NEWS SUMMARY
June 2017

The Natural Areas and Parks Department is hosting camping and viewing at the Adair County Park. 150 tent camping sites and 12 "dry" RV sites (no hookups) are available for Sat., Aug. 19 and Sun., Aug. 20 for $100. Reserve camping sites by calling 541-766-6871 or learn more online.

We want everyone to enjoy a safe event! Review information on eye safety, driving safety, fire safety, emergency response and local medical services at co.benton.or.us/midvalleyeclipse

For Businesses
Peak days are expected to be August 16 -23. The main risk the total eclipse of the sun creates is the short-term increase in the number of people coming to our area. Businesses preparedness tips are available online.

Support Emergency Services
The Board of Commissioners office is selling Total Solar Eclipse T-shirts featuring an original total solar eclipse painting by Commissioner Anne Schuster printed on 100% white cotton.  T-shirts cost $15. All proceeds from the T-shirts will go to the county's Emergency Services program.  Reserve T-shirts by emailing [email protected]. Include the quantity and size (S,M,L,XL).

Kerby begins as Benton County Administrator August 2017
June 5, 2017

Joe Kerby will serve as the next Benton County Administrator, starting in August.

Joseph ("Joe") Kerby is the County Manager in La Plata County, Colorado. He has served in this role since 2012. His past experience includes serving as the City Manager - City of Delta, Colorado (2010-2012); the Deputy County Manager - Douglas County, Colorado (2009-2010); and, the County Manager - Montrose County, Colorado (2006-2009). Kerby earned a BA degree in Sociology from the University of Colorado  and a MA degree in Business from Webster University.

2040 Thriving Communities Council shares initial phase results
May 9, 2017

The Benton County 2040 Thriving Communities Council hosted events in May to share nearly 9,000 responses from more than 3,400 people over the past few months. 

The data-gathering and visioning process allowed council members to synthesize 2040 Core Values to address long-term complex issues. These values will be used to align the work of government, citizen groups, businesses, and people to help achieve our visions for the future.

Local organizations invited to participate in resource fair
June 2, 2017

The 12th Annual Aqua Campeones de Salud event will be held Sun., Aug. 27, 2017 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Osborn Aquatic Center, 1940 NW Highland Dr, Corvallis, OR. This is a free community event to promote a healthy and active lifestyles, local health services and resources available to the community.

Benton County Health Services is inviting community organizations to participate in the resource fair being held in conjunction with the event. The cost to reserve a space is $35.00. To register for the resource fair, or if the registration fee is a barrier for participation, please contact [email protected] or 541-714-0689.

County votes 3-0 to proceed with Phase 3 of Corvallis-Albany path
June 6, 2017

The Board of Commissioners voted 3-0 to direct staff to continue with Phase 3 of the Corvallis-Albany path project using the amended Highway 20 route and placing the rural route in the Transportation System Plan.


Crescent Valley Drive widening and temporary bridge closure
June 20, 2017

Crescent Valley Dr., from Highland Dr. to Jackson Creek Rd., will be widened and paved during summer 2017. The Jackson Creek Bridge will be closed for the full duration of the project, with Lewisburg Rd. serving as the detour. Improvements will be made to the bridge to enhance alignment and ensure cyclists can cross the bridge as safely as possible.

Construction started June 26, 2017 and conclude by Sept. 1, 2017. 

Youth ride the 99 Express and Philomath Connection fareless this summer
June 20, 2017

This summer anyone 18 and younger can ride into Corvallis from Adair Village and from Philomath with no fare.  These services give young people from Adair Village and Philomath the chance to get into Corvallis to visit the skateboard park, catch a movie, grab a bite to eat, visit the library and local shops.

 
Bus schedules and more information
County initiates Transportation System Plan update
June 28, 2017

Benton County is embarking on an 18-month process to update the county's Transportation System Plan (TSP).

The Transportation System Plan is required by the state of Oregon to help integrate the county's plans into the regional and statewide transportation system.  The Benton County TSP includes the incorporated cities of Corvallis, Philomath, Adair Village, Monroe and a portion of Albany known as North Albany. Focus is placed on areas outside of the Corvallis, Philomath and Albany urban growth boundaries, and on County roads within the urban growth boundaries.

The process and resulting plan update will be coordinated with adopted and under revision transportation plans of governmental entities in the County and region, including adjacent counties and both the Corvallis-area and Albany-area Metropolitan Planning Organizations.