RIVERS RISE IN HEAVY RAINS

Above normal rainfall in late January added to rising rivers and streams which rose with the melting of snow from earlier in the month.

Rainfall was heaviest on Jan. 28-29.

Crews from Clark County Public Works announced Jan. 29 they were prepared for flooding conditions.

Crews closed NE Boulder Creek Road south of NE Lessard Road in Vancouver due to high water.

Sand and sand bags were made available to the public, free of charge at Clark County Public Works on NE St. Johns Road.

Rainfall lessened on Jan. 30

At the city of Battle Ground Public Works Department, officials measured 9.11 inches of rain during January, about three inches above average. They recorded 1.72 inches Jan. 28-29.

In the Glenwood area, Greg Cawley measured 11 inches during the month, well above his 7.73 inch average. He recorded 2.05 inches on Jan. 28-29.

In Venersborg, Ron Myers measured 11.36 inches of rain in January, about two inches above normal at his location. He recorded 2.62 inches on Jan. 28-29.

On Kelly Hill in Yacolt, Phil Akely measured 15.20 inches of rainfall during January compared to his 11.92 inch average. He recorded five inches of rain Jan. 27-30, with 3.02 falling in the 24 hours ending 7 a.m. Jan. 29.

Akely included 26.5 inches of snow in his rainfall total.

MORRIS SAYS I-860 WOULD CUT MUSCLE

Board chair says economic development top priority

"I don't believe we can hold our silence any longer," said Clark County commissioners Betty Sue Morris during the annual state of the county address Jan. 30.

"I am compelled...to tell the other side of the tax-cutting story," she added.

Morris was referring to tax-cutting advocate Tim Eyman's proposal, Initiative 860, that would cut property taxes by 25 percent.

Morris said she and other commissioners are proud of efficiencies gained under current revenue constraints. "With gradual program reductions and lowered levels of service, we could continue to manage efficiently with what we have," she said.

But a 25 percent cut would force changes of great magnitude, Morris said.

Morris said 77 percent of funds received by the County come with "strings attached," or are dedicated, restricted funds with clear directions on their use.

A loss of 25 percent would cost the County about $10.8 million in "a single blow," said Morris.

"If Clark County closed and mothballed every park we own and operate, sliced social services, gutted a number of departments entirely, and quit monitoring offenders on probation, we still wouldn't have cut enough to make it," Morris said.

Under the 101 percent lid on property tax increases and not including new construction, County property tax revenues will increase in 2004 by only $267,902, said Morris.

The cost of adding a desperately needed new Superior Court judge and support staff runs well over $400,000, said Morris.

The loss of revenue will also impair plans for road improvements, and citizens will wait in lines at the Assessor's and Auditor's offices, Morris said.

Morris said County citizens "live with local governments that are frugal, deliberative and dedicated to their roles as public servants."

Successes recounted

Morris expressed pride in 1,700 County employees and ticked off 2003 County-wide accomplishments.

Among achievements noted were:

** Transitioning of public health functions into Clark County government for improved efficiencies.

** Juvenile Connections Program that saves about $400,000 worth of mental health services.

** Recycling work project at County jail.

** Construction of New Public Services Center.

** Completion of 5.4 miles of new roads by Public Works Department.

** New Exhibition Center under construction at Clark County Fairgrounds.

Economic development

Morris said that since her last speech in 2001, "Superman speed" changes added 862 businesses, 5,571 students, 8,910 homes and 31,000 people to the County.

Morris said commissioners are committed to identifying job-producing lands and attracting private sector jobs.

The commissioner said completion of the new Legacy Hospital will create health care jobs. Proximaty of the new hospital to Washington State University could create a cluster of medical and research jobs.

Morris said future plans include negotiations with the Spirit of Washington group to bring a "first-class" dinner train to Clark County, running from Vancouver to Chelatchie.

By the end of the year, said Morris, citizens will be able to pay fees or taxes over the Internet with credit cards. "Just count the frequent flyer miles adding up," she said.

BATTLE GROUND FIRE GUTS GARAGE, CAR

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Fire destroyed a 1980s model Chevolet van and gutted a garage Jan. 29 at a home near Battle Ground.

Clark County Fire District 11 division chief Mike Ciraulo said four engines responded to the blaze at 18717 NE 122nd Ave. within minutes of a 1:05 p.m. dispatch call.

The van and the interior of the garage were involved when when firefighters arrived, said Ciraulo. After punching a hole through the garage roof to allow heat to escape, firefighters had the blaze under control within 10 minutes and prevented serious damage to a connected residence.

Ciraulo said firefighters searched the home upon arrival and rescued a nervous, but healthy parakeet. Occupants Emily Torrecilla and Anecito Montes were reportedly not home when the fire occurred.

Richard Martin, deputy Clark County Fire Marshall, said the van was being repaired in the garage and a fuel leak was apparently ignited by an arcing spark from a battery connection.

Martin estimated damage to the auto and garage at about $30,000.

WOMEN'S GROUP LAUDS FOREIGN TEENS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"Teenagers are teenagers are teenagers," laughed Germaine Robinette, host mom to a 15-year old Korean boy who attends Battle Ground High School this year. "It doesn't matter where they're from."

Robinette made that comment to a few members of General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) of Battle Ground about what life is like hosting a foreign student.

As part of an annual welcome, GFWC members invited 20 students and their host families--10 each from Battle Ground and Prairie high schools--to a potluck dinner Jan. 22 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Battle Ground..

"This is our chance to get to know the kids, their homelands, and how they like school here," said Sue Reid, GFWC president. "This is one of my favorite times."

Louise Tucker, also a member, said the potluck gives students a chance to mingle, see each other and learn about other cultures.

Arlene Weir, a GFWC member and teacher, put together a list of questions for students to answer toward the end of the evening.

"We really like their candid responses," Tucker said. "Last year someone said one thing they noticed was that you have to `drive-thru' to get anything."

Tae Whan Kim is the Robinette family's guest this year. He commutes to school with the couple's youngest daughter, Kristin, 17, a senior.

Kim attends classes in 10th, 11th and 12th grades, some of which are with Kristin.

Back home in Korea, Kim is in his last year of middle school, or ninth grade. At home, he has one sister, 10-year-old Jiyun Kim; a stay-at-home mom, Hae Kyung Choi, who used to work at a company that published school books; and his dad, Chang Sik Kim, who is a college professor.

While in America, Kim discovered the joy of video games, went to a Catholic Youth Convention in Seattle that was "different--and lots of people," discovered he likes soft tacos, took up basketball and joined the high school team.

"When I signed up for the team I thought I would be with kids my size," Kim said. "I'm with taller kids that are juniors."

Surprises encountered are when his biology class went into chemistry, that students go from room to room for classes rather than teachers coming to students in one room, and the way other students dress.

"Boys wear jeans with their pants so low you can see their boxers," he said. "And girls have their belly buttons pierced and wear short shirts. Kids have a lot of piercings."

What did he think of the snow and ice storm in January?

"We get a little snow in Korea," he said. "When it snowed here and got to about 3 inches, I thought it was cool. Then it was deeper and there was ice on it. I got tired of it."

Several years ago, the Robinette family hosted a Japanese student, which went very well, Germaine said, but her two daughters were very young.

Last year while at church, they heard a call out for host families, and decided to try again.

Kim's host dad, Les Robinette, said he his enjoying the teen's stay.

"My kids are grown--the youngest is 17 now, and I can see them leaving," he said. "I find myself reflecting back. It's kind like doing this age over again."

SECOND-THIRD TIME A CHARM FOR BG COUPLE

Age difference small hurdle

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Bob and Sherri Slawson of Battle Ground celebrated their 17th anniversary in November. He remembered, she didn't.

Sherri blushed and poked her husband's arm while he laughed and teased her about it.

"There was so much going on at the time, I always get the date mixed up," she explained. "After we were married, his youngest and middle daughter got married--all within 10 months."

Chaotic? Maybe. All part of the fun? Definitely.

Bob is 16 years older than Sherri--she is his third wife. He is 65, she is 49.

Bob was widowed after 13 years of marriage and left with three daughters to raise, then ages 13, 10 and 5. He re-married within nine months, then divorced after 11 years.

Sherri married her high school sweetheart when she was 18. When the couple divorced after 13 years, she was left with a son, 11, and daughter, 8, to raise.

Life wasn't easy, they said. Ironically, they met while both worked for Clark Public Utilities when their marriages were ending.

Bob noticed Sherri was "a chatterbox, knowledgeable and helpful," and that was it. She doesn't remember. She left the company a short while later.

They ran into each other at a grocery store after some time had passed, began talking and discovered they were both single.

"I teased him about what was in his cart," she said. "I could tell he was a single guy."

Sherri was looking for work and was hired part-time back at the utility company where Bob still worked. They saw each other on the job, but neither was really ready to date just yet, they said.

However, Bob found himself alone at home one weekend while his youngest daughter, then 17, was away. He had Sherri's phone number and called for "coffee or somethin' to eat."

"Sparks flew for me right away," he said. "I proposed after about six months. She said `no.' She was dating someone else on and off. I told her go ahead, but we won't be dating anymore."

Sherri stuck with Bob and accepted his second proposal about five months later after some soul searching.

The difference in ages bothered her a little.

"My parents are only three and one-half years older than Bob," Sherri said. But her older sister had married a man 12 years her senior and was happy.

Another consideration was having his teenage daughter move in and being step-mom to his oldest who is only six years her junior.

Bob said the age difference didn't bother him, although he was often teased about being a "cradle-robber." But he did take into account that he would be raising children all over again--Sherri's son was 12, her daughter, 9.

In retrospect, the couple believes they made their marriage work in part by blending families with the word "our," striving for close relationships and making holidays special as family gatherings. Bob's laid back attitude helped ease Sherri's high-strung personality, she said.

"I ask her if what she's worried about is life-threatening," he said, smiling at her. She rolled her eyes, grinning, and said it works.

"We've meshed well," she said, and listed thoughtful things he does that keeps her devotion strong, such as bringing her a mocha to work every morning, massaging her feet after walking marathons, giving her freedom to spend time with friends and taking trips to "do my own thing."

Bob agreed that letting each other be their own person is important. Sherri doesn't mind when he takes two-week hunting trips with his buddies or goes bowling Tuesday nights. When she's going to be out of town, she makes dinners ahead of time, then freezes and labels them so he doesn't have to fend for himself.

"She makes a home a home," Bob added.

"We just accept the other person as they are," Sherri said.

"Good, open communication is another reason," Bob said. "We don't like to fight and argue. But if something's bugging us, we'll say so and work it out."

"I don't see any reason you can't be married and have to give things up like friendships and interests," Bob added. "If you love and trust someone, what's the problem?"

"We heard this wouldn't work, people asked us if we were doing the right thing and if we knew what we were doing," Sherri said, laying her hand on Bob's arm. "I think we beat the odds."

SLOW MOVING FOR BG MOVIE THEATER COMPLEX

Road problems dog project

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Elie Kassab hasn't given up yet.

The owner of Vancouver-based Prestige Development, Inc, is still working to bring a $10 million movie theater and retail complex to Battle Ground.

The plan is currently in an official application stage with the city and is dubbed Gardner Center.

Kassab is seeking site plan approval for a 19,800 square foot, eight-screen cinema, 18,000 square feet for retail including a bank, 6,600 square feet for a restaurant and three more buildings using 31,500 square feet, for a total of about 65,000 square feet of space.

Kassab went public with plans for a 10 or 12 screen movie cinema, restaurant and retail complex in December 2002. At that time, he was eyeing 8 acres of land on W Main St. and SW 15th Ave. and hoped to open for business in November 2003.

Problems with permits from the Army Corps of Engineers and state Department of Ecology for building around wetlands had Kassab looking elsewhere by June 2003.

Last year, Kassab purchased 11 acres on the northeast corner of SR-503 and NE 199th St. from Dick and Betty Gardner for about $1.1 million.

Wrangling for road access with state Department of Transportation, Clark County and city officials began during the sale process. Kassab says he needs access from the state highway and NE 199th St.

In the application to the city, however, Harb Engineering officials propose creating a "new" street, SW 7th Ave., which will run north-south from NE 199th St. to SW Scotton Way on the east side of the property.

The proposed street is in the city's six-year transportation plan anyway, said public works director Sam Adams.

Although the application states an "understanding" that vehicular access to the site directly off SR-503 and NE 199th "is not permitted or proposed," Kassab is still hoping for access east from the state highway to Scotton Way.

According to Adams, city officials have no say over state or county jursdiction. He added that Kassab is working with those officials regarding access and traffic issues.

Transportation officials say only one access break per mile is allowed on state highways. Although the stretch from NE 199th St. to W Main St. is one mile, city officials already have an access break in the six-year transportation plan, and it isn't where Kassab wants it.

City officials plan to extend Rasmussen Blvd. across the highway. Scotton Rd. is about one-fourth mile south of Rasmussen. To date, state Transportation officials have not budged to allow two breaks.

Kassab, however, remains optimistic.

"I think we have a good effort the legislators are putting on," he said, "and [Transportation officials] are cooperating. Nice things are happening."

PRINCESSES CHOSEN FOR 2004 PLANTERS' DAYS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Woodland Planters' Days president JJ Burke said it was tough choosing, but three young women has been selected as princesses for the city's annual summer festival.

Burke said 16 girls filled out applications.

Jamie Smith, 16, is a sophomore at Woodland High School with a grade point average of 3.0 She is active in the soccer team, golf team and jazz choir, and has participated in concert/pep band and Future Business Leaders of America.

Community projects and activities include participating in a 30-hour Famine fundraiser with her church youth group and delivering Christmas meals to Portland residents for the Sunshine Division.

Smith's hobbies are singing, golf, soccer, classic cars and spending time with family and friends.

Smith said she can't imagine living anywhere but Woodland and hopes to raise a family there and teach history at the high school. She is the daughter of Jay Smith and Nora Hinkle of Woodland.

Amy Moss, 16, is a junior at Woodland High School with a 3.9 grade point average.

Moss has been active in soccer, the Honor Society, jazz choir, band, jazz and pep bands, and has served as vice president and president in student government.

Community projects include volunteering at the city's Harvest Festival Run, Make a Difference Day working at the pregnancy center and at the Woodland Care Center, collecting Christmas gifts for those less fortunate, making quilts for foster children and helping out at her church.

Moss's hobbies include teaching piano lessons to children, singing, scrapbooking, soccer, church, sewing, water skiing and boating.

Moss believes the definitions of a community are common interests and possession, enjoyment, character and identity. She said Woodland fulfills that for her and also means security because of it's safe, comfortable, happy life. She is the daughter of Scott and Keri Moss of Woodland.

Katie Delaney, 16, is a junior at Woodland High School with a 4.0 grade point average.

Delaney is involved in the school's golf club, is varsity captain of the Knowledge Bowl, Honor Society member, and jazz band and pep band member, and was a part of concert band for two years.

Projects and activities for the community Moss has performed include volunteering at the Woodland Community Center with food distribution and organizing clothing racks and helping with the annual Christmas party wraping presents and distributing them.

Delaney's other interests are listening to and performing music, cooking, psychology, astronomy, jazz and ballet dance, golf, reading, playing the tenor saxophone and pencil art.

To Delaney, Woodland represents her roots and home where she works, plays and lives. She is the daughter of Donald and Teresa Delaney of Ariel.

The princesses will participate in community activities and Planters' Days preparations.

Miss Woodland will be chosen Thurs., June 17, during the kick-off for the summer celebration slated for June 17-20 this year.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Rumors of another dump of snow has school district administrators crossing their fingers and hoping for the best.

School districts need to have students in class 180 days each year, according to state law. When snow falls and students can't get to school, days need to be made up, either by shuffling long weekends or Saturdays, or tacking days onto the end of the year in June.

Graduation poses another problem when combined with missed days due to snow. District officials set graduation dates before a school year has begun. Now with the school year half over, school officials say it's tough to rearrange graduation dates, even by a day or two. Announcements have been mailed, out-of-town relatives have already made travel plans and some districts have already printed diplomas with dates on them.

Fortunately, state law allows five days leeway for the 180 required classroom days for graduating seniors. Other students need to put in the full 180 days.

Woodland, La Center and Ridgefield high schools all missed four days due to snow and have one more day to give without messing up schedules for graduating seniors.

Battle Ground schools missed five days, so one more day of missed school will cause problems, say administrators.

Ridgefield superintendent Mary Vagner said so far, graduation is still set for Fri., June 5. A calendar committee will meet in early February to decide what to do about make up days for all grades other than seniors.

"Any way you look at it, it's tough," Vagner said. "People have already made plans for any day that's used as a make up day."

La Center School District representative Laurie Kansanback said their high school's graduation date of Fri., June 5, has not been altered either.

The rest of the students in La Center will use snow days that were pre-set by board members prior to the year's beginning. School will let out on June 10, Kansanback said.

Woodland superintendent Bill Hundley said the district's Fri., June 11 graduation date has not been changed.

Three snow days were already built into the school calendar. Because four days were missed this year, the last day of school will be shifted from June 16 to June 17 for all grades other than seniors, added Hundley.

Battle Ground communications consultant Kelly Keister said no changes to graduation dates are anticipated.

Graduation is set for Riverview Homelink June 4, for Prairie High School June 7, for Battle Ground High School June 8, for Summit View High School June 9 and CAM High School June 10.

The last day of school for all grades other than seniors is set for June 11 district-wide. Keister said this date may be altered depending on the board's decision at an upcoming meeting.

SENIOR CONNECTS WITH LOCOMOTIVE HISTORY

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Eddie Shamp always has nostalgic recollections when he visits Engine #539, a steam locomotive stored at Fairgrounds Park in Battle Ground.

The 83-year-old, retired railroad worker, now a resident of Bridgewood at Four Seasons Retirement Community in Vancouver, easily connects with the steam engine. Shamp helped bring the historic locomotive to Esther Short Park in Vancouver in 1957.

Engine #539 was built in 1917 and pulled freight along the Seattle, Portland & Spokane Railroad routes, now owned and operated by Burlington Northern-Sante Fe, for 40 years.

Shamp went to work for the railroad in 1945 after he returned from U.S. Army service during World War II. Working as a welder, he remained with the railroad after the company merged with Burlington Northern Railroad. He retired in 1980.

Shamp participated in railroad wreck-salvage operations for 27 years.

Shamp was part of a team of railroad employees that brought Engine #539 from eastern Washington to Vancouver after the city acquired the locomotive, he said.

To move the train, volunteers installed temporary tracks from a rail switch to Esther Short Park. Shamp said more than one hundred men pulled on ropes to coax the engine to a prepared exhibit space at the park.

When the work was done, a nearby brewery opened its doors to the volunteers for a celebration party, said Shamp.

In 1998, the steam engine was conveyed to the Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce and relocated to a concrete resting place at Fairgrounds Park. Volunteers considered restoring it and using it to pull carloads of tourists through wilderness areas between Battle Ground and Chelatchie Prairie.

Shamp, born March 25, 1920 in Louisiana, moved to Clark County in 1945 after his military service.

Shamp's wife, Frances, died in 1971. The Shamps raised a son, Eddie, who lives in Brush Prairie, and three daughters who are living out-of-state.

Commissioners invite public comments on Feb. 10

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Clark County commissioners will hold a public hearing Tues., Feb. 10, on a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the County and the Cowlitz Indian Tribe.

Crafted by County and tribal attorneys, the accord lists agreements related to future land use, including possible development of a gaming casino, on 151 acres of land purchased about three years ago by the tribe on the west side of the NW 319th St./I-5 junction.

The MOU requires contractual agreements and payments by the Tribe for County law enforcement, prosecution, fire and court/jail services.

The accord requires the Tribe to comply with health and building regulations and to develop a sewage conveyance and treatment/disposal system. Water would be provided from an existing Clark Public Utilities system.

The MOU requires the Tribe to compensate the County for loss of property tax revenue and collect and remit sales taxes on all non-Indian sales, as required by state law.

County civil attorney Curt Wyrick said revisions to an initial accord draft were necessary because of a state law.

Wyrick said a state law requires any tribe with a Class III gaming facility to establish an Impact Mitigation Fund to pay for county or municipal services.

The law requires set-asides of gaming income to fund payments for services that would be provided and paid for under other terms of the MOU.

Tribal and County attorneys changed MOU language contained in an initial draft to prevent potential double payments for services, said Wyrick.

The accord commits 2 percent of net gaming revenues to an education and arts fund to support charitable activities identified by a five-person management board. At least another $50,000 each year would be set aside to treat compulsive gambling.

MOU terms would waive tribal sovereign immunity on disputes arising from the agreement. Other language outlines dispute resolution processes.

Opposition to casino

Opposition to a gaming casino at the La Center junction was voiced by some citizens after they learned of tribal efforts to have their land taken into trust by the U.S. Department of Interior.

Some La Center city leaders and citizens feared that a nearby casino with slot machines might ruin business and wipe out city tax revenue from four card rooms in La Center.

George Teeny, owner of the Last Frontier and New Phoenix card room casinos, said an Indian gaming facility won't its fair share of property, sales, business taxes or impact fees. Teeny said Indian gaming won't be a plus for the County or La Center, and citizens will be forced to fill tax revenue gaps.

Teeny said County officials need to anticipate the highest level of exposure to the environment, which could be two casinos, said Teeny.

County officials should demand an Environmental Impact Statement and State Environmental Protection Act review, said Teeny.

"No decision yet," says tribal leader

Cowlitz tribal spokesman Dave Barnett said Jan. 27 that tribal members have not decided how to use the land.

Barnett said tribal leaders still intend to request that the land be taken into trust.

Federal ownership and trust status would exempt the site from land-use rules and allow development of a gaming casino.

Last year, officials of the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs rejected an application for an environmental assessment from the Cowlitz Tribe because the application failed to identify proposed land uses.

Barnett said a new application will list gaming as a land use because such use will create the highest possible level of environmental impact and scrutiny. If gaming is approved, any other commercial operation would be allowed at the site.

Barnett said provisions in the proposed MOU show that the Cowlitz Tribe will pay its way and not be a burden to taxpayers.

Barnett said when the County accord is final, tribal leaders will develop an agreement with the city of La Center. The County agreement must come first to avoid conflicts, he said.

The hearing will be in the Commissioners' Hearing Room, 6th floor, Public Service Center, 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

A copy of the proposed agreement may be viewed at www.clark.wa.gov/general/Commiss/CowlitzMOU.pdf or in the Clark County Board of Commissioners' Office at 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver.

Written comments may be sent by e-mail to

Boardcom@clark.wa.gov, or mailed to the Commissioners' office.

Questions may be directed to County staff member Mary Keltz at 397-2232.

COUNTY SHRINKS LAND USE MORATORIUM

Bill Myers, staff reporter

After a Jan. 27 public hearing, the Clark County commissioners scaled back the amount of land effected by a land division moratorium they imposed last month.

The action revises an emergency moratorium ordinance enacted Dec. 16 which prevented all rural land owners from filing applications to divide lands.

Commissioners enacted the moratorium to prevent rural land owners from filing applications to build residential subdivisions where commercial or industrial use is being considered. The moratorium is designed to give the commissioners time to consider land uses for developed reduces their options.

The new moratorium sharply reduces acreage effected by the Dec. 16 ordinance. The moratorium now applies only to lands that may be added to urban growth boundaries, including areas where changes of use might interfere with planning considerations.

It was a split vote.

Commissioner Betty Sue Morris said she opposes land use moratoriums except for public safety. She voted against the Dec. 16 ordinance and the revised ordinance.

Commissioners considered three map options to identify moratorium areas.

They declined an option to retain the existing moratorium on all rural land divisions. They rejected an option to freeze divisions of any real estate evaluated during the Comprehensive Plan update process.

Commissioners Craig Pridemore and Judie Stanton chose a third option, which will stall land divisions only on land identified for further study at a Jan. 14 commissioner/staff work session.

Pridemore said he regrets the original moratorium involved so much area, and added, "We had to preserve our planning options."

Matt Lewis, president of the Building Industry Association of Southwest Washington, said the moratorium violates individual property rights.

Lewis said his association opposes such actions, but conceded that if a moratorium is needed, it should effect as little land area as possible.

County Board of Realtors spokesperson Esther Hoffman said realtors do not support a moratorium that harms property owners.

Hoffman said if a freeze is needed it should apply only to designated growth areas.

The revised ordinance imposes land division prohibitions on almost all lands bordering west, north and south boundaries of Battle Ground.

The moratorium applies to selected parcels south, east and north of Ridgefield city limits, to land around the NW 319th St./I-5 junction west of La Center, and to selected parcels north and east of La Center.

The freeze also applies to most properties bordering north and west of Vancouver city limits.

Revised ordinance language terminates the land division moratorium when commissioners adopt an update of the Comprehensive Plan on or before Dec. 1, 2004.

"I hope the delay (for affected land owners) is closer to June than December," said Pridemore.

CITY FIRES PUBLIC WORKS EMPLOYEE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Ten-year Battle Ground public works employee Glen Rasmussen was fired Jan. 28 by Department director Sam Adams.

Rasmussen is accused of "theft of time" for reportedly lying on weekly time cards on three separate occasions in June, July and August 2002, Adams said.

During an investigation into equipment theft and employee harassment at the Department, Battle Ground police found that Rasmussen claimed he worked two 8-hour days and took sick leave for one 8-hour day when he was reportedly on duty as a reserve officer for Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.

The employee was paid about $508.32 that he did not earn, documents state. Rasmussen's hourly wage is $25.36.

Rasmussen was on paid administrative leave from November last year until Jan. 28. while an investigation was underway. Adams said Rasmussen was fired after agencies involved, including the prosecuting attorney, had turned in all reports.

Municipal court prosecuting attorney Chris Sundstrom said Rasmussen intentionally misrepresented hours worked with intent to receive benefits for leave or pay.

Rasmussen pleaded not guilty Jan. 15 to three counts of third degree theft and official misconduct. A pre-trial date of Feb. 5 is set.

Rasmussen worked in the water, sewage and drainage department under supervisor Cal Newton. He is on suspension as a reserve officer with Multnomah County pending the results of the case, said Lt. Mike Shults.

Council member steams about plan to keep city north of river

Bill Myers, staff reporter

La Center city council member Richard Curtis appeared to react with disbelief and anger to land use news at a Jan. 28 council meeting.

Mayor Jim Irish lit the council member's fuse when he said Clark County commissioners, currently working on a 20-year Comprehensive Plan update, denied the city's request to add land south of the East Fork of the Lewis River to the city's urban growth boundary.

Irish said he heard citizen comments and environmental concerns caused the decision.

City council members, following a Planning Commission recommendation, voted unanimously last September to reserve about 33 acres near Timmen Rd. for commercial and job-creation purposes.

A September council vote followed a $50,000 study to determine how the city could expand boundaries toward I-5.

"They want to keep us north of the river," said Curtis. "How can two or three people override what so many citizens want to do?" he asked.

Curtis said residents near Timmen Rd. asked to be incorporated into the city. Environmental concerns, he added, were completely addressed by the city planner.

City planner Eric Eisemann said he was advised of the Board decision at a Jan. 14 meeting with County planners.

Eisemann said no reasons were given for the decision.

County long range planning director Pat Lee said citizen testimony opposing commercial zoning at Timmen Rd. caused the commissioners' decision. About 12 citizens spoke in opposition, and several were area residents, Lee said.

The ruling dashes hopes of city leaders to add job-creating lands to La Center. The city has reasons to be concerned, said Eisemann.

Eisemann, a planning consultant who also works for Ridgefield, said almost all of Ridgefield plans for expansion were approved by the commissioners.

About 81 acres of land at the NE 319th St./I-5 junction held as urban reserve now appears to be reserved for future County use, said Eisemann.

Lee said he could not predict the future of the I-5 junction land.

Curtis said the city should pursue legal action against the County.

City attorney Daniel Kearns said it isn't clear that the City would have a cause of action. The avenue for appeal would be to the Southwest Washington Growth Management Hearings Board, said Kearns.

Kearns said County officials are required to base decisions on evidence, "but criteria can be very subjective."

Curtis said the goal of the County is to stack people on top of each other.

"This will be very detrimental to cities if they are allowed to get away with this," he added.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Want to send a Valentine's bouquet to a favorite student or teacher?

The Tiger Floral Shop, located in room J-22 in the south wing of Battle Ground High School just off W Main St., features a variety of floral arrangements, balloons and gift supplies.

Students make floral arrangements to sell to other students, staff, parents and community members.

The program has been in place for several years, but it was in a smaller room until this year. Previously, customers needed to walk through a classroom area to access the shop. This year, horticulture teacher Deanna Veitenheimer swapped rooms with another teacher which resulted in a larger working area for the floral shop and outside access to the street.

Students can take Veitenheimer's floral class for two years. During the first year, students can take a one-semester floral class in fall and an advanced class in spring. The next year they can sign up for an independent study course and work as shop managers.

Veitenheimer said class content is split between theory and hands-on activity. Students are taught customer service skills, color schemes, plant identification, care and handling of flower, arranging, displaying and salesmanship.

Veitenheimer taught a similar class at Evergreen High School. An area restaurant manager once observed the class and wrote a letter of commendation to the school district saying he would hire just about anyone from the class because they were being taught excellent customer service skills and were prepared to work.

Battle Ground senior Samantha Senter enjoys the real-world experience the class provides. She hopes to study floral design at Ohio State University after she graduates and one day open her own shop.

Junior Joni Homola said she enjoys the creativity of making floral arrangements.

Homola likely won't pursue a career in flower arranging, she said, but appreciates the business skills she is learning while in the store.

Veitenheimer said any profits from the store return to a resale account to buy more materials.

The store is open most school hours. Contact Veitenheimer at the high school, 885-6500, ext. 4061.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground School District board members voted Jan. 27 to adjust the District's budget.

District business manager Mary Beth Lynn said one formal budget adjustment happens every year as part of regular budgeting procedures.

Budgets are prepared before a school year begins using a variety of estimated figures, Lynn said.

For example, it is impossible to predict exact dollar amounts needed for utility bills which fluctuate depending on weather and market conditions, thus the need for an adjustment later in the year. Board members voted to raise the District's general fund budget from $79.5 million to $83.5 million for 2003-2004, and its capital projects fund from $2 million to $4.6 million.

The budget is still balanced with the revisions, Lynn said. Also, the changes that show up in a budget do not mean money will be spent immediately, Lynn added. Rather, the adjustment means expenditures to those levels are authorized. The bulk of the increase in general fund expenditures stems from more students showing up than anticipated.

When the budget was prepared last spring, enrollment was projected at 11,435 full-time equivalent (FTE) students. As of January, 11,784 FTE students were accounted for.

The state pays Districts about $4,000 per student in apportionment funds. The District received some $1.3 million for the extra 349 students.

Adjustments include some $208,000 allocated to alternative programs due to increased enrollment, $141,000 to buildings and $513,000 to vocational programs.

Another factor leading to the budget adjustment is carry- over funds from money not spent last school year. Lynn said District officials encourage carry-over fund use so departments do not use money on needless expenditures as the year nears an end.

The two largest amounts in this category are $830,000 from I-728 funds and $1.3 million in levy carry-over money.

In addition, in October 2003 the Board approved the issuance of $2.5 million limited general obligation bonds for repairs to roofs, HVAC systems and baseball fields. The capital projects budget revision reflects the actions of that bond issue.

The general obligation bonds will be repaid with levy money.

The idea behind the bonds, Lynn said, is that some District buildings need repairs immediately, and doing repairs sooner rather than later would cost less in the long run.

For more information about budgeting in the Battle Ground School District, contact District communications consultant Kelly Keister at 904-1233 or business manager Mary Beth Lynn at 885-5311.

KITCHEN FIRE DESTROYS BG HOUSE

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Fire gutted the insides of a house Jan. 29 at 1605 NW 6th Ave. in Battle Ground, leaving the structure intact.

All family members and pets escaped safely.

Some 15 firefighters from Fire Districts 11 and 3 responded to the fire just before 4 p.m. The fire was extinguished in about 10 minutes, said District 11 division chief Mike Ciraulo.

Homeowners Cherie and Gene Fowler believe the fire started on top of the stove. Gene was reportedly frying shrimp for dinner and ran to the store mid-process. Cherie was lying down in the bedroom when she heard smoke detectors go off, she said. When she got to the kitchen, the room was already ablaze.

Son, Colby Fowler, an eighth grade student at Lewisville Middle School, was outside when the fire began. The family's two dogs and one duck were unharmed.

The family has insurance.

FOOD BANK OPENS IN NEW LOCATION

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

The North County Community Food Bank opened its doors Feb. 2 in a new location to help feed and educate the less fortunate of north Clark County.

Since 1996, the food bank has operated rent-free out of 900 square feet of space inside the North County Family Resource Center at 701 E Main St., Battle Ground.

In early September 2003, food bank officials entered into a lease/purchase agreement with city officials for the old planning department building at 17 NE 3rd Ave. For the next two years, $1,000 per month will go toward the purchase price of $165,000.

The move doubles space for food storage and operations at 1,839 square feet.

Food bank executive director Elaine Hertz said there's more warehouse and office space which will allow them to work with clients in work spaces rather than "jammed into one place with people running in and out."

Volunteers were busy in the weeks before the move, getting the 50-something-year-old building ready with carpeting, electrical upgrades and new drywall.

Residents from Battle Ground, Yacolt, the Heisson area, Amboy, Brush Prairie and parts of Woodland come to the food bank for assistance.

Services such as domestic violence victim and Kids At Risk programs, classes about basic life skills, federal commodities food distribution, information and referrals, special projects such as Easter and Christmas baskets, birthday parties and scholarships are offered through the food bank.

A garage sale fundraiser to help with lease payments is set for Thurs.-Sun., Feb. 26-29, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. each day at the Chamber of Commerce building, 912 E Main St. Tax deductible material and cash donations are welcome, Hertz said.

For more information, contact Hertz at 687-5007.

DOUBLE J TACK AND FARM CLOSING UP

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

At the end of the day Wed., March 31, Roger Brindle will turn the key in the front door lock of Double J Tack and Farm Supply for the last time.

Brindle, who has leased the building for the last 27 years, will officially stroll into the sunset that day, leaving the popular store to be part of Clark County history.

"My wife and I promised each other when we married 42 years ago that we would retire together," said Brindle, 65.

Brindle's wife, Peggy recently retired as a registered nurse at Southwest Washington Medical Center. He's chomping at the bit to join her.

Brindle bought the business from Bill and Hazel Jordan in 1976 after that couple had owned it about eight years, he said.

Double J, at 1912 NE 179th St., Ridgefield, was a target for 4-H students, farmers, horse owners and those who love western-flair clothing.

Brindle began liquidating his e stock in January with discounts from 20 to 70 percent off everything in the store. The sale will continue until everything is gone.

The couple don't have "plan A or B," for retirement, Brindle said, chuckling. "I've never had to cross this threshold before. I never thought I'd get this old."

The Brindles will likely spend some time traveling in their fifth wheel recreation vehicle, do some work for Habitat for Humanity to "give back to the community," and spoil their only granddaughter who lives in La Center, he said.

What Brindle will miss most are all the people he has met through the years.

"I'll miss the kids and helping the 4-H-ers and things like that," he said. "I've been connected. But I'm excited."

Although officially retired, Brindle will keep his hat in the business ring with Double J Horse and Trailer Sales not too far from his old place of business at 724 NE 179th St., on the other side of I-5.

Clark County engineer Pete Capell said last week that 2003 traffic operations at the Amphitheater for Clark County did not comply with plans, that backups occurred on I-5, that excessive delays occurred on other streets, and that a report on the traffic situation did not contain certain key analyses.

Capell stopped short of directing the report to be re-done, and instead urged that the Amphitheater operators and its consultants work with the county to find solutions.

Capell leveled several specific criticisms at the traffic monitoring report prepared by the consulting firm of Kittelson & Associates Inc. of Portland.

Capell said the report incorrectly assumed that when long lines of traffic were moving, the length of the backup was zero. He said the report also incorrectly used two-hour averages rather than the required one hour average in analyzing traffic congestion.

Capell said traffic controls were performed so inadequately during 2003 that "it is not possible to determine how successfully traffic can be managed."

For many concerts, said Capell, traffic controls were installed late and lanes were coned late. "These lapses directly affected almost every major movement at most events with over 7,000 patrons."

Capell provided Amphitheater consultants with a 13-page memorandum which detailed "inconsistencies, errors and omissions that were found in the report."

Capell directed that Amphitheater operators to continue to monitor and report on all concerts in 2004 and subsequent years "until the venue demonstrates that traffic delay, queuing, travel time and other factors can meet the compliance standards."

Nine concerts held

During its inaugural season, the Amphitheater at Clark County hosted nine concerts.

Amphitheater officials turned off traffic signals and used manual controls for seven of the nine concerts. For two others, which had attendance of 2,462 and 3,844, traffic signals remained in use although their timing was changed.

In an agreement with the County, standards were established for Amphitheater traffic dealing with such things as length of traffic backed-up on various roads, including I-5.

Rob Klug, traffic engineer with Clark County, reviewed the Kittleson traffic monitoring report. He said he personally observed traffic at each of the nine concerts and made notes to help in analyzing the consultant's report.

"They had egress issues even with small events," said Klug.

Klug found fault with technical aspects of the Kittleson report.

Klug questioned Kittleson data on length of backups.

The report, said Klug, described long lines of traffic in three ways: length in feet, "over," and "rolling."

Klug said he was not clear whether "over" meant beyond the crest of a hill and could not be seen, or meant over the established standard.

Klug was similarly unclear what "rolling" meant. He said he questioned Kittleson staff on these points but did not receive an answer.

The definition of "rolling," said Klug, would determine whether the SR-502 ingress backup exceeded standard 86 percent of the time, or 99 percent of the time.

If "rolling" means a backup of over 1,300 feet, said Klug, the standard was exceeded 100 percent of the time during the peak hour.

Randy Printz, a Vancouver attorney who represents the Amphitheater, said that "over" means in excess of the agreed standard, and that "rolling" means a line of cars was moving at some speed.

Klug also noted that data errors affected traffic analysis in the report.

For example, traffic westbound on NE 179th St. was reported as backed up 700 feet at one moment, but not backed up at all 16 second later, then backed up 700 feet 16 seconds after that. Klug said he had not asked Kittleson staff members for an explanation of this apparent data error.

Printz said this situation is explained by a line of cars being held for other traffic, and then released, before being held again.

Klug said such explanation is not reasonable.

The Kittleson report was limited by data collection errors, said Klug. In one chart, missing data due to data collection errors occurred in 13 of 58 cells.

Klug said he did not ask Kittleson officials what caused data collection errors.

Printz said he could not explain data collection errors either.

Klug said the Kittleson report frequently measured traffic observations against "goals" set forth in the county agreement. Klug said the "goals" were actually "standards" not to be exceeded rather than goals to be worked toward.

Printz said there is no meaningful distinction between the two terms.

Klug said the Amphitheater agreement with the county required mass transit to be part of the 2003 traffic plan. That did not take place.

Amphitheater officials are working on bus service for the 2004 concert season.

"We have a ton of data," said Printz, "way more than we need. We've got more information than we currently need to work for the future."

Printz emphasized that the agreed performance standards pertained primarily to the affect of Amphitheater traffic on non-Amphitheater motorists. Delays incurred by those going to and from the Amphitheater are to be expected, he said.

"There is no question that there were bugs in the system during our first year," said Printz. "We will work collaboratively to improve the system. There can be improvements and there will be improvements."

"We weren't perfect last year," added Printz. "We are going to evaluate what we can do to improve this year."

Printz said changes will be made in cooperation with officials with the state Department of Transportation, Clark County, and the Clark County Sheriff's Office.

Public comments will be taken Tues., Feb. 10, on a Clark County proposal to decrease single family home building permit fees and increase land development fees.

Rich Carson, director of the County's Department of Community Development, said nine more staff members are needed to meet the growing need for building inspections and plan reviews.

Carson said that, even though the number of homes being built in unincorporated Clark County has remained steady at about 2,000 per year, commercial projects require additional inspection manpower.

Carson cited the Amphitheater at Clark County, Legacy Hospital, Lowes and a new shopping center in Hazel Dell as examples of commercial projects that place demands on his staff for inspections.

Carson said new construction reached $491 million in 2003, up 20 percent from the prior year.

The county continues to inspect the construction of about 2,000 homes each year even though Battle Ground pulled its inspection work from the county last year and is doing its own work.

About 300 new homes are built in Battle Ground yearly, and were previously inspected by county staff.

Each inspector, said Carson, currently makes about 9 1/2 stops and 22 inspections per day. The goal is 6 1/2 stops, said county staffer Toby LaFrance, as an effort is made toward more thorough inspections.

Carson said the proposal is to reduce building permit fees by 5.28 percent, and increase land development fees by 6 percent.

The County can afford to hire seven more building inspectors, said Carson, even with a fee reduction because revenues have exceeded expenditures in the past.

LaFrance said the county currently has 22 inspectors and two supervisors. The planned addition of seven inspectors would boost the staff to 29 inspectors.

Carson said his department took in about $1 million in building permit fees in excess of expenditures in 2003, making up for losses in past years.

Matt Lewis of the Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIA), said he found the proposed fee changes "very interesting."

The BIA filed a lawsuit against the County two years ago alleging that fee revenues exceeded expenditures.

Lewis calculated $4 million in fee overcharges 1998-2002. The lawsuit sought refunds.

"It's not sound public policy to hire staff because you have excess revenues," said Lewis.

Lewis said he expects the lawsuit to go to trial this year.

Lewis said the County hired 12 new inspectors two years ago, and now wants to add seven more, even though the county commissioners have reduced the expansion of urban growth boundaries and even though Battle Ground took its inspection work away.

Carson said his Department has initiated a time recording system for reviews of subdivision plans and certain other permits. These records show the need for a fee increase, he said.

Carson said the hiring of two additional engineering staff members working in plan review could actually save developers money if the review process can be completed more quickly, thus saving interest expense.

If the fee changes are approved Feb. 10, they would become effective 30 days later, said Carson.

OBITS:

KELVA ALTMAN

Kelva Altman, 80, died Jan. 31, 2004 in Vancouver.

Altman was born Sept. 13, 1923 in Gadsden, Alabama, worked as a teacher, and lived in Vancouver for 20 years.

Altman was educated in Alabama. She received a master's degree from Jacksonville Teachers College in Alabama and worked for AT&T for 10-15 years. She worked at Montessori schools for eight years and retired from Clark Care & Development after seven years.

Altman served in the Army during World War II. She attended Evergreen Christian Church. She loved animals, oil and watercolor painting, crossword puzzles, and listening to her children play music.

Survivors include daughter Barbara Talbert of Vancouver, sons Jeff Altman and Brad Altman, both of Vancouver, 12 siblings in Alabama, eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Davies Cremation & Burial Services was in charge of arrangements.

DEBRA JACKSON

Debra Leila Reber Jackson, 46, died Jan. 29, 2004 in Portland after a 9-year bound with a brain tumor.

Jackson was born March 18, 1957 in Phoenix, AZ, grew up in Orange County, CA, and moved to Washington in 1990.

Jackson loved anything to do with gardening, the outdoors, music and literature. Roses were her passion. She loved nature.

Jackson will be remembered for her love of life and people.

Survivors include daughter Hayley Jackson of Battle Ground, son Erik Jackson of Vancouver, step-daughters Leslie Jackson of California and Tami Oyebanji of Texas, parents Betty and Philip Reber of Battle Ground, sisters Becky Tesimale, Sheri Rasband and Marrietta Reber, brothers David Reber, Mark Reber, Jeff Reber and Scott Reber, and one grandson.

Family Memorial Mortuary, Portland, was in charge of arrangements.

ELSIE GEHRKE

Elsie Anna Gehrke, 100, died Jan. 31, 2004 in Ridgefield.

Gehrke was born Dec. 15, 1903 in Morgan, MN, worked as a church missionary, and lived in Clark County for many years.

Gehrke graduated from Ridgefield High School. After completing Bible College, she traveled throughout Oregon and Washington as a home missionary working with children and in music.

Gehrke was preceded in death by sisters Lydia Bottemiller, Bertha Gehrke and Esther Reitz, and brother Henry Gehrke.

Graveside services will be held Fri., Feb. 6, 1 p.m., at Bethel Methodist Cemetery, Ridgefield, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

CAROL WAKE

Carol Esther Wake, 90, died Jan. 31, 2004 in Vancouver.

Wake was born Dec. 23, 1913 in St. Paul, MN, and lived in Battle Ground for 63 years before moving to Vancouver seven months ago.

Wake was active in the Battle Ground Baptist Church, and the Fort Vancouver Rose Society.

Wake was preceded in death by brother Andrew Widing, and sisters Ione Winquist, Doris Siepmann and Emma Ann Widing. Survivors include husband Lawrence Wake, son Thomas Wake of Montana, sisters Anita Russell of Vancouver and Janet Johns of Oregon, brother Donald Widing of Oregon, one grandson, one great-granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Thurs., Feb. 5, 2 p.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with private graveside burial services at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Vancouver. Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, is in charge of arrangements.

GENNY BROWN

Genevieve E. "Genny" Brown, 87, died Jan. 24, 2004 in Vancouver.

Brown was born Feb. 11, 1916 in Chicago, IL, graduated from Illinois School for the Deaf, and moved to Los Angeles, CA, then Portland, then Vancouver where she lived for 25 years.

Brown worked as a seamstress in Portland for 20 years before retirement.

Brown helped prepare and mail newsletters for the Southwest Washington Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. She regularly attended senior citizen activities.

Survivors include friends David Born and Janet Gallagher, both of

Vancouver.

At her request, no services will be held. Davies Cremation & Burial Services is in charge of arrangements.

NORMAN KITTLESON

Norman Cleo Kittleson, 79, died Jan. 25, 2004 in Vancouver.

Kittleson was born April 8, 1924 in Portland, worked as a longshoreman, and lived in Vancouver for 50 years.

Kittleson served in the U.S. Coast Guard 1944-45. He was a member of the Minnehaha Church of Christ, and American Legion, Smith-Reynolds Post 14. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and gardening. He traveled to Israel and was baptized in the Jordan River.

Kittleson was preceded in death by his first wife, Georgene Kittleson, in 1978, and second wife Beverly Kittleson in 1989. Survivors include sons Norman Kittleson and Burton Kittleson, both of Vancouver, brother Ole H. Kittleson of Portland, four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Burial was at Willamette National Cemetery, Portland, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

ALMA OSBORN

Alma Susanna (Olstrem) Osborn, 87, died Jan. 17, 2004 in Portland.

Osborn was born Aug. 30, 1916, in Weldon, Saskatchewan, Canada, worked as a retail sales clerk, and lived in Clark County for eight months.

Osborn was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church. She enjoyed her property at Mayfield Lake. She also enjoyed watching the Mariners, playing the organ, teaching Sunday School, directing a choir, and traveling to Arizona. She enjoyed gospel and barbershop music. She was a breast cancer survivor.

Osborn was preceded in death by her husband, Gene, in 1995, brother Elmer, and two grandchildren. Survivors include daughters Verna Lee Veysey of Vancouver, Candice Osborn of Seaview and Jocelyn Hagen of Oregon, brother Obert Ostrem of Oregon, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Memorial services will be held Sat., Feb. 7, 1 p.m., at Family of Christ Lutheran Church, 13001 NW 36th Ave., Vancouver, with the Vancouver Funeral Chapel in charge of arrangements.

HELEN PERRY

Helen Ruth (Richardson) Perry, 74, died Jan. 27, 2004 in Vancouver.

Perry was born May 31, 1929 in Greenville, TX and grew up in Commerce, TX. She moved to Anchor Point, Alaska, and then in 1989 to Vancouver.

Perry enjoyed fishing.

Perry was preceded in death by her husband, William Perry, in 1991, and daughter Gwen Messer in 1998. Survivors include daughters Priscilla Wells of Vancouver and Vicki McAllaster of Alaska, son Jessie Barfield of Texas, sisters Ann Montgomery and Maureen Howard, both of Texas, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

No services will be held. Davies Cremation & Burial Services is in charge of arrangements.