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Oregon Abigail Adams Voter Project ~ Check Out Candidate Responses

4/27/2016

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Oregon Abigail Adams Voter Project is once again bringing you candidate responses to the most critical questions that aren't asked by media.



Along with all the state positions, this year County Sheriffs, County Commissioners and Judges have been added. Eighty-two candidates have submitted responses from all parties.


When more than one candidate has responded for a position, a comparison guide is posted.


Check out who has submitted responses. If your candidate hasn't responded, encourage them to do so.


https://oregonabigailadams.wordpress.com/2016-elections/


2016 ELECTIONS « oregonabigailadams
oregonabigailadams.wordpress.com
Know your candidates and be an informed voter The Candidate Comparison Guides list the candidate answers side-by-side for voters to compare the answers for each issue.
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LTE ~ Matt Rowe the Only Candidate to Challenge the Authority of the BOC

4/26/2016

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Please join me electing Matt Rowe, the candidate with demonstrated leadership and management experience, Coos County Treasurer. 
 
Angry?  Tired of our employee county professional politicians telling us what we want?  The treasurer office is, by law, to be independently managed by the voters elected official. 
 
There are three candidates.  Candidate Fox transferable experience includes entrepreneur, county treasurer office staff member, and Dairy Queen franchise bookkeeper.  Simms, also a bookkeeper, was anointed three months ago as the commissioner created, full time, overpaid finance director.  Simms is endorsed by county professional politicians; Rowe by prominent folks county - wide. 
 
None of the candidates claim to be CPA’s, accountants, certified financial planners or former employees of banks or financial institutions.  Rowe alone has a bachelor’s degree. 
 
Occasionally Rowe’s ability to effectively argue a position appears to be an abrasive personality.  That’s not bad.  We’re not electing a person to run our charm school; we’re electing a person to manage the organization that collects current and delinquent tax monies, who is capable of safeguarding our assets while standing up to the power grabbing commissioners who are gradually creating the county administrator that citizens rejected. 
 
Fox told us that her treasurer office colleague Simms will be too busy learning the finance director job to be treasurer; and there is much to learn (see job description).  Could Simms effectively serve two masters?  Is it humanly possible for Simms to be 100% finance director reporting to the commissioners and 50% treasurer reporting to the citizens? 
 
According to the commissioners, we have a full time county fiscal emergency.  In their quest to create a finance / personnel services director (administrator) and then get their candidate elected treasurer, did the commissioners blow it creating a part time treasurer job?  It appears that Simms could be treasurer in name only while collecting almost $90,000 (combined finance director / treasurer salary) annually. There would be added cost for deputies to actually run the treasurer organization.  Would the commissioners argue that huge combined salary is justification for their wanted exorbitant pay raise? 
 
Who is best qualified to operate independently; to best maintain a transparent organization; to be responsive to the citizens; to best face up to the commissioners; to best collect delinquent taxes; to assure checks and balances; to safeguard the people’s money; to effectively argue against a commissioners pay raise when the county purse is empty?  That’s easy, Matt Rowe. 
 
Fred Kirby 
Coos Bay


Related Posts:
LTE ~ Gurney & the Voters REJECTED the Finance Director/County Administrator
Coos County Marijuana Business Licensing Workshop Saturday April 2, 2016
Coos County Finance Director Job Classification & Title as of January 29, 2016
Coos County Treasurer Job Classification & Title as of October 11, 2015
LTE ~ Proponent Kissing Off Local Concerns About JCEP
LTE ~ More Transparency for the SCCF
Coos Bay School District Contract w/Superintendent Dawn Granger March 2014
LTE ~ Coos Bay School Board Ignoring Parents & Students
LTE ~ Leshley Still Uninformed
BOC ~ County Dog Board, Prisoner Release, Public Meeting for October 13, 14, & 15
Board of Commissioners Op-Ed for Measure 6-152 Transient Occupancy Tax
Coos Bay Alternative Location for Waste Water Treatment Plant Oct. 6, 2015
Bandon Cheese Factory Receives Private Financing & Still Pays No Property Taxes

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OJD ~ Court Case Allows City of Coos Bay to Disrespect Will of the Voters

4/26/2016

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ODFW ~ Hosts Town Hall On Proposed 2017-19 budget North Bend May 4, 2016

4/20/2016

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Coos Bay/North Bend: Wednesday, May 4, North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Avenue, North Bend

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FODFW hosts town hall meetings on proposed 2017-19 budget
April 18, 2016

SALEM, Ore.--The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting a series of town hall meetings around the state this month to gather public input on the agency's proposed 2017-2019 budget.

The proposed budget, which is being developed by ODFW and an external budget advisory committee, will be presented for review and comment at the meetings listed below. All meetings will be held from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

“This is a great opportunity for us to meet with our customers and get their feedback,” said Curt Melcher, ODFW director. “I encourage folks to attend, meet with our staff and learn more about our funding proposals to manage Oregon’s fish and wildlife.”

No major changes to the budget are being proposed. The goal of the budget proposal is to align the agency’s activities with funding sources. The proposed 2017-19 budget does not include any new increases in fees for recreational and commercial licenses.

Public comments will be used to help refine the budget before it is presented to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission on June 9. Once a proposed budget is approved by the Commission, it will be submitted to the Governor for her consideration. The budget will ultimately be determined by the 2017 Legislature.

Clackamas: Wednesday, April 27, Monarch Hotel and Conference Center, 12566 SE 93rd Avenue, Clackamas

Tillamook: Thursday, April 28, Tillamook County Library, 1716 3rd Street, Tillamook

Roseburg: Tuesday, May 3, ODFW Roseburg District Office, 4192 North Umpqua Highway, Roseburg

Coos Bay/North Bend: Wednesday, May 4, North Bend Public Library, 1800 Sherman Avenue, North Bend

Newport: Thursday, May 5, Hallmark Resort 744 SW Elizabeth Street, Newport

Klamath Falls: Tuesday, May 10, Oregon Institute of Technology, College Union Bldg., Mt. Bailey Room 3201 Campus Drive, Klamath Falls

Bend: Wednesday, May 11, Central Oregon Community College, Boyle Education Center, Room 155, 2600 NW College Way, Bend

La Grande: Tuesday, May 12, Island City Hall, Community Room, 1605 Island Ave (Island City, adjacent to La Grande)


Additional ODFW budget information can be found on the ODFW website, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/agency/budget/
Comments on the agency proposed budget are welcome and can be submitted through June 1, 2016, by email to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or by mail to ODFW Director’s Office, 4034 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, OR 7302-1142. Public testimony will also be heard at the Commission meeting on June 9 in Salem.
###
Contact:
Richard Hargrave
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Richard.J.Hargrave@state.or.us
(503) 947-6020

Related Posts:
ODFW ~ Commission Meeting in Bandon Friday April 22, 2016

ODFW ~ Harassing Cormorant to Protect Salman but Still a Crime for the People
ODFW ~ Public Meeting Coquille Valley Wildlife Area Discussion Wed. March 2, 2016
OFRI ~ Fish Passage & Habitat Workshop Wednesday, March 9, 2016
NOAA Proposed Recovery Plan for Coho Salmon September 2015
Fish and Wildlife Commission delists wolves statewide in split vote (4-2) ‏
Coos Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Meeting w/ODFW October 16, 2015
Coos County Approves Nature Conservancy's Tide Gate for China Camp Creek
ODFW ~ Conservation Opportunity Areas for Stealing Private Property
USACE ~ Comment on Permit Application Process Wednesday November 18, 2015
USFWS ~ Treating Private Property off the Bandon Marsh
The Mosquitoes Return to the Coquille Valley
Sweet Recall Meeting 7:00pm Friday July 31, 2015
Two Bills on Wetlands in Oregon Legislature SB544 Protects Landowners
ACTION ALERT ~ Bandon City Council Meeting Jan. 5, 2015 ~ Real Mosquito Report
Fred Messerle Bankrupting Beaver Slough Drainage District to Harass Neighbor  
ODFW ~ Permit for the Winter Lake/China Creek Project,  Messerle Named Manager  
ODFW ~ Purchases Private Property for Wetland Restoration "Mosquito Preserve"

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OLCD ~ 2016 Land Use Legislation

4/19/2016

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The Department of Land Conservation and Development has prepared a report of legislation enacted by the 2016 Legislature related to land use, which is available online.
www.oregon.gov/LCD/docs/legislative/landusebills2016.pdf
Related Article:
State Shared Revenues or Sin Tax Tribute for Counties & Cities 2016-17
LCDC ~ Public Meeting Gold Beach March 10-11, 2016
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America at a Crossroads Part #4 Washington Creates America -2016

4/19/2016

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America at a Crossroad Part #3 Founders Principles & Philosophies 3-17-2016
America at a Crossroads Part #2 Capitalism Vs. Socialism March 10, 2016

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America at a Crossroads FREE 7-Week Series of Classes on Constitutional History

4/18/2016

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Same time & same date different place:  The Coos Bay Library

Part #7 Restoring America 

Sign Up on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/events/263045710705612/

Download the event flyer and post it everywhere. 

America at a Crossroads Seven Classes March & April
File Size: 2959 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File


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State Shared Revenues or Sin Tax Tribute for Counties & Cities 2016-17

4/16/2016

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City Action Needed on State Shared Revenues
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services (DAS) is reminding city managers and recorders
to take necessary steps prior to July 31 to receive quarterly state shared revenue payments.
DAS is currently notifying cities (by email and/or mail) and requesting they:
• Pass an ordinance or resolution requesting state shared revenue money;
• Hold public hearings before the budget committee and city council regarding the city’s use of
state shared revenues; and
• Submit documentation, such as the short form distributed by DAS, certifying compliance and
intent to receive tax revenues in fiscal year 2016-17.
Additionally, cities in counties with populations in excess of 100,000 inhabitants must certify that the
city provides at least four of the following municipal services:

• Fire protection
• Police protection
• Street construction, maintenance and
lighting
• Sanitary sewers
• Storm sewers
• Planning, zoning and subdivision control
• One or more utility services

DAS recommends cities complete these actions and submit required documentation prior to July 1.
That gives DAS the month of July to identify and reach out and help those cities that have not yet
completed the certification process or have filed improper paperwork. For more information on state
shared revenues, see the League’s report here.

Contact: Wendy Johnson, Intergovernmental Relations Associate – wjohnson@orcities.org
2016 State Shared Revenue Report FINAL
File Size: 550 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File


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ODFW ~ Commission Meeting in Bandon Friday April 22, 2016

4/11/2016

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ODFW: input needed on proposed South Coast ocean sport and commercial terminal area fisheries

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April 5, 2016
ROSEBURG, Ore – Recreational and commercial anglers are asked for their input on proposed 2016 regulations for ocean sport and commercial terminal area (bubble) fisheries on the South Coast. The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission will consider these proposals at their April 22 meeting in Bandon.
The 2016 Chinook salmon forecasts are generally good with the exception of southern stocks. The Rogue and Klamath forecasts are much poorer than recent years, and the Chetco forecast is below average.
2016 proposed ocean terminal area fisheries regulations:
Elk River Ocean Terminal Area Fishery
The 2016 forecasts for Elk River and Sixes River Chinook salmon are similar to recent years, so ODFW is proposing a repeat of last year’s regulations for 2016:
  • Sport fishery – November 1 – 30 with a bag limit of two Chinook per day, but no more than one wild Chinook per day and ten per season.
  • Commercial fishery – October 15 – November 30 with a landing and possession limit of 20 Chinook per day and a minimum size of 26 inches.
Chetco River Ocean Terminal Area Fishery
The 2016 forecasts for Chetco River and Winchuck River Chinook salmon are expected to be reduced from recent years. As a result, staff is proposing a shortened season for the sport fishery and reduced quota and landing limits for the commercial fishery compared to last year:
  • Commercial fishery – October 10 – 31 with 300 fish quota and five fish per day landing limit.
  • Sport fishery – The Commission will consider two options:
Option 1: October 1 – 3 and 8 – 9, two Chinook per day, but no more than one wild per day.
Option 2: October 4 – 8, two Chinook per day, but no more than one wild per day.
Option 1 encompasses two full weekends and is likely to result in higher harvest due to increased effort on weekend days. Option 2 includes only one weekend day and likely would result in less effort and a more conservative harvest.
Sport and commercial anglers can email their input to Todd Confer, District Fisheries Biologist in Gold Beach, Todd.A.Confer@state.or.us by April 20 or testify at the Commission meeting on April 22 at the Bandon Conference and Community Center, 1200 11th Street SW.
###
Contact:
Todd Confer, 541-247-7605
Meghan Dugan, 541-440-3353


Related Posts:
ODFW ~ Harassing Cormorant to Protect Salman but Still a Crime for the People
ODFW ~ Public Meeting Coquille Valley Wildlife Area Discussion Wed. March 2, 2016
OFRI ~ Fish Passage & Habitat Workshop Wednesday, March 9, 2016
NOAA Proposed Recovery Plan for Coho Salmon September 2015
Fish and Wildlife Commission delists wolves statewide in split vote (4-2) ‏
Coos Bay Area Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Meeting w/ODFW October 16, 2015
Coos County Approves Nature Conservancy's Tide Gate for China Camp Creek
ODFW ~ Conservation Opportunity Areas for Stealing Private Property
USACE ~ Comment on Permit Application Process Wednesday November 18, 2015
USFWS ~ Treating Private Property off the Bandon Marsh
The Mosquitoes Return to the Coquille Valley
Sweet Recall Meeting 7:00pm Friday July 31, 2015
Two Bills on Wetlands in Oregon Legislature SB544 Protects Landowners
ACTION ALERT ~ Bandon City Council Meeting Jan. 5, 2015 ~ Real Mosquito Report
Fred Messerle Bankrupting Beaver Slough Drainage District to Harass Neighbor  
ODFW ~ Permit for the Winter Lake/China Creek Project,  Messerle Named Manager  
ODFW ~ Purchases Private Property for Wetland Restoration "Mosquito Preserve"

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OFF ~ 2016 Candidate Ratings ‏

4/10/2016

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Oregon Firearms Federation Political Action Committee has released its candidate ratings for the 2016 election.

You needn't be reminded of how critical this election is. It is no secret that the anti-gun extremists in the Oregon Legislature are working overtime with the rabidly anti-gun governor to ram through everything you helped stop in this past, short legislative session.

A continued anti-gun majority in Salem could be our worst nightmare.

Please check our candidate grades. If you have info on candidates you want to share with us, please do. For candidates who did not respond, we recommend you encourage them to do so, so we can update these ratings.

For 16 years, because of people like you, OFFPAC has been able to help good candidates who are seeking election.

Donations to OFFPAC qualify for a tax credit and you can help us help pro-gun candidates at no cost! For more information please click here.

To donate to OFFPAC please click here and be sure to chose "Political Action Committee" from the drop down menu in the "Donation Category" link.  Thank you for support for pro-gun candidates.

Related Posts:
OFF ~ 1515 Derailed Now We Must Stop 4147 ‏
OFF ~ If You Don't Act, Kiss Your Rights Goodbye ‏
OFF ~ Prozanski's Secret Accusation Bill Formally Introduced
OFF ~ Update On The Most Dangerous Gun Bill Ever
Senator Whitsett Explains ~ Second Amendment & Due Process Rights Under Attack
Jury Nullification, or Jury Discretion and The Second Amendment
Former North Bend Resident's Positive Response to Second Amendment Ordinance
Coosville Chooses to Preserve the Second While Rejecting Another Tax
Media Reports on Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance Measures 6-151
OFF ~ Stop the EMERGENCY (clause) ‏~ Sign the Petition ~ Defend the People's Right
The Second Amendment Preservation Ordinance Wins the Election in Coos County
Cease Oregon Gun-Control Nazi’s Call County Voters Fringe Wing of Gun Lobby
LTE ~ VOTE YES on 2A Preservation Ordinance
OFF ~ OR Legislature Possible New Laws & COURT RULES on GUN BAN

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Sign the Petition to Stop the "Fake Emergency" Clause Used to Deny Voting Rights

4/10/2016

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70% of signed bills had “Fake Emergency” Clauses

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By Taxpayer Association of Oregon
OregonWatchdog.comThe liberal politicians are brazenly censoring the Oregon public by stuffing most of their bills with “Fake Emergency” clauses.   By the current count, nearly 70% of the bills signed into law by Governor Brown contained a “Fake” Emergency Clause which has the legal effect of blocking voters from immediately repealing the law through  a citizen referendum drive.
This is why you must sign the petition to stop the abuse of emergency clauses.  Sign the No Fake Emergency petition here.Some bills appeared to be emergency related but others grossly off-mark.  Ask yourself, do these signed bills sound like an Emergency?
SB 1540 — directs government to conduct a study on how to increase mathematics
HB 4002 — Directs government to study student absenteeism
How about these bills Emergency clause bills (that almost passed)…
SB 1518 – Establishes a pilot program to create artificial beaver dams
HB 4004 – Authorizes funds to replace Oregon statutes in US Capitol
The more controversial the bill was the more likely it had an Emergency Clause.  For instance, the Anti-coal bill (HB 4036) and the blacklisting gun owner database bill (SB 1551) all had emergency clauses on them.
Please help us.  The politicians will not stop abusing their power on their own.  We must change the law to secure Oregonians right to repeal bad laws.  Please sign the No Fake Emergency petition here.


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EPA ~ Eliminating Valuable Neonicotinoid Insecticides from Agriculture Use

4/8/2016

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January 6, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its preliminary pollinator risk assessment for imidacloprid, the first of several neonicotinoid insecticides ("neonics") undergoing registration reevaluation.  Following its release, many groups have provided their comments to the EPA regarding the report's conclusions.  As we approach the end of the public comment period, we need your help to make sure the voice of agriculture is adequately represented.

The assessment can be found HERE.
Comments are due by APRIL 14th.
 
Trade names for imidacloprid include:
Admire
Advise
Alias
Attendant
Axcess
Bravo
Commando
Emerge
Gaucho
Hotshot
Kilter
Malice
Mallet
Merit
Midas
Pronto
and others... check your labels!

Opponents of modern agriculture are working overtime to remove neonics from the marketplace.  Aided by a sympathetic media that all too often gives credence to their unsupported claims, these groups hope to convince the EPA that neonics must be banned to save our bees.  Even though there is no rational basis for their allegations, we have seen what happens in Europe and elsewhere when political expediency trumps sound science.  We cannot afford to let that happen here.
 
While we sometimes criticize our regulators for not always using a scientific approach to rulemaking, there is much in this risk assessment report that we can agree with and we should let them know that.  For example, the report found that most uses of imidacloprid pose minimal risks to pollinators.  Unfortunately, there are several areas, in which the potential risks are overestimated and we plan to work with the EPA to explain and correct this.
 
Comments are due by APRIL 14th.

Please contact Scott or Katie with any questions. (503) 370-8092

Click the link below to log in and send your message:
https://www.votervoice.net/BroadcastLinks/U1q_NJP3RETk7OyX08DF9g 

It appears that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is getting more active in the waning days of the current administration. From suing an Oregon farmer for stabilizing a stream bank to potentially placing major restrictions on important pesticide tools to funding billboards in Washington State that target agriculture, (see our first article) the EPA is clearly ramping up their activities around pesticides and farming practices.

EPA-funded Billboards Attacking Farmers Coming Down  

http://www.capitalpress.com/Washington/20160407/epa-funded-billboards-attacking-farmers-coming-down
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A Whats Upstream billboard in Olympia came down Wednesday, and a second one in Bellingham was expected to be removed, a day after the Environmental Protection Agency said the media campaign was an inappropriate use of federal funds that were awarded to a tribe for public education. 
Swinomish Indian tribe environmental policy director Larry Wasserman said the tribe is taking down the billboards voluntarily.
"There has been no violation, but because of the concerns EPA has raised, we're being responsive until their concerns are addressed," he said.
The tribe and several environmental groups collaborated on What's Upstream to rally political support for more regulations on agriculture. The tribe has funded the advertising and social media campaign with nearly $600,000 the EPA awarded the Northwest Indian Fisheries Commission. more...
Related Posts:
Natural Resources Damning Animas Report on EPA & DOI Mismanagement  
Help Save Ranchers from Harsh USDOJ Punishment for Accidental Fire Sign Petition
EPA ~ Clean Water Rule is a Land-Grab by Obama Administration
EPA ~ Another Government Agency Using Children like Guinea Pigs
#DEQ ~Eats Crow & Proposes Temporary Revisions to Greenhouse Gas Permitting
DEQ---Extends Public Comment to August 28 for Proposed Air Quality Permitting  
DEQ---Public Comments by July 31, 2014 Proposed Revisions Air Quality Permitting
EPA---Public Comments on Proposed Water Rule to Make Federal Land Grabs Easier 
EPA---Public Comment on Disapproval of OR Coastal Nonpoint Pollution Control 
SCOTUS---Did EPA Overstep on Global Warming 
EPA---Public Comments on New Stricter Performance Standards for wood heaters
Federal Legislative Action Alert:  Vote YES on S.890 to Protect Private Property
The Natural Resources Report---Two Stories Showing Cause and Effect
EPA---Article in the Western Mining Alliance Newsletter on Oregon Spotted Frog
EPA---Victims of Government: The Case of Steve Lathrop, Sounds Familiar
Port Orford---Government Ownership equals Poverty and hungry children
The Nature Conservancy---Contact the Oregon Leadership Team 

The Nature Conservancy---Oregon Grasslands: Crucial for Wildlife Survival‏
The Bandon Marsh  Mosquito Farm
USFWS---Public Responses to the Bandon Marsh Mosquito Invasion
Letter to Mr. Lowe of the USFWS about the Bandon Marsh Mosquitoe  Problem
Department of Interior---Land Buy-Back Program for Tribal Nations AKA The Coquilles

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America at a Crossroad Part #3 Founders Principles & Philosophies 3-17-2016

4/8/2016

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America at a Crossroads Part #2 Capitalism Vs. Socialism March 10, 2016

4/6/2016

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Public Meeting for Coos County April 19 & North Bend April 26, 2016 on JCEP

4/4/2016

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Public Meeting for Coos County BOC
April 19, 2016:  Second hearing on Amending the Coos County Code, Article 4, Division 1, Permits for Work in Right of Way.  Coos County snuck through the first hearing along with a Pacific Connector Easement agreement at their meeting on March 29, 2015.  See my note to the Commission at the bottom of this e-mail. 
  • Here is a link to the original BOC agenda packet:  ( See Right-of-Way code change info starting on page 20 )
http://www.co.coos.or.us/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=ClnlFtTTDlc%3d&tabid=141&portalid=0&mid=1169
  • Here is link to updated BOC agenda packet that includes the late agenda items and sale of Forest lands:
http://www.co.coos.or.us/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=w8a2n8VoY4k%3d&tabid=141&portalid=0&mid=1169
 *************************************************************************************************************************
Public Meeting for North Bend


April 26, 2016:  7:00 p.m.  City of North Bend hearing on code language changes which would allow for the City to appoint a planning and zoning hearings officer.  Case No. ZTA2016-1.  North Bend City Council chambers at City Hall, 835 California Street, North Bend.


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Open Letter to the Coos County Board of Commissioners Concerning the JCEP

4/4/2016

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Jordan Cove's Desperation Continues ‏

From: Jody McCaffree
Sent: Tuesday, March 29, 2016 5:25 AM
To: 'jsweet@co.coos.or.us'; 'bmain@co.coos.or.us'; 'mcribbins@co.coos.or.us'
Cc: Bobbi Brooks
Subject: IMPORTANT info re - Todays BOC Agenda items


Dear Coos County Commissioners:
 
I strongly object to agenda items 4(D), 5 and 6 that are found on today’s Coos County agenda for reasons that are explained in detail further below. 
 
Item #4 Consent Calendar item #D:
Approval of Right-of-Way & Easement with Williams Pacific Connector Gas Operator, LLC – County Counsel.  Ratification of Signatures on Escrow Account Agreements with Cascade Contract Collections & AmeriTitle – County Counsel / Treasurer
 
Item #5 PUBLIC HEARING:
Amending the Coos County Code, Article 4, Division 1, Permits for Work in Right of Way.
 
Item #6 LATE AGENDA ITEMS
A.    Request Approval to Sell County Forest Land - Forestry
 
As a public body who should be looking out for the public's interest, there should be no agreements or signing of any contracts of any kind that involve international companies such as Veresen's Jordan Cove Energy Project, without the oversight of state and federal agencies that have experience in state, federal and international laws governing such activities. You would be foolish to put our county and yourselves at such liability and risk.
 
Please cease and desist from any and all activity involving the proposed Jordan Cove / Pacific Connector LNG export project.  The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has currently denied this project and it would not be in the public interest for Coos County, a governing decision-making body, to continue to process applications, contracts and/or easements at this time for the project.  There are multiple reasons for this including but not limited to:
 
1)    Multiple Gas Industry and Financial Reports have determined the Jordan Cove LNG project is not a viable project.  This is due to a glut of LNG in the international marketplace that is projected to continue well into the next decade and possibly even longer depending on the impact LNG projects that are currently under construction will have once they begin operations.  Please read my December 2015 comments that were submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission explaining these and other issues in more detail.  For the complete filing go to:
 
·       December 14, 2015:
http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20151214-5048
http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20151214-5051
 
2)    Coos County as a United States local governing body must be in compliance with all U.S. federal laws and regulations including those found under the National Environmental Policy Act; the Coastal Zone Management Act; the Clean Air Act; the Clean Water Act; the Estuary Protection Act; …etc.  On March 11, 2016, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued an Order denying the Jordan Cove / Pacific Connector project.  This should have prompted Coos County to stop any further work or permit processes on the project.  Coos County is currently in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act.      
 
3)    The proposed Jordan Cove and Pacific Connector project have not met the requirements necessary in order for them to obtain their Coos County conditional land use permits.  This among other public processes would be required prior to Coos County processing any kind of right-of-way or easement agreements.  When and where did the public hearing occur on agenda item 4 (D) concerning these right-of-way and easement agreements with Williams Pacific Connector Gas Operator, LLC?  Why wasn’t I and/or other citizens who are on Coos County Service Lists for the proposed Jordan Cove / Pacific Connector project notified?  
 
4)    The proposed Jordan Cove / Pacific Connector project would put citizens living in the county at extreme risk.  Those risk have been explained in detail to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission under Docket # CP13-483-000 and CP13-492-000.  For one example see: 

·       September 9, 2015:

http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20150909-5185
http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/file_list.asp?accession_num=20150910-5011


It is the duty of those representing our County to do everything in their power to protect the public health, safety and general welfare of all the citizens living in the County.
 
The county has not made available enough information to the public concerning today’s agenda items, nor have they provided any findings that determined these items are in the public interest.  The public has a right to have critical items such as these made available to them well in advance ( at least 21 days ) of County meetings/hearings and/or decisions on matters of importance such as these.  All related documents and materials should also be included in with the Coos County Commission agenda packets.  This did not occurred in this case.  Item 5  involving proposed Ordinance 16-03-001L has no Exhibit “A” that is attached. ( See http://www.co.coos.or.us/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=ClnlFtTTDlc%3d&tabid=141&portalid=0&mid=1169 )   The public cannot make a decision and/or provide meaningful comments on something they have not been given access to.      

 
I strongly recommend that you also reject late agenda item #6 involving Order #16-03-025L which has to do with the selling of ten separate Coos County forest lands to a private/foreign entity.  The County provided no visual map as to where all these various parcels are located, nor did they provide a finding as to how the permanent removal of Coos County forest lands would be in the public interest.  The enormous cost to the county losing this much forestlands was not provided or considered.  Where is the independent analysis showing the benefit/loss ratios and data?  Critical decisions such as this that involve such a large percentage of county forest lands should not be ramrodded through as a late agenda item.  That in itself is not in the public interest.  The public has a right to know well ahead of time on items this critical so that they are able to provide meaningful comments.  Citizens were not given ample opportunity to do that in this case.   Please give citizens that chance.        
 
Sincerely,
 
Jody McCaffree
PO Box 1113
North Bend, OR  97459  
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Related Posts:
Eminent Domain Protest in Coos Bay Monday April 4, 2016 ~ 5pm at The Mill Casino
LTE ~ Proponent Kissing Off Local Concerns About JCEP
LTE ~ More Transparency for the SCCF
Coos Bay School District Contract w/Superintendent Dawn Granger March 2014
LTE ~ Coos Bay School Board Ignoring Parents & Students
LTE ~ Leshley Still Uninformed
BOC ~ County Dog Board, Prisoner Release, Public Meeting for October 13, 14, & 15
Board of Commissioners Op-Ed for Measure 6-152 Transient Occupancy Tax
Coos Bay Alternative Location for Waste Water Treatment Plant Oct. 6, 2015
Bandon Cheese Factory Receives Private Financing & Still Pays No Property Taxes
LTE ~ Leshley Don't Know Dick About the JCEP Work Camp
Jody McCaffree Appeals LNG Road Construction Coos County Planning Oct. 9, 2015
Do Enterprise Zones Work? ~ An Ideopolis Policy Paper February 2011
Educational Enterprise Zone Workshop Roseburg OR Thursday, September 17, 2015
Coos County Planning Decisions on LNG & Effected Roads
LTE ~ CEP appears to be great for Canadian Veresen / JCEP
LTE ~ LNG Pipeline Man and His Bag of Money  
LTE ~ Should We Be Worried Dealing with Veresen and the LNG
LTE~ A Package of Rancor for Coos County Commissioner John Sweet

Comments

Coos County Sheriff's Posse 3rd Annual Chili Challenge Saturday, April 9, 2016

4/4/2016

Comments

 
Comments

Eminent Domain Protest in Coos Bay Monday April 4, 2016 ~ 5pm at The Mill Casino

4/4/2016

Comments

 
UPCOMING EVENTS for Landowners on the LNG Route: 

Coos County: April 4th 5-8pm at Mill Casino in Coos Bay

Douglas County: April 5th 5-8pm at Windmill Inn in Roseburg

Jackson County: April 6 5-8pm at the Inn at the Commons in Medford

Klamath County: April 7th 5-8pm at the Shilo Inn in Klamath Falls


WE SAID NO! FERC SAID NO AND DENIED THE PROJECT!

NO MEANS NO! 
Stand with Impacted Landowners Against Eminent Domain by the Government for a Private Company!

Monday April 4 - Thursday April 7 
After the FERC decision finding that 90 percent of landowners have not signed contracts to let the pipeline cross their land and reduce their property values, Williams, the Oklahoma based company proposing the pipeline, is now working hard to try to pressure landowners to sign.  They just announced they will be holding meetings with impacted landowners (only) next week throughout southern Oregon.

Landowners in all four impacted counties who have been facing threats of Eminent Domain for over 10 years have asked for our communities’ support in joining them and their neighbors for peaceful and respectful rallies outside of these meetings, asking Williams to leave their homes and our communities alone.   

Be there by 5pm. Wear read and bring your signs of support:
NO EMINENT DOMAIN FOR PRIVATE GAIN! 
NO MEANS NO!  
GO HOME TO CANADA!
LEAVE LANDOWNERS ALONE!

Coos County: April 4th 5-8pm at Mill Casino in Coos Bay

Douglas County: April 5th 5-8pm at Windmill Inn in Roseburg
Jackson County: April 6 5-8pm at the Inn at the Commons in Medford
Klamath County: April 7th 5-8pm at the Shilo Inn in Klamath Falls

Links to informative articles related to the LNG project: 

Japan's Jera says will significantly cut long-term LNG contracts
Tokyo - By Osamu Tsukimori and Yuka Obayashi
Oct 21, 2015
http://www.reuters.com/article/us-commodities-summit-jera-idUSKCN0SF0Y320151022


Interview: Jera eyes selling US Freeport LNG volume to Europe as alternative to Japan
Tokyo (Platts)--28 May 2015
http://www.platts.com/latest-news/natural-gas/tokyo/interview-jera-eyes-selling-us-freeport-lng-volume-26103915


Jordan Cove: New deal 'desperate' opponents say
By Troy Brynelson tbrynelson@nrtoday.com
http://www.nrtoday.com/news/21292423-113/jordan-cove-new-deal-desperate-opponents-say



Jordan Cove LNG finds potential gas buyer, says there is need for the project
By Ted Sickinger| The Oregonian/OregonLive 
March 25, 2016
http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2016/03/jordan_cove_lng_finds_potentia.html



Jordan Cove officials continue to express optimism
Devan Patel - The World
March 24, 2016
http://theworldlink.com/lng/jordan-cove-officials-continue-to-express-optimism/article_9135c16e-d01e-5839-96c4-696ebaea6d1a.html


Panama Canal Expansion to Open June 2016
Posted by Sutherland LNG on Mar 23, 2016
http://www.lnglawblog.com/2016/03/panama-canal-expansion-to-open-june-2016/


Veresen signs agreement to sell LNG
By Devan Patel
March 23, 2016
http://theworldlink.com/lng/veresen-signs-first-preliminary-agreement-to-purchase-lng/article_756e6166-6b28-564c-af6d-e9d3f054c696.html


Japanese venture and Jordan Cove agree to gas sale
By Dennis Webb 
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
http://www.gjsentinel.com/news/articles/japanese-venture8232and-jordan-cove8232-agree-to-g


Tokyo Gas Signs HOA for Cameron LNG Supplies
Sutherland LAW Blog
March 2, 2016
http://www.lnglawblog.com/2016/03/tokyo-gas-signs-hoa-for-cameron-lng-supplies/

Related Posts:
LTE ~ Proponent Kissing Off Local Concerns About JCEP
LTE ~ More Transparency for the SCCF
Coos Bay School District Contract w/Superintendent Dawn Granger March 2014
LTE ~ Coos Bay School Board Ignoring Parents & Students
LTE ~ Leshley Still Uninformed
BOC ~ County Dog Board, Prisoner Release, Public Meeting for October 13, 14, & 15
Board of Commissioners Op-Ed for Measure 6-152 Transient Occupancy Tax
Coos Bay Alternative Location for Waste Water Treatment Plant Oct. 6, 2015
Bandon Cheese Factory Receives Private Financing & Still Pays No Property Taxes
LTE ~ Leshley Don't Know Dick About the JCEP Work Camp
Jody McCaffree Appeals LNG Road Construction Coos County Planning Oct. 9, 2015
Do Enterprise Zones Work? ~ An Ideopolis Policy Paper February 2011
Educational Enterprise Zone Workshop Roseburg OR Thursday, September 17, 2015
Coos County Planning Decisions on LNG & Effected Roads
LTE ~ CEP appears to be great for Canadian Veresen / JCEP
LTE ~ LNG Pipeline Man and His Bag of Money  
LTE ~ Should We Be Worried Dealing with Veresen and the LNG
LTE~ A Package of Rancor for Coos County Commissioner John Sweet

Comments

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