your compost pile will begin to heat up in as little as three days. The heat indicates microbial activity and means that compost is happening very fast.

If you don't follow these five rules to the letter, just relax.....compost happens!

We'd like to extend a very special thank you to:

• Bernadette Albertine, Alice Barchus, Jo Detloff, Delores Heinz, Sheila Jackson, Barbara Jones, Phyllis Moss and Helen Sandstrom for helping with newsletters and utility bills in August.
• Bernard Carlton for watering Datis Park.
• Norm Jones for mowing Datis Park.

The preliminary design work for the "L" Street Bridge replacement project is currently underway. Once the preliminary design report is received, a public meeting will be held to discuss the proposed project. The public meeting is expected to take place in early November. Please watch for meeting details in the next issue of the Newsletter.

The library is alive with books about horror, mystery, forensics, genetics, and more! We join the American Library Association (ALA) in encouraging teens to read for fun by celebrating Teen Read Week. Why is it important to celebrate? According to the ALA, teens are not really reading for fun these days, and reading scores are falling behind in this age group. One of the most important ways teens acquire the reading habit is by watching adults they respect. Horror and fantasy are favorite genres with teens, so stop by and pick-up a spine-tingler or a book with a mad scientist (bah ha ha) before they vanish.

Bring your teddy bear and blanket to snuggle with as you listen to a bedtime story. Bedtime story is the first Monday of every month during the months of October through June. Contact the library if you would like to be a guest reader.

You are invited to join our small group the last Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Come to be inspired and learn, share the company of fellow quilters as you work on your project, or revive that project from the basement or closet.

We would like to thank everyone for their support of the library. Funds from the book sale are used to purchase supplies and new books. Last year the Friends were able to purchase a computer system, sponsor the summer reading program, and purchase much needed award-winning children’s books and best sellers.

Again, it is time for our annual membership drive. Because of your dues and generous donations, the Friends are able to support library programs and services that enhance our community. Please return the enclosed form to join the Friends. You can keep informed of our activities through e-mail or attend a meeting, held the third Monday of each month.

The Street Committee is looking for new members. This committee meets periodically during the year to review City street projects and issues. If you would like to donate some time to serve on the Street Committee, please call City Hall.

On January 1, Senate Bill 315, the "Stop and Stay Stopped for Pedestrians" bill went into effect and made significant changes in pedestrian law. Now motorists are required to stop and stay stopped for a pedestrian in a crosswalk when the pedestrian is in the motorist's lane or an adjacent lane at uncontrolled intersections. At controlled intersections (with signals or signs), motorists must stop and remain stopped while the pedestrian is lawfully in the intersection or crosswalk.

The old law only required that motorists yield to pedestrians. Now motorists must stop and remain stopped until the pedestrian is out of the crossing. A Class B traffic violation carries a maximum fine of $237. The intention of the law is to provide pedestrians with a one-lane buffer.

(7/9/04 – 9/15/04)

07/09/04 Theft call reported. Referred to Sheriff’s Office.

07/09/04 Person arrested on outstanding warrant.

07/10/04 Alarm checked in 1900 block of Second Street.

07/10/04 Vandalism reported to a residence near the 2000 block of Third Street.

07/11/04 Suspicious person checked okay near Highway 30 and "A" Street.

07/11/04 Fireworks complaint near the 1400 block of Fourth Place.

07/14/04 Suspicious activity reported at a residence near the 2000 block of First Street.

07/14/04 Traffic complaint near Highway 30 and the railroad trestle.

07/17/04 Vehicle impounded on Highway 30 near "L" Street for no insurance.

07/17/04 Traffic complaint of rocks being thrown at trucks. Referred to Sheriff’s Office as incident occurred in the County.

07/17/04 Parking complaint at Trestle Beach. Owner moved vehicle.

07/17/04 Second parking complaint at Trestle Beach. Owner moved vehicle.

07/17/04 Suspicious person transported to Columbia County Jail where he had left his shoes when released from jail earlier in the day.

07/19/04 Landlord/tenant problem is civil in nature. No police action taken.

07/19/04 Vehicle impounded for no insurance near Second and "I" Street.

07/19/04 Loose dog complaint near the 1300 block of Fourth Street.

07/19/04 Potbelly stove taken near the 300 block of "L" Street.

07/19/04 Barking dog complaint near "C" and Fifth Streets.

07/20/04 Complaint of raw sewage smell. Referred to Columbia City Public Works.

07/22/04 Traffic light malfunctioning at Highway 30 and "E" Street.

07/22/04 Suspicious circumstances. Young children with suitcases in area of Spinnaker Way and Second Street.

07/22/04 Report of a disabled vehicle on Highway 30 near Chimes Crest. Unable to locate.

07/23/04 Two subjects are given verbal warnings after being found soliciting without a permit.

07/24/04 Vehicle impounded after traffic stop.

07/24/04 Attempt to locate suspect in hit and run. Described as a Red Ford Explorer.

07/24/04 Received a call of person having difficulty breathing. Medics called.

07/24/04 Illegally parked vehicle towed near "E" Street and The Strand.

07/24/04 Vehicle impounded; driver suspended.

07/26/04 Anonymous complaint of barking dog near the 1300 block of Fourth Street.

07/28/04 Domestic dispute near the 1600 block of Sixth Street.

07/27/04 Suspicious person checked near Highway 30 and "L" Street.

07/30/04 Citizen received a threatening note.

07/30/04 Attempted to serve an order to show cause for Columbia City Municipal Court.

07/30/04 Traffic accident near Second and "I" Streets.

07/31/04 Warrant confirmed on person wanted out of Columbia City Municipal Court.

08/01/04 Warrant confirmed on subject wanted out of Columbia City Municipal Court.

08/01/04 Report taken of a bike stolen from the Grade School.

08/02/04 Abandoned vehicle in the 3600 block of Tahoma Street.

08/02/04 Suspicious person checked and found to be a solicitor.

08/02/04 Traffic complaint. Vehicle blocking other traffic near First and "I" Streets.

08/03/04 Ongoing problem in Metlako Way. Noise and minors drinking.

08/03/04 Attempt to locate suspicious person. Male subject driving white van.

08/03/04 Illegal dumping reported near Third and "M" Streets.

08/03/04 Report of suspicious van "casing" the neighborhood on Miloris Way.

08/04/04 Traffic complaint. Resident upset about "pocket bike" making loud noise after 10 PM on Fifth Street.

08/04/04 Alarm near the 3100 block of Fifth Street. Dog set it off.

08/06/04 Suspicious circumstances of parachutists near Dixieline Lumber.

08/06/04 Theft reported near Pixie Park.

08/06/04 Complaint of "crotch rockets" late at night near the 3000 block of Fifth Street.

08/06/04 Report of possible drunk driver on Highway 30. Unable to locate.

08/08/04 Traffic complaint. After checking a vehicle previously reported as "road rage" involved in the County on Highway 30, driver was cited for driving while suspended and the vehicle was impounded.

08/08/04 Suspicious vehicle reported in road-closed area of new treatment plant. Driver warned and asked to leave area.

08/09/04 Checked the tint on a window for the court.

08/09/04 Parking complaint in the 1600 block of Sixth Street.

08/09/04 Attempt to locate erratic driver on Highway 30.

08/10/04 Parking complaint in the 1600 block of Sixth Street.

08/10/04 Parking complaint in the 1600 block of Sixth Street. Boat in roadway.

08/10/04 Parking complaint in the 1600 block of Sixth Street. Car facing wrong way in street.

08/11/04 Report of an animal left in car with windows rolled up near Highway 30 and "L" Street. Unable to locate.

08/12/04 Suspicious persons. Three people seen climbing fence at tower at south end of Ninth Street.

08/12/04 Stop sign damaged and down near Sixth and "B" Streets.

08/12/04 Officer assisted a citizen with a child locked in a vehicle.

08/13/04 Assisted Fire Department with gas leak near Tahoma Street.

08/13/04 Citizen complains of harassment and threats being made.

08/14/04 Traffic complaint checked on near Highway 30 and Trestle Beach.

08/1604 Animal struck by a vehicle on Highway 30 near "A" Street.

08/16/04 Traffic Complaint – 4-wheel drive and motorcycle speeding.

08/17/04 Speeding vehicles reported in the 300 block of "L" Street.

08/17/04 Animal complaint (dog) in the 300 block of "L" Street.

08/17/04 Incomplete 911 call in the 300 block of Pacific. Nobody home.

08/19/04 Gray station wagon involved with solicitors for Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

08/19/04 Complaint of a juvenile problem in the 2100 block of Third Street.

08/20/04 Agency assist in the 1800 block of Fifth Street.

08/21/04 Vandalism reported in the 400 block of Belle Street.

08/21/04 Animal complaint – loose dog in the 300 block of Lincoln Street.

08/21/04 Harassment reported in the 400 block of North Star Court.

08/21/04 Incomplete 911 call in the 2200 block of First Street.

08/23/04 Parking complaint near Park and Pacific Streets. Vehicle moved by owner.

08/25/04 Attempt to locate possible suicide. Highway 30 southbound from Rainier.

08/25/04 Noise complaint in the 200 block of Spinnaker Way.

08/25/04 Extra patrol requested at a residence where family member is staying after a domestic dispute out of the area.

08/25/04 Stalking incident. Male subject following and harassing female in the 1800 block of Second Street.

08/30/04 Parking complaint. Motor home parked illegally in the 1800 block of Sixth Street.

08/30/04 Parking complaint. Boat and trailer in street near Pacific and Park Streets.

08/31/04 Ordinance violation reported in the 400 block of Belle Street.

08/31/04 Loose dog on Metlako Way. Resolved by a resident.

08/31/04 Traffic complaint. People running a stop sign in the 2200 block of Second Street.

09/01/04 Impounded vehicle after a traffic stop in the 400 block of "A" Street.

09/01/04 Runaway juvenile turns himself in.

09/01/04 Attempt to locate reported erratic driver on Highway 30 approaching Columbia City. Unable to locate driver.

09/02/04 Neighborhood dispute regarding kids on skate boards on Metlako Way.

09/03/04 City ordinance violation. Person living in RV near 2400 block of Fifth Street.

09/03/04 Animal complaint in the 3000 block of Fifth Street.

09/03/04 Complaint of boat in street near the 500 block of Pacific Street.

09/03/04 Welfare check with CSD in the 1800 block of Fifth Street.

09/03/04 Complaint of juveniles speeding in black vehicle near Lincoln and Park Streets.

09/04/04 Animal complaint in the 2300 block of Fourth Place.

09/07/04 Parking complaint in the 1700 block of Seventh Street.

09/07/04 Barking dog complaint in the 1700 block of Seventh Street.

09/07/04 Parking complaint. Vehicle parked on sidewalk in the 600 block of "H" Street.

09/07/04 Animal complaint near Third and "L" Streets. Unable to locate.

09/07/04 Uninsured vehicle impounded after traffic stop.

09/08/04 Vandalism in the 300 block of Lincoln Street. Fence spray painted.

09/08/04 Vandalism in the 3400 block of Sixth Street. Vehicle spray painted with white paint.

09/08/04 Traffic complaint. Person almost hit by vehicle on Tahoma Street.

09/08/04 Attempt to locate a vehicle running stop signs in St. Helens and headed toward Columbia City on Highway 30.

09/10/04 Theft/Burglary reported in the 1500 block of Fourth Street.

09/10/04 Theft of a winch in the 3200 block of Sixth Street.

09/10/04 Vandalism in the 3400 block of Tahoma Street. Car spray painted.

09/11/04 Disorderly conduct at the Four Square Church.

09/11/04 Theft of a winch in the of 2200 block of First Street.

09/13/04 Loose dog reported in the 2000 block of Fifth Street.

09/13/04 Parking complaint. Vehicle blocking street near The Strand and "I" Street. Moved by owner.

09/15/04 Suspicious vehicle (blue van) checked in the 1700 block of Third Street.

09/15/04 Animal complaint. Loose dog near Sixth and "G" Streets. Unable to locate animal.

We would like to extend a very special thank you to all of our sponsors, supporters and volunteers who made the 2004 Celebration possible for all of us to enjoy. The contributions made by these groups, businesses, individuals and volunteers were enormous!!! We raised nearly $7,000.00 during the Celebration! All proceeds are used to operate the Columbia City Community Library.

• 76 Mobile One Stop
• Ace Hardware

• Princess Nicole Andrews

• Peggy Artman

• Roger and Nita Barbour

• Rosalie Beebe

• Bertucci's Chocolates

• Bing's

• Boise Cascade

• Burgerville

• Chevron

• Children's Museum

• Columbia City Mini Mart

• Columbia Electric Feed & Seed

• Columbia Learning Center

• Columbia River PUD

• Columbia Vet Clinic

• Columbia Village

• Comcast

• Cooper’s

• Linda Dollis

• Daughters of the American Revolution

• Domino's

• Dyno Nobel

• El Tapatio

• End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center
• The Grotto

• Flowers 4 U

• Fred Meyer

• Bill Guy

• Nell Harrison

• Harringtons

• Hi School Pharmacy

• Stan Hopkins

• Hudson Garbage Service

• Ichabod’s

• Jane Jack

• Sheila Jackson

• Jilly's

• Samuel S. Johnson Foundation

• Norm Jones

• Joy Creek Nursery

• KFC

• KK Insulation

• Kozy Korner

• Kwik Mart

• Karen Ladd

• Lawrence Oil

• Les Schwab

• Liefeld’s

• Cathy Lundberg

• Magnum Opus

• Mariner Square

• Sally Ann Marson

• Mary Walyer

• Meg’s Corner

• Midway Vet Hospital

• James and Lisa Molski

• Morse Bros.

• Mt. Hood Meadows
• Mt. Hood Railroad

• Murray, Smith and Associates

• Northwest Apparel

• Larry and Shari Ouillette

• Oregon Coast Aquarium
• Oregon Trail Lanes
• Oregon Zoo

• Papa Murphy's

• Paulson Printing

• Leona Phelps
• Pieper-Ramsdell
• Portland Chinese Garden

• Red Apple Market

• Richardson's

• Buddy Rivers

• Shelly Sandford

• Scappoose Bay Kayaking

• See Bee Glass

• Semlings

• Shear Perfection

• Southwest Airlines

• Springbrook Software

• St. Helens Book Shop

• St. Helens Café

• St. Helens Community Federal Credit Union

• St. Helens Park and Recreation District

• St. Helens Septic Service

• St. Helens Sew & Vac

• St. Helens Vet Clinic

• Stan’s Refrigeration & A/C

• Sternwheeler Columbia Gorge

• Stimson Lumber Company

• Sunshine Pizza

• Princess Rachel Swanson

• The Bike Shop

• The Hutch

• Therapeutic Assoc.

• Timberline

• Two Brothers

• Village Inn

• Vonnie Walker

• Waste Management

• Weird Harold's

• Wicker Wonders

• Wilcox & Flegel

• Wild Currant

• Winter Hawks
• Burke and Chris Wood

First place: John Helm

Second place: Buddy Rivers

Third place: Bud Taylor

Fourth place: Bernie Japs

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