Clatsop County Seeks Public Input For Fair & Expo Strategic Plan Update (Photo) - 03/26/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is inviting the public to help shape the future of the Fair & Expo by participating in a community survey and attending an upcoming open house on Saturday, April 18.

The County, in partnership with the Fair Board, has begun updating the Fair & Expo Strategic Plan. This will be the first comprehensive update since 2009 and will guide future decisions related to fairgrounds facilities, programming, and community use.

Community input is a key part of the planning process.

Residents, exhibitors, vendors, and event organizers are encouraged to share their ideas and priorities through a short online survey and by attending a public open house.

“The Fair & Expo brings people together, and this is a chance for the community to help shape its future," said Fair Board Chair, Abigale Goodman. “We hope people will take a few minutes to complete the survey or join us at the open house and share their ideas.”

Community Open House

When: Saturday, April 18, Noon–2 p.m.

Where: Clatsop County Fairgrounds

The open house will introduce the strategic planning process, provide an opportunity to learn more about the Fair & Expo, and gather feedback on facilities, events, and programming. Attendees may drop in at any time during the event. Snack will be provided.

In addition to the open house, community members can complete an online survey to share input. The survey takes just a few minutes and will remain open through April 30.

Take the survey: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/ajRKBQ5nf1

A second public open house will take place on May 20 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., where community members can review draft recommendations and provide feedback before the Strategic Plan is finalized. The strategic planning process includes data review, community partner engagement, and public input, and is scheduled for completion by June 30, 2026.

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Applications Invited For Planning Commission Vacancies (Photo) - 03/13/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is seeking applications from individuals interested in serving on the Clatsop County Planning Commission. The appointments will fill three positions whose terms expire on June 30, 2026.

The new terms will expire on June 30, 2030.

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, May 3, 2026.

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 formally appoint members in June 2026.

For additional information about the Planning Commission’s meetings or responsibilities, please email or call Gail Henrikson at 503-325-8611.

Hyperlink Correction: Clatsop County Fair Announces 2026 Concert Headliner And Return Of The Carnival (Photo) - 03/10/26

The 2026 Clatsop County Fair takes place July 22–25 at the Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center in Astoria.

ASTORIA, OR — Country music artist Kameron Marlowe will headline the 2026 Clatsop County Fair concert on Friday, July 24. Marlowe is a rising country artist who has built a strong national fan base with his blend of modern and traditional country music.

The Kruse Brothers, back by popular demand, will open the night.

The 2026 fair will also mark the return of the carnival, which has been absent since 2021. Rainier Amusements will provide rides and midway games throughout the four-day event.

“We are really excited to bring the carnival back to the fair this year,” said Kyle Sharpsteen, Manager of the Clatsop County Fair & Expo Center. “The rides and games help bring families to the fairgrounds, where they can also experience the agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, youth programs, and community competitions that are at the heart of the fair.”

Presale concert tickets are available now.

• General Admission: $30
• Front-of-Stage Section: $45

Ticketing fees are not included. General Admission Prices will increase the week of the fair.

Concert VIP sponsorship packages are available and include access to the VIP section along with promotional recognition and visibility during the event.

The Clatsop County Fair is supported by community partners including:

Grand Champion Sponsor

• WCT Marine and Construction, Inc. and Columbia Steel and Welding Supply

Blue Ribbon Sponsors

• Clatsop Community College
• Tillamook County Creamery Association.

In addition to the concert and carnival, the fair will feature livestock shows, youth exhibits, agricultural displays, vendors, and live entertainment throughout the fairgrounds.

The Fair Poster Contest is currently underway through the end of March, and applications are available for food, retail, and informational vendor booths for anyone interested in participating in the fair.

More information can be found on the Clatsop County Fair website.

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Clatsop County Commission Chair Mark Kujala Appointed To Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority (Photo) - 03/03/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Kujala has been appointed by Governor Tina Kotek to serve on the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority (IFA).

The IFA plays a key role in supporting Oregon communities by providing financial assistance for essential infrastructure projects, including water systems, wastewater facilities, transportation improvements, and other critical public works that strengthen local economies and public health.

“I’m honored to be appointed to the IFA,” said Kujala. “Strong infrastructure is essential to thriving communities, especially in rural and coastal areas like Clatsop County and I look forward to supporting investments that will benefit Oregonians statewide.”

As Chair of the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners, Kujala has been actively engaged in efforts to support economic development, housing, transportation, and environmental resilience. Governor Kotek’s appointment recognizes the importance of local voices in shaping statewide infrastructure policy and funding priorities.

Chair Kujala’s term begins March 1, 2026, and runs through February 28, 2030.

For more information about the Oregon IFA, visit the Oregon Business Development Department website.

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