Courthouse Elevator Modernization Project Begins August 18 (Photo)
-08/12/25
(Astoria, OR) - Clatsop County will begin work to modernize the elevator at the Clatsop County Courthouse on Monday, August 18, 2025. The project is part of a broader effort to improve accessibility, safety, and infrastructure at the historic courthouse.
The courthouse elevator will be out of service for approximately 4 to 6 weeks while the upgrade is completed. During this time, visitors and staff should plan accordingly, as stair access will be required to reach upper floors.
“We recognize how important reliable access is for the public and our employees, and we appreciate the community’s patience as we make these improvements,” said Buildings & Grounds Facilities Manager Matt Gerber. “The new elevator will enhance access for everyone who visits or works in the courthouse.”
County staff are available to assist members of the public who may need accommodation during the construction period. Visitors with accessibility needs are encouraged to call ahead. For those unable to complete their court business by phone, a drop box and a courtesy phone will be available on the lower level to contact the Circuit Court and District Attorney’s Office.
The elevator modernization is one of several improvements currently underway at the courthouse, including the construction of a new single point of entry and security checkpoint to enhance building safety for all visitors and employees.
The courthouse elevator is the first of several elevator upgrades scheduled over the next year in County buildings.
For questions or to request accommodation, please contact Clatsop County Circuit Court at 503-325-8555 or Clatsop County District Attorney’s Office at 503-325-8581.
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Candidates Sought For Property Value Appeals Board (Photo)
-08/08/25
(Astoria, OR) — The Clatsop County Board of Commissions is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving on the County Property Value Appeals Board (PVAB) for the 2025-2027 term.
The Property Value Appeals Board hears petitions from taxpayers seeking to decrease their real market or assessed value of real and personal property. The committee holds one to five day-time meetings in February and March to hear petitions. The committee adjourns no later than April 15, with the term ending June 30, 2027.
The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners is seeking qualified candidates who will:
• Have a solid understanding of the local real estate market—both residential and commercial
• Be comfortable participating in public hearings, able to review documentation quickly while listening to testimony, and capable of making fair, informed decisions in real time
• Bring skills in mediation, real estate appraisal, financing, or related areas
• Be familiar with Oregon’s property tax system
Applicants must be Clatsop County residents and may not be employees of the County or any taxing district within the County. The Board of Commissioners appoints a pool of candidates, from which the County Clerk selects three members to serve on the Property Value Appeals Board.
To apply for a PVAB position, visit the Clatsop County website. The deadline to turn in completed applications to Clatsop County Clerk’s office is 5 p.m. Monday, September 15, 2025. Training is required and will be provided in January.
For PVAB procedural information, contact the Clatsop County Clerk’s office at 503-325-8511.
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Applications Invited For Planning Commission Vacancy (Photo)
-07/21/25
(Astoria, OR) — Clatsop County is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving on the Clatsop County Planning Commission. The appointment will fill a vacant seat whose term would expire on June 30, 2026.
Applicants from Commissioner District 1 and Commission District 5 are especially encouraged to apply.
The Planning Commission is the county’s committee for citizen involvement on development and land use issues, such as zoning, natural resources, transportation, natural hazards, economic development, housing, farm and forest lands and coastal zones.
The commission makes land use decisions on subdivisions and makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners on amendments to the comprehensive plan and its implementing ordinances.
Committee application forms are available on the Clatsop County website or at the County Manager’s office at 800 Exchange St., Suite 410 in Astoria. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, September 7, 2025.
The Planning Commission regularly meets in Astoria at 10 a.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Meetings are currently hybrid, with an in-person and virtual option available.
The Board of Commissioners is tentatively scheduled to review applicants at its Wednesday, September 24 work session, with appointments tentatively scheduled for Wednesday, October 8.
For additional information about the commission’s meetings or responsibilities, please email or call Gail Henrikson at 503-325-8611.
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