February 29, 2024                                              View as Webpage

Listen to the Benton County Public Podcast

Did you know Benton County has a podcast!?

Join us for episode 8 of the Benton County Public Podcast as we explore the journey behind the creation of the Oak Creek Evacuation Route! 🎙️ Hosted by Dan Crall this episode highlights a remarkable collaboration aimed at safeguarding our community against wildfire risks. Tune in to learn how this initiative came to life, from its grassroots beginnings to its completion.

In northwest Corvallis, Oak Creek faced a significant wildfire threat with only one entrance and exit point. But thanks to the dedication of residents and key partners, including the Corvallis Rural Fire Protection District, Oregon State University, the Benton County Community Foundation and more, a solution emerged.

Discover how community engagement, persistence, and strategic partnerships led to the establishment of the Oak Creek Evacuation Route, providing a vital alternative exit path for residents during emergencies.

Special recognition goes to State Senator Sara Gelser Blouin for her pivotal role in securing funding for the project.

Listen to Episode 8.

Join us as we celebrate the power of collaboration and citizen engagement in ensuring the safety of our community. 🎧 #BentonCountyPodcast #CommunitySafety #WildfirePreparedness 

Benton County commemorates Day of Remembrance of Japanese Americans incarcerated during WWII

🕊️ Benton County honored the resilience and courage of Japanese Americans who faced injustice during WWII. Watch the proclamation reading, commemorating February 20, 2024, as Benton County’s Day of Remembrance of Japanese Americans Incarcerated During World War II, with Dr. Janet Nishihara from Oregon State University, Jessica Hougen, and Terri Thomas from the Benton County Historical Society.

Eighty-two years ago, Executive Order 9066 stripped Japanese Americans of their liberty, a dark chapter in our history following the attack on Pearl Harbor. Today, we acknowledge the harm done to 120,000 individuals, including those born on American soil.

In Benton County, many Japanese American students from Oregon State University were impacted. Within days of Pearl Harbor, 36 of these students penned a letter pledging loyalty to the U.S., demonstrating their unwavering commitment to this country despite discrimination.

Let's remember, learn, and work towards a future where justice and equality prevail.

Watch the proclamation. #DayofRemembrance #JapaneseAmericanHistory #BentonCounty #NeverForget 🌸

Pictured left to right: Terri Thomas, Benton County Historical Society; Janet Nishihara, Oregon State University; Jessica Hougen, Benton County Historical Society.

Sheriff's Office participates in swift-water rescue training

The Benton County Sheriff's Office recently participated in a Swift-Water Rescue Training Course to enhance emergency response capabilities. Collaborating with others, including the Oregon State Marine Board and Clackamas Fire who hosted the training, participants braved icy waters to hone their skills in hazardous scenarios. The training which took place earlier this month, saw trainees immerse themselves in frigid waters to simulate real-life rescue situations.

Members of the Benton County Sheriff's Office demonstrated their commitment to enhance swift-water rescue proficiency. This training underscores the dedication of law enforcement and rescue personnel to ensure the safety and well-being of the Benton County community.

Learn more about search and rescue operations.

Benton County reminds businesses of March 15 deadline for Business Personal Property Returns

As the deadline approaches for Business Personal Property Returns, Benton County is reminding business owners to submit returns by March 15, 2024.

All businesses, including those operating as sole proprietors, partnerships, corporations, and LLCs, are required to file returns annually. The Business Personal Property Return includes information about assets such as equipment, machinery, furniture, and fixtures used in the operation of a business.

Oregon state law mandates that all business personal property be assessed for taxation purposes. These assessments are used to determine property taxes owed by businesses and are an essential source of revenue for funding local government services, including schools, roads, and public safety.

Failure to submit the Business Personal Property Return by the March 15 deadline may result in late filing penalties.

Business owners can obtain the necessary forms and instructions for filing their Business

Personal Property Returns from the Benton County Assessor’s Office website or by contacting the office directly at 541-766-6855. Additionally, the Assessor’s Office staff are available to assist businesses with any questions or concerns they may have regarding the filing process.

For more information or assistance regarding Business Personal Property Returns, please contact the Benton County Assessor’s Office.