Port Angeles Online

Port Writes Off PenPly Debt

2012-02-01T01:10:00.000-08:00

The Port of Port Angeles has written off the $204,443 debt owed by Peninsula Plywood. It's unknown whether the Port will collect any of that money or any of the $314,489 in utility bills.

The Port has turned the unpaid bills over to a collection agency and might eventually pursue legal action.

Kenmore Air Loses Money, Vows to Keep Flying

2012-01-31T00:57:00.000-08:00

Kenmore Air had a 23% reduction in passenger boardings during 2011, which will result in the loss of a $1 million entitlement grant to the Port of Port Angeles. This could jeopardize the removal of trees in Lincoln Park, but airport and FAA officials are confident that the tree removal will still be funded.

Kenmore's marketing manager has said Kenmore will stay put. Kenmore is the only air passenger service between Port Angeles and Seattle.

Lawsuit Over Shoreline Development

2012-01-29T01:55:00.000-08:00

The National Wildlife Federation is suing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) over shoreline development in the Puget Sound region. The suit claims shoreline development is being improperly managed and is therefore a threat to endangered species.

The lawsuit seeks to prohibit the sale of flood insurance along the shoreline. This prohibition would apply to development in flood zones. And the entire Port Angeles waterfront is a flood zone.

The City of Port Angeles is joining about a dozen other cities to fight this lawsuit.

Unemployment Up on Peninsula

2012-01-26T10:01:00.000-08:00

Clallam County's unemployment rate is 10.4%, based on statistics from December. The previous month it was 9.2%.

The unemployment rate in Jefferson County is 9.7% as of December. It was 8.6% the previous month.

30-Year Lease for New Black Ball Owners

2012-01-24T01:33:00.000-08:00

Port of Port Angeles commissioners have agreed to a 30-year lease with the new owners of Black Ball Ferry Line The lease also solidifies arrangements for a $4 million dock replacement for the ferry terminal. Commissioners were relieved that the ferry line is under regional ownership again, having been purchased from the Oregon State University Foundation. Commissioner John Calhoun said:

“I feel extremely comfortable having a local ownership group. It's a vital part of our community's infrastructure.”

All Three County Commissioners to Speak at Chamber Luncheon

2012-01-22T16:10:00.000-08:00

Mike Doherty, Mike Chapman and Jim McEntire will be the guest speakers at tomorrow's Chamber of Commerce luncheon. They'll be discussing events from 2011 and prospects for this year.

Columbia Bank will be the luncheon's featured business.

City Council on Weekend Retreat

2012-01-21T16:25:00.000-08:00

The Port Angeles City Council is on its annual weekend retreat, which is being held at the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center. During this retreat they'll be discussing the city's ethics policy, economic development and two proposed bond issues for Civic Field and the downtown waterfront project.

Money from Sale of Methane

2012-01-18T17:16:00.000-08:00

The City is hoping that methane from the former Port Angeles landfill can be sold for cash. The site releases 220 cubic feet of gas per minute. Half of that gas is methane and half is carbon dioxide.

You can get more information here.

Combined Sewer Overflow Project

2012-01-16T13:52:00.000-08:00

Port Angeles' Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) project is costing the City $42 million. Darlene Schanfald and Tyler Ahlgren have described the CSO project as "a $42 million bandaid."

Here's the link. You'll need to scroll down to page four.

This project is mandated by the state Department of Ecology. Darlene Schanfald and Tyler Ahlgren believe there is a more sustainable and more cost effective way to handle the City's stormwater.

Last May, Darlene Schanfald spoke to a meeting of the Port Angeles Business Association. She spoke in favor of disconnecting residential downspouts, which would allow stormwater to filter through the soil. She also favored planting trees for filtration. She said these methods were preferable to installing new sewer lines. She referred to the city of Saginaw, Michigan (warning: .pdf file) as an example of how this could be done.

She continued:

"The debate is to minimize it or to stop combined sewer overflow. The city is looking at how to minimize it. We are proposing ways to stop it...We are saying, use the money you have to upgrade and expand the stormwater collection system... low-impact development is the best way to clean stormwater, the best way to recharge our aquifers.”

Here are some more links.

Union vs. Olympic Medical Center

2012-01-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

Over 100 health care workers demonstrated last week, asking Olympic Medical Center to settle a contract with its union workers. Over three hundred Olympic Medical Center employees are members of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).

OMC and the union have spent the past year negotiating a new contract.

Nippon Biomass Project OK'd

2012-01-14T10:13:00.000-08:00

The State Pollution Control Hearings Board has ruled in favor of Nippon's biomass project. Seven environmental groups had appealed Nippon's construction permit for the project. The project is now expected to be completed by early next year.

Black Ball Ferry Line Has Been Sold

2012-01-11T00:50:00.000-08:00

Black Ball, the owner of the MV Coho ferry service, has been sold to the company's five senior managers. Black Ball was previously owned by the Oregon State University Foundation.

Paul McHugh Named to Port of Port Angeles Commission

2012-01-10T00:31:00.000-08:00

Paul McHugh is the Port's newest commissioner. He's a retired real estate broker and a former member of the Sequim City Council.

Port Angeles Still Trying to Get Seat on Rayonier Panel

2012-01-09T13:05:00.000-08:00

City Manager Kent Myers has sent a letter to Governor Gregoire protesting the fact that Port Angeles was not included on the Natural Resource Damage Assessment Team. This team was put together to assess the environmental damage caused by the mill at the former Rayonier site.

The team is made up of the state Department of Ecology, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service, and the Jamestown S’Klallam, Port Gamble S’Klallam and Lower Elwha Klallam. Kent Myers said:

“It just seems really unfair that a local government that has that many stewardship and ownership interests would not be part of the process.”

Bell Street Bakery Closed

2012-01-08T16:34:00.000-08:00

Bell Street Bakery, in downtown Sequim, has closed. The bakery had recently merged with The Garden Bistro, also in downtown Sequim, but the partnership didn't work out.

I never went to Bell Street Bakery but they always featured excellent breads and pastries at the Port Angeles Farmers Market.

Four Finalists for Port of Port Angeles Vacancy

2012-01-05T16:15:00.000-08:00

The field of candidates for Jim McEntire's vacant port position has been narrowed down from twelve to four:

Paul McHugh, retired real estate broker and former Sequim City Council member;

Gerald Stiles, retired aeronautical engineer and currently on the executive committee of the Clallam County Republican Party;

Sterling Epps, cold case investigator for the Port Angeles Police Department and the Clallam County Sheriff's Office; and

Shawn Hankins, a Port Angeles Chiropractor.

Mayor Cherie Kidd

2012-01-04T00:14:00.000-08:00

The City Council has elected Cherie Kidd to be the next Mayor of Port Angeles. Brad Collins will be Deputy Mayor. Both votes were unanimous.

First Phase of Port Angeles' Waterfront Redevelopment

2012-01-03T10:51:00.000-08:00

By the end of 2012, the first part of the Port Angeles Waterfront Redevelopment plan will have been completed. This will include an esplanade on the west side of the ferry terminal. There will also be a makeover of Railroad Avenue from the western edge of the ferry terminal to Oak Street, and Oak Street between Railroad Avenue and Front Street. This will include repaving, widening the sidewalks and improving the lighting.

Dungeness River Fish Population

2012-01-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

A letter in today's PDN reads:

"Isn't it amazing that the Department of Ecology wants us to use less water so there will be more water in the Dungeness River for the fish the Department of Fish and Wildlife will not let us catch? And we pay these people good money."

Damn right! But the letter writer doesn't go far enough. What's the deal with all these "endangered" species anyway? Tigers, elephants, wolves — they serve no purpose whatsoever. If you can't eat 'em, what good are they?

Colonel Hudson's to Add Indoor Dining

2011-12-27T01:20:00.000-08:00

Colonel Hudson's, the popular takeout-only restaurant at 536 Marine Drive in Port Angeles (the former location of Smitty's and then Mickey's), will soon have indoor dining available. The owners, Malik Atwater and his wife, Vivian Wai, are hoping to have their renovations complete by late January.

Possible Ways to Collect PenPly Utility Money

2011-12-26T20:44:00.000-08:00

Kent Myers said the City is weighing possible options for collecting $315,272 owed by PenPly. This could include going after the owners of the mill. Port Executive Director Jeff Robb said the Port is not writing off the debt yet, but is doubtful whether the money can be collected. He said:

“The only thing you can do is sue the corporation, and they have no assets.”

Port of Port Angeles to Take Control of PenPly Property

2011-12-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

The Port of Port Angeles has taken control of the property where PenPly is located. The Port is planning to tear down the 70-year-old building and replace it with marine-related businesses. When the mill closed, the company signed an agreement with the Port stipulating that they had fourteen days to either find a new owner or vacate the premises.

Possible Wireless Project for Port Angeles

2011-12-20T01:36:00.000-08:00

The Port Angeles City Council will consider approving a $3.7 million project for the construction of almost three miles of new fiber lines and 240 new wireless points. If approved, the City will contribute $1.1 million; the rest of the funding is covered by the federal government.

This project could be in place by the end of 2012.

Twelve Applicants for Port of Port Angeles Position

2011-12-18T01:16:00.000-08:00

There are twelve applicants for the vacant commissioner position with the Port of Port Angeles. This is the position that's being vacated by Jim McEntire, who will soon be sworn in as a new Clallam County commissioner.

"No Net Loss of Working Forests"

2011-12-15T14:26:00.000-08:00

This is a new slogan from the Port Angeles Business Association. The PABA is urging Clallam County commissioners to withdraw their support of any possible expansion plans for Olympic National Park.

Temporary Reprieve for Franklin Elementary School

2011-12-14T00:03:00.000-08:00

The Port Angeles School District board will keep Franklin Elementary School open, but only temporarily. The school will still be closed in the near future. Board member Lonnie Linn told a group of parents and teachers:

“This is a $2 million Band-Aid you got tonight, but it's going to be ripped off in the next 24 months.”

Port Angeles Fine Arts Center Closing Temporarily

2011-12-13T00:40:00.000-08:00

The Port Angeles Fine Arts Center will be closed for the first three weeks of 2012. They're facing a $40,000 shortfall. They're hoping the 3-week closure will give them time to focus on grant-writing and other means for balancing their budget.

The Fine Arts Center is owned by the City but is funded mostly through donations and a trust account.

Log Exports Expected to Drop Next Year

2011-12-11T09:30:00.000-08:00

Log exports from the North Olympic Peninsula are expected to total 80 million board feet by the end of this year. But because of credit restrictions in China plus a backlog of timber, log exports for 2012 are projected to be around 65 million board feet.

Unions File Suit to Block Liquor Privatization

2011-12-07T16:56:00.000-08:00

Two unions, United Fruit and Commercial Workers Local 21 and Washington Teamsters Joint Council 28, have filed a suit to block I-1183, the initiative that privatized liquor sales in Washington. The unions are charging that the full intent of I-1183 was obscured by the millions of dollars spent by Costco to promote the initiative.

John Brewer to Speak at PABA meeting

2011-12-04T14:52:00.000-08:00

PDN Editor and Publisher John Brewer will be the guest speaker at this Tuesday's meeting of the Port Angeles Business Association. He'll be discussing the newspaper's recent change of ownership.

Protecting Clallam County from Wild Olympics Campaign

2011-12-01T16:36:00.000-08:00

The chairman of the Clallam County Republican Party has urged county commissioners to withdraw their support of the Wild Olympics Campaign. County commissioners signed a letter of support for the campaign in February 2010, with the condition that any additional land obtained by Olympic National Park had to be from a landowner who was willing to sell.

Sixteen Clallam County Jobs Saved

2011-11-30T00:46:00.000-08:00

During an emergency meeting of Teamsters Local Union No. 589, members voted to accept wage concessions in order to save jobs. As a result, sixteen Clallam County employees who were scheduled to be laid off will keep their jobs after all.

Port of Port Angeles Approves 2012 Budget

2011-11-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

Port of Port Angeles commissioners have unanimously approved an $8.2 million budget for next year. This budget includes a half million dollar surplus and a 2% pay raise for Executive Director Jeff Robb.

The pay raise is retroactive to August and will bring his yearly salary to $123,165.

Monday Deadline for Chinook Motel Owners

2011-11-27T17:02:00.000-08:00

The City of Port Angeles has given the owners of the (closed) Chinook Motel until tomorrow to comply with a condemnation order that was issued in 2009. The City Planning Manager said the owners have not complied with the order to bring their property up to code. She said if the owners have not produced a plan for compliance by Monday, the city would "consider another approach," including the possibility of placing a lien on the property.

Peninsula Plywood Closed

2011-11-24T01:33:00.000-08:00

Josh Renshaw, president of the mill, said he hopes to reopen. The company is working on debt restructuring.

Josh Renshaw said "We're in an uphill battle for sure."

Grant Munro said: “There’s still hope, and I’ll just leave it at that. We’re still trying some things.”

McCrorie Home Furnishings Closing

2011-11-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

After 53 years in downtown Port Angeles, McCrorie Home Furnishings will close. Bob McCrorie, the owner, is retiring and plans to close the store rather than sell it.

There will be a liquidation sale beginning at noon this Friday.

Possible Elimination of Weekend Snow Plowing

2011-11-22T01:52:00.000-08:00

Local budget cuts might eliminate snow plowing on weekends and holidays in Clallam County. County Engineer Ross Tyler said the fiscal crisis will force his department to cut overtime costs. Plowing, sanding and debris removal would be consolidated to weekdays only.

Kent Myers to Speak at PABA meeting

2011-11-20T13:53:00.000-08:00

At this Tuesday's meeting of the Port Angeles Business Association, City Manager Kent Myers will be the guest speaker. He will be giving a "state of the city" report.

Just Letters No Filters: The Sequel

2011-11-17T01:16:00.000-08:00

I received this comment (through my e-mail notification) from Larry Williams. The comment didn't appear on the blog, but I'm assuming that he wanted me to publish this. If I misunderstood, my bad:

Tom -

While I do not condone anonymous blog sites, I want to at least commend you for using your name when you post items to PA Online.

I find many of the comments on the site generally offensive - but then again I feel the same way when I see a tabloid at the check out stand.

Of course I'm assuming that you are not the perpetrator who started the "Just Letters No Filters" site.

It is a sham of a kind that I've never encountered before and it leaves me little choice than to comment on "Just Letters" comment of 11/14/11 at 8:31AM.

I originally looked at the site when I noticed a post under the "Commenting at PDN Site? Facebook Account Require" post you put up on your site on 11/9. "Just Letters" said a new site was being formed in a comment on 11/10 at 10:17AM. I followed the site for a week, and when a couple of comments by Ed Chad went in under the Moderators opening post I thought I'd try to get some clarification about the entire site and what the Moderator was attempting to accomplish.

What follows is what the current post looks like on "Just Letters No Filters" site - there is only 1 posting as of 8:45 PM 11/16/11- all other material has been removed:

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2011
SUCCESS!!!
When I started this blog, it was a kind of experiment...An experiment to see how long it would take a certain obsessive former Port Angeles City Council member who has left the area to find it. Well, now we know. It took less than a week. Some people can't spot a fake, and some people obviously just can't let go...

And for the record, my favorite part of the message from this famously peevish and unpleasant person is when they complained that one letter was written in a "bitterly disrespectful manner." Now let me see...Who can I think of that's written letters to the PDN in a "bitterly disrespectful manner"...Hmmm...

In any case...Experiment: Successful! Thank you, and good night!

That is what I found tonight….the post is in response to a message I sent to the Just Letters moderator via the comment section seeking both information and expressing my disappointment that the site was not what I had expected given what was promised.

(end part 1 of a 3 part post - continued in part 2)

So your readers can see what prompted the above, the following message is what I sent to the Just Letters moderator - it is quoted below in full:

Moderator - the following is not for publication. I know of no other means of communicating with you and you are not authorized to publish this with my name. If you wish to re-word both the questions and answers in an attempt to explain your site to others under on your own, that's fine with me…as long as my name or writing style isn't attached in any way.

First - I agree that the PDN has made it increasingly difficult to express an opinion. I was hoping that this new blog would offer a forum for open and respectful expression that identifies all writers to better ensure accountability.

But I'm puzzled with what I see compared to what I thought was intended.

The first post by Patrick Miller regarding Rich Sill sinks into name calling about half way through. It then delves into unreferenced and unsupported accusations.

The second post by Chris Nelson berates both Linda Barnfather and Jim McEntire in a bitterly disrespectful manner.

The third post by Tom Davis starts off with swearing and berates people for parking their cars on their own property - when sometimes such is a necessity due to street widths or new storm water regulations.

Then there is the post in which a former - terminated - Clallam employee signed a non-disclosure agreement…which you apparently saw…and expects anonymity while continuing the name calling and unsupported allegations. It will take someone at the County about a fraction of a second to figure out who the person is, and it makes you a party to violating the agreement….a non-disclosure agreement usually means not talking about the entire incident and surrounding information, not blabbing about a problem without signing your name.

For the record, I don't know Sill and have no ax to grind regarding him either way.

Having noted those specific inconsistencies, all of this takes place against a backdrop of apparently allowing anonymous comments about any letters published…which, in my mind, make the site no better than the stuff that goes on with the PA Online site.

I'd be happy to listen to your perspective, but at the moment I'm disappointed with what I see so far.

Larry G. Williams, Omak, WA

It was an honest inquiry seeking to determine what the new forum intended

(End part 2 of 3 posts, continued - HTML limits a post to 4096 characters)

(Beginning part 3 of a 3 part post - continued HTML limits a post to 4096 characters)

Regarding Port Angeles Online….months ago I attempted to clarify through a single comment I made on your blog site. I didn't use my name at the time - though I felt the factual information I provided was important. But since I didn't use my name, it didn't feel quite right for me then, and it has bugged me ever since. This will be my last and final post on Port Angeles Online. This settles the score for me.

I will continue to express my opinion through the PDN…it's a printed format with a readership that I can generally relate with. Sometimes my opinions are strong, and at times I toss in the occasional catch phrase to try and stimulate some dialogue about a topic. While using the phrase "cream of the crap" was a little over the top, it reflected my opinion of what has been happening in City Government, and was the beginning of a series of comments I had about the election and what will likely transpire in the future.

What is unfortunate, in my opinion, is the level is angst in online and anonymous post forums without writers feeling the need to take ownership by including their name. When I've commented in the PDN - even if it is a forceful comment, at least people know who is talking. For anyone interested in moving to Port Angeles, and who looks at the town through the lens of your blog site, it seems the town is torn apart and has diminishing opportunities for recovery.

What I find most disturbing is this - "Just Letters" says at 11/14/11 @ 8:31AM above, the following: "No one is going to try to expose you to ridicule." As the current post on Just Letters Not Filters shows, that is not the case. Someone has had a good laugh, and I have no doubt others will cheer with glee as well. Fooled once, shame on you. Fooled twice, shame on me.

Yes, I'm pretty naive about some things, and no it never crossed my mind that the site was a fake. Yes, I will continue to monitor PA Online from time to time…after all, it does reflect a segment of the town even if I don't necessarily agree with it, and don't relate positively to how the media is used in the dissemination. Yes, the hateful comments pointed directly me by unknowns do sting…I'm only human too.

No, I won't be making additional posts, by name or otherwise.

But, Tom, what has happened is an offshoot of your site…and you expressed your support for it beginning. For the sake of anyone wishing to consider trusting or using your site in the future, I'd appreciate you commenting on what has transpired.

Larry G. Williams, Omak, WA (End part 3 of 3)

Clallam County Layoffs

2011-11-16T19:37:00.000-08:00

A Clallam County budget proposal will include laying off fifteen employees, reducing six other full-time positions to part-time, and closing the Clallam County Courthouse for sixteen days next year.

There will be two public hearings on December 6th concerning the budget plan. They will be in Room 160 of the Clallam County Courthouse, 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Possible Law and Justice Sales Tax Increase

2011-11-15T09:49:00.000-08:00

The three county commissioners are considering whether to ask voters to approve a one tenth of one percent sales tax. This tax would support law and justice services.

County Administrator Jim Jones said the juvenile services department is losing money; costs are rising at three times the inflation rate.

Local Impact of 1183

2011-11-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

This article quotes some of the people who will be out of work because of I-1183. I was against I-1183 for that exact reason. I have no personal preference whether booze is available at grocery stores and supermarkets or only at state-run liquor stores. But either way, Washington's state liquor stores didn't seem to be broken, but Costco found it necessary to spend $22.5 million "fixing" the "problem."

Several commenters at the PDN article are talking about boycotting Costco. I'm not necessarily agreeing with them, but the Costco in Sequim just happens to be next door to a Grocery Outlet. I'm just saying...

Just Letters No Filters

2011-11-10T17:54:00.000-08:00

That's the name of a new site where people can send letters regarding issues of interest to Clallam County citizens.

Here's the link.

I haven't sent anything yet, but it sounds like you won't have to spend two weeks jumping through hoops while you're waiting for your letter to maybe get published.

Commenting at PDN Site? Facebook Account Required

2011-11-09T13:56:00.000-08:00

If you want to leave a comment at the end of a PDN article, you'll need a Facebook account. According to today's online survey at the PDN, just under half of the respondents don't have a Facebook account.

I guess that's one way of cutting down on the number of comments.

Five Port Angeles Businesses Closing

2011-11-08T01:00:00.000-08:00

Rick's Place and Thai Peppers closed last month, along with United Rentals, located near the old Wal-Mart store. Tiger Lily has moved to Port Orchard and expects to reopen in mid-November.

Waste Not Want Not, 724 East First Street, will be closing at the end of this month.

Meetings to Discuss Lincoln Park Tree Removal

2011-11-04T18:15:00.000-07:00

On November 30th there will be a meeting to discuss the Lincoln Park Master Plan, including the removal of trees which are blocking the approach to Fairchild International Airport. The meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall, 321 East Fifth Street.

This will be the first of several meetings to discuss this issue.

New Owner for Peninsula Daily News

2011-10-31T17:29:00.000-07:00

The current owner of the Peninsula Daily News, Horvitz Newspapers, LLC, is selling the PDN to Black Press, Ltd. of Victoria, B.C. The PDN will be operated by Sound Publishing, Inc., which is a division of Black Press, Ltd.

City Council Candidates to Speak at PABA meeting

2011-10-30T15:57:00.000-07:00

Candidates for the Port Angeles City Council will be giving presentations and answering questions at this Tuesday's meeting of the Port Angeles Business Association. The candidates are Don Perry, Brad Collins, Dan Di Guilio and Cherie Kidd (incumbents); and challengers Sissi Bruch, Drew Schwab and Noelle Fuller. Cherie Kidd's opponent, Cody Blevins, withdrew from the race; Cherie Kidd is running unopposed.

Border Patrol Scaling Back

2011-10-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

Along the northern border at least, the U.S. Border Patrol is scaling back some of their more controversial methods. For now they'll no longer be routinely searching buses, trains and airports for illegal immigrants.

The union that represents Border Patrol agents will be issuing a press release saying:

"Orders have been sent out from Border Patrol headquarters in Washington, D.C., to Border Patrol sectors nationwide that checks of transportation hubs and systems located away from the southwest border of the United States will only be conducted if there is intelligence indicating a threat."

Possible New Property Tax Levy Next Year

2011-10-27T01:47:00.000-07:00

Voters will probably be asked to approve a new property tax levy in order to pay for the Waterfront Redevelopment Plan and the renovation of Civic Field. The City Council gave vocal support to a special levy for those two projects during a meeting on the 2012 budget.

Property taxes will not go up even if a new levy is approved, because the levy that funded the Port Angeles Senior Center will lapse next year.

Unemployment Rate Falls Slightly in Clallam County

2011-10-26T17:37:00.000-07:00

As of last month, Clallam County's unemployment rate is 9.5%, down from 9.7% the previous month. Jefferson County's unemployment rate remained steady at 9.1%.

Cherie Kidd's Re-Election NOT Guaranteed

2011-10-22T19:18:00.000-07:00

If you want Cherie Kidd to be re-elected to the City Council, be sure to vote for her. The fact that her only opponent, Cody Blevins, has dropped out of the race does NOT guarantee anything.

According to a letter in yesterday's PDN: "Despite candidate Cody Blevins' stated withdrawal, it was not done within the legally required 10-day limit." Therefore, all votes for Cody Blevins must legally be counted.

There's a danger that voters who want Cherie Kidd on the City Council won't bother to vote for her since, after all, she doesn't have an opponent. I don't know what will happen if Cody Blevins, who's no longer running, gets more votes than Cherie Kidd.

Clallam County Will Withdraw from ICLEI

2011-10-21T10:39:00.000-07:00

Clallam County residents who have been having nightmares about black helicopters and jackbooted U.N. thugs bringing America to her knees — you can sleep soundly now. Clallam County will be withdrawing from the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) at the end of this year.

Public Disclosure Commission Website

2011-10-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

I didn't know about this website until it was mentioned in the letters section of today's PDN. Among other things, you can search for campaign finance information on every political candidate in the state.

Here's the link.

U.S. Border Patrol: Coming to a Park Near You

2011-10-16T13:21:00.000-07:00

Congress is actually considering a bill that would give the U.S. Border Patrol immediate access to all national parks and wilderness areas that are within 100 miles of the Canadian or Mexican border. This "immediate access" includes building fences, building roads, setting up monitoring stations — whatever it takes to sniff out illegal immigrants.

This bill is the National Security and Lands Protection Act, and it's already been approved by the House Committee on Natural Resources.

Occupy Port Angeles

2011-10-13T22:59:00.000-07:00

There will be a local Occupy Wall Street rally tomorrow in Port Townsend and Saturday in Port Angeles.

The Port Angeles rally will be at 11 a.m., Saturday at Veterans Park.

Redistricting Might Affect Olympic Peninsula

2011-10-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

Federal redistricting, as a result of the 2010 census, might result in one of two possible changes locally:

1. East Jefferson County could be moved out of the 24th Legislative District and moved into the same district as Kitsap County.

2. A new 10th Congressional District could be carved out of an area that includes Jefferson, Clallam and Grays Harbor Counties.

Two City Council Candidates to Speak at Chamber of Commerce

2011-10-09T19:08:00.000-07:00

For tomorrow's luncheon at the Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce, two City Council candidates will be speaking. They are Andrew Schwab, who's running against incumbent Brad Collins (Position 1); and Noelle Fuller, running against council-appointed Mayor Dan Di Guilio (Position 5).

New Saltwater Patrol Vessel for County Sheriff's Office

2011-10-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

The Clallam County Sheriff's Office marine unit has added a 26-foot Protector for patrolling the Strait and the parts of the Pacific that border Clallam County. The marine unit works closely with the Border Patrol, Coast Guard and state Fish and Wildlife department.

The boat was built by Lee Shore Boats of Port Angeles. A lot of other local businesses took part in the building and designing of the boat. Sheriff’s Deputy Ralph Edgington said:

“A lot of local merchants took part on this.”

Paying For the Privilege of Recycling?

2011-10-06T01:12:00.000-07:00

The City of Port Angeles is considering separating fees for garbage and recycling, which would mean residents who don't recycle would pay less than those who do. City staff are saying that separating the charges would provide a more equitable rate structure for all residents. But Max Mania said:

“It’s rewarding people for not recycling is how I see it.”

And a Port Angeles resident said:

“Don’t punish the people who are recycling.”

Layoffs Among Clallam County Employees

2011-10-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

Clallam County will have to lay off thirty workers in order to balance a $2.4 million budget shortfall.

The eight unions that represent Clallam County employees were asked to either accept a one-year waiver on a pre-negotiated 3% cost of living increase, or take 24 unpaid days off. They declined both options. County Administrator Jim Jones said:

“If the unions would agree to that, we would not lay off anybody this year. We would still be about $800,000 short in being able to completely eliminate the shortfall if that had happened, but we would make up the $800,000. That was a reasonable use of reserves, which would buy us time to look for other ways to raise that revenue, perhaps in the form of a small public safety tax.”

McEntire and Barnfather to Speak at Chamber of Commerce

2011-10-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

At tomorrow's Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce luncheon, the guests will be Jim McEntire and Linda Barnfather. They're both running for the Clallam County Commission seat being vacated by Steve Tharinger.

Clint Didier Speaks at FourC Forum

2011-09-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

Clint Didier discussed U.N. Agenda 21 at a meeting of Concerned Citizens of Clallam County in Sequim yesterday. About 200 people attended.

Wild Olympics Discussion at PABA meeting

2011-09-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

The guest speaker at this Tuesday's Port Angeles Business Association meeting will be Carol Johnson, executive director of the North Olympic Timber Action Committee. She will be presenting the timber industry's alternative to the Wild Olympics campaign.

The Wild Olympics campaign aims to add 38,000 acres to Olympic National Park, which would be achieved through voluntary sales by willing landowners.

Last June Carol Johnson told the Port Angeles Regional Chamber of Commerce that the loss of these 38,000 acres would eliminate between 112 and 226 jobs, and cause local governments to lose up to $4 million in tax revenue.

Debate Between Linda Barnfather and Jim McEntire

2011-09-23T01:47:00.000-07:00

Port of Port Angeles commissioner Jim McEntire and Linda Barnfather, former legislative assistant to state Rep. Kevin Van De Wege, held a debate in Sequim earlier this week. They're both running for the Clallam County commission seat currently held by Steve Tharinger, who is not seeking re-election. McEntire said:

“Now is not a good time to raise taxes. We need to watch the cost of living in the county very closely now.”

Linda Barnfather cited her experience in farming and property management,and said she favored a balanced approach between boosting the economy and protecting the environment. She said she would consider a tax increase “when things are at the critical level.” She also said:

“I care deeply for all of you and where I live.”

Meeting to Discuss the ICLEI

2011-09-20T16:23:00.000-07:00

According to a letter in yesterday's PDN, there will be a meeting next Monday, 9/26 at 6 p.m. at the Sequim Boys and Girls Club. This meeting will be a discussion of whether the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI) actually consists of local governments throughout the world working together to promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability — as the group's website states — or whether it's a horrifying stealth plan to have jackbooted U.N. thugs come storming into American citizens' homes to steal their property rights and destroy their freedom.

Should be an interesting meeting.

8,000 Attend Sprint Boat Races

2011-09-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

Port Angeles' first sprint boat racing event attracted 8,000 spectators yesterday. Dan Morrison, co-owner of the track, said:

“We have counted 8,000 right now and we are only halfway through the races. People are still coming in.”

Elwha Dam Removal

2011-09-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

This is a video of yesterday's beginning of the demolition of the Glines Canyon dam.

Here is a slide show.

And here is a link to this weekend's dam removal activities.

Contract Awarded for Lincoln Park Redevelopment

2011-09-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Port of Port Angeles commissioners have selected Hough, Beck and Baird Inc. of Seattle to develop a master plan for redeveloping Lincoln Park. The plan includes cutting down the fir trees in Lincoln Park, probably within the next two to three years.

The contract will cost $145,513. The FAA, which requires that the trees be cut down, has awarded the Port a grant of $138,237. The Port will pay the remaining $7,276.

Sprint Boat Racer to Speak at PABA meeting

2011-09-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday morning's guest speaker before the Port Angeles Business Association will be Randy Alderson of Wicked Racing. Wicked Racing is one of the teams that will be competing at Port Angeles' first sprint boat race this coming Saturday.

Expanding the Port Angeles Utility Advisory Committee

2011-09-09T11:32:00.000-07:00

Another position might be added to the 5-member Utility Advisory Committee. Nippon has a permanent seat on the committee, which could give the impression of unfairness.

City Councilman Max Mania brought up the fairness issue. He said “for a lot of people, perception is reality.” He also said adding a new position would increase public input regarding utility rates.

The City Council will discuss this at their September 20th meeting.

Unplugging the Valley Creek Culvert

2011-09-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

There's a buildup of sediment in a culvert at Valley Creek which could cause flooding during the upcoming rainy season. The Port Angeles City Council voted 5-2 to authorize Kent Myers to hire a contractor to remove the blockage.

The expected cost is between $35,000 and $100,000. Max Mania and Cherie Kidd voted No because contract bids have not been received. Glenn Cutler told the Council that because of the flood risk, the city didn't have time to wait until the September 20th meeting to bring bids to the Council.

Border Patrol Agent Requests Transfer

2011-09-06T01:38:00.000-07:00

U.S. Border Patrol agent Christian Sanchez has reportedly asked to be transferred back to the American-Mexican border.

Sanchez' attorney said Sanchez is afraid of reprisals because of his earlier statement that "there's nothing to do" for BP agents on the Olympic Peninsula. Here's a link to CNN's coverage of the story.

Border Patrol Makes Arrest in Front of P.A. Farmers Market

2011-09-04T02:21:00.000-07:00

Hung Han, a Korean citizen and Sequim resident, was arrested by the Border Patrol around 2:30 p.m. on Saturday in front of the Port Angeles Farmers Market. He was in the process of helping his parents pack up their produce stand at Gateway Center. He was transferred to the I.C.E. detention center in Tacoma.

A farmers market vendor who witnessed the entire event said:

“I was shocked to see productive members of society arrested.”

Tinfoil Hat-Wearers Unload on Clallam County Commissioners

2011-09-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

I usually try to keep my personal opinions out of this blog, but this is beyond absurd.

For three years Clallam County has been a member of the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI). ICLEI is a worldwide association of more than 1,200 local governments that are “committed to sustainable development.” Here is the organization's website.

The local "Black Helicopters!" brigade descended on the Clallam County Commissioners earlier this week, asking that Clallam County cut ties to the ICLEI. Quick, before a gang of jackbooted United Nations thugs comes storming into YOUR home and steals your property rights.

[sigh]

$900,000 Projected Deficit for 2012

2011-08-31T21:01:00.000-07:00

The City of Port Angeles is expecting to be $900,000 in the red next year. City Manager Kent Myers said:

“We're being faced with an increase in costs without the ability to finance that with additional revenue.”

City Finance Director Yvonne Ziomkowski said $600,000 of the deficit is the result of increased personnel costs. Another factor is the expected loss of sales tax revenue when Price Ford Lincoln moves to a new location outside the city limits.

Buy Local Campaign Chairman to be Guest Speaker at PABA meeting

2011-08-28T12:57:00.000-07:00

The "Buy Local" campaign is sponsored by the Port Angeles Forward Committee. Mike Edwards, the campaign chairman, spoke last February at the Port Angeles Business Association's weekly meeting. At this Tuesday's meeting he'll be giving an update on the development of a website and other marketing strategies.

Catherine A. Betts Gets 12-Year Sentence

2011-08-24T20:09:00.000-07:00

Catherine A. Betts, convicted of embezzling funds from the Clallam County Treasurer's Office, has been sentenced to twelve years. She also will have to pay restitution of $607,516.

Her attorney, Loren Oakley of Clallam-Jefferson Public Defenders, has already appealed the sentence.

Unemployment Rate Down Slightly on North Olympic Peninsula

2011-08-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

As of July 2011, Clallam County's unemployment rate decreased from 10.1% to 9.7%. During the same period, the unemployment rate in Jefferson County fell from 9.5% to 9.1%.

Statewide, the unemployment rate is 9.3%.

Forks Group Wants to Monitor the Border Patrol

2011-08-23T14:13:00.000-07:00

Forks Human Rights Group has presented the Forks City Council with a proposal to form a committee that would open a dialogue about the interaction between the Border Patrol and local residents.

The group's spokesperson said local police agencies should:

Engage immigrant communities in dialogue;

Educate immigrant communities on law enforcement’s role in immigration enforcement;

Develop written policies and procedures for handling undocumented immigrants; and

Monitor cases of racial profiling.

The City Council meeting had an overflow crowd of more than fifty attendees.

Nippon and Port Townsend Paper Corp. both Fined for Permit Violations

2011-08-21T16:30:00.000-07:00

Both mills have been fined, $4,000 each, by the state Department of Ecology. The fines were for permit violations during the fall of 2010.

It was the first fine in eight years for the Nippon Paper Industries USA Co. mill in Port Angeles.

Downtown Association Passes City Audit

2011-08-17T01:21:00.000-07:00

City Hall has decided that the Port Angeles Downtown Association is in compliance with its contract with the City, but that there is room for improvement.

This was the conclusion of City Manager Kent Myers and Finance Director Yvonne Ziomkowski. The City's audit itself was the result of 81 downtown business owners signing a petition expressing their dissatisfaction with the Port Angeles Downtown Association's leadership and effectiveness.

The City's audit did recommend that the Downtown Association board members communicate better with the membership by meeting at least once a year with each member. And the PADA's regular board meetings should be held in a downtown public location, e.g. a restaurant, instead of the PADA's tiny cramped office, which appears to make non-Board-members unwelcome. And the audit very gently and indirectly suggested that maybe the PADA could make a tiny, uh, effort to obtain some of the tens of thousands of B&O tax dollars that are available to the downtown of all members of the Washington's Main Street program. To date,the Downtown Association has NOT done this.

The PADA executive director said these recommendations will be considered.

Norm Dicks' Office Plans Meeting with Border Patrol

2011-08-14T01:40:00.000-07:00

George Behan, spokesman for Rep. Norm Dicks, said staff members want to meet later this month with the Border Patrol's top supervisor for the Blaine sector. Behan said:

“Very obviously, there are concerns on the Peninsula. We want to get an update on the current activities and future plans, including the concern that the Border Patrol office in the area could be overstaffed. We obviously would be asking the Border Patrol's purposes and how that fits into the mission.”

Staff members for Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray might also be at this meeting.

Profile of Farmers Market Shoppers

2011-08-12T10:20:00.000-07:00

At the Port Angeles Farmers Market this Saturday, a researcher will be counting and interviewing shoppers. Colleen Donovan of Washington State University’s Small Farms Program will get a “rapid market assessment.” This will hopefully provide helpful information to the manager and twenty-nine vendors of the farmers market.

Border Patrol Agents Address Forks City Council

2011-08-10T18:12:00.000-07:00

Two U.S. Border Patrol agents met with the Forks City Council on Monday. Field Operations Supervisor Rafael Cano said:

“We’re going to continue to enforce the laws as they’re written on the books. We’re going to do so because Congress said they wanted us to do so. We’ve been mandated by Congress to do so. We’re very interested in developing partnerships. We work very closely with multiple local, state, federal and tribal agencies.”

Station supervisor Jose Romero said:

“When we talk about partnerships, it’s not just about finding illegal immigrants. It’s not just about finding terrorists. But we also deal with narcotics. That’s part of our authority. It’s any type of contraband. Terrorism is a threat, and I understand it’s not something that we see here daily or weekly, monthly or yearly. With terrorism, it’s not a Johnny-come-lately. It’s not what happened recently. One act of terrorism is one too many.”

State Legislators Taking Voluntary Pay Cuts

2011-08-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

Twelve state House members have volunteered to take a pay cut. Only one of them is from the North Olympic Peninsula. Kevin Van De Wege has opted for a five percent pay reduction.

Today's online poll question at the PDN is: "Should state legislators voluntarily send back 3% to 10% of their pay to the state?"

With 922 votes cast, 88.1% voted Yes; 9.2% said No; and 2.7% were Undecided.

$10 Million Lawsuit Against Olympic National Park

2011-08-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

John Messina, a personal injury lawyer in Tacoma, is filing a wrongful death suit against Olympic National Park. The lawsuit is being filed as a result of the death of Bob Boardman, who was fatally gored by a mountain goat last October.

The wrongful death and personal injury claims have totaled $10,022,700. John Messina said:

“We are intending to file a wrongful death suit. Negligence is the basis. Our goal is to seek justice in this case and wake up the park system.”

Which is More Important, Public Safety or Parking Enforcement?

2011-08-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Today's chalkboard message at Port Book and News is urging people to contact City Hall and ask for more adequate enforcement of traffic laws downtown. We have a new parking control officer to ticket anyone who stays in the same parking space for more than two hours, even though parking enforcement was the public's lowest priority in last year's survey that the City sent out.

Meanwhile the 20 m.p.h. speed limit downtown is a joke. Ditto the crosswalks. (The chalkboard didn't mention crosswalks; that's just my two cents worth.)

As the chalkboard message said, a speeding ticket costs a lot more than a parking ticket. And God knows what the fine is for barreling through a crosswalk while a pedestrian is in it. The City could provide a safe environment for downtown pedestrians and shoppers while simultaneously bringing in some much-needed revenue for their depleted treasury.

Possible One-Day Strike at Olympic Medical Center

2011-08-02T17:43:00.000-07:00

If the union that represents nurses and service workers cannot reach a deal with OMC over staffing and benefits, they might go on a one-day strike on August 11th. Service Employees International Union 1199NW gave notice last Friday of the possible strike. Their spokeswoman said:

“Our goal is to settle a fair contract, not to go on strike.”

OMC has filed a motion for a temporary restraining order against the strike. A judge in Kitsap County is expected to hear arguments tomorrow regarding the restraining order.

Border Patrol Whistleblower

2011-07-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

A U.S. Border Patrol agent has described the Port Angeles station as a "black hole" where agents have "no purpose, no mission." Agent Christian Sanchez said he declined overtime pay because he hadn't been doing any work; and his bosses responded by suggesting he needed psychological help.

Two days ago he made a public statement in Washington, D.C. at a meeting of the Advisory Committee on Transparency, which works for more openness in government. Sanchez said:

“The worst fraud on taxpayers is that we are getting paid overtime not to work.”

He said when he first started here:

“I noticed it was common practice for everyone to get paid overtime not to work. Back then there were about 24 agents and our entire station was receiving at least two hours of Administratively Uncontrolled Overtime” and that his bosses “want to create their own kingdom. The spending is to expand bureaucratic turf, not to protect our nation.”

You can find the Washington Post story Here.

Olympic Finance Development Authority

2011-07-29T00:54:00.000-07:00

This is the name of a local organization made up of the directors of economic development councils of Clallam, Jefferson, Mason and Kitsap Counties. This group has $1 million in state and federal funding and is expecting to begin making loans this fall.

Board President Linda Rotmark said their purpose is to provide "gap financing" for business owners and entrepreneurs. In other words, this is necessary financing that most banks don't provide. She said:

“We don’t supplant them. We supplement them.”

Rogers Weed, state Department of Commerce Director, said these loan programs will help the state's economy:

“They can provide low-cost loans that can help either something start up . . . or get through a rough patch and get through.”

Former Treasurer's Office Cashier Found Guilty

2011-07-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

After four hours of deliberation, a jury has convicted former Clallam County Treasurer’s Office cashier Catherine Betts of the theft of $617,467. She was convicted of first degree theft, money laundering and 19 counts of filing false/fraudulent tax returns.

Her sentence could be anywhere between 43 months and 21 years.

How to Improve Things for Tourists

2011-07-24T18:07:00.001-07:00

In today’s PDN, the Speaking Out question (asked of tourists) was: “What can the local community do to improve your visit?”

Answers included:

“More signs on where to turn to Hurricane Ridge…”

“I was saddened to find that…Swains [in Port Townsend] was closed. I like visiting local stores to buy things that I forgot, so opening another would be grand.”

“Directions to a local restaurant turned out to be too far to walk. It would have been nice to have a shuttle bus to go back and forth downtown.”

“Somehow we totally missed the sign for the national park…”

“I think they need more stuff for youth to do downtown. We have an 11-year-old and he’s looking for something to do. Maybe something like miniature golf or touristy stuff.”

“I was hopefully looking for a daily farmers market for us tourists. You need local food on a daily basis. I’ve been here before, but that’s all I can think of that you need.”

“Get rid of that construction equipment I see sitting downtown. It reminds me of work. Traffic is not nearly as bad as L.A.”

“You need outdoor café dining or a sidewalk café. We are killing some time before we catch the ferry, and we need something to eat that’s simple and fast.”

New Directional Signs in Downtown Port Angeles

2011-07-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

Six directional signs have been installed in downtown Port Angeles on Front, Laurel, Oak and First Streets. City staff is seeking public comment on the new signs. Fifty-six more of these signs will be installed later this year, but first the City wants input from the public regarding the six prototype signs.

Public comments will be accepted through Friday, August 19th.

Arts In Action 2011

2011-07-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow through Sunday is Port Angeles' annual Arts In Action Weekend. Sand sculptures, food vendors, live music, classic car shows...

Click here for more information.

Performance Review for Port Angeles Downtown Association

2011-07-17T10:27:00.000-07:00

Eighty-one downtown business owners have signed a petition asking the City to examine whether the Downtown Association is fulfilling its contract. Kent Myers said the City will conduct the review because of the large number of downtown merchants who signed the petition. He said:

“I think anytime you have between 80 and 100 business signing a petition of that nature, I think it's a serious issue and that we have to get to the bottom of their concerns as soon as possible.”

This story was also covered by KONP.

Former Rayonier Mill Large Contributor to Dioxin Levels

2011-07-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

The State Department of Ecology has released a report based on samples that were taken in 2008. The former Rayonier site was a “large contribution” of the dioxin in a lot of those samples.

The Ecology Department's Rebecca Lawson said the presence of dioxins from the mill is significant enough to warrant a cleanup by Rayonier. She said:

“While they are above what our standard is, they're not so high that we think we have to go out and take immediate action. At the end of the day, it will all come together to be a complete cleanup for the entire site.”

Comments on the study will be accepted through August 30th. On August 3rd, there will be two public meetings at the Port Angeles Senior Center, 328 East Seventh St. The meetings will be 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

You can find more information about the study here.

Kenmore Air Vows to Stay in Port Angeles

2011-07-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

Craig O'Neill, director of marketing and sales for Kenmore, told Port of Port Angeles commissioners that Kenmore is committed to maintaining passenger service between Fairchild Airport and Boeing Field. Kenmore has three round trips on weekdays between the two airports.

Fairchild Airport might lose federal funding because of low ridership. They need to have a minimum of 10,000 passengers per year. With ridership decreasing, the airport is unlikely to meet that requirement this year. Ridership has fallen drastically from 2010 levels.

Production Increase at Peninsula Plywood

2011-07-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

In the past month, Peninsula Plywood has more than doubled production. And the company has added about thirty new employees.

Three weeks ago PenPly received $212,000 from the state Department of Commerce and $230,000 from investors. PenPly President Josh Renshaw said:

“We have the capacity, we have the orders.”

Fire at New Peking Restaurant and Lounge

2011-07-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

The New Peking Restaurant and Lounge in Port Angeles has been destroyed by a fire. The building burned early this morning.

Firefighters from three departments responded to the fire at around 3:20 a.m. and had the fire out by about 7:20 a.m. The fire was difficult to put out because of the way the building was constructed and the flammable materials inside the building.

No firefighters or restaurant employees were injured.