Clatsop County To Illuminate Buildings Green For Operation Green Light In Support Of Veterans - 10/08/26

ASTORIA, OR - Clatsop County’s buildings will be illuminated green November 4 -11, 2026 as part of Operation Green Light for Veterans.

This national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties supports military veterans and raises awareness about unique challenges faced by many veterans and resources available at the county, state, and federal level to assist them and their families.

“Something as simple as changing a light bulb can send a powerful message,” said Clatsop County Board Chair Mark Kujala. “When our homes, businesses and public buildings shine green, we’re showing veterans throughout Clatsop County that their community stands with them. I hope everyone will join us in making that message visible.”

Along with lighting County buildings, residents, businesses, and other local agencies are encouraged to take part by changing one or more light bulbs inside or outside your home or place of business to a green bulb from November 4-11. This simple act not only expresses our support, it also helps spark conversations about the needs of veterans in our community and the services available to them and their families.

Confirmed participants so far include Clatsop Community Action, Astoria Elks #180, and the cities of Astoria, Cannon Beach, and Seaside. Clatsop County is grateful for their partnership in honoring our veterans and encourages other local agencies and businesses to join the effort. 

By shining a green light, we seek to let our veterans know that they are seen, appreciated, and supported. Community members can share their participation on social media using the hashtag #OperationGreenLight.

Need a green bulb? To help the community participate, a limited number of free bulbs are available at the following locations while supplies last:

• Veteran Services Office at Clatsop Community College
  1717 Lexington Ave, Astoria, OR 97103 | Thurs–Fri, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

• County Manager’s Office, 4th Floor Reception
  800 Exchange Street, Astoria, OR 97103 | Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.

Visit the County’s Veteran Services Program webpage for more information and links to resources available to veterans.

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Clash Of The Cowboys Roughstock Rodeo Coming To Clatsop County Fair & Expo November 14 - 10/07/26

A full evening of Western action, family fun and entertainment in Clatsop County

ASTORIA, OR — The Clatsop County Fair & Expo is bringing the excitement of roughstock rodeo to Clatsop County this fall with the Clash of the Cowboys Roughstock Rodeo, presented by Jason Kraushaar Contracting, LLC, on Saturday, November 14, 2026.

The indoor rodeo will feature an action-packed night of bulls, broncs and barrels, operated by Howell Rodeo Company. Rodeo fans and families are invited to experience the excitement of the arena, along with vendor exhibits and a variety of activities throughout the evening.

The fun begins before the rodeo with a free, family-friendly pre-show program at 4 p.m. hosted by the Clatsop County Fair & Expo. The pre-show will take place in the Exhibit Hall and outside the main entrance and is open to the public at no cost.

Visitors can enjoy retail vendors, food trucks, a mechanical bull, cash bar, dummy roping competition, music and more during the pre-show.

Event Schedule
Saturday, November 14, 2026
Clatsop County Fair & Expo
92937 Walluski Loop, Astoria, OR 97103

• 4 p.m. — Free Pre-Show: Exhibit Hall and food trucks outside the main entrance
• 6 p.m. — Indoor Arena Doors Open
• 7 p.m. — Clash of the Cowboys Roughstock Rodeo Begins

The rodeo will take place indoors with bleacher seating. Guests are welcome to bring a seat cushion for additional comfort. Free parking is available at the fairgrounds.

Ticket Information
Tickets are required for the Clash of the Cowboys Roughstock Rodeo.

Advance Tickets:

• Adults: $25 + ticket fees and taxes
• Children 10 and under: $10 + ticket fees and taxes
• Children under 24 months: Free when seated on a parent or guardian's lap

At the Door:

• Adults: $30 + ticket fees and taxes
• Children 10 and under: $12 + ticket fees and taxes

Tickets are available online at clatsopcofair.com. Sales are final. No refunds.

A Night of Western Action
The Clash of the Cowboys Roughstock Rodeo is designed to deliver an exciting night of Western entertainment for rodeo fans and newcomers alike. The evening will feature:

• Bulls
• Broncs
• Barrels
• Rodeo action operated by Howell Rodeo Company
• Vendor exhibits
• Food trucks
• Music and entertainment
• Dummy roping competition
• Mechanical bull
• Cash bar

With the combination of a free family-friendly pre-show and an exciting indoor rodeo, the event offers something for everyone — whether you're a longtime rodeo fan or looking for a fun Saturday night out.

The Clatsop County Fair & Expo is located at 92937 Walluski Loop in Astoria. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the free pre-show, grab some food, visit vendors and take part in the activities before heading into the arena. Go to clatsopcofair.com/ for more information.

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Election Registration Deadline Is October 13 - 10/06/26

ASTORIA, OR — The deadline to register to vote in the November 3, 2026 General Election is Tuesday, October 13.

“Registering to vote is quick and easy,” said Tracie Krevanko, County Clerk. “You can sign up online at www.oregonvotes.gov or complete a registration card and send it by mail. Just make sure your card is postmarked by October 13 to be accepted.”

Voter registration cards are available from the Clatsop County Clerk and Elections Office, 820 Exchange St., Astoria, local post offices, public libraries and Department of Motor Vehicles offices. Cards can also be downloaded from the Oregon Secretary of State website and printed.

Voters who are already registered must update their registration if they have:

• Moved or changed their mailing address
• Changed their name
• Wish to change their party affiliation

You can find out your current registration status by going to the Oregon Secretary of State’s “My Vote” webpage.

Ballots will be mailed to registered voters on October 14.

More information on voter registration at clatsopcounty.gov.

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Clatsop County Releases Property Tax Statements For The 2026-27 Tax Year - 10/01/26

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County will mail 2026-27 property tax statements beginning mid-October, and all statements will be sent no later than October 25.

Property owners who are enrolled in e-Statements will receive their 2026-27 property tax statement by email instead of by mail.

Enrollment is now open for the 2027–28 tax year. To sign up, visit apps.clatsopcounty.gov/property/estatements/request/.

You will need your property tax account number, name and email address to enroll.

Your property tax statement serves as the value notice and tax bill for the fiscal year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027).  Property taxes are calculated based on your property’s assessed value and the tax rates of the districts serving your property. Some statements may also include additional taxes, special assessment fees, or charges.

Your statement summarizes the property’s Real Market Value (RMV), Assessed Value (AV), annual taxes, and payment due dates. If you believe the Assessed Value (AV) is incorrect, your appeal rights are outlined on the back of the statement.

This year’s changes reflect a 3% assessed value growth, new construction, and voter-approved levies and bonds. Property owners in affected districts may see increases greater than 3%.

Voter-Approved Measures and Legislative Changes – 2026–27

The following voter-approved measures and legislative changes will be reflected in the 2026–27 property tax statements:

• City of Warrenton – A 21-year bond for improvements to the wastewater collection, treatment, and disposal system, approved by voters in 2024, first levied on the 2026–27 property tax statements.
• Special Assessments – Property owners within diking district boundaries may see additional changes based on acreage and district rates.
  • Drainage Improvement District No. 1 has a significant rate increase for 2026–27, which may result in a noticeable increase.
• Rural Fire Patrol Assessments – Effective for the 2026–27 property tax year, because of the passage of HB 3940, you may see changes to Rural Fire Patrol District (RFPD) assessment charges, including:
  • Properties located within both city limits and an RFPD boundary are now subject to the RFPD assessment, including vacant land.
  • Improved properties outside city limits, the assessable acreage increases from 5 acres to 10 acres.
  • Vacant land outside city limits that are 10 acres or less and located within an RFPD boundary are now subject to the RFPD assessment.
• For general questions contact your local Rural Fire department.

Services Funded by Property Taxes

Clatsop County collects and distributes property taxes to 66 taxing districts that provide essential public services throughout the county, including:

• County Government – public safety, road improvements, elections, and public health
• Cities – police and fire protection, urban renewal projects, and other municipal services
• Education – K-12 schools, Clatsop Community College, NW Regional Education Service District
• Port of Astoria
• Rural Fire Districts and Special Districts

Payment Options and Due Dates

• Pay in full by November 16, 2026 — receive a 3% discount
• Pay two-thirds by November 16, 2026 — receive a 2% discount
• Pay in three installments:
  • November 16, 2026
  • February 15, 2027
  • May 17, 2027

Property owners who pay at least one-third by December 15, 2026 receive no discount.

Please refer to the back of your tax statement for complete payment options and due dates.

Payment Options

In Person

Clatsop County Tax Office
820 Exchange St., Suite 210
Astoria, OR 97103

Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., excluding holidays. An ADA-accessible entrance is available on Exchange Street.

Drop Box

A secure payment drop box is available near the corner of 9th and Exchange streets.

Please do not confuse the tax payment drop box with the nearby ballot drop box.

An additional payment drop box is available inside the Tax Office for customers who want to drop off a payment without waiting in line.

By Mail

Payments must be postmarked by November 16, 2026, to qualify for a discount.

Under Oregon law, the U.S. Postal Service postmark is recognized as the official payment date. Because some mail is sent to a central processing facility before receiving a postmark, taxpayers are encouraged to mail payments early.

Make checks payable to:

Clatsop County Tax Collector

Mail payments to:
Clatsop County Tax Collector
820 Exchange St., Suite 210
Astoria, OR 97103

Online

Property taxes may be paid online. Visit Pay Taxes Online for payment options and fee information. Processing fees apply.

Automated Phone Payment

Call 855-233-4031 and provide your property tax account number to make a payment through the automated phone system. Processing fees apply.

Important Notes

• Mark your calendar. Clatsop County does not send reminder notices for the second and third payment dates if you choose to pay in three installments.
• Interest will be charged. Clatsop County does not have legal authority to extend payment deadlines or waive interest. Under Oregon law, interest will be charged on unpaid property taxes beginning December 16, 2026.
• Payments postmarked by the due date are considered on time. We encourage property owners to mail payments early to avoid potential delays. Consider using certified or other trackable mail for added assurance.
• Receipt. Your canceled check serves as your receipt. If you would like a payment receipt mailed to you, include a self-addressed, stamped envelope with your payment.

Understanding the Color of Your Tax Bill

• Yellow Tax Statement – County records indicate that a mortgage company or Oregon’s Senior Deferral Program will be paying the property taxes. If you have questions about who is responsible for making the payment, contact your mortgage company. Property owners remain responsible for ensuring their taxes are paid.
   
• Green Tax Statement – This indicates that the property owner is responsible for paying the taxes. Keep the top portion of the statement for your records and return the bottom portion with payment in the envelope provided.

Search Your Property Account

Clatsop County Assessment & Taxation provides a searchable online property account database with current property tax and assessment information.

Property owners can search by:

• Street address
• Property tax account number
• Taxlot Key, such as 80908CB07100

Visit www.clatsopcounty.gov/381/Assessment-Taxation and select Property Info. For more information go to ClatsopCounty.gov.

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Clatsop County Welcomes Release Of $14.5 Million For CMH Resilience Project - 09/28/26

Federal funding supports tsunami-resilient hospital expansion and vertical evacuation structure

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County is welcoming the release of more than $14.5 million in federal funding for Columbia Memorial Hospital’s expansion project in Astoria, clearing a major hurdle for construction of a more disaster-resilient hospital and vertical tsunami evacuation structure.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency funding will support resilience features incorporated into the new hospital, including a deep-pile foundation and a vertical evacuation structure designed to accommodate up to 1,900 people. Critical infrastructure, including generators and the hospital’s helipad, will also be located above the tsunami inundation zone.

The funding was awarded through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program but had remained unavailable as the future of the BRIC program was challenged during the past year.

“This victory was made possible by an extraordinary, multi-level coalition that showcases the true power of local, state, and federal collaboration,” said Mark Kujala, Chair of the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners. “Our community kept this project front and center, and people at every level of government continued working together to make sure this critical funding was restored.”

Kujala credited Oregon Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden and Reps. Suzanne Bonamici and Cliff Bentz for their continued advocacy, along with Gov. Tina Kotek, Attorney General Dan Rayfield, Sen. Suzanne Weber, Rep. Cyrus Javadi, and the Oregon Legislature’s Joint Ways and Means Committee.

He also thanked his fellow County Commissioners, County Manager Don Bohn, Sheriff Matt Phillips, Emergency Management Director Justin Gibbs, and partners at Oregon Emergency Management who worked with the County and CMH throughout the funding uncertainty.

“When FEMA went dark over the last 17 months, Jon Weibe, Rachel Foley, and Stephen Richardson at Oregon Emergency Management kept us entirely aligned and compliant,” Kujala said. “Likewise, the dedicated CMH project team—led by CEO Erik Thorsen, Project Director Molly Wing, and Michelle Checkis of ZGF—met every rigorous demand to preserve our eligibility. We stood together every step of the way to win for Clatsop County.”

Clatsop County is the governmental applicant for the FEMA grant, working in partnership with Columbia Memorial Hospital on the project.

The hospital expansion is designed not only to strengthen health care services on the North Coast, but also to provide critical infrastructure following a major earthquake and tsunami. The vertical evacuation structure will offer refuge for hospital patients, staff, visitors, and members of the surrounding community during a tsunami.

The release of the federal funding completes a critical piece of the project budget and allows work on the hospital’s disaster-resilience features to move forward.

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Candidates Sought For Clatsop County Fair Board (Photo) - 09/25/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, OR — The Clatsop County Board of Commissions is seeking applications from residents interested in serving on the Clatsop County Fair Board.

The Clatsop County Fair Board oversees the operation and management of the Clatsop County Fairgrounds with support from County Staff. Responsibilities include facility rentals and scheduling, establishing rental fees, promoting the Fairgrounds, overseeing concessions and food service, supporting maintenance and operations, and securing sponsorships for the County Fair and other events.

The Clatsop County Fair board meets at 5 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month and members also participate in planning and liaison committee meetings. Fair Board members attend an annual joint session with County Commissioners.

Applicants must be Clatsop County residents and may not be employees of Clatsop County or another taxing district within the County.

The deadline to submit completed applications is Sunday, November 1, 2026.

Application are available on the Clatsop County website and at the County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange Street, Suite 410, Astoria. 

Applicants must review and submit the Conflict-of-Interest Questionnaire and the Acknowledgement of Roles and Responsibilities statement with application.

Appointments will be made by the Board of Commissioners.

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Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office Receives Accredited Status From Northwest Accreditation Alliance (Photo) - 09/25/26

ASTORIA, OR — The Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office has earned accredited status from the Northwest Accreditation Alliance following a comprehensive review of its policies, procedures, and law enforcement practices.

The Northwest Accreditation Alliance Professional Standards Board unanimously approved the Sheriff’s Office for accreditation September 15.

The Sheriff’s Office joined the accreditation program in March 2025, and this was the first assessment under Sheriff Matt Phillips. The Northwest Accreditation Alliance program is designed to help law enforcement agencies establish and maintain standards reflecting current professional practices, accountability, transparency, and effective operations.

“This accreditation reflects the professionalism and dedication of the people who work for the Clatsop County Sheriff’s Office every day,” Sheriff Phillips said. “I’m proud of our team and grateful for their commitment to serving Clatsop County.”

The assessment included an electronic review of policies, procedures, and documentation, followed by an on-site assessment. The on-site review included interviews with staff and inspections of facilities, equipment, and property and evidence operations.

The final assessment reviewed 111 standards, including 101 mandatory standards and 10 standards determined not applicable to the agency. The report identified no standards in non-compliance and found that no policy changes or additions were required to confirm compliance.

The report also noted that the Sheriff’s Office maintains clear and comprehensive policies in areas including use of force, training, public information, emergency response, patrol operations, records, and property and evidence management.

Following its review, the assessor and executive director recommended approval of the Sheriff’s Office for accreditation.

Accreditation is not a one-time process. The Sheriff’s Office will now begin a three-year reaccreditation period, continuing to maintain documentation and demonstrate compliance with accreditation standards.

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Countywide Get Ready Fair Focuses On Family Preparedness (Photo) - 09/25/26

Countywide, family friendly event brings hands-on emergency preparedness activities to Jewell School

Clatsop County, OR — Families from throughout Clatsop County are invited to learn practical emergency preparedness skills during the Get Ready Fair from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 22, at Jewell School, Seaside.

This free event will bring Be 2 Weeks Ready topics to life through hands-on activities. Preparedness stations will focus on food, water, first aid and other steps families can take to prepare for an emergency.

“Preparedness does not have to feel overwhelming,” said Jen Munson, Community Engagement Coordinator “This event gives families an opportunity to practice simple skills together and learn how they can be two weeks ready in an emergency.”

The evening will also include local first responders, emergency gear, teddy bear first aid, a Halloween costume contest, and FREE dinner at the Monte Alban taco truck.

Participating organizations include Clatsop County Public Health, Consejo Hispano, the Oregon Health Authority, the Oregon Department of Human Services, the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, Oregon State University Extension and Elsie-Vinemaple Rural Fire Protection District among others.

For event details, visit clatsopcounty.gov.

Clatsop County Manager Don Bohn Announces 2027 Retirement (Photo) - 09/18/26

“Hiring Don Bohn in 2019 was the best decision we ever made as a Board of Commissioners.” — Board Chair Mark Kujala

ASTORIA, OR — Clatsop County Manager Don Bohn has announced plans to retire April 2, 2027, concluding seven and a half years as County Manager and 37 years of public service.

Bohn’s retirement is expected to be formally acknowledged by the Clatsop County Board of Commissioners at its September 23 meeting.

During his time with Clatsop County, Bohn has worked alongside County employees, elected officials and community partners to strengthen the organization, build relationships and maintain effective services for the community.

“Hiring Don Bohn in 2019 was the best decision we ever made as a Board of Commissioners,” Board Chair Mark Kujala said. “Don brought three decades of wisdom from Washington County and has guided us with a calm, steady and balanced approach.”

In his retirement letter, Bohn reflected on the people who have shaped his time with the County.

“I am continually inspired by the public employees and elected officials that daily serve our community with humility, passion and grace,” Bohn wrote in his retirement letter shared with the Board and staff. “I am proud of our work together and the innumerable ways we have fortified the organization and culture, enhanced critical partnerships and consistently provided quality, efficient, effective and relevant services to the community.”

Bohn described the County’s accomplishments during his tenure as a collaborative and productive team effort and expressed confidence in the organization’s future.

Kujala also credited Bohn with strengthening relationships throughout the region.

“Throughout his seven-plus years of service, Don’s commitment to collaboration has built deep, lasting relationships with regional community partners,” Kujala said. “He has always been strategic, intentional and unafraid to face challenges head-on — ultimately lifting Clatsop County to new heights.”

Bohn said the people and partnerships that support the County will continue to guide the organization after his retirement.

“I am confident the pillars of political leadership, professional management, quality workforce and community partnerships will continue to support and guide the County going forward,” Bohn wrote. “Until my final day I will do my part in service to the organization and community.”

The County expects to begin the first phase of the recruitment process in November by selecting a professional recruitment team to assist with the search for the next County Manager.

The County Manager position is anticipated to open for applications in 2027, before Bohn’s final day April 2.

“I have been truly blessed to work alongside Don,” Kujala said. “While we will be sad to see him retire, we are grateful to have his leadership through the coming months. He will leave behind a resilient team and a thriving organizational culture. We wish Don and his wife, Stacee, the very best as they enjoy this well-deserved next phase of life together.”

Additional information about the recruitment and transition process will be shared as it becomes available.

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4-H & Extension Service District Budget Committee Vacancies (Photo) - 09/16/26

CLATSOP COUNTY, OR — Clatsop County is accepting applications for two vacancies on the 4-H & Extension Service District Budget Committee. 

Members of the committee review the proposed overall 4-H Extension Service District budget, make recommendations and approve the proposed 4-H Extension Service District budget for adoption by the county commissioners.

The Committee meets in May to review the proposed budget. The vacancies are for three-year terms ending June 30, 2029. 

The application deadline is 5 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2026. 

Application forms are available on the Clatsop County website and at the County Manager’s Office, 800 Exchange Street, Suite 410, Astoria.  

Applicants must review and submit the Conflict-of-Interest Questionnaire and the Acknowledgement of Roles and Responsibilities statement with application.  

The Board of Commissioners will make the appointment at a future Board of Commissioners meeting.

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