Clatsop County Leaders Advocate For Key Priorities In Washington, D.C.
- 04/24/26
Astoria, OR. – Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Kujala and Vice Chair Courtney Bangs recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for critical local priorities and strengthen partnerships with federal agencies and Oregon’s congressional delegation.
The visit focused on advancing infrastructure, environmental, and emergency management efforts that directly impact Clatsop County residents.
“We went to Washington, D.C. with clear priorities, and we made meaningful progress on issues that are critical to the safety, resilience, and future of Clatsop County,” said Chair Kujala. “From levee improvements to emergency management funding, these conversations are helping move important projects forward.”
Key highlights of the trip include:
- Levee Improvements: Met with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leadership to outline a strategic path forward, including development of a countywide planning document to guide prioritization and position Clatsop County for federal funding opportunities.
- Habitat Conservation Plan: Engaged with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the status of the HCP, with shared recognition of challenges in the federal review process and a commitment to continued coordination and problem-solving.
- FEMA & BRIC Funding: Discussed FEMA Bi-Op developments, including ongoing legislative and administrative efforts, and reviewed the status of local BRIC grant applications and continued advocacy for their reinstatement.
- Westport Sewer District: Met with Oregon’s congressional delegation to advocate for funding for critical wastewater treatment plant improvements.
- Coast Guard Support: Reinforced support for U.S. Coast Guard investments, including fast response cutters and the potential to homeport Offshore Patrol Cutters in Astoria.
- Federal Coordination: Met with Oregon’s congressional delegation to align on infrastructure priorities, FEMA challenges, and opportunities to advance stalled projects and funding requests.
- Federal Partnerships: Participated in a reception hosted by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici to strengthen relationships and continue advancing Clatsop County priorities.
“This visit reinforced that Clatsop County’s needs are being heard,” said Vice Chair Bangs. “We’re building the relationships and momentum needed to navigate complex federal processes and bring real resources back to our communities.”
Clatsop County will continue working closely with federal partners to advance these efforts and secure resources for the region.
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Clatsop County Leaders Advocate For Key Priorities In Washington, D.C.
- 04/24/26
Astoria, OR. – Clatsop County Board of Commissioners Chair Mark Kujala and Vice Chair Courtney Bangs recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to advocate for critical local priorities and strengthen partnerships with federal agencies and Oregon’s congressional delegation.
The visit focused on advancing infrastructure, environmental, and emergency management efforts that directly impact Clatsop County residents.
“We went to Washington, D.C. with clear priorities, and we made meaningful progress on issues that are critical to the safety, resilience, and future of Clatsop County,” said Chair Kujala. “From levee improvements to emergency management funding, these conversations are helping move important projects forward.”
Key highlights of the trip include:
- Levee Improvements: Met with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers leadership to outline a strategic path forward, including development of a countywide planning document to guide prioritization and position Clatsop County for federal funding opportunities.
- Habitat Conservation Plan: Engaged with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service on the status of the HCP, with shared recognition of challenges in the federal review process and a commitment to continued coordination and problem-solving.
- FEMA & BRIC Funding: Discussed FEMA Bi-Op developments, including ongoing legislative and administrative efforts, and reviewed the status of local BRIC grant applications and continued advocacy for their reinstatement.
- Westport Sewer District: Met with Oregon’s congressional delegation to advocate for funding for critical wastewater treatment plant improvements.
- Coast Guard Support: Reinforced support for U.S. Coast Guard investments, including fast response cutters and the potential to homeport Offshore Patrol Cutters in Astoria.
- Federal Coordination: Met with Oregon’s congressional delegation to align on infrastructure priorities, FEMA challenges, and opportunities to advance stalled projects and funding requests.
- Federal Partnerships: Participated in a reception hosted by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici to strengthen relationships and continue advancing Clatsop County priorities.
“This visit reinforced that Clatsop County’s needs are being heard,” said Vice Chair Bangs. “We’re building the relationships and momentum needed to navigate complex federal processes and bring real resources back to our communities.”
Clatsop County will continue working closely with federal partners to advance these efforts and secure resources for the region.
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