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Published By Your City Hall |
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Thanks for Celebrating 150 Years With Us!
Our birthday bash was quite the celebration with over 250 in attendance. The weather held out long enough to enjoy spending time with so many members of our community and listening to the band. With hot dogs and pretzels, Graveyard Pop and cupcakes, and a painting activity and Coast Guard water demonstration, the day was full.
We were fortunate to hear from Chief Doug Barrett of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians shared some history about the area, followed by Representative Shelley Estes of the Coquille Indian Tribe who shared many memories and history from her family’s generational place in Coos Bay. Steve Grief, local historian and retired North Bend school teacher, shared a rich history of Coos Bay, starting with the development of Marshfield. The Coos History Museum, including Director Heather Christenbury and her team, were excellent hosts.
I’d like to close by thanking those who participated in Saturday’s 150th Birthday Celebration for Coos Bay and share some photos from the event.
-Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay
 
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 Join us for Downtown Wine Walk Friday, Nov 1 from 5 p.m. -7 p.m. The proceeds will benefit the Egyptian Theatre. Stop by the Coos Bay Visitor Center or Checkerberry’s Flowers and Gifts to pick up a wine glass and map. As always, the $10 fee benefits local nonprofits. The Coos Bay-North Bend Rotary Club is proud to sponsor this downtown and Coos Bay Waterfront event to showcase local participating merchants.
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A Closer Look at Building Permits
Building Permits 101
Building permits are all about SAFETY! Building codes have evolved over time in direct response to building performance in real-life conditions such as fire, earthquake, flood, tornado, hurricane, etc. When these events result in loss of life or widespread property damage, evaluations are conducted to determine what can be done to prevent or reduce future loss and disruption. Areas of the country that are more susceptible to a specific hazard will have requirements targeted at that hazard. The south coast is susceptible to earthquakes and high winds requiring more resistance to those forces. It is through the permitting and inspection process that we regulate these safety measures.
Oregon sets a minimum standard through the adoption of the Oregon Structural Specialty Code (Commercial buildings), Oregon Residential Code, Oregon Mechanical Specialty Code, Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code, Oregon Electrical Specialty Code, and the Oregon Fire Code. The City of Coos Bay administers the Oregon Structural Specialty Code, Oregon Residential Specialty Code, Oregon Mechanical Specialty Code, the Oregon Fire Code, and issues all building and mechanical permits inside the City limits of Coos Bay. Coos County administers the Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code and the Oregon Electrical Specialty Code and issues plumbing and electrical permits for the City of Coos Bay.
 When do you need a permit?
Residential – All new construction, additions, alterations, repairs, equipment, use and occupancy of detached one- and two- family dwellings not more than three stories in height and their accessory structures (garages, sheds, decks, covered porches, etc). This includes converting garages or basements to habitable space, adding wall to create habitable space, enlarging door or window openings, adding electrical circuits, heating, ventilation or air conditioning units, converting a bath tub to a shower or vice versa, and retaining walls that impact a building. There are some exceptions: reroofing when no more than 10% of sheeting is being replaced, like for like window or door replacement, cosmetic work (paint, flooring, counter tops).
Any work that requires a permit to install requires a demolition permit to remove.
Remember, other permits such as land use or site development may be required even when a building permit is not. Example, any work in a flood plain, fences, small sheds, etc. When in doubt call 541-269-8918 to discuss your project.
Commercial - All new construction, additions, alterations, repairs, equipment, use and occupancy of commercial buildings. There are fewer exemptions for work in/on commercial buildings. Permits are required for almost anything that is not cosmetic (papering, tiling, painting, carpet, counter tops, cabinets and finish work). Permits are required for any reroofing, residing, window or door replacements, changes to a path of egress, changing form one use to a different use (ex. office to retail store), resurfacing/restriping of parking lots, signs attached to buildings.
Remember, other permits such as land use or site development may be required even when a building permit is not. For example, any work in a flood plain, fences, free-standing signs, etc. When in doubt call the City at 541-269-8918 to discuss your project.
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Kick Off November with Fun & Relaxation |
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Happy November! The holiday season is upon us and the Coos Bay Public Library has lots of opportunities to relax and have some fun. To see our full calendar go to our website.
This Saturday, Nov. 2, adults are invited to join us for a Nature Hike from 11 -1 p.m. We will walk a loop at Millicoma Marsh, absorbing the beauty and sounds of nature. After a brief discussion at the turn around point, we will walk back.
If you prefer indoor activities, the Library will also be having a Saturday class on Book Folding. Learn how to turn old books into works of art through simply folding the pages. Books will be provided, and you will leave with a cool seahorse art project. The class is from 1 -3 p.m. and is open to everyone. Please pre-register on our website or by calling 541-269-1101.
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 We have two evening programs on Monday, Nov. 4. The first in our weekly community Yoga program taught by yoga instructor Mona Dunham. Teens and adults are welcome to join us from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for a beginner friendly class to help build flexibility and relieve some stress
 Men, join our Open Men’s Group to experience a welcoming circle of brothers and build relationships while gaining the tools you need to get the life you want. This meeting is part of the Mankind Project and is from 6-8 p.m.
 The Library has several Teen programs this week! In addition to Monday night Yoga, come hang out and make some cool upcycled buttons from discarded books on Tuesday from 3-4:30 p.m.
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If you babysit or you’re thinking about it, Teens and Tweens, ages 12-18 can sign up for our Babysitting Basics with 4H class. Learn about child development, health and safety, activities and business basics. Lunch and snacks are provided, and you will receive a certificate upon completion. Sign up now online or by calling the Library at 541-269-1101.
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Gearing up for Annual Bus Jam Event
 The annual Rotary Bus Jam Toy and Food Drive, a community-wide event where residents can donate new toys and food items at local Bi-Marts, will once again be stuffing busses for a brighter holiday season for those in need on Saturday, December 7, 2024.
One of the key events leading up to the Bus Jam is the NW Natural / McKay's Market Shopping Spree. In this friendly competition, high school principals will race against the clock to collect as many high-protein food items as possible from McKay's Market. The winning principal's school will receive a special prize, and all collected items will be donated to the Bus Jam. Join the fun on Monday, November 4, 2024, at 8 a.m.
The Bus Jam and its supporting events are testament to the community's generosity and spirit of giving.
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Type IV – Comprehensive Plan & Code Text Amendments
Empire Area Blueprint
Land Use Application #187-24-000174-PLNG
Public Hearing POSTPONED: The Coos Bay City Council public hearing to review the Empire Area Blueprint proposal, including amendments to the text of the Transportation System Plan (Comprehensive Plan) and to the text of the Coos Bay Municipal Code, scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024, has been POSTPONED to a date yet to be determined.
A Work Session before the Coos Bay City Council is scheduled for Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Coos Bay City Hall Council Chambers to consider this matter in advance of the City Council public hearing.
APPLICANT/OWNER: City of Coos Bay, 500 Central Avenue, Coos Bay, Oregon 97420
SUBJECT PROPERTY: All lands within the Empire Area Blueprint study area.
ZONING DISTRICT & SPECIAL OVERLAYS: Commercial (C); Industrial-Commercial (I-C); Hollering Place (HP); Waterfront Industrial (W-I); Empire Waterfront Settlement Design Review Area; Floodplain; Coos Bay Estuary Management Plan; Empire Urban Renewal District.
REQUEST SUMMARY: The applicant is requesting authorization to amend the text of the Comprehensive Plan Transportation System Plan and Coos Bay Municipal Code to align with the Empire Area Blueprint as follows:
- Adopt by resolution the Empire Area Blueprint plan.
- Amend the Coos Bay Comprehensive Plan by amending the Transportation System Plan to update Tier 2 project CB-14 (Newmark Avenue Road Diet) to align with the vision set forth in the Empire Area Blueprint for the Newmark Avenue corridor and to incorporate Empire Area Blueprint transportation projects into the Street Connectivity section including project attachments.
- Amend Section 18.15.005 of the Coos Bay Municipal Code to update mobility targets to be consistent with those set forth in the adopted Transportation System Plan.
- Amend Coos Bay Development Code Title 17 as follows:
A) amend Table 17.230.020 to allow residential uses in up to 100% of a building ground floor or story located within the Empire Area Blueprint study area;
B) amend the exempt parking area with a cap to align with the Empire Area Blueprint study area boundaries;
C) amend the Hollering Place zone district to align the allowed uses with those envisioned in the Empire Area Blueprint and to simplify development standards; and
D) repeal the Empire Waterfront Settlement Design Review standards to facilitate future development of the Empire Area.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: APPROVE Land Use Application #187-24-000174-PLNG, including ADOPTION by resolution of the Empire Area Blueprint with the conditions that Council further consider the following: 1) a nautical theme; 2) expansion of the Empire boat ramp; and 3) a traffic light at the N. Schoneman intersection by 7-Eleven.
REVIEW CRITERIA: Coos Bay Development Code (CBDC): Chapter 17.130 CBDC, Procedures; Chapter 17.360 CBDC, Plan Amendments and Zone Changes.
HEARING/APPEAL PROCEDURE: The review will be conducted in accordance with a Type IV procedure at CBDC 17.130.110. Testimony must be related to the referenced criteria. Written comments must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the scheduled public hearing. Failure to raise an issue or failure to provide sufficient specificity to afford the decision maker an opportunity to respond to the issue may preclude further appeal on that issue. A final decision of the City Council may be appealed to the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) by filing a notice of intent to appeal with LUBA, with required fees, within 21 days of the date the final land use decision.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: A copy of the staff report will be available for inspection at least seven (7) days prior to the City Council public hearing. A copy of the application with all submitted materials are available for review during business hours at the Public Works and Community Development Department at Coos Bay City Hall located at 500 Central, Coos Bay, Oregon. Upon request copies of all materials can be provided by email or printed for a reasonable fee. For additional information, please contact Chelsea Schnabel, AICP, CFM, Community Development Director, at (541) 269-1181 x3531 or reach by e-mail at cschnabel@coosbayor.gov.
SUBJECT PROPERTY LOCATION MAP
 Notice Mailed/Posted: October 28, 2024
https://www.coosbayor.gov/government/projects#EmpireBlueprint
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Calling All Innovators and Entrepreneurs!
Have a bright idea to share? Apply to pitch at the Southwestern Oregon Innovation Hub's Pitch Night on January 17, 2025, at the Egyptian Theatre Coos Bay! This is your chance to showcase your business idea, impress a panel of experienced judges, and connect with investors.
Applications are open until November 10, 2024. Selected businesses will receive support to refine their pitches. Whether you’re a startup or an established business looking to grow, we want to hear from you!
For questions, email the South Coast Development Council at tanya@scdcinc.org.
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City Requests Development Proposals
 The City of Coos Bay is seeking development proposals for the former municipal fire station site at 150 South Fourth Street. Approximately 0.22-acres m/l of readily available land, ideally suited for Mixed-Use development in Oregon’s largest coastal city.
The property is intended to provide the community with a mix of mutually supporting retail, service, office, and residential uses. The property’s location within the Downtown Parking District means that off-street parking is not required for development. Multiple public parking lots are near the property and available for public use.
Economic development and revitalization are a primary goal of the City of Coos Bay. The City envisions a new development on the property that provides a mix of uses to further revitalize and enhance the economic vitality of the Downtown area. Development proposals for the property should complement the surrounding Downtown both functionally and aesthetically.
The City seeks Letters of Interest from interested development teams. City staff will review Letters of Interest to make a recommendation to the City of Coos Bay Urban Renewal Agency (URA). Presentations will be scheduled with top applicants and the URA. Selection of the preferred development proposal is anticipated thereafter.
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US Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Class
 The US Coast Guard Auxiliary will conduct an 8-hour boating safety education course on Saturday, November 16, 2024 in Coos Bay. The course covers the basics of boating safety, required equipment, rules of the road, and Oregon boating laws. A test at the end of the course will qualify boaters for their Oregon Boater Education Card, under the Oregon Mandatory Boater Education Program. The Boater Education Card is required for all motorboat operators of all ages for boats over ten horsepower. Additional provisions apply to youths. The class is taught by certified US Coast Guard Auxiliary and Oregon State Marine Board instructors. The cost of the course and materials is $15. Pre-registration is required. To register for the class, please call (541) 267-6152.
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 Wage range $20.03 - $25.56/hour with excellent benefit package
http://cbnbh2o.com/about/jobs
Coos Bay-North Bend Water Board is accepting applications for a full-time Accounting Clerk position. The Water Board provides services to a customer base of 13,600 accounts within the Cities of Coos Bay and North Bend, as well as surrounding areas. This position offers potential for growth within the Water Board and the accounting field. As an Accounting Clerk, you will gain valuable experience in managing financial records, processing transactions, and supporting the financial operations essential to our organization's success.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
- Assists Finance Director and Accounting Technician with input and data entry functions into accounting and database software. e.g. inventory, purchasing, and vehicles
- Inputs and balances accounts payable vouchers, runs program and prints checks; maintains vendor file
- Inputs approved journal entries into the accounting system
- Posts and balances asset ledger; posts and balances to retirement ledger; assists with year-end posting
- Performs a variety of general accounting duties such as preparing and maintaining the following: payroll reports required for journal entries, general internal accounting reports, petty cash funds
- Maintains workers compensation files, associated documents, and reports
- Maintains and monitors entrance key programs
- Maintains and purchases office supplies for all divisions
- Gathers information for Non-Revenue water reporting generating monthly reports and meeting minutes for the program
- Functions as backup person for other finance division duties including but not limited to payroll, inputting, running and balancing pay period reports, and coding time sheets.
- Functions as backup person for accounts payable processing, compiles accounts payable packets for processing by collecting invoices and codes to correct account, attaches signed purchase orders to invoices and packing slips to invoices, then submits for review
- Building and maintaining expense reports for project managers in spreadsheet format
- Follows all safety rules and procedures for work areas
- Provides assistance to other staff as workload and staffing levels dictate
- Maintains proficiency by attending training and meetings, reading materials, and meeting with others in areas of responsibility
- Maintains work areas in a clean and orderly manner
MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: Two years experience in data entry and mathematical computations, or one year of post high school education in computer applications and/or accounting; experience in the use of database and spreadsheet software; graduation from a senior high school or GED
MINIMUM SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Working knowledge of business terminology, spelling, and arithmetic; moderate skill in typing/word processing; familiarity with the use of standard office equipment, including database and spreadsheet software, working knowledge of data entry operations; ability to develop and maintain positive, cooperative, team‑oriented working relationships with supervisors and co-workers; ability to maintain a professional appearance and a positive, courteous, and helpful attitude toward customers and the general public; or satisfactory equivalent combination of experience and training which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the above duties
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS/LICENSES: Must possess a valid driver’s license upon hire; obtain valid Oregon driver’s license within 30 days of hire and have acceptable driving record
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of specific utility billing, accounting, word processing, and spreadsheet software utilized within the utility
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS OF THE JOB: While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, communicate, reach and manipulate objects, tools, or controls. The position requires mobility. Duties involve moving materials weighing up to 15 pounds on a regular basis and may infrequently require moving materials weighing up to 25 pounds. Manual dexterity and coordination are required over 50 percent of the work period while operating equipment such as computer keyboard, calculator, and standard office equipment.
WORKING CONDITIONS: Usual office working conditions. The noise level in the work area is typical of most office environments with telephones, personal interruptions, and background noises.
TO APPLY: Visit our website at www.cbnbh2o.com. To download an employment application click Employment Opportunities. Please e-mail Application and any supporting documents to stacey_parrott@cbnbh2o.com
Position is open until filled.
For more information contact Monica Kemper at 541-267-3128, Ext. 225, monica_kemper@cbnbh2o.com or Stacey Parrott at 541-267-3128 Ext. 231, stacey_parrott@cbnbh2o.com
A preference will be given to qualified veterans who apply for this position pursuant to ORS 408.225 to 408.237. Any veteran who has special qualifications and/or transferable skills in the management and operation of a water treatment plant and distribution system should reference those skills and qualifications in their application. Coos Bay-North Bend Water Board is an EOE.
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