BOOKMOBILE TO BEGIN YALE VALLEY SERVICE

A bookmobile operated by the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District will begin service to the Yale Valley area Tues., June 8, with stops in Ariel and Cougar.

Yale Valley voters approved the formation of a partial rural county library district in May 20, 2003. Community leaders raised $5,000 to pay for six months of interim bookmobile service until the new library tax is first collected in 2005.

The new property tax rate for library services is 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

On June 8, the bookmobile will stop at Yale Elementary School, 11842 Lewis River Road, 9:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., and at Cowlitz County Fire District 7, Station 2, 16821 Lewis River Road, Cougar, 1-2:45 p.m. The general public is invited to visit the bookmobile at both stops.

Storytime at the Yale stop will be 9:45-10:15 a.m. Summer reading program events are planned as well.

The bookmobile will make the same stops on Tuesdays, June 22, July 6 and 20, and Aug. 3 and 24.

The bookmobile is stocked with about 2,000 items, including books, tapes and videos for both children and adults. The bookmobile has satellite internet access for staff use only, not for the general public to use.

In the Yale area, the bookmobile will be driven by Renny Troupe. Librarian Geraldine Veenstra, who oversees library services in Woodland, La Center and Yale, said she plans to travel with the bookmobile once a month.

The Fort Vancouver Regional Library District operates three bookmobiles, one in each county served. In 2003, 3,089 people visited the Clark County bookmobile and checked out 23,196 items. Bookmobile staff answered 1,137 reference questions and conducted 79 programs for 1,452 children.

The number of people who visit the bookmobile at each stop ranges from a low of about four in Hazel Dell, to a high of about 85 in Amboy, according to library officials.

The Yale Valley service area has a population of about 1,800 people. A board of trustees oversees the new tax in the Yale Valley area. That board, headed by Kathi Wheeler, will meet Thurs., June 17, 7:30 p.m., and subsequent third Thursdays, at Yale Elementary School.

Donations made to fund the bookmobile during 2004 came from Candy Morgan, Larry and Vonnie Houghlum, "Let's Read!" Committee, Fort Vancouver Regional Library Foundation, Norman and Helen Stoll Fund of The Oregon Community Foundation, Pacificorp Foundation for Learning, Friends of the Woodland Library, and Yale Elementary School PTO.

Immediately after passage of the library tax in 2003, the library system granted Yale area residents use of any branch of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library system, bookmobiles and online services even though the tax does not take affect until 2005.

SOME QUILTS RETURNED, HEIRLOOM STILL MISSING

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"Here are the quilts that I took..." is the opening line on a note left for Cotton's owner Deb Coates about one week after several quilts were stolen from her Battle Ground shop.

Coates first believed only four quilts were stolen, valued at about $4,100. However, upon inspection of her office, she discovered a few bags containing several more quilts and quilt tops had been taken.

The theft occurred sometime between May 8 and 10. There were no visible signs of forced entry, but a spare key was missing, according to police reports.

On May 21, the key was returned, along with all but three quilts.

A $2,000-value, hand-pieced, hand stitched, wool quilt called Old Maid's Patience, designed by Coates, a professional quilter, is still missing. The piece was featured on the cover of Better Homes and Gardens Quilt Sampler magazine in 2000.

When Coates arrived at the store, she found the bags at the entrance to the basement. The note, written in pencil on college-ruled notebook paper, was found tucked between quilts.

The anonymous note said there may be a couple missing because the person donated some to the Goodwill before becoming aware of a plea to get them back.

"I would like to apologize for taking them," the writer said. "It's just when I saw them I thought they were absolutely beautiful and I saw someone else take one."

The key to the shop was found the next day under a birdhouse that had also been taken--and returned.

Coates said she believes the thefts are "an inside job" because only teachers and staff know where the spare key was kept.

Either that or a someone was indiscreet about where the key was kept and a quilting student found out.

As for the line in the letter "saw someone else take one," Coates wants the writer to call her and give a description of the person that was seen.

"That may just get my quilt back," Coates said. "I really hope they will contact me."

Coates has also contacted Goodwill, the Salvation Army and Value Village stores asking about quilts, to no avail, she said.

News of the theft has spread nationwide, Coates said, who received a call from a woman in Tennessee expressing her sorrow at Coates' loss.

"It's a pretty famous quilt," she said. "Someone is bound to see it."

The writer of the letter asked for Coates' forgiveness, and "would like you to know you sure have beautiful work."

Anyone with information may call the Battle Ground Police Department at 342-5100 or Coates at 666-0366.

BG COUNCIL CONSIDERS MEMORIALS IN PARKS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Memorials in Battle Ground parks to commemorate the passing of a loved one, an anniversary or birthday may be available soon.

At a May 24 study session, council members pondered the benefits of letting Clark County Parks Foundation take over details concerning benches, trees or even a skateboard park dedicated to loved ones.

Phyllis Goldhammer with the Foundation asked council members to consider letting the non-profit agency handle details for those who wish to memorialize people with items in parks, or a park itself.

City manager Eric Holmes said it is easier for a non-profit group to handle details rather than city staff or elected officials.

"There are so many requests for memorials," Goldhammer said. "It can be a staffing issue."

The agency currently works as liaison with Vancouver-Clark Parks and Recreation to provide such memorials for interested persons.

Memorial plaques are no more than 25 characters including spaces with three lines.

At Esther Short Park in Vancouver, a memorial bench costs about $2,500 which includes installation and upkeep. In Lewisville Park north of Battle Ground, the cost is about $1,700, Goldhammer said.

Council member Bill Ganley balked a bit.

"In Renton and Kirkland, it's done through the city," he said, having recently placed a memorial tree for his deceased mother in a park in that area. "Isn't that expensive? I think it should be a decision by the parks commission and the location approved by the city."

"We can set any type of program," said Public Works director Sam Adams.

Goldhammer agreed.

"We can work with your inventory and locations," she said. "Our goals are parallel to Parks and Recreation. We just act as liaisons."

"People sometimes feel more comfortable giving to a non-profit organization than a city," she added. "They know their money will go into an account to be used for what they want it for."

Mayor John Idsinga agreed and said he believes this is a good idea.

Adams said in this program people can give money overall or to a specific project, such as a skateboard park.

"Every dollar they give will go toward a park or a memorial," he said. "There is comfort and security in giving to a non-profit."

"I think the rules and guidelines need to be set up by the city," Ganley insisted.

Staff will come back with a formal recommendation for council consideration at a future meeting.

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Earl Kittrick, 73, 19121 NW 61st Ave., died in a tractor roll-over accident May 25 while mowing a field.

According to Ridgefield police and Clark County Sheriff's deputy reports, Kittrick was found pinned under a tractor by neighbor Paul Reed when Reed and his wife drove home.

Reed's wife reportedly made a comment about seeing the tipped-over tractor, so he got out to investigate.

As he approached, reports said, he saw Kittrick pinned with the rollbar on his neck and chest. Reed couldn't lift the tractor and yelled for a man working nearby to help.

The two men worked with boards to lever the tractor and were able to lift it enough to pull Kittrick out, reports said.

Reed attempted CPR when he saw there was no pulse and Kittrick was not breathing.

A Fire District 12 crew and ambulance personnel arrived and tried to revive Kittrick but were unsuccessful, reports said.

It appeared Kittrick had been trapped for at least one hour, according to a report.

TORNADO HITS LA CENTER

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

"It was like a blender in the sky, then WHAM! it's tail went straight down," said Kenneth "Pinky" Fuller, a La Center resident who was eyewitness May 27 to a tornado.

The National Weather Service confirms what Fuller saw. About two miles northeast of La Center, a weak tornado was reported about 4:30 p.m. Fuller said he saw it hit about 3:30 p.m. A 1 and one-half foot tree was torn out by its roots, part of a barn roof was ripped off and a 50-gallon drum tossed across the yard.

Extensive small tree branches littered several areas around the city, according to the Service.

Fuller said it was like nothing he'd ever seen before.

"It was like a blender in the sky," he said.

Fuller and his wife, Barbara, were traveling on I-5 southbound from Woodland and had just come out of heavy rain that slowed traffic considerably.

They were about to take the La Center exit when they noticed "weird looking" clouds circling counter-clockwise, Fuller said.

"These clouds came together from two different directions and then WHAM! the tip went straight down into the canyon, probably into the river bottom," he said.

As the couple neared the bridge into town, they noticed leaves and limbs scattered mostly along the north end.

Fuller said he also saw another similar cloud formation hovering over the View area after the first tornado.

Big black clouds rolled around and moved in circles, but the formation broke up, he said.

"There was a big, black oyster over there and I was thinking if that hits, we all need to get out of here," he said.

Fuller wasn't scared though.

"I got to see a tornado born!" he said.

HOCKINSON BOUNDARY DECISION PUT OFF

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Jennifer Zora believes the May 27 public hearing regarding an appeal of a denial to shift school boundaries was a "kangaroo court" reminiscent of the 1930s.

Educational School District 112 officials postponed a decision on the matter until a Thurs., June 10 public hearing.

Several people, including three state legislators, attended the three-hour meeting held by four out of seven board members. One board position remains vacant, and two other members were absent.

The evening was frought with denials to let some people testify and at least one board member yelling into a microphone denying an attorney the right to ask questions, Zora said.

Hockinson school board members, who hold a neutral position on the matter, did not get to testify, nor did some interested citizens, Zora said.

"It was pretty bad," she added.

Some 20 families who live near Risto Rd. and NE 199th St. want to be in the Hockinson district. Homes are currently in the Battle Ground district.

The property owners' case is one of the first in the state to fall under new laws which allow petitioners to appeal a decision directly to the state board of education.

The petitioners, headed by Zora, helped change the law when their request was denied about a year ago.

The hearing continuation will be held Thurs., June 10, 7 p.m., at the Center for Educational Leadership, 2901 Falk Rd., Vancouver.

LUCK FOLLOWS DEER NEAR BG SCHOOL

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Talk about a lucky buck.

A young male deer in Battle Ground was spotted heading down the middle of N Parkway Ave. May 25 near Battle Ground High School.

About noon, Bob Olson spotted the young buck with newly-sprouted antlers meandering down N Parkway Ave. near the Old Central building, said District warehouse supervisor Mo Amaya.

Olson, a District warehouse delivery driver, called in the sighting to the Battle Ground Police Department. After he hung up, he watched the deer wander into an enclosed area at the warehouse site.

"At first I thought [Olson] was joking," said police clerk Debi Gallino. "But the guy said, `no, no, I'm serious. I'm afraid he's going to get hit.'"

Olson told Amaya drivers slowed down during the busy lunch time traffic and let the roaming animal have his space before he moseyed out of the way.

Two officers were dispatched to the enclosed area where maintenance and staff vehicles and a dumpster are kept.

A school security guard and two maintenance employees were busy keeping the now-herded, frightened, black-tailed mule deer inside the area when officers arrived, said Gallino.

Occasionally the youngster peered at them from behind the dumpster, said Amaya, who took pictures.

A state Department of Fish and Wildlife official was called to the scene where he tranquilized the young fellow who fell on the only grassy patch in the yard, said Amaya.

The deer was gently placed into a Fish and Wildlife vehicle, Gallino said.

As the lucky buck slept, officials took him to the Sunset Falls area where he was left in the middle of a herd of doe.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Battle Ground School District Board members May 25 authorized the purchase of 4.24 acres located at 9916 NE 134th St., Brush Prairie. The property borders the Glenwood Heights Primary/Laurin Middle School campus.

On a map, the Glenwood/Laurin property currently looks like it has a notch in its southeast corner. The newly purchased property fills in the notch, producing a complete rectangle.

A remodeled house originally built in 1917 is included in the purchase, along with a private well and septic system. Gerald Kytola sold the property to the District for $300,000 with provisions to rent for three months until he can relocate, said assistant superintendent Lynn Hicks. The final price was $297,000 because of the rent situation.

Impact fees will pay for the property, said District business manager Mary Beth Lynn. The property will be bought outright, not financed.

The purchase price represents about 23 percent of the impact fee money the District currently has on hand, Lynn said.

Board member Fred Striker said the property is strategic for proposed remodels and expansions of the schools' current campus. Ball fields, parking, additional playgrounds and portable placement are all possible uses for the property. Reconfiguring the site will take place only if a bond passes.

"There are a lot of possibilities for the land," Striker said. "It's a good move and looks to the future. Property is getting scarce in the area, so we try to make use of good deals when they come our way."

The District had the property appraised prior to the sale. Feasibility study documents prepared by the Vancouver consulting firm Moss & Associates state the property is suitable for school district purposes.

An architect has not yet been consulted regarding specific plans for the property, Striker said.

A public hearing will be held Thurs., June 3, 5:30 p.m., on the Hockinson School District budget for 2004-2005.

The hearing was previously announced for a different time.

At the hearing, District superintendent Barry Gourley will discuss the "state of the district," Donna Gregg will present the budget, Maggie Bates will describe curriculum and grants, school principal will explain building projects, and John Morris will discuss facilities.

Public comments are invited.

Information, Barry Gourley or Julie Backous, 448-6400.

Utility officials await state permit for connections

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A new wastewater treatment plant is operational in La Center.

Doug Quinn, director of administrative services at Clark Public Utilities, said new connections could begin within 10 days upon receipt of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit from the state Department of Ecology.

It took about four years to get permits for the plant and about 10 months to build it, said utility commissioner Nancy Barnes.

The utility funds about 78 percent of the $4.6 million project with low-interest 20-year loans from the state Public Works Trust Fund. Other funds are from utility-issued revenue bonds.

Payments to the utility by La Center ratepayers service the debt. Except for senior citizens, rates were raised from $22.50 per month to $26.89.

The new wastewater plant serves about 725 residences and businesses in the La Center area. La Center public works director Jeff Sarvis said 20 homeowners are currently waiting for hook-ups.

Utility project manager Eric Beck said an additional 511 residential units are provided by the new plant, enough to satisfy a population of about 3,000, which will meet La Center housing and business needs until 2010.

Beck said a second phase of plant construction could start as early as 2008 and will double plant capacity.

Quinn said the new plant is equipped with a sequential batch reactor, which produces about a third of suspended solids allowed by state permits.

Barnes said ultraviolet light, rather than chlorine gas, is used to disinfect the wastewater. The process eliminates the risk of residual chlorine, a poison, from getting into the East Fork of the Lewis River.

One operator will be at the plant each day, said Beck. Around-the-clock monitoring is done with automated telemetry to the utility main office in Vancouver.

VANDALISM DELAYS TRAIN START

New route opens along Lewis River

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Vandalism at an enginehouse May 22 or 23 in Chelatchie Prairie caused operators of the Chelatchie Prairie Railroad to delay weekend rail trips.

Stationmaster Joan Reed-Nickerson said vandals broke windows, mirrors, doors, set off a fire extinguisher and tried to burn caboose equipment after breaking into several cars.

Clark County Sheriff's deputies are investigating the incident.

Reed-Nickerson said Memorial Day weekend trips were canceled.

Scenic rail trips will begin Sat., June 5, from Yacolt station to Moulton Falls, and west along the East Fork of the Lewis River to Basket Flat. The train will depart Yacolt at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 3 p.m., with stops at Moulton Falls each way.

Rides north to Chelatchie Prairie will not be available this summer while maintenance is being done on the line.

However, the new Basket Flat route will traverse over 800 newly replaced ties along the East Fork of the Lewis River. Work done includes additional ballast, switchwork and tree and brush removal.

The new line opens the route about 3 more miles past Moulton Falls to the Clark County trailhead on Basket Flat Rd.

Fares are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $6 for youths and free for children age four and under.

Scheduled special events this year include a BBQ trip July 24, a train robbery/BBQ trip Aug. 21, a fish fry trip Sept. 11, and fall foliage trips on every Saturday during September.

A Headless Horseman trip is set for Oct. 30-31. Christmas Tree trips will run Nov. 27-28, Dec. 4-5, and Dec. 11-12. Santa will be at the station for children Dec. 18-19.

Information by telephone is at 686-3559 and on website at www.chelatchieprairierr.org.

INTERCHANGE PLAN FIRMS UP

State begins real estate negotiations

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A state Department of Transportation engineer said May 20 that officials have agreed on a basic design for an interchange at I-5 and SR-502.

Known as a "Recommended Built Alternative," the design will relocate SR-502, starting west of NE 22nd Ave. about 300 feet north of NE 219th St. A signaled intersection is planned on the new intersection at SR-502 at NE 10th Ave.

Westbound SR-502 motorists will access northbound I-5 on a ramp that merges with the Gee Creek Rest Stop exit. SR-502 motorists will access southbound I-5 on a non-stop loop west of the freeway.

Northbound I-5 traffic will exit the freeway to SR-502 at the existing northbound Gee Creek off-ramp. Southbound freeway motorists will have non-stop ramp access to eastbound SR-502.

Bart Gernhart, project engineer for the state, said relocation of the SR-502 route avoids wetlands near Gee Creek and I-5.

Gernhart said final design work isn't finished. "We have decided basically what it will look like." Later, when asked if the route design was a final decision, he said the basic route design is final unless changed for environmental reasons by federal oversight.

State real estate coordinator Mike Palazzo said independent appraisers will start appraising about nine properties that must be wholly purchased to build the design.

Final route design is necessary before negotiations can start on partial land purchases, said Palazzo.

Dead-end on NE 219th St.?

Amy Echols, spokesperson for the state Department of Transportation, said design engineers have not decided if or how SR-502 should connect to NE 219th St. near NE 22nd Ave.

Duluth business owners expressed dismay in an earlier meeting at suggestions from state engineers that NE 219th St. could dead-end immediately west of a newly routed SR-502.

Community Connections features music, food and new Sternwheeler Park

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A new amphitheater and park on slopes adjacent to downtown will be focal points Fri., June 4, at La Center Community Connections.

Scheduled attractions at the 4-6 p.m. annual community get-together include food, music, storytellers, artists and a visit by the Burgerville train.

The event is organized by area business owners, La Center School District and the Parks and Recreation Foundation of Vancouver and Clark County. The Foundation was established in 1999 to accept and administer donations, gifts and bequests for enhancements of area parks, recreation and cultural programs.

City officials will dedicate a new park called Sternwheeler Park at 6:30 p.m. at a new amphitheater that was carved into a hillside leading from downtown to wetlands near the East Fork of the Lewis River.

The new park contains five-plus acres of landscaped grounds, brick paths, scenic viewpoints and wildlife exhibits.

Community Connections is an annual event when citizens appreciate wonders of their environment, including wildlife in nearby wetlands. Up to 800 citizens have attended previous events.

Winning photos from a photo contest held during May in advance of the event will be on display.

The new wetlands park and its trails, accessed from Pacific Hwy. and 4th St.. will form a hub for event activities.

Drifting smoke and scents from a hot dog barbecue tended by special guests will lure visitors to the 1st Independent Bank parking lot.

To amuse guests of all ages, the Burgerville train will cruise the TDS parking lot and face-painters will work under the picnic shelter in the park.

Live music fans will find rhythms at the amphitheater.

CASINO MANAGER OPPOSES I-890

Predicts smoking ban would slash gaming revenues

Bill Myers, staff reporter

A casino manager at a May 24 La Center city council meeting urged citizens not to sign a smoking ban initiative.

Jeff Kassel, manager of the New Phoenix and Frontier casinos, said Initiative 890 would ban smoking from all public places in the state--except on Indian reservations.

"Revenues in Pierce County casinos where smoking was banned recently are down 60 percent," said Kassel. "Smokers in Pierce County simply go to Indian casinos to light up." City council member Richard Curtis said I-890 is a double-edged sword because it will slash revenues and jobs.

Curtis said I-890 would ban smoking within 25 feet of businesses and expose business owners to fines when violations are outside their control.

Kassel said he supports and urges others to sign Initiative 891, an alternative proposal that requires business owners to restrict smoking to designated areas.

CRASH NEAR LA CENTER

A Brush Prairie man was cited for driving under the influence of intoxicants and driving with a suspended license after a May 25 crash east of La Center.

A state Patrol report said Jacob Dunford, 27, was driving a 2002 Dodge Ram pickup east on Lockwood Creek Rd. at about 4:45 p.m. and lost control on a curve near NE 29th Ave.

The pickup reportedly rolled several times, struck an embankment and an unloaded school bus, then rolled down a 40-foot embankment.

Dunford was transported to Southwest Washington Medical Center for treatment of lacerations. School bus driver Jennifer Robb, 31, Ridgefield, was uninjured.

SINGERS, DANCERS, MUSICIANS INVITED TO TALENT CONTEST

Talented singers, instrumentalists, dancers, comics and others are invited to enter the 2004 Harvest Days Talent Search contest, set for Fri., July 16, in Battle Ground.

The competition is divided into two age divisions--ages 1-15, and ages 16 and above--and into three talent categories--vocal, instrumental and dance/novelty.

A total of $700 in prizes will be awarded at the show, including $100 for Entertainer of the Year.

Deadline for entry is Wed., July 7, 5 p.m., with mandatory tryouts set for Fri., July 9, 7 p.m., at Fairgrounds Park in Battle Ground. Entry fee is $5 per act.

The talent search is sponsored by The Reflector.

Marvin Case of The Reflector said the event will showcase talented people.

"The talent search is judged by skilled musicians," said Case. "It's not a show for goofy lip-sincers. This show is conducted to provide a forum for those who have worked hard in preparation to perform. And it's held to entertain our large audience."

The show will take place Fri., July 16, 7-9 p.m., on the Harvest Days main stage. Audience admission is free.

Entry information and forms are available by calling The Reflector, 687-5151.

RETAIN BUSINESSES, OFFICIALS TOLD

The Clark County commissioners heard four hours of testimony May 24, mostly urging them to adopt rules that would allow thousands of home businesses to remain in operation.

Testimony came from business owners and others concerned about the availability of goods and services offered by home business operators.

The public hearing continued the County's three-year effort to develop rules that would generally allow businesses to continue operating while reducing their impacts on neighbors.

No decision was reached at the May 24 meeting. The matter is slated to be taken up again Tues., June 1, 10 a.m.

"This has been an issue that has avoided equitable solution," said commissioner Betty Sue Morris who chaired the May 24 public hearing. "We've taken way too long getting it done."

Homebuilders give views

Speaking for the 860-member Building Industry Association of Southwest Washington, Matt Lewis said many home business operators were not aware they were breaking the law.

Current county law prohibits most larger home businesses.

Lewis said county rules regarding home businesses date back to 1973. Since then, he said, thousands of home businesses have been started. "Why were rules not enforced," he questioned.

Lewis said about 250 members of his organization operate from their homes. A sampling of those, said Lewis, shows that two-thirds are in violation of the county's proposed new rules.

Lewis said complaints about home business operators have occurred mostly in urban areas, and a third of those involve auto repair businesses.

Lewis urged the commissioners to regulate "offensive behavior," and not focus simply on permits and fees.

Lewis also recommended that businesses created prior to the date of adoption of the new ordinance be given more lenient rules than businesses that will come in the future.

The current draft ordinance gives such lenient rules to businesses created before 1995.

Home businesses not allowed under the new ordinance will either cease to exist or move to industrial property, said Lewis. "You will need to address the availability of industrial lands," he said.

Lewis said the draft ordinance provides for a Type II permit at a cost of $2,700, but does not say whether additional review and fees would also apply, such as for storm water treatment.

"Despite all the wrangling, I remain optimistic that a resolution will meet most people's needs," said Lewis.

General themes

Speakers were limited to five minutes each. Some of their comments followed similar themes:

** New ordinance should not put people out of business.

** New ordinance should deal with performance problems, such as dust, noise and traffic, without stopping businesses from operating. Control problems but let existing businesses operate, several said.

** Proposed limits on accessory building size would preclude a significant portion of existing businesses from continued operation. Proposed rules limit business operation to .25 to .50 percent of land owned.

** County planners may not have taken into consideration all those affected by the new rules, including horse stables.

** Eliminating home businesses would have a secondary and adverse affect on their suppliers and other businesses, and cause increased unemployment.

** If restrictions were in place decades ago, many home businesses would not be in operation.

** Having limits on outside equipment storage for businesses but no such limits for non-business equipment is not equitable.

** Home businesses generate millions of dollars of tax revenue annually for county and state coffers.

** People should be allowed to make a living off their land.

** Find a way to solve performance problems without permits and fees.

** Don't apply new rules broadly to varying kinds of businesses. Adopt a case-by--case approach.

** Anonymous complaint system is open to abuse with complaints from competitors and neighbors unhappy over other issues. People should be able to face their accusers.

Gordy Euler, county staff person working on the new ordinance, said he hopes the matter can be resolved soon.

"We need a better community standard" for home business operations, said Euler.

Euler said the new ordinance, when finalized, should produce a system that is deemed to be reasonable. He stressed equity in the treatment of home businesses, noting that decisions are needed on, for example, distinctions between agricultural and business endeavors such as horse stables and wineries.

Specific comments

Some of those who spoke May 24 offered these ideas:

Becky Bjur

Woodland Auto Supply services many small home businesses. "Our business would not operate without them."

Dolores Carlson

Auto repair shop near her Duluth-area home has numerous parked vehicles, vapors, fumes. "It ruins our neighborhood."

Pat Carlson

Auto repair shop near his Duluth-area home has 3,600 square feet shop, four bays, and is twice as large as the residence. "I want you to adopt rules to enhance livability in rural areas."

Mary Nichols

Has operated a painting business since 1996 and not aware of need for home business permit. Takes trailer to job site, has five employees. "We keep property neat and tidy." Roofing company and dog groomer in neighborhood.

Dave Nordeen

Had served on citizen task force studying the home business issue. Urges compromise of interests. "Don't cave in to special interests."

Tom Hill

Businesses asked for a task force but were in the minority on the task force. No commercial property available for home businesses to move to. "Give these people a chance to use more of their lands."

Ron Boullion

Works at home near Battle Ground as an accountant. "If restrictions in place 100 years ago, I don't think any of us would be here today."

Small business employs the most people. "Let's get off their backs."

Wayne Rivers

Works as accountant for a home business auto repair. Home auto repair have been an integral part of rural scene since cars started. People can trust home businesses. Can't operate under proposed restrictions on building size. Growing business needs more space, employees.

Jim Malinowski

Home business rules widen the urban/rural split. "Don't need that kind of split." Noted "elitist" attitude on task force. "Why reject the planning commission recommendations?" Limits on equipment are very unreasonable, extremely low. No equity between business equipment and personal equipment. How decide if equipment is business or personal? Proposes use of 10-20 percent of parcel for business purpose. "Why not allow them to make a living off their land?" Rules not clear if contract farmers and loggers can operate from their homes. Ordinance should deal with problems, not put people out of business."

Mike Rotschy

Timber management company operator. "My biggest concern is that we don't put good businesses out of business. Let's control problems but let existing businesses operate. We depend on small businesses for some work and support."

Roland Homola

Operates auto repair business near Duluth. Neighbors filed a complaint. July 11, 2003 letter from Code Enforcement old him to cease business. Talked to Code enforcement officer July 13 and was told the letter was designed to speed enforcement once new rules were adopted. "Neighbors would complain if there was or wasn't a business." Submitted a petition of support.

Georgia Goff

Disappointed in task force which was very anti-business. Home businesses supply goods and service to her farm. Praised work of planning commission.

George Miller

In the midst of a conditional use permit process for his business, a "daunting, costly process. A whole new bureaucracy won't solve problems. How will enforcement stop complaints? Why can't these things be handled without permits?" Limit of 2-foot sign is hard for motorists to see. "Use good common sense."

Ed Sorenson

Sells to small businesses. New rules should not hinder businesses. "It's not in the best interests of small businesses to move to business parks."

Jerry Lance

Provides emergency repair service. Could not meet new rules on operating his business 7 a.m.-8 p.m. Must have supply of boiler tubing ready for emergencies, so needs large building. Wonders if exceeding rules on number of employees would result in higher fees.

Jarvis Burton

"My heart is with business owners, but they should share private road expenses." Has problems with neighboring foundry which recently added a 25-ton crane. Foundry won't maintain road or drive slowly. Doesn't want to adversely affect a good business. It's stressful to deal with Clark County both personally and financially.

Polly Lauser

Some home businesses grow to large, important businesses. Should resist the temptation to paint with broad brush.

Carol Levanen

Should be proud of men and women who work in home businesses. 82 percent of complaints are for businesses in urban areas. County gets more complaints about animals than home businesses. Businesses exceeding the proposed matrix would cut back or quit business. "Why do we have an ordinance in the first place?" Need performance-based ordinance.

Otto Larsen

Christmas tree farmer. Home businesses are an essential party of the county.

John Polos

Operates an electronics business with two employees. Estimated sales and B&O taxes collected from home businesses in Clark County in the millions of dollars annually. Asked if this process is designed to get all businesses registered, or to solve problems. "We had no intent to break a law."

Christopher Vinther

Makes furniture. County website says go to neighbor first with problems. County staff not following their own advice. Anonymous complaints open door to abuse.

Pat Lydon

Operates a fireworks stand. Uses an accessory building to store his trailer in. "I think we're trying to solve a problem that doesn't exist." Shortage of industrial acreage. Force all north county people to put equipment in industrial lands in Vancouver which are in short supply.

Ken Kennedy

Works for excavation company. "If you take away these small businesses, are you prepared to pay for my six children?" Motorists can't even see their business.

Gary Mills

Clark County, along with owners of big homes, are holding small home businesses hostage. He is offended by parked motorhomes, RVs, boats, trailers. Horse stables with numerous horse trailers violate the rules. Surmises the opinion of wealthy people to be: "God forbid I look out the window and see someone who has to work for a living."

Tom Mielke

State representative. Broad brush doesn't do it. Fees not necessary. If there is no complaint, don't need to go through this process. Each case is different.

Dorman Holcomb

Operates a home-based house remodeling business. "We're talking about jobs here." Working at home allows business to weather the storm of down times. "Let's talk about problems and how to solve them, not the number of people per acre." Just to say it's a business and therefore a problem is wrong.

Laura Matson

Business has 10 employees, big trucks. "We're bad people." Neighbors don't mind. Anonymous complaint was made by a competitor. "Rules need to be fair."

Kimbyl Edwards

An artist. "It's frightening to have someone come and tell you are doing something wrong. It's so nice to know I'm not alone." Has 2,700 square foot building, two employees, wants a third.

Kathy Howard

Breed miniature horses on a farm near Duluth, does not live there. Businesses on 10th Avenue are blatant, including a trucking business. Ruins the nature of the neighborhood.

Nels Homola

"If I get squeezed out, get the boot, where do I go? I can't afford light industrial." Wondered if there is a rural commercial zone. "I don't know where to go."

COUNTY STARTS REALIGNMENT OF HIGHWAY 99

A groundbreaking ceremony May 27 kicked off work on the realignment of NE Highway 99 in the Salmon Creek area.

The work will widen and realign Hwy 99 onto NE 20th Ave. between NE 129th and NE 138th streets. In addition, NE 134th St. will be widened between Highway 99 and east of NE 20th Ave., and the NE 20th Ave. bridge over I-205 will be widened.

The project is the first in a series of planned improvements in the Salmon Creek area. Officials say the work will improve safety by providing better access to existing streets and business driveways. A vacated, two-story building in the path of the new construction has been purchased by the County for $492,000 and will be demolished.

At the groundbreaking, County commissioner Betty Sue Morris expressed pride in the County's Public Works department resulting in the "multifaceted solution and cooperation" leading up to the current plan.

"We take great pride in our public works staff," said Morris, saying she believes the County's Public Works department might be the best in the state and nation.

Morris said $10 million of the funding needed for the realignment of Hwy 99 was acquired by U.S. Rep. Brian Baird, whom Morris called "our hero."

"It was not an option to get funding for this project," joked Baird, as he praised the cooperation of local, state and federal agencies in bringing the work to reality.

Baird said every $1 billion spent on transportation projects creates 47,000 jobs. He said the Salmon Creek project would reduce commuting times and allow residents to spend more time with their families.

"I suggest we name this intersection after Betty Sue Morris," said Baird in praising Morris' role in the project. Morris declined.

Matt Hall, project manager for Clark County, said federal and state funds will each pay about 40 percent of the $9.6 million construction job. County road funds will pay 18 percent, and Clark Public Utilities will pay 4 percent for water line and conduit movements.

The new NE 20th Ave. will be wider, with sidewalks and bicycle lanes on both sides of the road, said Hall.

The project will include the widening of NE 20th Ave. bridge over I-205 to include turning lanes and bicycle lanes. Workers will install street lighting and signal and intersection improvements at NE 20th Ave. and NE 134th St.

Hall said Hwy 99 will remain open as a local access road.

Hall said future phases over several years will include relocating the Park and Ride facility, the southbound I-205 off-ramp and the northbound I-5 on-ramp. The long-range plan is to construct a diamond intersection at I-5 and NE 134th St., all of which could take several years.

Completion of the road work on the first phase of the project is expected this fall. Improvements to the NE 20th Ave. bridge are expected by spring 2005.

AGREEMENT INKED BETWEEN POLICE/BG OFFICIALS

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

After working five months following the expiration of their contract, Battle Ground police officers have agreed to sign a new, three-year contract with the city.

The 36-page document was signed only after the two groups couldn't see eye-to-eye and asked for a mediator to help find middle ground.

"Mediation went fine, as it is supposed to," said city manager Eric Holmes who worked with Police Officers Association president Keith Thompson. "The thing with successful mediation is that no one is 100 percent happy."

Thompson declined to comment. His role was to bargain on behalf of the officers and have them vote on whether to approve the proposed contract. He worked on the project for more than one year.

The new agreement, set to expire Dec. 31, 2006, has some changes from the prior agreement, said Holmes.

One change is a "signing incentive" in lieu of retroactive pay for the Association when the next contract negotiation is due, Holmes said.

If the two groups can't agree on a new contract before the old one expires, officers will continue working under the old contract without retroactive pay, he said.

Officers will also have a different medical plan under the Association of Washington Cities which will save the city about $120 per month per officer using a family of four as an average, Holmes said. Using that guideline, the city pays $914 monthly rather than the prior $1,035.

There is also a new longevity incentive of 1 percent salary increase for those who stay 10 years or longer. It replaces an incentive for the same increase, Holmes said, that was in place for officers who speak a second language fluently such as Spanish or Russian.

Policies about officer education were tightened, Holmes said. Prior contracts had no reference to maximum reimbursement for schooling. Under the new agreement, officers can be reimbursed up to the equivalent of 50 percent of the tuition of Washington State University-Vancouver if they receive a C or better grade.

If the education is a benefit to the city or the police department, tuition may be covered 100 percent.

Another change is adding a civilian unit under the umbrella of the Officer's Association. Police clerks Debbi Gallino and Marianne Prather, and Code Enforcement officer Robert Scott fall under the contract guidelines rather than the city's clerical association, Holmes said.

Officers will receive a standard 3 percent annual cost of living raise through 2006. Sergeants will be paid 15 percent more than the highest paid officer.

Officers who meet physical fitness criteria established by the chief can see up to an extra 3 percent increase annually: 1 percent each given for passing a bench press test and a stadium run test, and another 1 percent for passing both.

Base salaries range from $45,108 the first year of service to $54,072 for a 5-year officer. Sergeants will be paid about $62,000.

BG PUBLIC WORKS GETS ATTENTION

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

While city staff work with state Department of Ecology officials, the Battle Ground Public Works site on SE Grace Ave. is getting spruced up.

In early April, a tour of the site by state and county agencies found leaky paint cans, lead-acid auto batteries and rusty 55-gallon oil drums on the ground, and a piece of asbestos pipe tossed into a field and partially buried.

Ecology, Southwest Clean Air Agency and Clark County Health Department officials responded to an employee complaint and found violations.

According to Bob Elliott, executive director of the Clean Air Agency, officials are working on recommendations for a notice of violation against the city for improper disposal of the pipe with high levels of asbestos in it. It was double-bagged and hauled away by a qualified contractor.

Elliott expects a final conclusion by about mid-June and will notify the city of any fines.

Health Department concerns focused on the ground debris found around the dumpster behind buildings on site. An earlier claim of spilled sewage may have been unfounded.

A letter from Gary Bickett, environmental health program manager for the Department of Health to Public Works director Sam Adams stated there were "no major concerns and [environmental health specialists] observed no evidence of sewage or solid waste code violations."

However, Ecology officials have asked Adams to oversee at least four repairs.

A letter from Ethelwyn Hoffman, regional biosolids coordinator with Ecology, said four repair and maintenance projects must be finished by Aug. 30 this year.

"Substantial" holes or tears were found in the plastic lining in the holding lagoon, which has sewage sludge in it. On tear was about two feet in diameter located near the incoming pipe. Another about the same size was found in an adjacent corner.

Clumps of "rushes" were found floating and growing in corners and through tears in the liner. Ecology's concern is that tears will speed erosion on the clay berm under the liner, Adams said. Plants growing in tears could widen and speed the process.

Another concern was garbage seen floating in the lagoon such as plastic bottles and cans.

Depth levels of sludge were also a concern, Adams said. He is working with officials on a biosolids permit to remove some sludge.

Sludge can collect on the bottom of the lagoon, or holding pond, before sewage is pushed to a pump station that carries waste to the Salmon Creek Wastewater Treatment system.

"We're working to keep sludge at a minimum and sampling the sludge depth," Adams said.

Yet another concern is a crack in the concrete of the headworks which transfers wastewater into the lagoon.

Hoffman also asked that a management plan for biosolids be put in place which includes liner inspection and frequent debris clean up.

Work has begun

The dumpster area has been cleaned up, Adams said, and new practices underway for storage. Old batteries are recycled to auto shops and paint cans are stored inside or taken to a hazardous waste transfer station.

The practice of dumping debris sucked out of storm drains by a Vactor truck on bare ground has stopped.

Street storm drain debris can contain oil, grease, gasoline and other hazardous items. Dumping the leavings on site was unacceptable to Ecology.

At a May 17 council meeting, council members approved about $6,000 annually to use Clark County's "decant facility" which handles Vactor waste.

The cost is about $127 per Vactor load. Adams said he expects the city to dump about 50 loads per year.

Adams also said the headworks have been repaired.

All in all, things have gone well, Adams said.

"I'd rather fix it than face fines," he said. "I think it's good to work with officials and come up with a good plan."

Sandy Howard, Ecology spokesperson, said, "Things are going well. We're seeing eye-to-eye and working well together."

"We are still in the early process, but are confident fixes can be made," she added. "We are working in good faith with them and they have shown good faith by taking immediate action."

Adams said he is optimistic.

"Nice things came out of this, and we have things to do," he said. "I'd rather this be program oriented than violation oriented."

OBITS:

DIANN JOHNSTON

Diann Jean (Elgin) Johnston, 64, died May 25, 2004 in Ridgefield.

Johnston was born Jan. 18, 1940 in Portland, and lived in Clark County her entire life.

Johnston raised Herefords. She was a host volunteer for 20 years for the Ridgefield School District. She was a long-time member of the Pekin Ferry and Salmon Creek granges, and a member of the Moose Lodge in Vancouver and the Columbia River Old Time Strings. She made great baked beans and Norwegian pastries.

Johnston loved to play the accordion. She was a volunteer with the senior nutrition program and Neighbors Helping Neighbors. She enjoyed walking every day.

Survivors include daughters Dori Lambert of Ocean Shores and Debbie Raffelson of Ridgefield, son James "Rob" Johnston Jr. of California, sister Marie Parks of Vancouver, brothers Carl Elgin and Gary Elgin, both of Vancouver, friend Don Krause of Ridgefield, and 10 grandchildren.

Committal was at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Cemetery, Vancouver, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

BEULAH PRATT

Beulah Ruth (Wray) Pratt, 83, died May 20, 2004 in Portland.

Pratt was born Jan. 8, 1921 in Ridgefield, attended Ridgefield schools, and graduated as salutatorian from Ridgefield High School. She attended Western Business College and worked as a bookkeeper before her marriage.

Pratt was active in her Jehovah's Witness faith

Pratt was preceded in death by her husband, Albert Pratt, in 1997, and daughter, Laurel Kallio. Survivors include son Gavin Pratt of Oregon, daughter Jeanette Barnes of Oregon, brother Ben Wray of Ridgefield, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

American Burial and Cremation, Tigard, OR, was in charge of arrangements.

EUGENE BANKS

Eugene Charles Banks, 83, died May 25, 2004 in Vancouver.

Banks was born March 9, 1921 in Fleming, Kentucky, owned an automotive repair shop, and lived in Clark County for 60 years.

Banks was a member of the Masonic Lodge for 62 years. He was a past member of the Shriners. He loved boating, traveling, ocean fishing, shooting pool and racing cars when he was younger.

Survivors include widow Erma Banks, at home in Vancouver, daughter Sandra Banks of Texas, sons Robert Banks of Washougal, Guy Banks of Ridgefield and Jeff Banks of Vancouver, sister Louise Cornell of Kentucky, seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, was in charge of arrangements.

JAMES PRICE

James Harold Price, 87, died May 27, 2004 in Ryderwood.

Price was born Jan. 10, 1917 in Sevierville, Tennessee, worked as a union representative for International Aluminum Workers Union, retiring in 1977, and lived in Clark County for several years before moving to Cowlitz County nine years ago.

Price had worked for Alcoa for many years and was president of the local Aluminum Workers Union. He was involved in the Democrat Party. He enjoyed golf, bowling, fishing and singing. He enjoyed retirement near Ryderwood.

Price was preceded in death by his wife, Sylvia Price, at home, daughters Ida Horne of Ridgefield, Ann Magnusson of Vancouver, Linda Duncan of Battle Ground, Pamela Jasmer of Hockinson, Mary Talbott of Oregon and Jean Cornell of Florida, sons James Price Jr. of Ridgefield, Richard Price of Vancouver and Norman Price of Florida, 28 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held Tues., June 1, 11 a.m., at Layne's Funeral Home Chapel, Battle Ground, with committal at Northwood Park Cemetery, Ridgefield. Layne's Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

JEMAE KOLODZIEJCZYK-URUO

Jemae Nicole Kolodziejczyk-Uruo, 16, died in an automobile accident May 23, 2004 in Edmonds.

Uruo was born Dec. 12, 1987 in Portland. She enjoyed her friends and the Edmonds beach. She was proud of her island heritage.

Survivors include mother Jo Ellen Kolodziejczyk of Edmonds, father Joe Uruo Shikaru of Oregon, brother Josh Kolodziejczyk-Uruo of Edmonds, sisters Jacqlynn Shikaru and Janessa Shikaru of Oregon, grandparents Joseph and Fay Kolodziejczyk of Battle Ground, and grandmother Nachko Uruo.

Beck's Funeral Home, Edmonds, was in charge of arrangements.

KAREN SMICK

Karen A. (Kauppi) Smick, 59, died May 20, 2004 at home in Battle Ground.

Smick was born March 9, 1945 in New York Mills, MN, and lived in California before moving to Battle Ground in 1980. She had worked as a receptionist at Universal Structural Inc.

Kauppi enjoyed reading and her friends.

Smick was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Smick, in 1997. Survivors include brother Lester Kauppi of Minnesota, step-daughter Lynette Smick Klienfeldt of California, and grandsons Justin and two grandsons.

Davies Cremation & Burial Services was in charge of arrangements.