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Published By Your City Hall |
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 Mayor Benetti (left) accepts $10,000 grant from Ron Green, Oregon Pacific Bank President and Chief Executive Officer. The generous grant will go towards the replacement of the Mingus Park Pool boiler. Oregon Pacific Bank supported this local community development through its participation in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) Member Impact Fund. This financial support was a combined contribution from the Member Impact Fund Grant ($7,500) and Oregon Pacific Bank’s Member Match ($2,500).
What an amazing community! Just a few short months ago, we were faced with Mingus Pool being closed for an undetermined length of time while we worked with the Pool Board towards replacement of the failed boiler. Initial estimates for replacement of the boiler were in the $120,000-$150,000 range. With neither the City or the Pool Board finding available financial capacity, extended scenarios were considered. Though the City Council with the support of the Pool Board approved use of Rainy Day Funds to replenish those funds over time, the community stepped in to save the day.
In early February, donations started pouring in. And over the following weeks, into the first week of April, donations continued. This community pulled together in those few short weeks with the funding necessary to replace the boiler. During this community donation drive, City staff worked through the procurement process, resulting in a vendor contract below initial estimate. The City signed an agreement to replace the boiler for a little under $75,000. Donations to date are a little over $80,000 and we have stopped accepting donations. Upon completion of the boiler replacement, City staff will work with the Pool Board to identify other potential projects or needs, or possibly reserve these funds as the start of a savings for the next boiler replacement, setting aside money each year in preparation for that future event.
The community donation drive was capped off this week, with a generous donation by Oregon Pacific Bank. Oregon Pacific Bank supported this local community development through its participation in the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines) Member Impact Fund. This matching grant program is designed to offer eligible organizations critical financial support for affordable housing and community development initiatives in targeted areas of FHLB Des Moines’ district and has awarded nearly $20 million to hundreds of non-profit and government organizations across the region. In Oregon alone, $4.11 million was distributed among 104 awards with the participation of 19 members, reflecting a concerted effort to bolster affordable housing and community development efforts within the state.
Oregon Pacific Bank contributed to the success of this program by recommending and matching grants for two deserving local businesses in Oregon. The Bank is delighted to have played a part in enhancing the well-being and prosperity of the local communities it serves. Funding from the Member Impact Fund Grant was $7,500 with a member match from the local Oregon Pacific Bank branch of $2,500.
We are still awaiting a schedule from the supplier of the boiler so do not have an exact timeline for the replacement but believe the pool will be opened in the coming months and in time for the busy summer swimming season.
Many community members generously donated funds and I’d like to personally thank each of you. A recap of received donations is shared below. The total funds received within each date range are listed, however, we’ve only included names of those who authorized recognition with many of the donations left without a recognized donor:
 -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay
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NHTSA and CBPD Remind Drivers:
 The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Coos Bay Police Department (CBPD) are launching a national high-visibility enforcement effort to deter distracted driving. Law enforcement officers nationwide will work together to enforce texting and distracted-driving laws and remind drivers: Put the Phone Away or Pay. This effort comes during April, which is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month.
According to NHTSA, in 2022 there were 3,308 people killed and an estimated additional 289,310 people injured in traffic crashes involving distracted drivers.
“Distracted driving is a leading cause of vehicle crashes on our nation’s roads, and most of this distraction can be attributed to cell phone use,” said Coos Bay Police Captain Lindahl. “People know using their phone while driving is dangerous and illegal, but they do it anyway, and put themselves and others at risk. Drivers will see increased law enforcement efforts, as officers will be stopping and ticketing anyone who is caught texting and driving. If you text and drive, you will pay,” he said.
Violating Oregon’s distracted-driving laws can be costly. Oregon law (ORS 811.507) can cost violators up to a maximum fine of $1000 for their first offense and jail time on their third offense.
Drive Safe Every Trip
NHTSA & CBPD urges drivers to put their phones away when behind the wheel. If you are the driver, follow these steps for a safe drive:
- If you are expecting a text message or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location.
- Ask your passenger to be your “designated texter.” Allow them access to your phone to respond to calls or messages.
- Do not engage in social media scrolling or messaging while driving.
- Cell phone use is habit-forming. Struggling to not text and drive? Activate your phone’s “Do Not Disturb” feature, silence notifications, or put your phone in the trunk, glove box, or back seat of your vehicle until you arrive at your destination.
Cell phone use while driving is dangerous and illegal. Break the cycle. Remember: Put the Phone Away or Pay. For more information, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/campaign/distracted-driving.
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 The Coos Bay Public Library Community Survey is winding down. The last day to submit your thoughts and ideas will be April 20! This survey will help determine future programming and purchases so make sure your voice is heard!
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 The Coos County Airport District does business as the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport. The special district was formed over 20 years when Coos County Citizens decided this critical piece of infrastructure was necessary to help connect the south coast to the rest of the state and beyond. Subscribe to the airport’s monthly newsletter On The Horizon to keep current on airport happenings and the community’s investment. Each issue includes various airport topics such as important dates, commercial flight information, expanded services, and more. To subscribe, visit our website www.flyoth.com or the QR code above.
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 Staff from the Department of Land Conservation and Development is conducting a survey to gather feedback from childcare providers. The goal is to help the Child Care Facility Barriers work group identify and address obstacles in zoning, building codes, and permits for starting or expanding childcare facilities. This work was mandated by the legislature in 2023, with the final recommendations due by the end of 2024.
This survey is intended for individuals who have experience in establishing or expanding childcare businesses in Oregon, including those who have dealt with zoning and permitting processes for various types of childcare providers. We also want to hear from providers who have thought about or attempted opening a new business or expanding an existing one but decided not to move forward with the process for any reason.
Your input is crucial to understanding and addressing existing barriers. The survey is open through April 15, 2024.
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 City of Coos Bay Parks Commission Adopt-A-Park Pilot Program is seeking a few skilled volunteers to help with a project at the Mingus Park Community Building-Historic WPA Scout Cabin. The work will begin Friday, April 12 from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. and continue through the weekend based on tasks completed.
If you are skilled with basic carpentry, cutting up smaller branches/logs for brush removal, specific demolition of small structures or cleaning up weeds/debris, please contact adoptapark@coosbayor.gov for information on the three projects and how to sign up to volunteer.
Working conditions may include lifting, bending, twisting moving items on uneven ground and possible rainy/wet environment. Thank you!
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 Come join us on Saturday, April 13 for the first in a series about reconnecting with nature. We will begin with a presentation by Pamela Slaughter about inclusiveness and safe outdoor outings and then will take a short hike at Millicoma Marsh. Come and enjoy the beauty of the Oregon coast.
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Volunteers Needed for 2nd Saturday Cleanup Project for North Bend Park
Come spend a couple of hours with the Oregon Bay Area Beautification (OBAB) group and the North Bend Parks Department to help beautify Ferry Road Park and the surrounding area. The 2nd Saturday cleanup will be on Saturday, April 13.
Volunteers will meet at Ferry Road Park, at 496 Park Ave, North Bend. The cleanup effort is from 1 p.m.-3 p.m. with sign-ins starting at 12:45 p.m. Clean up focus will be raking the sand in the playground and horseshoe pit areas, ivy removal, and litter removal. Please dress appropriately for working outdoors. Bring a rake, shovel, wheelbarrow, work gloves, cutting tools for shrubbery, trash grabbers if you have them, water, and sunscreen. Trash bags and the disposal will be taken care of. We hope to see you there!
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Grab your lightsaber and join us! Southwestern Oregon Community College invites third to sixth grade students to experience this fun and engaging science-immersion event on Saturday, May 4 from 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Star Wars themed costumes encouraged. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy a show in the new Discovery Dome Planetarium.
Cost is $25 and spots are limited to 15. Scholarships are available. For more information and to register contact Krystal Hopper Meyers, STEAM Pathways Assistant, at 541-888-7416, or krystal.hopper@socc.edu.
For more details visit: https://bit.ly/4avPmZA.
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 Economic Revitalization Administrator
The City of Coos Bay is soliciting applications for the position of Economic Revitalization Administrator. To apply for the position, interested parties should submit a city application, resume, and letter of interest to the HR Office or by email jspencer@coosbayor.gov. City applications are available from the Finance Office, City Hall, 500 Central Avenue, Coos Bay, Oregon 97420, by email at jspencer@coosbayor.gov or on the City’s website at https://www.coosbayor.gov/government/job-openings.
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Salary/Pay Rate: $6746 - $8609/Month DOQ
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Deadline to Apply: 04/26/2024 5 p.m.
GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: The City’s Economic Revitalization Administrator performs professional work in the administration of economic development programs and related initiatives in the City. They work closely with business owners and operators of the Downtown and Empire Urban Renewal Districts and act as a liaison to community boards and committees. Assists with urban renewal projects and planning. Administer the Urban Renewal Agency (URA) Improvement Grant program. Develop marketing strategies to attract and retain new businesses to the City.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Works under the general direction of the Community Development Director who outlines broad policies and objectives, and reviews work on the basis of results obtained.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED: May exercise supervision over support or clerical staff as assigned.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
An employee in this classification may perform any of the following duties. These examples do not include all the specific tasks which an employee may be expected to perform. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the class. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Assist the management team with urban renewal projects and planning.
- Administer the URA Improvement Grant program.
- Research and identify grants that will assist the city, URA, and business community and further the goals of city council.Draft and submit compelling and persuasive, completed grant proposals detailing the needs, objectives, budget, and anticipated outcomes; ensuring adherence to specified guidelines and deadlines.
- Act as a City liaison to community boards and committees such as Coos Bay Downtown Association, South Coast Development Council, Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, Housing Action Team, and other regional and state stakeholders involved with economic development.
- Serve as City staff representative and support to assigned committees and public events, including coordinating projects and activities, preparing for and attending meetings, managing day-to-day functions, implementing goals, etc.
- Work with the Planning Division to ensure that the Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Ordinance are consistent with long term goals.
- Develop and maintain a system and inventory of City vacant lots and buildings viable for business development.
- Engage with Oregon Economic Development Association to obtain membership and credentialling and participate in ongoing education to maintain credentials.
- Perform research and analytical support to the City Manager and Department Heads in the management of the programs and projects as established in the Downtown and Empire Urban Renewal Plans.
- Lead amendments to the City’s Urban Renewal Plans.
- Work with economic development partners to promote and drive investment and create strategies to recruit and retain businesses.
- Create marketing materials for print, website, and social media emphasizing the benefits to developing and locating business in Coos Bay.
- Operate a motor vehicle safely and legally.
Hiring Process: Applicants must complete and submit the required City application packet by 5 pm on Friday, April 26 at 5 p.m., as specified in this job announcement. All applicants will be notified of the final status of their application via email.
Application Acceptance Period: ................................ March 18th – April 26th
First Review of Applications: .....................................April 29th – April 30th
First Interviews with Selected Candidates: ............... May 1st – May 2nd
Second Interviews as Needed ……….…………………….…. May 6th – May 7th
Earliest Offer of Employment: ..................................May 13th, 2024
Projected Start Date: ............................................... June 1st, 2024
Note: The City reserves the right to conduct additional interviews, and this may affect the projected date for offer of employment.
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Firefighter/Engineer
The City of Coos Bay is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Firefighter/Engineer. Interested parties should go to the National Testing Network website www.nationaltestingnetwork.com and register as a firefighter candidate. Candidates should then complete and submit the National Testing Network (NTN) application, complete the Fire Team test, and have a valid Professionally Recognized Physical Ability Test dated no earlier than May 16, 2023. All testing must be complete prior to an applicant being considered for the application pool.
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Type: Full Time
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Salary/Pay Rate: $5397 - $6889/month DOQ
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Deadline to Apply: 05/03/2024 5 p.m.
The deadline for receiving completed test scores at the National Testing Network is 5 p.m., May 3, 2024. Scores received after the May 3 deadline will not be considered. Coos Bay Fire Department will select a limited number of candidates from the list provided by the National Testing Network. Selected candidates will be invited to complete a City of Coos Bay employment application and participate in a competitive selection process.
Lateral Candidates: Lateral candidates with at least two years of full-time paid firefighting experience are not required to complete the National Testing Network Fire Team test or physical abilities test. Lateral candidates must contact Battalion Chief Jeff Adkins at jadkins@coosbayor.gov prior to the close date of May 3, 2024, to obtain a City of Coos Bay Fire Department employment application and to verify experience.
TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF WORK: An employee in this classification may perform any of the following duties. However, these examples do not include all the specific tasks which an employee may be expected to perform:
- Responds to fire alarms and emergencies with fire apparatus. Operates apparatus, pumps and other mechanical equipment. Performs hose lays, ladder, salvage, rescue, ventilation and clean-up operations. Uses specialized firefighting equipment and tools. Works with volunteers.
- Maintains fire apparatus, equipment, facilities and grounds in good repair and readiness, including housekeeping, maintenance, yard work, painting and cleaning. Makes daily, weekly and monthly inspections of firefighting apparatus and equipment and makes minor mechanical repairs as needed. Prepares records concerning division activities, equipment and materials.
- Attends drills/training sessions to continuously update the skills and knowledge required for effective work performance. Practices firefighting, rescue and medical assistance skills. Assists in training volunteers and cadets.
- Assists in pre-fire planning, fire inspections, fire prevention, public relations and education and information activities.
- Inspects commercial, industrial and other buildings and dwellings for fire hazards, efficiency of fire protective equipment and general compliance with fire prevention regulations. Enforces federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to fire prevention.
- Complies with department and division procedures and policies.
HIRING PROCESS: Applicants must complete the National Testing Network Fire Team test by 5 p.m. May 3, 2024, as specified in this job announcement. All applicants will be notified of the final status of their application. Proof of successful completion of a Nationally Recognized Physical Agility Test is required at the May 3 deadline.
- April 1, 2024 – May 3, 2024…Written Exam – Scheduled by the candidate at NTN site or online.
- May 16, 2024...................... Candidate Evaluation - (Selected Applicants will be notified of time)
- May 17, 2024...................... Chief’s Interview – (Selected Applicants will be notified of time)
- June 17, 2024……………...Anticipated Start Date
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