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The Benton County District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program is proud to announce a commemorative ceremony in honor of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, taking place on Monday, April 22, at 3:30 p.m. The event will be held at the Benton County Courthouse 3rd Floor Conference Room, and both the public and media are invited to attend.

National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, observed from April 21 to April 27, 2024, serves as a reminder of the significance of providing support, options, and hope for those affected by crime. The theme for 2024 urges us all—friends, family members, neighbors, colleagues, community leaders, victim service providers, criminal justice practitioners, and health professionals—to reflect on our readiness to assist crime victims. 

“We must listen to survivors and be willing to create new options for support to ensure that all victims of crime can seek and receive justice. We must do everything we can to show survivors that hope – the belief the future will be better – is not just tangible but within their reach. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week encourages all people to ask themselves the question of how they would help the victim of a crime,” said Stephanie Rath, the victim assistance program manager for Benton County.

“To search deeper into these crucial questions and explore avenues of support, the Benton County District Attorney’s Office is encouraging community members to visit the Office for Victims of Crime website and explore the 2024 National Crime Victims’ Rights Week Resource Guide. This comprehensive guide offers a wealth of resources, including outreach tools, sample materials for both traditional and social media, a historical overview of the crime victims’ rights movement, and original artwork designed to unite efforts nationwide. 

For more information about the Benton County District Attorney’s Victim Assistance Program ceremony or National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, please contact Stephanie Rath at stephanie.rath@bentoncountyor.gov (541) 766-6688.

PHOTO CAPTION: The Benton County Board of Commissioners has issued a proclamation in Benton County for National Crime Victims’ Rights Week from Apr. 21-27, and the Benton County District Attorney’s Office conducting a ceremony, on Apr. 22, at the Benton County Courthouse in Corvallis to promote victims’ rights and honor crime victims’ who advocate on their behalf. Flags outside the Historic Benton County Courthouse represent victimizations reported in Benton County.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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The Benton County Historic Resources Commission, in collaboration with the Natural Areas, Parks, and Events Department, and the State Historic Preservation Office, is pleased to announce the Fort Hoskins’ Commander’s House Chimney Restoration Workshop. This workshop aims to educate participants on the repointing of a historic chimney using lime-based mortar.

• Date: Sunday, April 21, 2024
• Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• Location: Commander’s House, Fort Hoskins, 22953 Hoskins Rd, Benton County

Limited to 8 participants, attendees are required to sign up in advance to secure their spot. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from expert instructors and can coordinate with them for further involvement in chimney repair beyond the workshop.

This event is free of charge and offers a unique hands-on experience in preserving local historical heritage. Media personnel are welcome to attend and cover the event.

For more information or to register, please contact Inga Williams at Inga.Williams@bentoncountyor.gov

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This month, the Children and Family Mental Health Program will relocate from their current leased space at 1318 NW 9th Street to a new building on 4185 SW Research Way in Corvallis.  

Benton County Behavioral Health expanded to include Children and Family Mental Health services in June 2021. The program provides therapeutic services, including outpatient, school-based, and wraparound services for youth under age 18 with a mental health diagnosis and identifiable treatment goals. The program was implemented to help meet the ever-growing needs of the community when it comes to serving youth and addressing their mental health concerns. They have been operating in their current location since January of 2022. 

“Our current building is too small for us and can limit what we’re able to do with the children and families we serve,” said Kristi Reher, Program Manager. “Our team is great at getting creative to make it work, but this new building will offer way more opportunities for us to provide the quality of services we want to offer our clients and that our families deserve.” 

The new facility is located on Research Way, the same road as the Benton County Sunset and Kalapuya buildings, as well as the local Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) building, offering further opportunity for increased collaboration between the agencies. 

“We work in close collaboration with the Developmental Diversity Program, ODHS, and the Juvenile Department, so it will be really beneficial to be right next door to them,” said Reher. 

The timeline of events for the relocation is as follows: 

• April 15 – Last day of services at 1318 NW 9^th St, Corvallis. 
• April 16-23 – All appointments scheduled during this time will be held virtually via telehealth or out in the community while the team works to pack up and move into the new facility. No office visits are available during this time. People needing assistance should call 541-766-6767. 
• April 24 – services begin at 4185 SW Research Way, Corvallis. 

For more information about the program, visit their website. 

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

El Programa de Salud Mental para Niños y Familias del Condado de Benton cambia de oficina 

Este mes, el Programa de Salud Mental para Niños y Familias cambiará de oficinas de su espacio rentado en 1318 NW 9th Street a un nuevo edificio en 4185 SW Research Way en Corvallis.  

El Programa de Salud de Conducta del Condado de Benton se agrandó para incluir servicios de salud mental para niños y familias en junio de 2021. El programa ofrece servicios terapéuticos, incluyendo servicios ambulatorios, escolares para jóvenes menores de 18 años que tienen un diagnóstico de salud mental y que tienen objetivos de tratamiento identificables. El programa se implementó para ayudar a satisfacer las crecientes necesidades de la comunidad cuando se trata de atender a los jóvenes y abordar sus problemas de salud mental. Han estado ofreciendo servicios en su oficina actual desde enero de 2022. 

"Nuestro edificio actual es demasiado pequeño para nosotros y puede limitar lo que podemos hacer con los niños y las familias a las que servimos", dijo Kristi Reher, directora del programa. "Nuestro equipo es excelente y creativo para hacer su trabajo, pero este nuevo edificio nos ofrecerá muchas más oportunidades para brindar la calidad de los servicios que queremos ofrecer a nuestros clientes y que nuestras familias merecen". 

La nueva instalación está ubicada en la calle Research Way, la misma calle donde se ubican los edificios de Sunset y Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, así como el edificio local del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregón (ODHS), lo que ofrece más oportunidades para una mayor colaboración entre las agencias. 

"Trabajamos en colaboración con el Programa de Diversidad del Desarrollo, ODHS y con el Departamento Juvenil, por lo que será realmente beneficioso estar al lado de ellos", dijo Reher.    

Las fechas importantes para la reubicación son las siguientes:  

• 15 de abril: último día de servicios en 1318 NW 9th Street, Corvallis. 
• 16 al 23 de abril: todas las citas programadas durante este tiempo se llevarán a cabo virtualmente a través de telesalud o en la comunidad mientras el equipo trabaja para empacar y mudarse a las nuevas instalaciones. No habrá visitas disponibles en el consultorio durante este tiempo. Las personas que necesiten ayuda deben llamar al 541-766-6767. 
• 24 de abril: los servicios comienzan en 4185 SW Research Way, Corvallis. 

Para obtener más información sobre el programa, visite su sitio web. 

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con Cory Grogan al 541-745-4468 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Benton County Public Works is pleased to announce funding has been secured with the support of the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for the Alsea Safe Routes to School Crossings project and is asking for feedback from the community.

The Alsea Safe Routes to School Crossings project will focus on implementing intersection safety enhancements along Alsea Highway at Second Street and Third Street. Benton County Public Works is currently in the design phase of the project, with construction anticipated to commence in the Summer of 2024.

Key project details include:

• Timeline: Construction scheduled for Summer 2024
• Status: Design in progress
• Funding Source: State Sidewalk Improvement Program (SWIP) and Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) Pedestrian and Bicycle Program fund
• Description: The project will entail drainage enhancements, installation of new ADA sidewalk curb ramps, curb extensions, and the installation of a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon crossing at Third Street. Additionally, Benton County Public Works is collaborating with ODOT to secure approval for striped crosswalks and permanent speed feedback signs upon entry into Alsea.

For further information and updates, to contact the project team, and share your feedback, please visit the project website at Public Works Projects - Benton County or call 541-766-6812. 

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov

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The Benton County Fair & Rodeo has released its concert line-up and shows that are free with fair admission:

Wednesday, July 31

• 6:00 p.m. - Vikki the ventriloquist
• 6:45 p.m. - Jeff the magician
• 7:30 p.m. - Matt the comedian

Thursday, August 1

• 7:00 p.m. - Kurt Van Meter  
• 8:30 p.m. - Jessta James 

Friday, August 2

• 7:00 p.m. - Remedy  
• 8:30 p.m. - Shot of Poison   

Saturday, August 3

• 7:00 p.m. - Boomtown Saints  
• 8:30 p.m. - Sawyer Brown  

The Main Stage is sponsored by Pioneer Connect.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1

Jessta James - Hailing from the mountains of Big Sky Country, Jessta James has been a surprise to most who have witnessed his rise. He's a self-taught singer, songwriter, music producer, film maker and actor who has continued to break the rules since day one. Jessta’s early sound was constantly evolving. Pioneering the combination of organic country sounds with the cadence and grit of real hip hop, his journey took him from touring with rap legends to performing at the CMA Fest in Nashville. 

Opening for Jessta James is rising country music star Kurt Van Meter. Kurt’s story is that of true American folklore. From an early age riding shotgun in his dad’s pick up in Southern Oregon, to his football career at Oregon State University, to his stint as a law enforcement officer, to his days riding bulls and listening to the all-time great country artists like Kenny Rogers, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, and even Box Car Willie while working the fields.... Kurt Van Meter doesn’t just sing about country music ideals — he has lived them.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2

Shot Of Poison - Shot of Poison (SOP) is a group of talented, veteran, rock musicians who've created the world's best tribute to the 35th anniversary of the greatest, hard-rocking, glam-slam party band ever - Poison. SOP's intention is to bring audiences the look and sound they expect, to make the very best modern-day Poison experience. For these guys, the word "supergroup" is truly apt. Since their first show in Dec. 2017, SOP has achieved major milestones and amassed numerous distinctions that few other tributes ever do. The band has been recognized and praised by Poison's Bret Michaels, performed live on stage with his band, appeared on E! Entertainment Television, and played alongside original hard-rock stars of the '80s at major festivals across the country.    

Opening for Shot of Poison is REMEDY, a 5-piece high energy rock performance band, playing the best dance songs from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. Get ready to dance to a jukebox of great memories!

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

Sawyer Brown - Since 1984, the band’s high-energy reputation, uncompromising dedication to their fans, with their relentless drive to stay true to themselves has never wavered. For the last 40 years, “The Boys” legendary live shows have captivated audiences with no sign of ever slowing down. Today, Sawyer Brown keeps on delivering their unapologetically blue-collar, grass-roots message through music. One of their fan favorite songs says it all. “They were searching” when they came along. It was rock-n-roll in a country song. There were five of us thinking that we can. This is the life and times of a traveling band. 

Boomtown Saints - With their debut single “All Trucks Go To Heaven” climbing into the top 30, the Billboard charts followed by their sophomore release "Blacktop Don't" becoming the #1 independent song on country radio for 12 weeks (reaching #13 on the charts), 8 Track Entertainment and Warner Music Group recording artist BOOMTOWN SAINTS is the next "it" duo in country music.

Concerts are free with paid admission to the fair. Seating in the outdoor venue is first come, first serve. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the music under the stars.  

Fair tickets are on sale now! Visit www.bentoncountyfair.net for up-to-date information regarding fair schedules and ticketing or call 541-766-6521.

If you would also like to become a sponsor or reserve a VIP Diamond table, please call the fairgrounds office at 541-766-6521. 

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov

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• PHOTOS

On Apr. 4, Oregon’s 4^th Congressional District Representative, Val Hoyle, visited the Benton County Commissioners and Sheriff, to celebrate federal funding totaling almost $2 million for two important projects that are a part of the $14.6 million Hoyle helped secure for her district.

Hoyle first toured the Monroe Health Center, an important healthcare resource in rural Benton County. With federal funding secured through Hoyle's efforts, the out-of-date rural health center will receive an upgrade to deliver essential services in a more modern and efficient setting. Lacey Mollel, the interim executive director for the Community Health Centers of Benton & Linn Counties, expressed gratitude for the support and funding, recognizing its potential to enhance patient care.

Hoyle's advocacy shows a commitment to empowering local voices and ensuring that federal resources address the unique needs of each community. During the visit, Hoyle emphasized the importance of tailoring federal support to align with local priorities.

Federal funds will also strengthen public safety in Benton County. 

Sheriff Jef Van Arsdall detailed plans for enhanced communication infrastructure, crucial for navigating emergencies and ensuring community well-being emphasizing the pivotal role of federal support in bolstering emergency response capabilities.

Hoyle said she sees these projects as more than just infrastructure upgrades. They symbolize the power of local engagement and collective action. By aligning federal investment with community priorities, Hoyle and local leaders are paving the way for meaningful change and empowerment at the grassroots level.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov

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With significant shifts in waste management and disposal practices, and the development of innovative technologies, Benton County stands at the forefront of redefining its approach to solid waste and disposal management. As we navigate this pivotal time, Benton County is inviting passionate and committed individuals from across our community to step forward and join the Disposal Site Advisory Committee (DSAC).

What Does the Committee Do?

The Disposal Site Advisory Committee, appointed by the Benton County Board of Commissioners, operates under a set of Board-adopted bylaws and the requirements of Oregon Revised Statutes ORS 459 to fill a crucial role in the monitoring of disposal site management. Here's how you can contribute:

• Review and Advise: Collaborate with the disposal site permittee to assess the siting, operation, closure, and long-term monitoring of the Coffin Butte regional disposal site.
• Engage the Community: Provide a platform for community feedback, questions, and concerns regarding the disposal site, fostering dialogue between the community and site operators.
• Annual Reporting: Prepare a comprehensive annual report summarizing local residents’ concerns and the actions taken by the site operator to address them.

What Can You Expect?

As a member of the DSAC, you'll typically participate in quarterly meetings, with additional sub-committee work and occasional extra meetings. On average, committee members dedicate five to ten hours per quarter to support the Board’s DSAC initiatives. No prior experience in solid waste or environmental fields is required – we welcome diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to our community's well-being.

How to Apply

Are you ready to make a tangible impact on Benton County's materials management system? 

To apply, simply visit our website and complete the application process.

Join Us in Building a Sustainable Future

As Benton County charts a course toward a more sustainable future, participation in the DSAC is crucial. This is a chance to embrace an opportunity to create a thriving community that prioritizes environmental stewardship and innovation.

For more information about the appointment process, visit Benton County Boards & Committees - or contact Teresa Larson at 541-766-6890 or by email. For information about DSAC functions and operations, please email the County’s solid waste staff at letstalktrash@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov

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The Benton County Public Podcast is pleased to announce the release of Episode 9, now available for streaming and download. This episode delves into diverse topics about our community to foster dialogue and understanding.

Listen to Episode 9 of the Benton County Public Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/bentonpublicpodcast 

Episode 9 features a lineup that includes:

• An interview with podcast producer Dan Crall hiking with the new Benton County Administrator Rachel McEneny, offering insights into her personal experiences and perspective as a new leader in Benton County.
• The proclamation of Black History Month highlights the County's dedication to acknowledging and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans to our shared heritage.
• A narrative about the Benton County Historic Courthouse Bell Tower, weaving together history, tradition, and the essence of community.
• A special acknowledgment gathering for Benton County’s new website, expressing gratitude to the dedicated crew behind the scenes who make our digital presence possible.

Alongside these engaging segments, listeners will find Public Service Announcements for the community's benefit.

The Benton County Public Podcast provides a platform for deeper exploration of topics that matter most to our community. We invite everyone to listen, reflect, and engage with us. Your feedback is important to us, and we encourage you to share your thoughts by contacting pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov

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On Tuesday, April 2, Benton County Commissioners will proclaim April 1-7, 2024, Public Health Week in Benton County to celebrate the 29th year of National Public Health Week. This year’s theme is “Protecting, Connecting and Thriving: We Are All Public Health.”

Benton County’s observance celebrates the leadership, dedication, and innovation of many partners throughout the county, including the County Health Department, other local jurisdictions, community-based organizations, health systems, and many more.

“We know that we can’t do this work alone. We rely on strong partnerships with community-based organizations and diverse community members who help make this work possible,” said Benton County Commissioner Chair, Xanthippe Augerot.

The proclamation reading will take place during the regularly scheduled Board of Commissioners Meeting at 9:00 am on Tuesday, April 2. The community is invited to attend in person at the Benton County Kalapuya building, virtually via Zoom, or via livestream through Facebook. All meeting details can be found on the County website at: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

The timing of Public Health Week coincides with the release of the Robert Wood Johnson County Health Rankings and Roadmap 2024 National Findings Report. These rankings look at different factors and conditions that affect the health and well-being of county residents and are made up of four categories: health behavior, clinical care, social and economic factors, and physical environment.

According to the rankings, Benton County is faring better than the average county in the nation for health factors and outcomes. While the rankings are positive, Benton County is committed to focusing on the many opportunities to work on improving the health for all people who live, work, and play in Benton County, particularly for marginalized populations and for those who experience difficulty achieving optimal health.

Sara Hartstein, Interim Deputy Director of Public Health at Benton County said, “We have a lot of work to do! While the efforts of the Health Department are vital to sustaining and improving community health, it takes every person in Benton County to bring compassion, expertise, innovation, and care to our community.”

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El martes 2 de abril, los Comisionados del Condado de Benton proclamarán del 1 al 7 de abril de 2024 la Semana de la Salud Pública en el Condado de Benton para celebrar el 29.º año de la Semana Nacional de la Salud Pública. El tema de este año es "Proteger, conectar y prosperar: todos somos salud pública".

Este evento en el Condado de Benton celebra el liderazgo, la dedicación y la innovación de muchos socios en todo el condado, incluido el Departamento de Salud del condado, otras jurisdicciones locales, organizaciones comunitarias, sistemas de salud y muchos más.

“Sabemos que no podemos hacer este trabajo solos. Dependemos de sólidas relaciones con organizaciones y diversos miembros de la comunidad que ayudan a hacer posible este trabajo”, dijo el Presidente de los Comisionado del Condado de Benton, Xanthippe Augerot.

La lectura de la proclamación se llevará a cabo durante la reunión regular de la Junta de Comisionados a las 9:00 am del martes 2 de abril. Se invita a la comunidad a asistir en persona en el edificio Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, o virtualmente a través de Zoom o mediante la transmisión en vivo a través de Facebook. Todos los detalles de la reunión se pueden encontrar en el sitio web del condado en: https://boc.bentoncountyor.gov/events/april-2-2024-tuesday-board-meeting/

 La Semana de la Salud Pública coincide con la publicación del Informe Nacional de Resultados de la Hoja de Ruta y las Clasificaciones de Salud del Condado de Robert Wood Johnson 2024. Estas clasificaciones analizan diferentes factores y condiciones que afectan la salud y el bienestar de los residentes del condado y se componen de cuatro categorías: comportamiento de salud, atención clínica, factores sociales y económicos y entorno físico.

Según las clasificaciones, al Condado de Benton le está yendo mejor que al condado promedio del país en cuanto a factores y resultados de salud. Si bien las clasificaciones son positivas, el Condado de Benton se compromete a centrarse en las muchas oportunidades de trabajar para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan y juegan en el Condado de Benton, particularmente para las poblaciones marginadas y para aquellos que experimentan dificultades para lograr una salud óptima.

Sara Hartstein, Subdirectora Interina de Salud Pública del Condado de Benton, dijo: “¡Tenemos mucho trabajo por hacer! Si bien los esfuerzos del Departamento de Salud son vitales para mantener y mejorar la salud de la comunidad, se necesita que cada persona en el Condado de Benton aporte compasión, experiencia, innovación y atención a nuestra comunidad”.

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please call Cory Grogan at 541-745-4468 or email pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov