Cottage grove entinel The
Homeless camps cleaned, campers scatter
CINDY WEELDREYER
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
The city of Cottage Grove’s strategy to shut down and cleanup the 12th Street and Douglas homeless camps moved forward last week as planned. The two-site cleanup began and a temporary 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. site was established at the Lulu Dog Park. As of Aug. 29, The Sentinel found only one person camping at the transition camp in the Lulu
Dog Park. It appears that several of the former 12th Street and Douglas camp site residents have filtered out into other areas of the community and beyond.
HOMELESS cont. on page 7
Nearly all city council seats up for grabs in November 5 election
CINDY WEELDREYER
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Voters will decide Cottage Grove’s political future in the Nov. 5 general election.
The success of the July recall election of three councilors, combined with current terms expiring, creates an unprecedented situation. All but one of the Cottage Grove City Council positions need to be filled.
Following the recall, the remaining council members gave no plans to appoint anyone to the three vacant seats, deciding instead to allow voters to elect the ousted councilors’ successors. This decision leaves the Council with three councilors and the mayor to conduct city business in the remaining four months of 2024.
Of the three recalled councilors, Ward 1 Councilor Chalice Savage and At-Large Councilor Mike Fleck both had two years left on their terms. At-Large Councilor Alex Dreher was appointed to fill the remainder of former Councilor Kenneth Michael Roberts’ term that expires on Dec. 31. Dreher had planned to seek her own four-year term on the Nov. 5 ballot.
The Cottage Grove Mayor’s term is two years. Mayor Candace Solesbee is up for re-election for a second term and is challenged by Ward 3 Councilor Dana Merryday. He has two years remaining on his current term and if his bid for mayor is not successful, he will retain his councilor position. Ward 2 Councilor Jon Stinnett’s
four-year term ends on Dec. 31 and he is not seeking re-election. Tuesday, Aug. 27, was the filing deadline. By the 5 p.m. a total of 13 candidates submitted applications for the general election. All council positions are voluntary and receive no pay for the many hours required to serve the citizens of Cottage Grove.
MAYOR
Business Owner Candace Solesbee and South Lane School District Teacher Dana Merryday will vie for the top job. Statements each candidate has made in Council meetings and in public statements reveal they both have strong feelings on how the
Interim superintendent looks ahead to new school year
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Brian McCasline is ready to embrace his first full year as Interim South Lane School District Superintendent.
“The district is focused on three goals: Academic achievement, building a cultural of belonging, bringing students to stretch with their future careers and their future education,” he said. “Everything that we are doing, both now and throughout the year, will be focused on those goals,” he said. “We are hyper-focused on especially of increasing academic achievement. That is our focus and that is our primary goal. So that is where our energy is at. That is the message that you will hear from us. It is nothing groundbreaking. It is not
something that is new to our district. We believe that building a professional learning community within our school district is vital to that happening.”
STUDENT POPULATION
McCasline said the district’s attendance rate increased in the 2023-24 school year.
“Which we celebrated,” he said. “But we also want to continue to improve that attendance rate. Attendance rates have gone down across the county in the past three or four years. That’s something that is not foreign to us here in South Lane. But over the past few years each school has been working individually and with their families and students to increase attendance. We know that what we are offering
schools can help students make progress towards being efficient at reading and math, but if they are not at school, we can’t make that progress, so it is of utmost importance that they are here.”
According to McCasline, each school is taking steps to increase attendance.
“That ranges from having competitions and doing some creative things with their students to help them realize the importance of attendance, to messaging parents of the importance of the need for students to be in the school,” he said.
DISTRICT BUDGET
The Sentinel asked McCasline what he would like to see done at the state level that would increase state funding to the South Lane School District.
“I think they are already looking at the state school funding formula to make sure that it is equitable for all school districts,” McCasline said. “What is important to us is that we have adequate funding to maintain what we are doing. Costs exceed each year in the increases that we get in state budget, so that isn’t helpful. So, every year we, and every school district in the Oregon, is faced with rollup costs not matching what the state gives us, so we are constantly having to take a look at that and see how to meet the needs of our students. The biggest thing in funding and what is most important to us is making sure that they provide enough increases each year to meet what our increases here are locally.”
MESSAGE TO COMMUNITY
According to McCasline, it is important that the district shows is clear in its focus.
“It is also important that we make sure that both staff and families know what we are doing, and they know the progress that we are making,” McCasline said. “That is something that we look to improve over the next couple of years, is making sure that our progress is public. That’s something that hasn’t happened in the past and we want to make that happen. We believe in our staff, and we believe in our kids and we want our kids to be prepared for the future, so we are focused on making sure that students are proficient, that they graduate, that
Brian McCasline
] I am here because I believe in the direction that we are heading.”
they are prepared for the next step after high school, and that they are learning social and emotional skills along the way that will help them do that.”
Jeremy C. Ruark / Cottage Grove Sentinel The 12th Street homeless camp site following the initial cleanup. Jeremy C.
Photo: Metro Creative Connection
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
Oregon’s new ban on ghost guns took e ect
Sept. 1.
Ghost guns have created real and serious risks to public safety, according to Oregon Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum.
Ghost guns are the fastest-growing gun safety problem facing our country, according to the Oregon Department of Justice.
“They are becoming a weapon of choice for violent criminals, gun traffickers, and others who
‘Ghost gun’ ban now in effect
cannot legally obtain firearms. They have also been used in incidents of gunfire on school grounds and unintentional shootings by children,” the Oregon Department of Justice states in a Fact Sheet.
In 2023, the Oregon legislature passed HB 2005 banning “ghost guns” – firearms that do not include a serial number and are home-built or assembled using parts purchased separately. Often obtained online, ghost gun parts can be assembled privately using components that do not require a background check.
“Responsible gun ownership means respecting the gun laws of our state, and that now includes a ban on unserialized and undetectable ‘ghost guns,”’ Rosenblum said. “Oregonians who own guns lacking serial numbers will be in violation of the law
after September 1. For the safety of your families and communities please make sure you understand our new law and that you are in compliance.”
Under the new state law, possession of unserialized firearms or firearm components is a violation for first time offenses, with a fine of up to $1,000. Repeat offenses are a crime that may result in higher fines and potentially jail or prison time.
To help gun-owners understand their responsibilities, the Oregon Department of Justice has issued what the agency officials describe as an easy-to-follow fact sheet that explains the key points of the new law and provides a link to a list of federally licensed gun dealers in Oregon that are authorized to serialize firearms. See the fact sheet with this story at cgsentinel.com.
Police chief urges backto-school traffic safety
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
As the new school year begins, Cottage Grove Police Chief Cory Chase is urging drivers to be aware of children walking to and from school, and others loading and unloading from school buses.
“We will be increasing our proactive patrols and presence in the school zones before and after school when traffic in those areas is at its peak,” Chase said. “Officers will
be enforcing traffic laws and issuing citations for violations in those areas.
Chase said it is most important for drivers to remember is to slow down, be patient, and stay aware during the back-to-school season.
“Traffic can be hectic during the first few weeks of school and students and families adjust to getting back into their routines,” he said. “We want everyone to have a safe and positive school year. “ According to Chase, the
most common traffic violations include: • ORS 811.11 Violation of the speed limit. With school back in session the school zone speeds are once again in effect and the speed limit is 20 MPH. • 811.265 Fail to obey a traffic control device (CLASS B). This can be a stoplight or stop sign or other traffic control device. In residential areas and school zones this is most commonly not stopping at a stop sign.
• 811.155 Fail to stop for bus safety lights. • 811.028 Fail to stop and remain stopped for a pedestrian (CLASS B). This usually occurs at a crosswalk at an uncontrolled intersection Under Oregon law, fines for such violations can range from $115 to $440, depending on the specific incident. Read more about the traffic violation penalties with this story at cgsentinel.com
The police blotter relates to the public record of incidents as reported by law enforcement agencies. All individuals arrested or charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Information printed is preliminary and subject to change. For specific details about cases listed, contact the appropriate law enforcement agency.
COTTAGE GROVE POLICE
MONDAY AUGUST 19
06:59: Criminal mischief, 900 block Row River Rd.
07:02: Criminal mischief, Gateway Blvd/Coop Ct.
07:04: Criminal mischief, I-5/Trailhead
07:05: Criminal mischief, 100 block S. 10th St.
08:18: Hit and run, 1400 block E. Main St.
09:25: Welfare check, 100 block S. 5th St.
09:46: Vehicle impound, N. Lane/Villard
09:50: Trespass, 100 block N. 9th St.
10:51: Disorderly juvenile, 800 block N. 11th St.
11:34: Unlawful entry into motor vehicle, 1000 block S. 6th St.
12:06: Theft, 100 block E. Harrison Ave.
13:17: Order violation, 500 block Grant Ave.
15:08: Suspicious condition, 200 block S. 3rd St.
16:02: Trespass, 100 block S. 21st St.
16:05: Found dog, 1400 block E. Madison Ave.
16:08: Found drugs, 2700 block Row River Rd.
18:57: Trespass, 1500 block S. 4th St.
22:09: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
22:29: Illegal camping, 200 block Gateway Blvd.
22:36: Warrant service, 1300 block E. Main St.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 20
00:12: Alarm, 800 block E. Chadwick Ave.
00:23: Theft, 35000 block Shoreview Dr.
00:58: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
07:35: Illegal camping, 100 block S. River Rd.
08:21: Theft, E. Chadwick/N. Lane St.
08:36: Robbery, 1500 block E. Main St.
09:25: Welfare check, 1100 block Villard Ave.
10:59: Abandoned vehicle, 900 block N. 19th St.
11:06: Attempt to locate, 500 block S/ 15th St.
11:17: Attempt to locate, 200 block N. 12th St.
12:42: Illegal parking, 600 block Johnson Ave.
13:13: Alarm, 1500 block S. 4th St.
13:28: Theft, 1300 block S. 4th St.
13:29: Illegal parking, 3200 block Row River Rd.
13:38: Theft, 2200 block Main St.
14:24: Fraud, 1400 block Birch Ave.
15:29: Illegal camping, Birch/O St.
15:55: Dog at large, 400 block S. 2nd St.
16:04: Warrant service, 1100 block E. Main St.
16:21: Child abuse, 1100 block S. 6th St.
16:25: Fraud, 600 block E. Jefferson Ave.
16:27: Alarm, 1300 block S. River Rd.
17:38: Barking dog, 700 block Hwy 99
18:19: Disturbance, 1000 block S. 4th St.
19:49: Animal info, 1600 block Gateway Blvd.
19:58: Harassment, 500 block Grant Ave.
21:26: Disturbance, 300 block N. 7th St.
21:52: Disorderly subject, 1500 block Main St.
23:01: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21
00:14: Suspicious subject, 200 block Gateway Blvd.
00:30: Disorderly subject, 700 block E. Main St.
04:53: Alarm, 100 block Gateway Blvd.
06:32: Fire, 200 block N. 14th St.
06:37: Abandoned vehicle, Villard/N. Douglas St.
06:49: Found dog, W. Main/K St.
07:18: Repo, 2000 block Carver St.
07:34: Citizen assist, Main/4th
08:40: Trespass, 100 block S. 5th St.
08:49: Info, Main/5th
09:17: Illegal camping, 100 block S. River Rd.
09:24: Citizen assist, 200 block N. 12th St.
09:29: Death investigation, 1500 block Village Dr.
09:33: Abandoned vehicle, E. Whitaker/6th St.
10:09: Abandoned vehicle, Q/Main
10:24: Disturbance, 1300 block Birch Ave.
10:49: Welfare check, E. Whitaker/7th St.
10:54: Suspicious condition, 700 block Village Dr.
12:11: Attempt to locate, 1300 block Gateway Blvd.
13:01: Welfare check, 1900 block W. Main St.
13:14: Child abuse, 900 block S. 8th St.
14:58: Found property, 5th/Main
15:00: Warrant service, 100 block W. 5th St.
16:58: Suspicious condition, 900 block Grover Ave.
17:11: Animal info, 100 block Village Dr.
18:47: Found dog, 300 block Kalapuya Way
18:55: Found property, 1300 block E. Main St.
19:33: Drug arrest, 1500 block E. Main St.
20:24: Suspicious condition, 1200 block Ostrander Ln.
21:05: Dog at large, 1100 block Holly Ave.
21:31: Suspicious condition, 1200 block S. River Rd.
21:32: Found property, 700 block N. River Rd.
23:15: Nuisance, 200 block S. 6th St.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22
02:59: Suspicious subject, 800 block Row River Rd.
06:44: Suspicious condition, 900 block W. Main St.
07:54: Trespass, 200 block N. 12th St.
08:04: Barking dog, 900 block Arthur Ave.
08:28: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.
09:11: Illegal camping, 3200 block Row River Rd.
10:52: Civil, 100 block S. 17th St.
12:03: Suspicious subject, 300 block Quincy Ave.
13:29: Found dog, 1700 block Hwy 99
13:55: Info, 1100 block E. Main St.
15:19: Agency assist, 78000 block Meadow Park Dr.
15:41: Illegal parking, Woodson/9th
15:56: Illegal camping, 300 block S. River Rd.
16:35: Abandoned vehicle, 200 block South O St.
16:57: Warrant service, 1500 block E. Main st.
17:24: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.
17:33: Alarm, 500 block Hwy 99
17:59: Illegal camping, 1000 block E. Main St.
18:25: Alarm, 1300 block S. 4th St.
18:40: Disturbance, 600 block Benjamin Ave.
18:51: Suspicious condition, 1500 block E. Main St.
19:09: Criminal mischief, 1100 block Lord Ave.
19:16: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.
19:54: Disorderly subject, 1500 block E. Main St.
20:14: Harassment, 800 block E. Main St.
21:39: Order violation, 500 block Grant Ave.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 23
00:40: Welfare check, 900 block Row River Rd.
01:01: Warrant service, 90 block Row River Rd.
01:19: Alarm, 1300 block Gateway Blvd.
06:56: Business check, 1200 block Gateway Blvd.
07:18: Citizen assist, 400 block E. Main St.
07:33: Abandoned vehicle, North I/Birch
09:17: Fraud, 800 block S. 3rd St.
09:24: Agency assist, Kenady Ln/99
09:36: Dog at large, 13th/Jefferson
09:37: Illegal camping, 3200 block Row River Rd.
09:39: Criminal mischief, 100 block Village Dr.
09:45: Illegal camping, Birch/M
09:47: Illegal camping, 1300 block E. Main St.
09:53: Illegal camping, 900 block Row River Rd.
10:11: Warrant service, 200 block Gateway Blvd.
10:46: Found property, Thornton/Whiteaker
10:59: Welfare check, Cooper/8th
11:14: Trespass, 400 block N. Douglas St.
11:24: Illegal camping, 3300 block Row River Rd.
12:51: Found dog, 900 block S. River Rd.
13:02: Vicious dog, 1300 block E. Jefferson Ave. 13:47: Trespass, 900 block Row River Rd.
14:05: Dog at large, 500 block Landess Rd.
14:44: Theft, 400 block E. Main St.
15:19: Illegal camping, P/Birch
15:29: Trespass, 100 block N. 7th St.
15:43: Info, 1300 block Hwy 99
15:48: Suspicious vehicle, 1600 block Ash Ave.
16:01: Info, 1700 block Hwy 99
17:34: Vehicle impound, 900 block Row River Rd.
17:45: Order violation, 900 block Row River Rd.
18:25: Harassment, 200 block E. Harrison Ave.
18:56: Fire, 2100 block N. Douglas St.
19:21: Disturbance, 400 block E. Main St.
9:27: Death investigation, 500 block S. River Rd.
19:33: Suspicious vehicle, 1200 block Ostrander Ln.
20:22: Nuisance, 1700 block E. Main St.
22:17: Suspicious vehicle, 100 block Village Dr.
23:45: Welfare check, 2100 block E. Main St. SATURDAY, AUGUST 24
01:12: Illegal parking, 500 block Grant Ave.
01:22: Traffic hazard, 1200 block Hwy 99
01:49: Business check, 900 block E. Main St.
01:55: Warrant service, 1000 block E. Main St.
02:12: Nuisance, 1400 block W. Harrison Ave.
02:33: Person stop, 1000 block E. Main St.
04:57: Suspicious condition, 100 block S. 17th St.
05:25: Mental, 400 block E. Main St.
06:16: Repo, 400 block South 1st St.
07:05: Death investigation, 34000 block Shoreview Dr. 09:47: Fire, River Rd/Main
10:04: Welfare check, 8th/Main
12:02: Citizen assist, 9th/Whiteaker
12:06: Business check, 1500 block E. Main St.
12:24: Alarm, 1300 block S. River Rd.
12:52: Citizen assist, 1600 block Ash Ave.
13:50: Info, Landess/Shields
13:56: Civil, 900 block W. Main St.
14:17: Found property, Hwy 99/Main
14:21: Theft, 1700 block Parks Rd.
14:43: Theft, Birch/H
15:13: Theft, 1700 block E. Main St.
16:00: Suspicious subject, 900 block Row River Rd.
16:33: Welfare check, 100 block S. 10th St.
17:06: Info, 900 block Cooper Ave.
17:11: Warrant service, 400 block E. Main St.
17:38: Suspicious condition, 900 block W. Main St.
17:49: Harassment, 900 block Cooper Ave.
18:08: Welfare check, 1300 block E. Jefferson Ave.
18:51: Animal info, 900 block S. River Rd.
19:34: Disturbance, 400 block N. Douglas St.
20:35: Disturbance, 1100 block E. Main St.
21:05: Abandoned vehicle, 7th/Fillmore
21:26: Disturbance, 700 block E. Main St.
23:13: Disturbance, 200 block N. 12th St.
23:39: Welfare check, 900 block W. Main St
SUNDAY, AUGUST 25
00:09: Suspicious condition, 200 block Palmer Ave.
00:18: Nuisance, 600 block E. Washington Ave.
00:18: Disabled vehicle, 1200 block Hwy 99
01:55: Disturbance, 800 block E. Whiteaker Ave.
03:12: Traffic hazard, 600 block E. Gibbs Ave.
06:13: Suspicious vehicle, American Market
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded nearly $20 million to Lane County and United Way of Lane County to increase community resilience in the face of extreme weather events.
Lane County and United Way of Lane County’s partnership, known as the Lane Transformation for Resiliency through Equity and Engagement (TREE) Network, will use the funding to invest in six “community resilience hubs” around the county.
The six facilities chosen include the Senior and Activities Center in Florence, the Fern Ridge Service Center in Veneta, the Fairfield Elementary School Gym in Eugene, the Bob Keefer Center in Springfield, the Willamette Activity Center in Oakridge, and the Community Center and Library in Cottage Grove.
Each hub will provide resources and programming to benefit community members year-round and will provide additional support to residents during emergencies such as wildfires, smoke, or heat waves.
“This is a unique and transformative partnership between United Way of Lane County, our network of partners, and Lane County Government, especially Public Health and Emergency Management,” United Way Director of
SUPER cont. on page 3
LOOKING AHEAD
McCasline said the district is working to meet the needs of every student.
“I am here because I believe in the direction that we are heading,” he said.
According to McCasline, the district staff has been working over the past three years to narrow its focus.
“As a school district three years ago, we had 44 different initiatives that drove our work, and it was hard to find the real focus in what we were doing in the district,” he said.
“We are now focused on three goals, specifically those three goals that I mentioned. It is fucus that I haven’t seen before in the district for a while. I believe in those things. I believe if we really focused on those things, that students will be better for it. They’ll be more prepared for their future and that is why I am here. Last year as things were
Cottage Grove to be
six county resilience hubs
Community Impact Emily Dale said. “These resources will allow us to expand upon existing relationships, formalize collaborations and communications, and ensure coordination in service provision and emergency response across communities.”
United Way of Lane County will work with partner organizations in each region of the county to hold listening sessions aimed at identifying the strengths and opportunities for greater resilience within each local community, conducting resource mapping activities, and participating in existing networks to gather information that will inform resilience hub development.
The agency will work to ensure that these investments stretch across the full county, including areas without an already identified resilience hub, according to Dale.
“United Way of Lane County has been a leader in emergency management and disaster relief efforts in recent years,” Dale said.
“In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Holiday Farm Fire, United Way gathered and distributed donations quickly to organizations on the ground and convened local networks to share resources and expertise, all while centering community voice in response and recovery efforts.”
Lane County Senior Program Services Coor-
winding down and I was the acting superintendent, I saw that the best war forward was to apply and be that interim superintendent, so that I could continue the work that we had already started. I didn’t want anything to interrupt that. We are focused on helping students being prepared for their future and that is something that I am passionate about.”
The Sentinel asked McCasline if he is considering applying to be the South Lane School District Superintendent.
“That is something that I am considering,” he said. “If I continue to see or feel like I can make a difference in this position, then it is likely that I would apply, because I really feel strongly about our direction. That’s a decision that I will make later on.”
The South Lane School Board could post the position of Superintendent in late fall of early winter with a hiring process usually in January or March. McCasline said the school
dinator Kristen Lee said the county is excited to partner with United Way to advance community resilience in the region.
“We are determined to ensure that resilience hubs are crafted from the ground up, with local residents helping to decide how best to make their own communities resilient,” Lee said. “We believe that United Way is well-positioned to facilitate a process that prioritizes local voices, needs, and values that drive the development of the hubs. Lane County is looking forward to supporting this effort.”
The hubs will be stocked with supplies for emergencies, and United Way will be collaborating with Lane County’s Public
board had not published a specific timeline as of late August.
BACKGROUND
In June, the South Lane School District Board named McCasline as interim school superintendent. McCasline will serve for the 2024-25 school year. His salary for the year will be $160,249.
McCasline replaces Superintendent Dr. Yvonne Curtis who resigned due to a family health crisis.
At the June public session, the school board also unanimously passed its 2024-25 district budget of $65,639,524. The district operates 10 schools: three K-5 elementary, two pre-K-8 elementary schools, one 6-8 middle school, one 9-12 alternative high school, one 9-12 compressive high school and two charter schools.
Follow education developments online at the cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
Health Reserve Corp to recruit, train, and activate long-term volunteers in each community when disasters arise. Funding will also go towards bolstering eight school-based Family Resource Centers around the county.
“Each local resilience network will benefit from county-wide Lane TREE convenings where resilience hubs will be able to share resources, participate in co-learning, and coordinate emergency management mechanisms to ensure swift and cohesive disaster response,” Dale said. “Additionally, through this grant we will be able to boost the capacity of local resilience efforts through trainings, technical support oppor-
tunities, and hundreds of thousands of dollars in targeted investments.”
The funding, which is part of the EPA’s Community Change grants, is aimed at helping communities tackle environmental and climate justice issues, including increasing community resilience and building community capacity to respond to climate disasters, according to united Way officials.
Lane County and United Way of Lane County are one of 21 recipients receiving $325 million during this initial announcement, with the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights still accepting applications on a rolling basis through November 21, 2024.
Ensuring Oregonians and communities across the region are safe and prepared when disasters strike is critical, according to Oregon U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley.
“This EPA funding for Lane County and the United Way of Lane County to realize a network of resilience hubs—complete with training, equipment, and more—will prove essential for community members during weather events from devastating wildfires to extreme heat,” Merkley said. “It’s climate-smart investments from the Inflation Reduction Act like this that will help our local governments and agencies save lives during the worst conditions.”
What do expect for fall weather
JEREMY C. RUARK
Cottage Grove Sentinel
As fall approaches and summer ends, the latest National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Climate Prediction Center’s forecast provides three possibilities for Cottage Grove, Lane County, and Oregon: a warmer-than-average fall, a cooler-than-average fall, or an average fall.
La Niña’s dry warmer-than-average conditions will likely influence weather patterns across the Pacific Northwest, according to the NOAA forecast. The NOAA Seasonal Precipitation Map for September through November shows above average wet weather for parts of Oregon, including Lane County.
Cottage Grove and much of Oregon experienced lengthy hot and dry weather through July and into much of August. Notable rain showers occurred in Cottage Grove Aug. 17 and light rain Aug. 22.
Follow the daily weather patterns online at cg.sentinel.com.
Joyce Marie Moore
09/22/39 - 08/10/24
Joyce Marie Moore, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2024, in Cottage Grove, Oregon, at the age of 84. Born on September 22, 1939, in Dorena, Oregon.
Joyce was the cherished daughter of Robert and Lottie Floyd. She was one of ten children, growing up in a large and loving family.
Joyce met the love of her life, John Moore, while living in Idaho. The two were married and shared 49 beautiful years together before John’s passing in April 2018. Their life together was a testament to love, dedication, and partnership. A devoted mother, Joyce is survived by her five children: Jack (Cari), Jeff (Mary), Jerry (Deanna), Jason (Stephanie), and Michelle (Glenn), nine grandchildren, predeceased by one grandson, Benjamin, eight great grandchildren and
one great-great grandchild. Her children provided her a lifetime joy, and she cherished the moments she spent with them. Joyce is also survived by her sister, Linda, with whom she shared a lifelong bond.
Joyce’s life was marked by her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family. She was a faithful member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Cottage Grove, where she enjoyed playing the organ.
The family will hold a private service to honor Joyce’s memory.
John Orange Bellamy
9/28/1926 - 7/19/2024
John Orange Bellamy, a cherished family man, respected veteran, and skilled craftsman, passed away on July 19, 2024, in Cottage Grove, Oregon. John was born on September 28, 1926, in Alder, Washington, to Claude and Pheobe (Stoner) Bellamy.
John proudly served his country as a paratrooper in the Army’s 11th Airborne Division during World War II from 1944-1945. His bravery and dedication were recognized with numerous medals, including the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and the Philippine Liberation Service Medal with one bronze star. Following his military service, he built a career as a plywood foreman.
John married his beloved wife, Joyce Lenore Vandeventer on August 1, 1949. John and Joyce raised and loved their 4 children, Bonnie, Jack, Teresa, and Tim.
An active member of the Creswell Church of Christ Assembly of God, John’s faith was an integral part of his life. He had a love for the outdoors which included fishing and hunting. John also found joy in rebuilding gas engines, a hobby that showcased his handy and inventive spirit.
John is survived by his sons
OR, and
sister Mable
WA; 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren. John is preceded in death by his parents, wife Joyce Lenore, daughter Bonnie Davis, daughter Teresa Garboden, granddaughter Jaclyn, and grandson Michael.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 11:00 am at Creswell Pioneer Cemetery. Arrangements in the care of Smith-Lund-Mills Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
Thomas Edward Murphy
Thomas Edward Murphy (Buddy) passed away on August 12, 2024, at 80 years old. Born in Ashland, Kentucky, he lived with his family in a holler and then later above a wrecking yard, a haven for a teenage boy. By age 14 he was building cars from parts in the wrecking yard and began to enjoy fabricating and creating his own ideas.
In the Air Force, he made good friends and spent time overseas. He flew back to the states, thankful to be home. He was spat on at the airport by protesters. He changed to his civies, went home and started building and racing cars and overcame the hard memories he had of that time.
He raced in 24 states and Mexico and won over 600 main events and had many championships through the years. He loved to give his trophies away to kids and they loved him too. He was given many pictures of his race cars by young fans. He treasured them more than the trophies. He raced sprint cars, drag cars, stock cars and IMCA.
He was a Southern man, through and through from biscuits and gravy to fried chicken. He loved to laugh, he loved to barter and trade, and he never met a stranger. Always had a smile for everyone. As a young child he did not have an easy life, and he was strict at times with his children, wanting them to be men and women who would be able to stand up to what the future might bring.
Around 1980 a dream began to develop in his heart. There was a racing lake on a large
dreamed of
a racing complex there and he began to talk to the Bureau of Indian Affairs about the possibility. After two years of negations the dream became Firebird International Raceway Park. It had a drag strip, an oval track, an off- road course, a bicycle track, a concert venue and a driving school along with the man-made racing lake.
The entire family worked on the project. Again, he taught his children the value of hard work as they learned the proper way to install electrical wiring, plumbing, erect buildings, disassemble and then re-assemble bleachers, run equipment and put on racing events.
Buddy moved his family to Cottage Grove in 1986 because it was so beautiful, each of his children married here. He is survived by his wife of 46 years Helen Starr Murphy, son, Chris Murphy, daughter Ginny Norton and two stepchildren Carolyn Lehman and Tom Carter. Their family includes many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Buddy was proceeded in death by his father, Thomas Edward Murphy Sr and his Mother Gladys Back Murphy, his Sister Brenda Kay Hartnett, December 2, 2018. He lost a younger brother Michael as a baby and a precious Great grandson, Brycen.
At this time, there are no funeral arrangements, but there will be a memorial lap in Buddy’s honor at the Cottage Grove race track on August, 31st.
piece of property on the Indian reservation, outside Chandler AZ. He
building
Jack Bellamy of Creswell,
Tim Bellamy of Creswell, OR;
of Olympia,
NEWS & VIEWS
Keeping our communities safe from extreme heat
JEFF MERKLEY
Sentinel Guest Column
If it feels like summers are getting longer and hotter, it’s not your imagination.
This past July 21 was the hottest day ever recorded in human history, following the hottest thirteen-straight months scientists have ever seen. Extreme heat is melting the snowpack in the Cascades, scorching lands and forests across the state, and warming waters off our coast.
Extreme heat is now the leading weather-related cause of death in the United States. Several Oregon cities have already seen the mercury soar into the triple digits this summer, heartbreakingly claiming the lives of at least ten Oregonians. We’re now enduring what used to be once-in-a-decade heatwaves at least once a year – and our communities are paying the price.
In 2023, heat was responsible for an estimated
11,000 deaths across the U.S. – with several states recording more heat-related deaths than any time in the past 40 years.
The Oregon Department of Energy reports that 58 percent of residents live in housing without adequate cooling equipment. To install permanent equipment to properly cool these homes’ full living space is prohibitively expensive for many Oregon families and would cost over $1 billion statewide. Even worse, low-income neighborhoods tend to have more heat-trapping pavement and fewer parks and green spaces to provide shade or tree cover.
This summer’s extreme heat has dried out landscapes and vegetation across Oregon, creating the conditions for lightning strikes to set entire areas ablaze in an instant. Wildfires have already burned more than one million acres of Oregon in less than one month.
As Oregon’s representative on the committee that
funds the federal government, I’m fighting to make sure that our communities have the resources they need to prepare for this extreme heat. That’s why I made sure that the Senate bill includes $1.5 million for Portland State University’s Climate and Heat Assessment and Response Equipment project, which would establish a hub to identify and test solutions to mitigate extreme urban heat.
In July, I led a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), signed by more than 60 members of Congress from both the Senate and House of Representatives, requesting that the agency use all available resources to respond to the threats of extreme heat and wildfire smoke. FEMA should help our communities recover from heat and smoke events just like they help after other natural disasters.
I’ve also introduced the Smoke and Heat Ready Communities Act to create
grants for communities to develop new tools to protect the public during extreme smoke and heat events, like the ones we’re experiencing this summer. These grants would help communities create cool spaces with clean air that can be a safe refuge when conditions get dangerous.
Senator Wyden and I also are original cosponsors of the Asunción Valdivia Heat Stress Injury, Illness, and Fatality Prevention Act. In 2004, Asunción Valdivia was picking grapes in 105-de-
gree temperatures, fell unconscious, and died of heatstroke at age 53.
Many Oregonians work outdoors – in our fields, in our forests, and off our shores – so this is a critical area of safety. In 2022, Oregon adopted two permanent rules to protect workers from extreme heat, and I want to ensure that every worker across the country is protected, too.
These are just a few of the many ways I’m working to ensure that Oregon’s communities have the resources needed to be
dangerous summer months – and I’ll keep fighting to keep our state safe.
Securing our future: The importance of Social Security
STACY LARSEN Sentinel Guest Column
In today’s world, few things are as deeply woven into the fabric of our nation as Social Security. For over eight decades, this bedrock program has offered economic security and dignity to millions of retirees, people with disabilities, and surviving spouses and children. It is a sacred promise between the government and the American people who pay in and earn their Social Security over a lifetime of hard work.
A pillar of retirement security
At its core, Social Security is a vital pillar of retirement security. Over the past years, as traditional employer-paid pensions have declined and retirement savings have shrunk, Social Security still
provides guaranteed income Americans can count on throughout their lifetime. Today, 67 million people benefit from Social Security. Forty percent of older Americans rely on Social Security for more than 50 percent of their family income. Fourteen percent relies on Social Security for 90 percent or more of their family income.
Importance of Social Security
To demonstrate why Social Security is such a vital source of retirement income, about half of the workforce has no employer-provided retirement plan. More than one in three working households age 21 to 64 has no individual savings set aside for retirement and 44% of people who are closer to retirement -- ages 55-64 -- have no retirement savings accounts. Even those households age 50 to 59 with
retirement savings do not have enough; over 60 percent have less than $100,000.
Promoting economic stability
Social Security plays a pivotal role in promoting economic stability for individuals and communities by providing a steady stream of income to retirees, who spend it on the necessities of daily life, contributing $1.4 trillion a year to the US economy. Additionally, it reduces poverty among vulnerable populations and lessens the burden on other government programs.
The future of Social Security
Social Security is paid for by dedicated payroll taxes and the interest those taxes have built up in the Security Trust Funds. Before 2021, Social Security collected more in taxes and interest than it paid
out, so it built up a surplus to support the retirement of the “Baby Boomer” generation. Today that surplus is being used to supplement incoming payroll tax income, but eventually the Trust Funds will face a shortfall in 2034 according to current estimates.
The shortfall is caused by a growing population of retirees and lower birth rates. When that happens, Social Security will still be able to pay 80% of benefits, but a cut of 20% -- an average of over $4,000 a year -- would hurt both individuals and communities. However, if our leaders in Washington take action, America’s most reliable foundation of income security will keep delivering on its promise.
Stacy Larsen is the AARP Oregon Communications Director.
‘No Tax on Tips’ bill submitted to legislature
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
State Sen. Dick Anderson (R-Lincoln City) has
submitted the legislative concept (LC) for a “No Tax on Tips” bill ahead of the 2025 legislative session.
THE FIRST AMENDMENT
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
WHERE TO COMMENT
President Joseph Biden
The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, D.C. 20500
Comments: 202-456-1111
Switchboard: 202-456-1414
TTY/TDD: 202-456-6213 www.whitehouse.gov
Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek 900 Court St., Suite 254 Salem, Ore. 97301-4047 503-378-4582 www.oregon.gov/gov
U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden
202-224-5244 | 541-431-0229 www.wyden.senate.gov
U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley 202-224-3753 | 541-465-6750 www.merkley.senate.gov
U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle (4th Dist.) 202-225-6416 www.hoyle.house.gov
State Sen. Dick Anderson (Dist. 5) 503-986-1705 Email: Sen.DickAnderson@ oregonlegislature.gov
State Rep. Cedric Hayden (Dist. 7) 503-986-1407 rep.cedrichayden@ state.or.us
Lane County Dist. 5 Commissioner Heather Buch 541-682-4203 Heather.Buch@lane countyorg. gov
SUPERVISORY PERSONNEL
DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS
Joe Warren — jwarren@countrymedia.net
DIRECTOR OF REVENUE Frank Perea II — fperea@countrymedia.net
EDITOR Jeremy C. Ruark — jruark@countrymedia.net
Cottage Grove Sentinel 1498 E. Main Street, STE 104 • PO Box 35 Cottage Grove, OR 97424
Phone: 541-649-1616 www.cgsentinel.com
SUBSCRIPTION
The legislation is designed to provide financial relief to Oregon’s service industry workers, who are increasingly squeezed by rising inflation and poor economic policies, by fully exempting tips from Oregon state income tax, according to Anderson.
“With high costs crushing Oregon workers, it’s more important than ever to support policies that put money back in the pockets of those who need it most,” Anderson said.
“Service industry employees rely on tips as a significant part of their income, and taxing these earnings only exacerbates the financial strain they face. This bill is a pro-worker initiative that ensures fairness by letting
workers keep more of what they earn.”
Oregon’s service industry workers, including waitstaff, bartenders, and other tipped employees, often see tips as a crucial supplement to their wages. However, according to Anderson, the current taxation on these tips reduces their take-home pay, adding to the economic pressures of everyday life. The “No Tax on Tips” would provide immediate financial relief to service workers across the state.
“I recently toured my entire district with over 20 town halls, and I heard loud and clear that Oregonians are struggling to make ends meet in today’s economic climate,”
Unstable local
In the recent special election (costing the city upwards of $15,000) three city councilors were removed. Not for unethical behavior, misuse of funds, or other misbehavior, but for policy differences. Low voter turnout (62% of eligible Cottage Grove voters didn’t vote) was a major factor. 1,680 voters (22% of voters) decided the fate of the councilors. As a result, in the November election six of the seven seats on the City Council will be on the ballot. This removal of elected officials creates a chilling effect on anyone considering public service.
Anderson said. “This bill is a direct response to those concerns and a step toward easing the burden on our service workers.
I’m committed to working with my colleagues in the Legislature to ensure this bill passes.”
Follow developments
in the
government is bad for business
The Eugene Realtors mailed out multiple flyers supporting a “No on the Recall” vote. They knew instability in local government is bad for their bottom line.
The City Council held a work session on the homeless situation. St. Vincent gave a well received presentation about how it could bring funds, expertise in working with the unhoused, and structure to Cottage Grove.
As a result of the turmoil in local politics and the behavior of a particular city council member, St. Vincent’s withdrew its $2.3 million dollars of support.
Shockingly, the withdrawal of this experienced Christian organization to address homelessness was met by cheers and applause in the Council Chambers. St. Vincent’s withdrawal was more bad press for Cottage Grove. Without Plan A which included moving the unhoused camp sites to the water treatment area on the north side of town, the City moved to Plan B, closing the camp sites on north 12th Street and Douglas and temporarily allowing dusk to dawn camping in Lulu’s dog park. The optics of putting people in a dog park in
fenced in areas that look like dog kennels hasn’t helped Cottage Grove’s image and has been widely reported in the media. It has been rumored that a new industry will be coming to Cottage Grove offering as many as 70 jobs. However, the PakTech plant appears to be closed and with that closure comes the loss of 70 jobs. Cottage Grove has an economic development problem and recent political events, low voter turnout, and bad press will make it more difficult to attract new business. Bruce Kelsh Cottage Grove
prepared during hotter, longer, and more
Jeff Merkley represents Oregon in the U.S. Senate.
Anderson represents Oregon Senate District 5.
online at the Lincoln County Leader website and
Wednesday print editions of The Leader.
Classified
LADD CONSTRUCTION, LLC New or remodel, decks, siding, windows, doors, shops, fences. 541-913-1541 ccb# 239015
Something for everyone sale! www.twinheartsvs.com for all detailed information.
CGS24-3012
COTTAGE GROVE MINI STORAGE, 1520 HWY 99 N, COTTAGE GROVE, OR 97424. AUCTION: September 21, 2024 PROMPTLY AT 11:00
A.M. COTTAGE GROVE MINI STORAGE IN ACCORDANCE WITH ORS 87.162 WILL OFFER FOR PUBLIC AUCTION THE FOLLOWING UNITS FOR NON-PAYMENT OF RENT AND OTHER FEES. 1. Andrew Crowder # E-257 2. Scottie Braden #A-020, A-027 &
A-349. UNLESS PAYMENT IN FULL IS MADE BEFORE TIME OF AUCTION @ 1520 HWY 99 N, COTTAGE GROVE, OR 97424. SEALED BIDS ON ENTIRE UNIT DUE IN OFFICE AT 11:30 A.M. “CASH ONLY
CGS24-3011 NOTICE OF CITY OF COTTAGE GROVE PLANNING COMMISSIONER VACANCY The City of Cottage Grove is currently accepting applications to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission. The Commissioners are appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commission meets twice a month on the 2nd & 3rd Wednesday evenings at 7 PM. People interested in applying for these positions need to complete an Planning Commission application available at the Community Development Department at City Hall or online at: https://www.cot-
tagegroveor.gov/pc/page/ planning-commissioner-recruitment-4. This position will remain open until filled. For further information please contact the Community Development Department at 541-942-5501.
CGS24-3010
NOTICE OF SUMMONS BY PUBLICA-
TION AS ORDERED BY THE SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA IN COCHISE COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA IN COCHISE COUNTY Case No. CV202400075. Jillian Werhowatz Plaintiff, vs. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer Defendants.
TO: Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer GREETINGS: The above-named Plaintiff, Jillian Werhowatz, has filed a lawsuit against
the above-named defendants. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer are among the named defendants. Davey Gary Allen, All Unknown Heirs and Assigns, and Catherine L. Traywick, Cochise County Treasurer (collectively, “you”) are hereby notified that a lawsuit had been filed against you. A copy of the lawsuit and other court papers are served on you with this publication in the State of Arizona by The Superior Court of Arizona in Cochise County, Case No. CV202400075. If you do not want a judgement or order taken against you without your input, you must file and “Answer” or a “Response” in writing with the court, and pay the filing fee. If you do not file an “Answer” or “Response” the other party may
be given the relief requested in his/her Petition or Complaint. To file your “Answer” or “Response” take, or send, the “Answer” or “Response” to the: Superior Court, 100 Quality Hill Road, Bisbee, AZ 85603. YOUR “ANSWER” OR “RESPONSE” IS REQUIRED NO LATER THAN 30 DAYS AFTER THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE. YOU CAN GET A COPY OF THE COURT PAPERS FILE IN THIS CASE FROM THE PETITIONER AT THE ADDRESS LISTED ON THE SUMMONS, FROM THE CLERK OF THE SUPERIOR COURTS CUSTOMER SERVICE: Superior Court, 100 Quality Hill Road, Bisbee, AZ 85603 OR (520) 432-8570.
Hope Fellowship United Pentecostal Church 100 S. Gateway Blvd. 541-942-2061
Pastor: Dave Bragg Worship: 11:00am Sunday Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday www.hopefellowshipupc.com
“FINDING HOPE IN YOUR LIFE”
Living Faith Assembly 467 S. 10th St. • 541-942-2612
Worship Services Sundays: 9a & 11a
COTTAGE
6th & Gibbs Church of Christ 195 N. 6th St. • 541-942-3822 10:00am Christian Education: Pre-K through 5th Tim Baker, Senior Minister www.6thandgibbs.com
Cottage Grove Bible Church 1200 East Quincy Avenue 541-942-4771 Pastor:Ron Harris Worship 11am Sunday School:9:45am AWANA age 3-8th Grade, Wednesdays Sept-May, 6:30pm www.cgbible.org
Cottage Grove Faith Center 33761 Row River Rd. 541-942-4851
Youth Worship Sundays: 11a (all ages welcome) Mondays: 5:30p (6th-12th grades)
Our Lady of Perpetual Help and St. Philip Benizi Catholic Churches 1025. N. 19th St. 541-942-3420
Father John J. Boyle Holy Mass: Saturday Vigil – 5:30 pm Sunday – 10:30 am For weekday and Holy Day of Obligation schedule see website OLPHCG.net
Confession: 4 PM to 5 PM Saturdays or by appointment St. Philip Benizi, Creswell 552 Holbrook Lane Sunday 8 am
Lead Pastor: Kevin Pruett www.cg4.tv Full Childrenʼs Ministry available Services: 10:00am
Delight Valley Church of Christ 33087 Saginaw Rd. East 541-942-7711 • Pastor: Bob Friend
Two Services: 9am - Classic in the Chapel 10:30am - Contemporary in the Auditorium
St. Andrews Episcopal Church 1301 W. Main • 541-767-9050 Rev. Lawrence Crumb “Scripture, Tradition, Reason” Worship: Sunday 10:30am All Welcome
Seventh-day Adventist Church 820 South 10th Street 541-942-5213 Pastor: James D. Boram Bible Study: Saturday, 9:15 am Worship Service: Saturday, 10:40 Mid-week Service: Wednesday, 1:00
The Sentinel reached out to Cottage Grove Police Chief Cory Chase to determine if there have been calls to his agency about homeless campers moving into local neighborhoods or adjacent to local businesses since the camp transition Aug. 22. We had not received a response from Chief Chase by press time.
A former homeless camp resident told KVAL that the city has ignored the voices of the homeless with the camp transition policy.
“They didn’t come to talk to any of us,” she said. “We went to city council meetings. We made our voices known.”
THE TRANSITION POLICY
At the end of last month, City of Cottage Grove officials made a significant change in their strategy to comply with state law in managing unhoused individuals.
The transition occurred on Thursday, Aug. 22, when the two unmanaged shelters closed at 12th Street and Douglas, and a temporary site opened
to provide a safe site for dusk-to-dawn camping only.
City officials gave residents in the two shelters a two-week notice of the planned closure.
“The camps are unsafe,” Cottage Grove City Manager Mike Sauerwein said in a Aug. 21 published interview with The Sentinel. “They are unsecure. They are unsanitary. We’ve had incidents of criminal activity, and we really needed to get in and clean them up,” said just before the Aug. 22 camp closure deadline. Our goals are fairly simple. Our first goal is to move folks out of the Douglas and 12 Street camps so that we go in and clean them up.”
The city’s second goal is to transition from the openair, 24/7 camps to a camp at the Lulu Dog Park that opens at 7 p.m. and closes at 7 a.m. The dog park is a short distance away from the two homeless camp sites.
Public Works and Development Director Faye Stewart said the transition went well.
CLEANING UP
On Thursday morning, Public Works staff patched some holes in the fence and locked the gate at the
12th Street Camp. At the Douglas Street camp, staff put up construction fencing and blocked the driveway with concrete blocks. The city hired One Security, a Eugene-based private security company, to assist in the transition process and to manage the 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. hours at a modified LuLu’s Dog Park located behind the car wash on Main Street.
Officials say once the 12th Street shelter site has been cleaned, the dusk-todawn shelter will relocate there, and LuLu’s Dog Park will be re-established.
Stewart said on Friday (8/23), the city hired a pest control company to remove rat colonies living amid the many items campers left behind at both camps. On Monday, his staff arrived at the Douglas Street camp with a backhoe, front end loader, excavator and dump trucks to remove the garbage and haul it to the Short Mountain Landfill.
“The site cleanup is moving pretty quickly,” Stewart said. “We loaded up most of the stuff after removing propane bottles and other items the county won’t accept in the landfill, such as the many tires that were left behind. Thus far, most of what
we’ve removed is soiled and rat-infested materials. On Tuesday (8/24), we’ll begin cleaning up the 12th Street shelter.”
With no money allocated to manage the homeless shelters, the clean-up work is being done in-house with existing public works dollars using city staff and equipment that are included in the 2024-25 general fund budget. Hard costs, such as pest removal, waste disposal fees, extra fuel costs and security services, are paid out of reserve funds.
Stewart said the city had construction panels to use to enhance the privacy of shelter users. He donated most of the fence posts and field fencing he had available to reduce the costs of the modifications needed at the dog park site.
Police Chief Cory Chase agreed with Stewart that the transition process on Aug. 22 went smoothly.
He said there were five uniformed patrol officers and himself present at 8 a.m. to oversee the closure process to remind campers they had to leave by 10 a.m. As the 10 o’clock deadline approached, officers were still assisting folks who were trying to gather up last-minute items and helped campers carry their belongings out of the
shelter. “We met our goal to secure the sites so the cleanup efforts could begin, and no enforcement action was needed,” Chase said.
DAWN-TO-DUSK MANAGEMENT
At the beginning of the Aug. 26 City Council meeting, One Security Co-Owners Shawn Carter and Spencer Peck, introduced themselves and explained their company’s successful management style. Their business provides primarily unarmed security staff for municipal, state and federal government agencies such as Eugene, Roseburg, Salem and some federal contracts in Portland.
“One Security tries to bring human solutions to human problems,” Carter said. “We believe all human beings, regardless of their status in the community, need to be engaged as human beings.” Carter and Peck said they use their backgrounds in the military and law enforcement to determine what works and what doesn’t work in conflict resolution.
Carter told the Council, “We serve as intermediaries between two groups of people as a solutions-based, human-orient-
ed organization. Because of this approach, we often can get the kind of results our clients want that other security companies can’t.”
During public comment, several citizens spoke about the transitional strategy. All agreed the city is moving in the right direction.
Mike Borke, the chief petitioner for the recall election, said he was pleased with how the transition went and praised the security officers for professionally de-escalating situations. He wants to see any plan that goes forward to first help unhoused residents who have roots in Cottage Grove.
“We’ve made a lot of changes that I think are steps in the right direction, but we still have a long way to go,” Borke said. “We have to come up with a plan to help those who want help and get them to the next step so they can live and work here.”
Jeff Arkins said he is pleased he hasn’t seen many people walking around town or hanging out in local parks since the camps closed. He questioned the need for the Dusk-to-Dawn site since so few people are using it.
“We do have a few issues with camps that have set up near waterways in violation of federal Clean Water Act,” Arkins said. “I think those campers with income should be assessed a small amount to help clean up the mess they made so it’s not all on the taxpayers to pay for it… We have to take Cottage Grove back, it’s our town.” The first weekend at the temporary site was uneventful with only a few campers using it. Chief Chase said his department and One Security staff are working well together to manage the temporary site.
“One Security is great to work with,” Chase said. “The owners are very knowledgeable and true professionals with well-trained staff focused on de-escalating confrontational situations. When they call us to intervene, they provide us with detailed statements we can follow through on.”
Follow this developing story at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
Intensity, focus are the goals for boys soccer team
JEREMY C. RUARK Cottage Grove Sentinel
The Cottage Grove High School boys soccer team spent last week on the school fields going through intense drills preparing for the new season ahead.
“We have to take it one practice and one game at a time.”
Urenda,
Jaime
CGHS Boys Soccer Coach
The Sentinel reached out to Coach Jaime Urenda for his insight about the new season. The Sentinel: At this early point, what do you see as the challenges for your team this new season, and what is your plan to overcome those challenges?
Jaime Urenda: Making another run at a state championship! It’s not an easy feat. We have nine starters returning back for the 2024 season, but games aren’t
played on paper. We have to take it one practice and one game at a time.
The Sentinel: What do you hope will be the signature style, offensively and defensively, of your team this season?
Urenda: Without giving too much information, we aren’t changing our styles much. It has worked for us in the past with the 2008 State Championship team and it worked with last year’s squad.
The Sentinel: Of the schools your team is
CGHS Boys Soccer Schedule
homeless crisis has been addressed and differ on the value of the recall election.
Solesbee has been a strong advocate of a duskto-dawn shelter model that is only open from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. and requires all campers to leave the site with all their belongings each morning. Merryday fully supported the St. Vincent de Paul proposal of how to manage the unhoused population. In July, the proposal the nonprofit withdrew its proposal citing the recall and lack of community support for its programs. The door was left open to revisit a collaboration in 2025 after the new council is seated.
Merryday was a vocal opponent of the recall election he believes was used as a tool to circumvent the established election process to remove councilors who had not committed any illegal or unethical acts. Solebee supported the Oregon law that allows citizens the right to recall officials for a broad number of reasons. This race allows voters to decide between two significantly different approaches to governing.
TWO AT-LARGE POSI-
TIONS
Mike Fleck and Alex Dreher, both at-large councilors, were recalled. The term of the two at-large positions is staggered by two years. Dreher’s seat is for a four-year-term and Fleck’s seat is for the two years remaining on his term.
Four candidates filed for Dreher’s at-large seat that expires on Dec. 31. They are: Richard Andrew, a self-employed consultant; local businessman Patrick Cartwright; Bernie Donner, a business value advisor; and Darrel Wilson who is semi-retired with a background in law enforcement and worked 21 years as armored car courier and driver.
Three candidates filed for Fleck’s at-large seat that expires in 2026. They are: Chris Holoman, the business development director for Nebraska Irrigation, Inc.; Jim Settelmeyer, a retired science teacher who taught for 36 years in the South Lane School District; and Jill Hermansen, a speech language pathologist.
WARD 1 POSITION
This position was held by recalled Councilor Chalice Savage. Two
candidates filed for this seat that expires in 2028: Christine Hyink, a field services regional manager for the Oregon Department of Transportation and Kevin Adamski, a retired forestry technician with the Umpqua National Forest’s Cottage Grove station.
WARD 2 POSITION
Councilor Jon Stinnett has held this seat for four years and is not seeking re-election. Randell Lammerman, a Lane Forest Products employee, is the only person to apply for this position.
WARD 4 POSITION
Councilor Greg Ervin is the current Council President and is running unopposed for another four-year term.
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
Citizens engagement with the council increased significantly in the last two years. Much of the testi-
scheduled to meet this season, which will be the most challenging and why?
Urenda: The entire presason is challenging but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s a good test for us to see where we are and where we need to be at the end of the season.
Top teams to look at is Stayton, they are always a state contender, La Grande, Ontario (played them in the first round last year) and Crook County.
In league play we cannot overlook Marist, Marsh-
field and North Bend. We are a target, not just to them but the rest of state and will need to be ready for every match. League play is important to have momentum going into the state playoffs.
The Sentinel: What do hope you the students take away from their experience as a member of your team to help them on the field and in their lives?
Urenda: I want them to have the best experience possible not just on the field but off as well. Some
of the best memories I have from high school soccer were the team bonding experiences (camps, bus trips, overnight hotel stays, team dinners). Our goal is to not just create the best soccer athlete but guide them through possible life challenges off the field as well.
Follow game results at osaa.org and see CGHS sports features online at cgsentine.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
mony at council meetings expressed dissatisfaction with how the city manager search was conducted and a perceived mismanagement of the unhoused population that commenters said resulted in wasteful spending.
There was passionate testimony about the negative impacts of the Douglas Street shelter on that neighborhood and public frustration expressed with how the 12th Street shelter’s negative impact reduced after-hours access to the nearby post office mailboxes.
Cottage Grove resident and citizen activist Linda Olson has been outspoken in her views on city management and policies at Council meetings and on KNND Radio’s Beeper weekday talk show. She was one of the signers of the recall petition.
Olson hopes the current council, and new members who join them in January, will pursue what she
called better methods of gathering feedback from the community. She said she believes there are good candidates on the Nov. 5 ballot.
“I believe there is strong support for the applicants who threw their hat into the ring,” Olson said.
“Several have proven to be outspoken about common sense issues, knowledgeable about topics, not be afraid to hold open-door, respectful and constructive conversations, and will question a narrative that raises questions.”
Bruce Kelsh is another community activist who testifies before the city council and was adamantly opposed the recall election.
Kelsh said he believes the recall election created instability in local government and hopes the remaining council members will do the best they can to conduct city business.
“I think a recall based on policy differences is a misuse of the recall
process and will have a chilling effect on anyone who might run for office,” Kelsh said. “If a minority group can evict conscientious, experienced, qualified, hardworking councilors, then there is little incentive to become a public servant.”
Kelsh said the recall had a negative impact on the city.
“In addition, the optics of putting displaced unhoused folks in a dog park in what looks like dog kennels is another negative impression of our city. There is a great price to be paid for the divisiveness that has been created.”
Both Olson and Kelsh support the council decision to not fill the three vacancies and allow voters to decide.
Follow developments online at cgsentinel.com and in the Wednesday print editions of The Sentinel.
