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Map of waterline replacement and street repaving to begin March 24, 2025

March 21, 2025 in News

Water Pipeline Replacement Project in SW Corvallis Begins March 24

The City of Corvallis Public Works Department is starting a project to replace underground water pipeline located along SW 35th Street and SW Western Boulevard. Work will begin on Monday, March 24, 2025.

Following the water pipeline replacement, Western and 35th will be repaved, including improvements to pedestrian crossings at intersections as well as adding buffered bike lanes along portions of each street. The work is expected to be completed by Sept. 2025.

This project will likely create some traffic disruptions at various points in the construction schedule. Street closures and detours will happen periodically to facilitate safe work zones for workers and the public. Households served by the new water pipeline will experience short service interruptions of up to several hours while they are connected to the new line. Information about these interruptions will be communicated directly to affected households.

The existing water pipeline in this area was constructed in the early 1950s and has reached the end of its useful life. Replacing this hidden infrastructure will ensure consistent service and avoid problems in the future.

For more information about this water infrastructure project in southwest Corvallis, please contact Josh Bjornstedt at 541-766-6731 or josh.bjornstedt@corvallisoregon.gov.

March 19, 2025 in News

Hearing dates set for landfill expansion application, public comment period now open

The Benton County Planning Division has announced the schedule for the public hearing on Republic Services’ Conditional Use Permit application for the proposed expansion of the Coffin Butte landfill.

The public comment period is now open. The following dates have been set for the hearing before the Benton County Planning Commission.

Tuesday, April 29, 6 – 9 p.m.              Day 1: Staff report, applicant presentation and start public testimony if time permits
Thursday, May 1, 6 – 9 p.m.Day 2: Start or continue public testimony
Tuesday, May 6, 6 – 9 p.m.Day 3: Continue public testimony as necessary
Tuesday, June 17, 6 p.m. – completeDay 4: Deliberations and decision

The hearing will be held at the County’s Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. Anyone can sign up as an Interested Party to receive updates about the status of the CUP application and changes or additions to the schedule.

County invites comment from public

Members of the public can now submit written testimony about the CUP application.

After the public hearing, all written comments that were not in the original staff report will be added to the record and posted to the County website in one action. 

Members of the public can also sign up to share verbal testimony during the hearing. An online sign-up system will be released about a week before the hearing begins. Although this option will be available, the community is encouraged to provide written comments in advance so Planning Commission members, County staff and the public have time to consider all perspectives and prepare to respond at the hearing. This also allows for the most efficient use of meeting time.

Addendum submitted, now available to public

Republic Services submitted additional material for the CUP application on March 14, 2025. This addendum to the Burden of Proof (submitted on Jan. 15) is publicly available on the Munidocs platform as Landfill Expansion Application, 1st Addendum to Burden of Proof.

The Benton County Planning Division is working to incorporate this new information into the staff report.

View Republic Services’ CUP application online:

To learn more about the decision process, visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill.

Emergency response

March 10, 2025 in News

Benton County Emergency Management Seeks Volunteers – Training Provided

Get ready to make a difference in your community! Benton County Emergency Management is thrilled to introduce the new Benton County Emergency Management Volunteer Corps, a dynamic opportunity for community members to gain essential skills and take part in vital emergency and disaster preparedness efforts.

Through this program, you’ll receive hands-on training and education to prepare you for both non-emergency and emergency scenarios. Together, we’ll build a dedicated, well-equipped team of volunteers ready to safely lead disaster response operations and community readiness initiatives. Whether you’re new to emergency preparedness or a seasoned volunteer, this is your chance to contribute meaningfully while learning valuable preparedness skills!

Emergency Readiness Training Opportunities

  • Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training: Learn how to help your neighbors during disasters.
  • Be 2 Weeks Ready (B2WR) program: Gain practical tips to prepare your home and family for emergencies.

Emergency and Disaster Response

Dive into specialized training that prepares you to take action when your community needs it most:

  • Mass Care and Sheltering: Support those displaced by disasters.
  • Call Center Operations: Provide critical information during emergencies.
  • Volunteer and Donations Management: Organize resources to support recovery efforts.
  • Reunification: Help families reconnect during crises.
  • Emergency Operations Center (EOC) Support: Assist in managing disaster response strategies.
  • Damage and Debris Assessments: Evaluate and report on post-disaster conditions.
  • Evacuation Surveys: Ensure safe and effective evacuations.
  • Pet and Livestock Sheltering: Care for animals affected by disasters.

This is more than just training—it’s an opportunity to be a hero in your community, meet like-minded individuals, and play a crucial role in Benton County’s readiness and resilience.

Join the Benton County Emergency Management Volunteer Corps today and become part of a team that’s making a real impact. Together, we can prepare for the unexpected and build a stronger, safer future for all! For more information on the application process, please send an email to emergencymanagement@bentoncountyor.gov. 

Board of Commissioners meeting

March 7, 2025 in News

Introducing New Public Portal for Board of Commissioners Meetings

Benton County has rolled out a new Board of Commissioners meeting portal. The efficient new platform makes internal meeting management faster and easier and increases transparency and accessibility for community members. With it you can:

View Board Meeting Information. See meeting agendas, materials and minutes.

Attend meetings virtually. Join meetings through Zoom. NOTE: meetings will no longer be available as a YouTube livestream.

Find information fast. Use bookmarks to easily navigate large meeting packets and on-demand videos.

Explore past meeting records. Search past meeting agendas and minutes dating back 10 years for information about topics that matter to you. More historical meeting records will be added in the coming months.

Stay connected. Subscribe to get alerts when new meeting materials are published.

Use accessibility features. Access videos with closed captions and download meeting transcripts.

Visit the Meeting Portal to search for information, subscribe to alerts, download meeting materials, or connect to a live meeting.

Health Communications Survey

March 3, 2025 in Health NewsNews

Benton County Health Department Launches Community Survey for Communications Assessment

* Español a continuación * 

CORVALLIS, Ore.– The Benton County Health Department is asking people who live in or near Benton County, Oregon to respond to a community survey about health communications.  

The goal of the community survey is to better understand where and how people in Benton County receive and share information about things that affect their health. 

“We want to know where people look for health information and what types of information they are seeking so we can better serve them,” said Kailee Olson, Communications Coordinator for the Benton County Health Department. 

The survey is part of an assessment being conducted by the consultant firm, Rede Group, to evaluate the Health Department’s previous and existing communications. The assessment will help inform a multi-year strategic communications plan to improve how the department communicates with internal staff, community partners, and members of the public.  

The survey takes about fifteen minutes to complete and the last day to respond is March 15, 2025. At the end of the survey, participants can choose to enter a drawing to win one of six $50 gift cards as an appreciation for their time.  

The survey is available online via SurveyMonkey in both English and Spanish. People who would like the survey in another language or who would like printed copies of the survey should contact healthdeptcommunications@bentoncountyor.gov. 

Community members are encouraged to share the survey with friends, family, and networks who live in Benton County and the surrounding area. 

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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov. 

Español 

El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton lanza una encuesta comunitaria para evaluar sus comunicaciones 

CORVALLIS, Ore.– El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton está pidiendo a las personas que viven en el Condado de Benton, Oregón o en comunidades cercanas, que respondan a una encuesta comunitaria sobre comunicaciones de salud.  

El objetivo de la encuesta comunitaria es comprender mejor dónde y cómo las personas del Condado de Benton reciben y comparten información sobre cosas que afectan su salud.  

“Queremos saber dónde buscan las personas información de la salud y qué tipo de información buscan para poder servirles mejor”, dijo Kailee Olson, Coordinadora de Comunicaciones del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton.  

La encuesta es parte de una evaluación que está realizando la empresa consultora Rede Group para evaluar las comunicaciones pasadas y actuales del Departamento de Salud. La evaluación ayudará a informar un plan estratégico de comunicaciones de varios años para mejorar la forma en que el departamento de salud se comunica con el personal internamente, las agencias de la comunidad y los miembros del público. 

La encuesta se completa en unos 15 minutos y el último día para responder es el 15 de marzo de 2025. Al final de la encuesta, los participantes pueden elegir participar en un sorteo para ganar una de seis tarjetas de regalo de $50 como agradecimiento por su tiempo.  

La encuesta está disponible en línea por medio de SurveyMonkey tanto en inglés como en español. Las personas que deseen la encuesta en otro idioma o que deseen copias impresas de la encuesta deben comunicarse por correo-e en healthdeptcommunications@bentoncountyor.gov. 

Se anima a los miembros de la comunidad a compartir la encuesta con amistades yfamiliares que viven en el Condado de Benton y sus alrededores. 

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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov. 

February 28, 2025 in News

Republic Services’ Conditional Use Permit Application Deemed Complete

The Benton County Planning Division has deemed Republic Services’ revised Conditional Use Permit (CUP) application for Coffin Butte landfill as Complete. The application is moving forward to the decision process, which is expected to be completed by August 11, 2025.

Benton County is now working on staff reports to give to the Planning Commission and agency referral partners who will review the application and make recommendations. When the reports are complete, the County will set the dates for a two-week public comment period and a hearing before the Planning Commission, a group of seven volunteers from throughout the County appointed by the Board of Commissioners.

The Planning Commission meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month in the Kalapuya Building at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. All meetings are open to the public. While the hearing date for Republic Services’ application has not been set, the County expects that it will not happen before April 1, 2025. To meet the August 11 deadline, the hearing should happen no later than May 6, 2025.

As soon as the hearing and public comment dates are set, notification will be sent to all who signed up as Interested Parties through the Community Development webpages. The County will also communicate the schedule through the website, a press release, and emails to the County’s general interest contact list and solid waste process special interest list.

View Republic Services’ CUP application online:

Sign up as an Interested Party to receive updates on the application.

To learn more about the decision process visit bentoncountyor.gov/coffin-butte-landfill.

Benton County offices will open at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 14

February 13, 2025 in News

Delayed Start on Friday at Benton County Offices

***Español a continuación***

The County plans to open offices on Friday, Feb.14, with a 3-hour delayed start.

Friday public service hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

These hours could change based on road conditions on Friday morning. Updates will be posted on this webpage and the County’s social media channels. Before traveling to a County facility, please check this page or call the main phone line to confirm it is open to the public.

We’re still here to serve you!

Many County services can be provided remotely. County employees are available through email and phone to assist you.

MAIN PHONE LINE: 541-766-6800
Staffed 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Español

Las oficinas del Condado de Benton retrasan su apertura el viernes

Actualizado el 13 de febrero de 2025 a las 10:00 p.m.

El Condado de Benton planea abrir sus oficinas el viernes 14 de febrero, con un inicio retrasado de 3 horas.

Horario de atención al público el viernes: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Estos horarios podrían cambiar según las condiciones de la carretera el viernes por la mañana. Se publicarán información actual en esta página web y en las redes sociales del Condado. Antes de viajar a un edificio del Condado, consulte esta página o llame a la línea telefónica principal para confirmar que esté abierto al público.

¡Seguimos aquí para servirle!

Muchos servicios del Condado se pueden ofrecer de forma remota. Los empleados del Condado están disponibles por correo electrónico y por teléfono para ayudarle.

LÍNEA TELEFÓNICA PRINCIPAL: 541-766-6800
Con personal de 8:00 a. m. – 5:00 p. m.

February 11, 2025 in News

Winter Weather Warning for Benton County

***Español a continuación***

Be prepared – winter weather conditions expected this week.

Winter Weather Advisory

Low temperatures continue in the Willamette Valley, with temperatures as low as 19 degrees on Tuesday night. Snow and freezing rain are expected beginning Wednesday night, February 12, and continuing through Friday, February 14.

These conditions could bring an inch of snow and up to half an inch of accumulated freezing rain and ice. All community members are encouraged to prepare for icy roads and possible power outages.

Benton County recommends:

  • Do not go outside your home unless absolutely necessary. Even a short walk to the mailbox can lead to a slip-and-fall injury.
  • Avoid driving in icy conditions whenever possible. If you must travel, slow down and use caution while driving. Have an emergency plan and keep supplies in your vehicle.
  • Check regularly for updates on road and school closures to avoid unnecessary trips.
  • Have extra food and water, supplies, medications, and batteries ready at home.
  • Keep all electronic devices and battery packs charged in case of power outage.

Resources

Read ODOT’s tips for driving in snow and ice.

Visit weather.gov/ for weather updates.

For road conditions, visit tripcheck.com/ or call 511.

Warming Centers

Daytime warming centers are available throughout Benton County as long as power is available. Warming centers are indoor heated facilities that are free for members of the public to access during designated hours. Many of these locations also have pet crates available.

Learn more: Hours & contact information for day-time warming centers in Benton County.

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This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

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Español

Advertencia de clima invernal para el condado de Benton

Prepárese: Se esperan condiciones climáticas invernales esta semana en el Condado de Benton

Winter Weather Advisory

Las bajas temperaturas continúan en el valle de Willamette, con temperaturas de hasta 19 grados Fahrenheit el martes por la noche. Se espera nieve y lluvia helada a partir del miércoles por la noche el 12 de febrero, hasta el viernes 14 de febrero.

Estas condiciones podrían provocar una pulgada de nieve y hasta media pulgada de lluvia helada y hielo. Se recomienda a todos los miembros de la comunidad que se preparen para el hielo en las carreteras y los posibles cortes de energía.

El Condado de Benton recomienda:

  • No salga de su casa a menos que sea absolutamente necesario. Incluso una caminata corta hasta el buzón puede provocar una lesión por un resbalón y una caída.
  • Evite conducir en condiciones de hielo siempre que sea posible. Si debe viajar, reduzca la velocidad y tenga cuidado al conducir. Tenga un plan de emergencia y mantenga suministros en su vehículo.
  • Verifique regularmente las actualizaciones sobre los cierres de carreteras y escuelas para evitar viajes innecesarios.
  • Tenga alimentos y agua adicionales, suministros, medicamentos y baterías listas en casa.
  • Mantenga todos los dispositivos electrónicos y paquetes de baterías cargados en caso de un corte de energía.

Recursos

Lea los consejos de ODOT para conducir en nieve y hielo.

Visite weather.gov para obtener actualizaciones del clima.

Para conocer las condiciones de la carretera, visite tripcheck.com o llame al 511.

Centros de calentamiento

Hay centros de calentamiento disponibles durante el día en todo el Condado de Benton, siempre y cuando haya energía eléctrica. Los centros de calentamiento son instalaciones en interiores con calefacción, a las que el público puede ir gratis durante las horas designadas. Muchos de estos lugares también tienen disponibles jaulas para mascotas.

Obtenga más información: Horarios e información de contacto de los centros de calentamiento durante el día en el Condado de Benton.

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Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos. Por favor contacte pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.

Household Hazardous Waste Event

February 6, 2025 in News

Republic Services holds household hazardous waste event for Benton County residents

Republic Services invites all residents of Benton County to bring their household hazardous waste for safe disposal and recycling.

WHEN: On Saturday, February 8, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
WHERE: 110 NE Walnut Blvd, Corvallis, OR 97330

FREE for residential customers with household quantities of waste (5 gallons max).

The quarterly event is a chance for residents to safely and environmentally responsibly dispose of items that can’t be tossed in the weekly trash cart. This includes:

  • Paint, motor oil, and other car fluids
  • Batteries, fluorescent tubes, and electronics
  • Pesticides and herbicides

“We are proud to partner with Benton County residents on this event to keep our community and environment clean,” said Julie Jackson, Municipal Manager for Republic Services.

Whether it is paint, electronics, pesticides, herbicides or other household chemicals, Republic Services will take these items to be safely processed, and where possible, recycled so they can be used for future products.

Items that will not be accepted at this event:

  • Ammunition, explosives, and fireworks
  • Biological or medical waste and sharps
  • Business and industrial waste (accepted by appointment only)

See the schedule for all 2025 recycling and household hazardous waste events for Benton County communities.

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