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The comprehensive plan, and potential litigation are discussed in public and executive sessions.

LYONS FERRY MARINA– The Columbia Port Commissioners held their regular meeting at 5 p.m., June 8, 2022, at the Lyons Ferry Marina after having a tour of that facility. The operators lease the marina and camping area from the Port of Columbia. All Commissioners were present in person, Genie Crowe, Seth Bryan, and Johnny Watts. The Executive Director, Jennie Dickinson, was also present. Some members of the public attended using Zoom.

The Commissioners first quickly handled their administrative matters, approving the last meeting minutes, budget report, and vouchers.

Dickinson then gave a talk on the comprehensive plan process, explaining how a long-term plan is developed, including public hearings. The plan guides the Port staff, and operating outside the comp plan could expose the Port to legal pitfalls. Kim Boggs, the Port’s attorney, contributed to the discussion by giving some background to the process, saying the comprehensive plan process was developed to force communities to plan for sound land use. The comprehensive plan is a municipality’s strategic plan for growth. Both Dickinson and Boggs recommended hiring a professional to help guide the development of a comprehensive plan.

At this point, 5:18 p.m., the meeting went into executive session for fifteen minutes to discuss real estate and potential litigation.

Upon resuming the public session, Bryan moved to declare the property discussed during executive session surplus. Watts seconded the motion. It was passed unanimously. Dickinson explained the property discussed was a small piece of railroad property that is no longer needed by the railroad. Another business seeking to expand is interested in the property. The Port will hold a public hearing before the sale.

There was nothing to report on Blue Mountain Station other than some continuing landscape maintenance.

Dickinson said the required inspections for the Lyons Ferry Marina by the Army Corps of Engineers and KOA were complete for the year. The campground was packed during the Memorial Day Weekend, and reservations do not seem to have been negatively impacted by increased gas prices. The two Conestoga Wagons should arrive later this month if the manufacturer’s supply chain issues can be resolved.

Dickinson announced that the Fraternal Order of Eagles’ offer for the Weinhard Cafe on Main Street has been accepted. The fate of the old Eagles building, which was destroyed by fire a year ago, was unknown to her.

Columbia Pulp, according to Dickinson, expects a buyer will be found to acquire their assets before the end of the year. Columbia Pulp’s business office on Main Street is already listed for sale.

Dickinson said she is exploring ways the port district can help relieve the housing shortage in Columbia County.

The broadband project is on track, Dickinson announced. The project designer has been on-site to work on completing the plan so the project can be put out for bid.

Crowe adjourned the meeting at 6:01 p.m.