HARRIS, HAGENSEN CONTEND FOR COMMISSIONER POST

Alice Perry Linker, staff reporter

Clark County needs to balance new housing with more new jobs, said Jeanne Harris, a Democratic candidate for County commissioner.

Harris, who will face John Hagensen in the primary Sept. 14, agrees with the current commissioners' decision to limit the county's growth rate, but believes cities should set their own urban growth boundaries and zoning.

"The County has been in the urban development business for 10 years," she said. "I don't think that's what the County should be doing. The County should serve the unincorporated area. We [cities and the County] have to work together."

Commenting on overall growth, she said, "We need a balance. That means a variety. Our tax limitation means we should be building more commercial and business areas."

Harris, an eight-year veteran of the Vancouver City Council, has served on the growth management steering and oversight committee for four years.

"I was okay with 1.8 percent," she said. "Growth has been tracked lately at 1.95 percent. I would not have gone [up] to 3 percent."

High growth rate impacts all infrastructure, Harris said.

"Schools get slammed by too much growth," she said. "We need to think about our infrastructure. You don't have to just let it happen. You make a decision on how we want to grow; how much open land and parks we want."

Although she supports parks, Harries does not support the idea of creating a metropolitan parks district.

"As we restrict funds, we lose our general fund flexibility," she said. "I do not want separate buckets for money."

Harris does support allocating a percentage of the real estate excise tax for parks maintenance. She is working on legislation that would allow that reallocation, she said.

The County receives park impact fees from developers, but there are no accompanying maintenance and operations funds.

"Housing and parks go together," she said.

On transportation, Harris, who has served on the C-Tran board, said, "I understand the transportation system and how it works.

"I support mass transit, but I support buses first," she said. "My mother is 70 and legally blind, but she can get around on the bus. When it hits home like that you realize how important it is."

Harris would like to see an open public process, developing an analysis of transportation alternatives "to determine what best suits the community."

On water, Harris said she supports a regionalized water system.

Harris believes the County's cities can save money with a regionalized system for water and sewage treatment.

"A regionalized system could lower the cost of hookups," she said.

Creating such a system would require intergovernmental agreements among the cities.

"The County could be the lead on that," she said. "We're doing some analysis now to see if it's viable."

On County funding, Harris supports a small increase in the utility tax to help support county operations.

"It's an insignificant raise that adds up," she said.

The candidate said she strongly believes job creation is the key to improved county funding.

"We should be looking for ways to expand taxpayer money," she said. "I've never thought that throwing more money was the way to do everything. I've thought about partnerships, getting people involved."

Regarding social services, Harris said the County is "doing an adequate job." She noted the creation of the Center for Community Health.

"The County and the cities have done a great job of leveraging grants," she said.

The big needs for working people are affordable housing, child care and transportaion, Harris said.

"Those are things the county can do," she said.

Harris, 48, graduated from high school in 1974 in Lake Oswego, OR. Her husband, Roger, is an electrician with International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 970.

Harris' daughter Stacey is an urban forester living in the Seattle area, and her son Jeff lives in Hillsboro, OR. She has a granddaughter, Bailey.

John Hagensen

Population growth will happen "whether we want it or not," says John Hagensen, Democratic candidate for a commissioner post.

"We need to put things in place to try to accommodate growth," he said.

Hagensen said he does not believe the commissioners acted wisely in limiting growth to 1.6 percent.

"I don't think that's an appropriate way to plan," he said.

"If we have tighter urban growth boundaries, we have more outfill and people moving onto 5-acre lots," he said. "That will create a load on our roads and school systems, and we have no plan in place to handle that."

Hagensen supports the County's setting urban growth boundaries for individual cities, but, he said, "the County should work more closely with the cities."

"Local governments tend to isolate themselves," he said. "We need a more global approach--County and the cities-- to make sure growth is in the appropriate places."

The County, however, should always consider the position of cities, he said.

"I believe in collaboration and partnerships," he said.

Hagensen said he strongly supports the idea of an industrial corridor along I-5, convenient to highway and rail.

"Over half the industrial properties in the county have environmental challenges," he said. "We should consider taking them out of the inventory and bring in more appropriate properties to be developed."

Limiting growth limits jobs, Hagensen said. Additional jobs in County communities will lead to more retail spending in those communities, he said.

"When people work in Oregon and pay Oregon income tax, they don't want to be taxed again," he said.

Hagensen also believes there should be opportunity for small rural commercial development.

"There wouldn't be a place for a Wal-Mart or other large store, but a grocery store, maybe a drugstore," he said. "People wouldn't have to run into town for everything."

On transportation, Hagensen would like to see an integrated transporation system examined.

"It's inappropriate to look at separate components," he said.

"For some people, C-Tran is the only form of transportation. C-Tran provides basic mobility for some, and that outweighs the cost of riders per mile."

Mixed-use neighborhoods, smaller urban areas with a combination of job opportunities, retail and residential, are a way to address transportation issues, Hagensen said.

"When you have mixed use, people work and shop in the neighborhood where they live," he said.

On parks, Hagensen said he supports the creation of a metropolitan parks district with taxes dedicated to parks maintenance.

"I'd also support a countywide parks department to avoid duplication," he said. "I can't say if that's possible, but we should take a look at it and see if it would work."

Regarding social services, "We [County officials] are probably doing what we can with our funding," he said. "We probably should review our services and make sure we're doing the best we can."

On infrastructure, "We can control the infrastructure (water, roads, wastewater treatment), but we can't always pay for it," Hagensen said. "The development community pays for a lot, but they could pay for more."

On the other hand, "costs can't be an obstruction to development, but if they spend on infrastructure, they'll have more opportunity to develop," he said.

Hagensen, a Camas lawyer, is commission president for the Port of Camas-Washougal and a member of the Camas School Board.

A 1973 graduate of Camas High School, Hagensen is a graduate of Central Washington University and holds a law degree from Lewis and Clark College. He has practiced law for 15 years.

Hagensen and his wife, Dawn, have four children, Jill, 22, Timothy, 19, Matthew, 16 and Dane, 14.

REST AREA CLOSED FROM TOXIC LIQUID

Four burned on skin

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

An "orangish-oily" puddle about 100 by 150 feet in size closed down the Gee Creek rest area along northbound I-5 for several hours Aug. 20.

Tests conducted by the state Department of Ecology showed the hazardous liquid was sodium hydroxide, a corrosive often used in making paper, said Fire District 12 division chief Jim Langborg.

Two semi-trucks carrying over-size and over-height halves of a manufactured home pulled into the rest area for an equipment and safety check about 10:30 a.m., said one driver, Sean Townson, 38, of Bremerton.

After walking through the spread out puddle they had parked near, Townson, his passenger, Andrew Reeves, 39, Bremerton, the other driver, Sherry Koski, 46, Jefferson OR and Sherri Lench, 41, Scio, OR, noticed a stinging, burning, rash on their legs and forearms, and on Koski's face.

Koski and Lench were treated at Southwest Washington Medical Center. The two men declined treatment, but were made to shed their clothing and wear special robes. They were not allowed to leave.

District 12 personnel provided the men with food, pop, clothing, and helped them locate a bank and place to stay while the trucks were decontaminated.

State patrol trooper Garvin March said no one knows how the liquid was spilled in the trucking area of the popular stop.

TWO MORE ARRESTED IN BG ARSON CASE

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

Two Battle Ground residents were arrested Aug. 11 for their alleged connection to an arson and burglary June 13 at Battle Ground Mini Storage on SE Grace Ave.

Kevin C. Ryers, 26, and Robin Zimmermann, a 40-year-old female, both of 816 SE Grace Ave., were located at a private residence in Vancouver by Battle Ground Det. Mike Mohlzahn and Clark County Sheriff's Det. Eric O'Dell.

A police report states that the detectives noticed a vehicle in the driveway that belonged to one of the suspects.

As the vehicle left the residence, the detectives recognized the driver and passenger as suspects in the case, a report said.

The couple was taken into custody without incident.

In June, the Mini Storage was burglarized, security cameras dismantled, and the office area set on fire.

On-site manager Ruth Rudolph was trapped in her apartment above the office and rescued out a window by Fire District 11 crews. She was treated for minor injuries and smoke inhalation.

Ryers was booked on one count of first degree arson, nine counts of second degree burglary and one count of first degree theft. He will be arraigned Aug. 26 in Clark County Superior Court.

Zimmerman was booked on three outstanding Clark County warrants, one count of first degree arson, nine counts of second degree burglary and one count of first degree theft. She will be arraigned Aug. 23.

Another suspect, Jason T. Deserrano, 11809 SE 5th St., Vancouver, was arrested July 27 and charged with one count of first degree theft, one count of first degree arson and nine counts of second degree burglary. He pleaded not guilty. His trial begins Oct. 6.

Battle Ground police say the case is still under investigation. CNA Insurance is offering a $10,000 reward leading to arrests and convictions in the case.

Anyone with more information is asked to call 342-5100.

RIBBONS RETURN TO LA CENTER BRIDGE

Bill Myers, staff reporter

Yellow ribbons once again line the La Center Bridge.

Efforts of retired veteran Markham Abbott, willing city council members, including one campaigning for a state legislature post, brought new ribbons to the span.

Ribbons were first tied to the bridge earlier this year by La Center High School students. They were removed by city workers after the bows weathered.

Abbott launched a drive to replace the ribbons Aug. 11 at a La Center city council meeting.

A Battle Ground resident and employee of Clark County Weed Management, Abbott told council members he was thrilled by the display of support for American servicemen and women. He offered to anonymously pay for new ribbons.

Markham said such displays, when publicized, work wonders for the morale of servicemen and women.

"Knowing people at home care is crucial to military people in tough environments," said Markham, a 20-year Air Force veteran.

City council members agreed to pay for the ribbons.

Council member Richard Curtis, campaigning for an 18th District state representative post, said he and his supporters would gladly pitch in Aug. 21 to tie new ribbons at the bridge.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

A new sign is up in front of Ridgefield High School, and the second half of a project is underway to improve an outdoor athletic complex.

The sign reads First Independent Bank Sports Complex, in honor of longtime community supporters and banking family members Ed and Mary Firstenburg.

The Firstenburgs, whose three children graduated from the school, donated $150,000 toward the complex.

In phase one of the project, which took place last summer, fields were worked on to make playable throughout the 2003-2004 school year.

In phase two, now underway, improvements include regrading the existing football practice field, installing drainage pipes and lighting, building a pathway to the southern perimeter of the fields, adding handicapped parking, constructing a new 186-person-capacity bleachers and three team benches, and building an 836-square-foot concession stand and restroom facility.

The project will cost about $400,000, said District superintendent Mary Vagner, but none of the money will come from the District's general fund.

"Really, fundraising has been a community-wide event," Vagner said. "The community has really pulled together."

In addition to the Firstenburg money, about $75,000 came from a youth activities grant. About 160,000 was raised by volunteers, including the Lewis River Soccer Club, the Ridgefield Booster Club and District employees.

Vagner said a construction time line has not yet been established. Activities will continue on the fields this fall.

An environmental review of the site is presently before Ridgefield Community Development Department officials for review.

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

Four people are competing to become the next state representative from the 17th Legislative District.

Two Republicans and two Democrats have filed for the seat. The field will be narrowed to one of each party in the primary election Tues., Sept. 14.

Marc Boldt (R) last held the position. Boldt is now running for Clark County commissioner.

The 17th District encompasses the area south of NE 199th St. east of I-205 and includes sections of Brush Prairie, Orchards, Battle Ground, Ridgefield and Vancouver.

Candidates are as follows:

Jim Dunn (R)

Cascade Park resident Jim Dunn, 62, is a businessman and former state legislator. He served in the State House of Representatives 1996-2003.

Dunn was educated at Louisiana State University and joined the Air Force before graduating. He served three enlistments in the Air Force and Reserves.

Dunn is running this year because he "wants to finish what he started," he said, namely, to help shape the state and region for future generations.

Of concern to Dunn is affordable home ownership. He believes higher taxes on the front end of a home purchase deters people from purchasing homes.

Dunn said he believes southwest Washington needs more than two Columbia River crossings. One solution is not to demolish, but to expand the I-5 bridge. He would also like to see several smaller traffic corridors created, perhaps a west-side truck corridor and a north-south commercial connector from central Vancouver to Portland.

On the topic of education, Dunn believes too much state money is spend in non-classroom-related areas. He would like stronger educational service districts and school boards with decreased school district influence.

Dunn believes one key to a stronger state economy is to cut taxes, perhaps by 15 percent. His theory is when more money is available in an economy, people spend and invest more, thus creating more demand, which in turn puts more people to work. This creates fewer demands for government benefits, he said.

"You don't increase state revenue by increasing taxes," Dunn said. "You do it by bettering the economy. Taxes take money out of the system too, soon."

Dunn and his wife, Joan, have two children and five grandchildren.

Pat Campbell (D)

Orchards resident Pat Campbell, 59, is a state probation and parole officer.

Campbell received a bachelor's degree with a double major in sociology and social welfare from Pacific Lutheran University.

Campbell said his bid to become state representative stems from his desire to serve all residents in the 17th District.

"I want to make decisions based on what's good for the whole community," Campbell said.

Campbell recently switched political parties. He describes himself as "fiscally conservative, yet socially responsible," a stance he believes is more evident in the state's Democratic party.

Campbell is also concerned about deficit spending in the federal Republican party. He takes a stronger environmental stance than state Republicans, he said.

Campbell believes priorities with state government spending need to be reorganized.

School class sizes should be reduced. More options for mass transit is one way to relieve area transportation problems, he said.

Campbell estimates he's knocked on 15,000 doors in the 17th District in preparation for the election.

"I've met a lot of great people in this area," he said.

Campbell and his wife, Dorothy, have two children and one grandchild.

Ilene Ferrell (D)

Ridgefield resident Ilene Ferrell, 36, is a journeyman electrician. She also runs a web-design business.

After completing her electrician's credentials, Ferrell received a bachelor's degree in labor studies from National Labor College. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in public administration from the University of Baltimore.

Ferrell believes District 17 deserves good representation which she defines as listening to individuals and groups.

Ferrell's top five issues are jobs, health care, education, environment and transportation.

"I want to work toward solutions to problems," she said, "not just identify problems."

Ferrell believes more family-wage jobs can be brought to the state by attracting and retaining large-scale businesses and corporations, perhaps high-tech industries.

Ferrell would like to see group insurance be made available for small businesses. She believes stronger legislation is needed to deter and combat identity theft.

Ferrell said the environment needs to be protected as the area grows.

"I'm a member of the community," Ferrell said, "not just someone who wants to go to Olympia. I want the laws we pass to make our lives better."

Ferrell is married to Mike Evans.

Paul Harris (R)

Cascade Park resident Paul Harris, 51, is owner of Cascade Paint & Supply.

Harris received a bachelor's degree in business from Brigham Young University.

As a member of the Evergreen School District board for the past 10 years, Harris has developed an increasing concern about availability and sustainability of school funding, he said.

Harris advocates moving from a super majority (60 percent voter approval) to a simple majority (50 percent) requirement to pass school bonds and levies.

Harris is not in favor of a proposed 1 percent state sales tax increase to support schools.

Harris has seen his business insurance quadruple in the past 10 years, he said. He advocates tort reform, reassessing the state's Business and Occupation tax and labor and industries tax, and creating a more welcoming environment in the state for businesses.

A tighter checks-and-balance system needs to be placed on the recent 5 cent per gallon gasoline tax to ensure money is spent on the right roads and transportation projects, he said.

Harris advocates rapid bus service above light rail and a new bridge across the Columbia River.

Harris and his wife, Lori, have five children and two grandchildren.

COMMUNITY INPUT SOUGHT ON USES FOR WSU RESEARCH SITE

Marcus Brotherton, staff reporter

An open house for input about new uses of the Washington State University Research and Extension Unit in Hazel Dell will be held Wed., Aug. 25, 7-9 p.m., at Gaiser Middle School cafeteria, 3000 NE 99th St., Vancouver.

University officials plan to relocate the Unit, located at 1919 NE 78th St., Hazel Dell, to the Salmon Creek campus, making the Hazel Dell site available for other uses.

The 79-acre property was deeded to the University in 1949 by Clark County commissioners for use as an agricultural research facility.

A clause in the contract required that the property be reverted to the County if not used for those purposes, said County spokesman Bronson Potter.

Any revenue from potential sale of the site or part of the site will be divided between the County and the University.

The site contains a main office/laboratory building, several utility buildings, greenhouses, agricultural fields, forested land, wetlands and a cemetery.

Historically, the site was used as a poor farm in the late 1800s to mid-1900s where the county's low income, homeless, elderly and disabled men and women cultivated orchards and livestock.

A main building on the site was built in 1926. A cemetery was used for about 200 deceased residents 1873-1935.

Possible new uses for the site include office, retail, residential and recreational elements.

County and University officials say extensive community input is encouraged.

A community resource team has been appointed to represent area interests during the development of a master plan.

The team includes representatives of the NE Hazel Dell Neighborhood Association, Hazel Dell/Salmon Creek Business Association, Fire District 6, Hazel Dell Sewer District, Clark County Sheriff's Office, neighboring residents and businesses, Team 99, and the Vancouver Clark Parks and Recreation Commission.

To submit questions or comments or to be placed on a mailing list, contact Karyn Criswell, The JD White Co, 1111 Main St., suite 300, Vancouver, WA 98660, 823-6109, kcriswell@jdwhite.com

BOARD STIFFS BATTLE GROUND REQUEST

Commissioners refuse more time for facilities plan

Bill Myers, staff reporter

The Clark County commissioners refused last week to grant Battle Ground officials more time to justify larger boundaries.

Commissioners Craig Pridemore and Judie Stanton denied a request by Battle Ground city attorney Brian Wolfe to delay a final decision on a 20-year comprehensive plan update for two weeks.

Commissioner Betty Sue Morris favored the delay.

A two-week delay, said Wolfe, would allow time for a city consultant to complete a transportation facilities plan.

Stanton said city officials never delivered a facilities plan promised by last April. Stanton said reviewing then integrating newly-received facilities plans from the city along with County plans would be a tough, late-hour task.

Pridemore said a facilities plan from Battle Ground would not change his mind about county roads and schools needed to service expansions in the city.

At the hearing, commissioners heard a six-hour drumbeat of testimonies.

Criticisms from Battle Ground officials and citizens lampooned the Aug. 10 commissioners' decision to cut back city growth areas.

Decisions, largely made by Pridemore and Stanton, pushed back proposed urban growth boundaries in Battle Ground and Vancouver.

Both commissioners said they want to encourage higher densities in urban areas. They said they fear that taxpayers will not pay for infrastructure needed to support proposed boundary expansions.

The commissioners lopped more than 1,000 acres from urban growth areas proposed by Battle Ground officials north, west and south of the city.

Mayor critical of process

Battle Ground mayor John Idsinga, introducing himself as "the mayor of Clark County's Battle Ground," asked, "Will my testimony make any difference?"

Idsinga said commissioners "failed miserably" when they used a 1.6 percent population growth forecast.

"We will grow closer to 3 percent than 1.6 percent, and have growth at that rate for several decades," said Idsinga. Idsinga said the commissioner plan will force urban sprawl by making city lots scarce or expensive and county lots more appealing.

The plan will cause

more wells, more septic systems and more run-off into rivers throughout rural county areas, said Idsinga.

Idsinga said Battle Ground taxpayers paid more than $1 million for work on the planning update over the past four years.

Stanton said any expansion of the Battle Ground urban growth boundary will impact county and state transportation needs.

"The city is in the middle of the county, at the crossroads of two state roads," said Stanton.

The lack of a transportation plan from Battle Ground "does not give me assurance," said Stanton.

Idsinga appeared to bristle. He said city workers waited two years for the commissioners to define boundaries so they could complete a transportation plan.

"You were to be done in December 2003," said Idsinga.

Stanton said the city needed to prove with capital facility plans that it can provide sufficient facilities for new areas.

Idsinga said, "We've jumped every hurdle you put before us, and have lived up to our responsibilities to citizens of Battle Ground."

Battle Ground Chamber of Commerce manager Terri Tweedell echoed Idsinga's criticism.

Tweedell said a 1.6 percent growth projection is "wishful thinking," and ignores trends. "Voters elected you to make decisions based on facts, not on wishful thinking," she said.

State senator Joe Zarelli (R-18th District) said $191 million of a projected $276 million savings from proposed boundary shrinkages will actually be school district savings, not county savings.

"Where is the level of trust for the leaders of Battle Ground?" asked Zarelli.

A planning process that started well became a "very disingenuous process, boiling down to what a couple of you wanted," he said.

Realtors and builders

Realtors and building industry representatives at the hearing joined criticisms of commissioners' efforts to reduce urban growth areas.

Matt Lewis, spokesman for the Building Industry Association of Clark County, said a 1.6 percent growth projection doesn't square with reality.

"You're not doing your job for the county," builder Ron Lauser said to commissioners.

Realtor Nycole Peraza said she was "appalled" at the Aug. 10 commissioner meeting when within minutes they dismantled much of the Battle Ground urban growth plan.

Realtor Polly Lauser said the commissioners' plan will hurt "home-grown home buyers" most.

"They haven't sold a home in California before moving to one of the fastest-rising real estate markets I have ever seen," she said.

Several testimonies came from landowners whose properties were deleted from maps of proposed Battle Ground or Vancouver urban growth boundaries.

Ridgefield resident Ronald Griffin said thousands of hours of County and city staff work cost taxpayers between $2.5 and $3 million to update the plan. Now "two commissioners are saying they are not going to do it," he said.

Ole Brahe-Pedersen, who lives within a proposed extension of the La Center urban growth boundary, said he and other neighbors were never contacted by city officials.

La Center planner Eric Eisemann said all Timmen Rd. area residents were contacted. He said signed affidavits approving the inclusion were obtained from a majority of area property owners.

Environmental groups laud commissioner action

Yacolt citizen Richard Kennon, a member of Friends of the East Fork, thanked commissioners for decisions that will prevent sprawl and preserve open spaces.

Kennon read letters from the Vancouver Audubon Society and Dick Dyrland of Friends of the East Fork. The Dyrland letter congratulated the commissioners for sound planning. The Audubon Society letter said commissioners made a "courageous" decision.

Carra Sahler, representing area school districts including Battle Ground, said district officials found no fault with commissioners' adjustments to Battle Ground plans.

When the smoke cleared...

County long range planner Bob Higbie said after the hearing that facilities plans were submitted from other cities in a timely fashion. Battle Ground officials had as much time to get their plans in, said Higbie. He said commissioners delayed work for several months while waiting for Battle Ground plans.

Battle Ground deputy city manager and planner Dennis Osborn said he plans to submit a transportation facilities plan to the commissioners by Aug. 24.

"They still have time to get the plans and make an informed decision," said Osborn. He said he would gladly provide them with a two or three hour power point presentation.

Osborn said the city and commissioners studied five Battle Ground map options earlier this year. He conceded that city officials at the time did say they would try to deliver a plan by spring.

"Now commissioners say we should have picked one of the five," said Osborn. "But they have always insisted they want accurate information."

Deliberations Aug. 24

Public testimony ended Aug. 17. Commissioners plan to deliberate Aug. 24.

Higbie said that after commissioners approve final map versions, they will review the plan for text and code language before final adoption of an update.

Work to update the county's 1994 20-year comprehensive plan started about four years ago. County cost estimates for the update, required by the Washington Growth Management Act, range from $2.5 to $3 million.

Submission of an update to the state is due by year-end.

WOMAN DIES IN MOTORCYCLE CRASH

A Woodland woman died Aug. 15 in a motorcycle crash east of Woodland.

According to a Cowlitz County Sheriff's report, Debbie E. Whitmire, 42, died of head injuries after driving a motorcycle off the road in the 3300 block of Old Lewis River Rd.

A passenger on the motorcycle, Jerald E. Manginelli, 45, also of Woodland, was transported to Southwest Washington Medical Center with unspecified injuries.

Sheriff's deputies at the scene said Manginelli was driving the motorcycle, with Whitmire riding as a passenger, when the couple left Woodland.

Whitmire reportedly asked Manginelli if she could drive the motorcycle, a 1982 Honda 650, after they reached Old Lewis River Rd.

Whitmire reportedly failed to control the bike on a curve, ran off the road, struck a ditch and was thrown over the handle bars.

Sheriff's captain Mark Nelson said investigators found no evidence of excessive speed. Both riders were wearing helmets. He said Whitmire's drivers license did not contain a motorcycle-use endorsement. NEWS

COUNTY SEEKS RESERVES

The Clark County Sheriff's Office is hiring for their Reserve Deputy program.

Those with an interst in law enforcement may want to consider applying for the job, said Sheriff Garry Lucas.

Reserves are volunteer and part-time, but with full law enforcement duties and responsibilities, including responding to 911 calls, assisting at crime scenes, disaster response and community events.

An informational meeting will be held Thurs., Aug. 26, 7 p.m., at Washington State University in Salmon Creek.

A written test will be held Sat., Sept. 11, 9 a.m., at the University. It will be the last reserve test for this year.

For more information and minimum qualifications, call Sgt. Peg Prather, 397-2104 or check the website at www.CCSOReserves.com

Heidi Wallenborn, news director

If all goes as planned, Battle Ground police and administration will move into a new building by next summer.

Council members approved a design for an 18,000 square foot, two-story building to be built on city-owned land behind the current police/fire complex at 505 SW 1st St.

In June, council members chose to eliminate the municipal court and its administration from the original plan, because there wasn't enough room for both for long-term. According to city manager Eric Holmes, the department would have been cramped again in as little as 20 years.

The court system will stay in its current location inside city hall at 109 SW 1st St.

In the revised plan, the first floor will be used for citizen contact with officers and services. There will be room for evidence storage, four holding cells, various interview rooms, an area for five detectives, four patrol sergeants and a work area for officers, an armory, community services room and an entrance lobby.

A sally port area to bring in suspects faces the west side.

The second floor will house a training/classroom, workout room, break room, separate shower areas for males and females, offices for two lieutenants, a deputy chief and a chief, and a variety of other rooms for storage, case work and archives.

Constructing the building itself will cost $2.07 million or about $115 per square foot. Site work and other fees brings the total to $3.1 million. The price includes furnishings such as chairs, tables, computers and technology, said Holmes.

So far, there is $827,424 set aside in the 2004 budget for the project, said David Reeves, city finance director.

The rest of the cost will be picked up through the sale of 5 city-owned acres on NW 20th Ave., or by short-term financing for $2 million.

Reeves said if the land sells before funds are needed, financing won't be necessary.

The 5-acre lot has not been declared surplus yet, Reeves said.

City officials are waiting until County commissioners finalize boundary and zoning issues in the city's Comprehensive Plan map before the land will be put on the market, said Dennis Osborn, deputy city manager and senior planner.

Currently, operations take place in about 4,000 square feet with 17 employees plus office staff, said chief Ron Johnson. Two new police officers will be hired this year.

Storage, broom closets, a break room, officer workroom, locker room and four offices are also crammed into the current space.

Johnson said he's pleased plans are moving forward.

"With the growth of the city being what it is, this gives added stability," he said. "We're looking forward to more room and operating more efficiently."

NEWS

EDITORIAL:

FIRE DISTRICT 3 VOTERS WILL FACE LEVY MEASURE

Officials of Clark County Fire District 3 will ask voters to increase their property tax levy by 7 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation in a measure on the Sept. 14 primary election ballot.

Hockinson Fire District chief Steve Wrightson said voters approved a $1.35 levy in 2002 which has declined since then to $1.277. The September ballot measure would return the levy to $1.35.

Wrightson said the measure would add $21 per year to the property taxes of a $300,000 home.

Absentee ballots will be mailed Aug. 26; other voters will go to the polls.

Wrightson said money generated by the measure would be used to maintain current service levels, facilities and personnel, and to maintain equipment. "We want to keep pace with the growth of the community we service," said Wrightson.

The additional 7 cent tax will generate about $160,000 in the first year.

If the measure passes, said Wrightson, the district would purchase another fire engine and add a truck bay to the Venersborg station.

District 3 operates with an annual budget of about $2.5 million, of which about 60 percent is for salaries.

Wrightson can be reached at 892-2331.

ORCUTT URGES LAWSUIT AWARD LIMITS

Having a Republican majority in the state House of Representatives is the only way limits can be placed on jury awards in personal injury cases, according to state Rep. Ed Orcutt (R-Kalama).

Orcutt told members of the North Clark County Chamber of Commerce Aug. 18 that medical doctors charge as much as $40 an hour just to cover the cost of malpractice insurance.

Orcutt proposed a limit of $250,000 on non-economic damage, plus the cost of economic loss.

Orcutt gave an example of an injury he suffered falling from a rental truck. He said he spent six months on crutches.

Orcutt said he could have filed a lawsuit in the matter, but did not do so. "We need to do something about frivolous lawsuits," said Orcutt.

Orcutt proposed indexing some tax measures to inflation to limit their rate of increase.

Orcutt was appointed to the state House of Representatives in 2002, and elected to a two year term later that year.

Orcutt said he introduced one bill which became law and eliminated 15 reports generated by the state Department of Social and Health Services. He stressed the importance of performance audits in state government.

Orcutt urged that state Sen. Joe Zarelli be returned to office because of the powerful position he holds as chair of the senate Ways and Means Committee.

OBITS:

DONALD ANRYS

Donald C. Anrys, 61, died of cancer Aug. 11, 2004 in Vancouver.

Anrys was born May 6, 1943 in Woodland. He worked as a timber buyer for RSG Forest Products for 20 years. He was lifelong resident of Clark County.

Anrys was a member of the Elks Lodge. He was on the board of directors of Yamhill Log Scaling and Grading Bureau for 10 years. He enjoyed classic cars, woodworking, reading and clam digging. He loved spending time at the ocean with friends and loved ones, watching his granddaughter play soccer, and holding his new grandson.

Anrys was preceded in death

by his father, Clarence Anrys, in 2002, and his mother Patricia Anrys in 1998. Survivors include widow Mary Anrys of Woodland, son Steven Anrys of Woodland, daughters Kathy Morrison of La Center and Ronni Anrys-Herz of Woodland, sister Susan Greene of Vancouver, two nephews and two grandchildren.

A celebration of life service will be held Sat., Aug. 28, 10 a.m., at the Lewis River Golf Course. Those attending are invited to bring written remembrances to share. They will be saved for his granddaughter and grandson.

Arthur Winston Rogers, 89, died Aug. 20, 2004, in Vancouver.

Rogers was born Sept. 22, 1914 in Yacolt, was a farmer, and lived in Clark County most of his life.

Rogers served in the Army during World War II. He moved with his family from Yacolt to Ridgefield at age 14.

Rogers raised beef cattle.

Survivors include half-brother Alson Perdue of Oklahoma, sisters Phoebe Schwilke of Oregon and Vida Jones of Vancouver, and 26 nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in September for family and close friends. Davis Cremation & Burial Services was in charge of arrangements.

Ruth (Holmes) Beckham, 88, died Aug. 13, 2004, in Vancouver.

Beckham was born Aug. 5, 1916 in Loon Lake, did secretarial work in the lumber industry, and lived in Clark County for 54 years.

Beckham enjoyed the opera, symphony, Lawrence Welk and senior functions. She also liked hiking, traveling and going to the coast.

Beckham was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Beckham, in 1995. Survivors include sons Gary Atkins of Brush Prairie and Ray Holmes Atkins of Alaska, four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Services are pending, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

ADELIA ZIMMERMAN

Adelia "Cindy" B. (Harley) Zimmerman, 86, died Aug. 12, 2004, in Battle Ground.

Zimmerman was born March 27, 1918 in Bedford, Iowa, worked as a secretary in motor home sales and as a school teacher, and lived in Clark County for five years.

Zimmerman enjoyed playing the piano and singing. She also enjoyed exercise which included walking and ballroom dancing.

Zimmerman was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Zimmerman, in 1994. Survivors include sons Vaughn McNamee of Vancouver and Ronald McNamee of California, sister Alverna Kritz of Texas, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

No services are planned, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

MILDRED QUILLING

Mildred Janette (Phillips) Quilling, 82, died Aug. 19, 2004, in Battle Ground.

Quilling was born Jan. 15, 1922 in Jetmore, Kansas, worked as a military executive secretary, and lived in Clark County for three years.

Quilling was a member of the Lions Eye Bank of Washington and the American Legion. She enjoyed painting in oils, craftwork, sewing and gardening.

Quilling was preceded in death by her husband, Lowell Quilling, in 1987. Survivors include daughter Janice Haneberg of Battle Ground, son Raymond "Jerry" Quilling of Yacolt, sister Raye Witting of Spokane, and four grandchildren.

Interment was at Greenwood Memorial Terrace, Spokane, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

EILEEN DUNCAN

Eileen Virgil (Brennen) Duncan, 89, died Aug. 17, 2004 in Vancouver.

Duncan was born April 9, 1915 in Chicago, IL, and lived in Clark County for 15 years.

Duncan was a member of the Catholic Church and active in church societies. She enjoyed politics and was a staunch Democrat. She liked dogs. She enjoyed reading, was a history buff, and loved Jeopardy.

Survivors include son Michael Duncan of Battle Ground and brother Todd Brennen of South Carolina.

Burial was in Worth, IL, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

BILL VASSAR

William "Bill" Archie Vassar, 80, died Aug. 20, 2004 in Portland.

Vassar was born Jan. 8, 1924 in Vancouver, worked as a maintenance supervisor for a recreational membership park, and lived in Yacolt for 30 years having previously lived in Hockinson for 50 years.

Vassar was a member of the Columbia River Old Time Strings, National Rifle Association, Clark Historical Society, and American Legion. He was a life member of the Purple Heart. He loved his pet Senegal Parrot named Jake. He also enjoyed music, working on American cars, usually Ford products, and hunting.

Survivors include widow Carol Vassar, at home, daughters Judy Schubert of Battle Ground, Carolynn Lindeman of Brush Prairie, and Bonnie Heflin, Eydie Fitzgerald and Tandy Miller, all of Vancouver, sons William "Bill" Vassar of Yacolt, David Vassar of Battle Ground and Ron Edgar of Ridgefield, 18 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Services are pending, with Layne's Funeral Home, Battle Ground, in charge of arrangements.

DAVID DICKINSON

David Hadley Dickinson, 72, died Aug. 16, 2004 in Vancouver.

Dickinson was born Nov. 7, 1931 in La Center, worked as a systems analyst for Consolidated Freightways, and lived his entire life in Clark County.

Dickinson served in the U.S. Air Force 1951-54. He enjoyed caring for his property in View.

Dickinson was preceded in death by son James Hadley Dickinson in 1989. Survivors include sons Steven Dickinson, David Dickinson and Scott Dickinson, all of Seattle, sisters Wanda Dickinson of Brush Prairie and Lois Dickinson of Puyallup, brother Leonard Dickinson of La Center, and grandchildren April and Luke Dickinson.

The Vancouver Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

DEBBIE WHITMIRE

Debbie E. (Ratliff) Whitmire, 42, died in a motorcycle accident Aug. 15, 2004 in Woodland.

Whitmire was born May 22, 1962 in Vancouver, graduated from Woodland High School in 1980, and attended Lower Columbia College. She worked in the mortgage and finance business.

Whitmire lived in Washougal 1962-1969, and then Woodland for 35 years.

Whitmire enjoyed gardening, horses, sewing, fishing, boating and her children. She played the piano and violin.

Survivors include former husband Jack Whitmire, sons Jack Whitmire, Cy Whitmire and Eli Whitmire, all of Woodland, brother Larry Ratliff of La Center, sister Susan Donald of Woodland, parents Owen and Shirley Ratliff of Woodland, grandmother Frieda Ratliff of Oregon, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Burial was at Hayes Cemetery, Woodland, with the Woodland Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.