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To contact me, please click here: Rep.DarceyEdwards@oregonlegislature.gov
Dear Friends,
I hope this summer has treated you kindly and given you plenty of chances to soak in all the things that make House District 31 feel like home. Whether you’ve been enjoying time with family, catching local events, or getting outside to explore our beautiful corner of Oregon, I truly hope it’s been a refreshing season for you.
Even during the legislative interim, I’ve been out and about across the district—meeting with neighbors, local business owners, educators, first responders, and community organizations. These conversations mean the world to me. They keep me grounded in what’s really happening in our communities and help shape the practical solutions I’ll be fighting for in the 2027 session.
This week’s newsletter is packed with updates on upcoming events, helpful state and local resources, community opportunities, and other information I hope you’ll find valuable. My team and I want to keep you informed and connected to what’s going on right here in House District 31.
Thank you again for the honor of serving you. If my office can ever help with anything—or if you have questions, concerns, or ideas you’d like to share—please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can always email me at Rep.DarceyEdwards@oregonlegislature.gov. Hearing from you is one of the best parts of this job.
Warm regards,
Representative Darcey Edwards
House District 31
As we head deeper into summer, wildfire season is in full swing across Oregon. While House District 31 has been fortunate so far, many communities in Southern and Eastern Oregon are facing active fires and smoke impacts. Our hearts are with those who are dealing with evacuation orders, air quality concerns, or uncertainty right now.
Please know that the best place to stay informed is through official sources. For the latest updates on wildfires, road closures, air quality, and preparedness resources, I encourage you to visit the Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery homepage:
Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery
This site provides real-time information from state agencies, evacuation guidance, and helpful tips on how to prepare your home and family. Staying informed and having a basic emergency plan in place can make all the difference.
Department of Administrative Services (DAS) – Real Estate Services
Notice of Proposed Rule Change
The Oregon Department of Administrative Services is proposing updates to administrative rules governing state land transactions. The proposed changes would adopt, amend, and repeal existing rules to align with recent legislative changes and improve consistency in the land transaction process. Public comments will be accepted through 5:00 p.m. on August 17, 2026.
Rulemaking Website: DAS Rulemaking Website
How to Comment:
- Email: Robert.Underwood@das.oregon.gov
- Mail: Robert Underwood, Hearings Officer, Department of Administrative Services, Real Estate Services, 155 Cottage St. NE, Salem, OR 97301
Virtual Public Hearing
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Date: August 17, 2026
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Time: 10:00–11:00 a.m. (adjourns at 10:15 a.m. if no testimony is offered)
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Meeting ID: 249 035 596 133 196
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Passcode: J27MG7u8
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Phone (audio only): +1 (503) 446-4951
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Phone Conference ID: 767 496 179#
Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD)
Notice of Proposed Rule Change
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is proposing updates to its archaeological permit rules. The revisions would clarify archaeological permitting procedures, strengthen dispute resolution processes, update permit definitions and application requirements, improve coordination with Oregon’s federally recognized Tribes, and establish a formal process for archaeological permit denials. The department does not anticipate significant fiscal or economic impacts from these changes.
Notice of Proposed Rulemaking.736.051.0000_0090.pdf
How to Comment:
- Comments due July 31, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
- Email: Helena.Kesch@oprd.oregon.gov
- Mail: Helena Kesch, Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301
Virtual Public Hearing
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Date: July 21, 2026
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Time: 2:00 p.m.
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Register to Attend: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Bi2P7d1rTR-bUBrg-hV0vA
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Phone: (503) 881-4637
Elephant Garlic Festival Returns to North Plains
The 2026 Elephant Garlic Festival is returning to North Plains from August 7–9, bringing three days of live music, local food, family activities, and community fun. Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy performances throughout the weekend while celebrating America’s 250th birthday. This year’s festival will also feature a variety of food vendors, local artisans, and family-friendly entertainment.
Interested in becoming a vendor? Applications for art vendors and food vendors are now available at www.northplainsevents.com.
Festival Dates:
- Friday, August 7
- Saturday, August 8
- Sunday, August 9
Learn more: www.northplainsevents.com
Congratulations to Detective Johnson
Congratulations to Detective Johnson on being officially sworn in as a detective with the Scappoose Police Department! After recently assisting in the investigation of an armed robbery in Scappoose, Detective Johnson has already made an impact in his new role. Wishing him continued success as he serves and protects our community in this exciting new chapter of his career.
Reminder: 13 Nights on the River Returns This Thursday
Don’t miss another great evening at 13 Nights on the River this Thursday, July 16, featuring the Rock & Roll Cowboys at Columbia View Park in St. Helens. Music begins at 5:00 p.m., with food vendors, a marketplace, games, and a beer garden opening at 4:00 p.m. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy a free night of live music along the Columbia River.
Location: Columbia View Park, 3 Strand St., St. Helens Time: 4:00–8:00 p.m. (Music starts at 5:00 p.m.)
Upcoming Performances:
- July 30 – The Snapshot Band
- August 6 – Sweetwater Band
- August 13 – Bottleneck Blues
- August 20 – Slicker Band
- August 27 – The One-Eyed Kats
City of Banks Library Board Meeting
The City of Banks Library Board will hold its regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. Community members are encouraged to attend and stay informed on library programs, services, and upcoming initiatives.
Join the Meeting:
- Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84447356658
- Meeting ID: 844 4735 6658
- Passcode: 154451
- Phone (audio only): 1-253-215-8782
View the agenda: https://www.cityofbanks.org/calendar
Fall Youth Soccer Registration Open Across District 31
Fall soccer season is just around the corner, and several organizations serving communities throughout House District 31 are accepting registrations for youth players. Families are encouraged to register early to secure a spot for the upcoming season.
Columbia County United Soccer Club (Scappoose, St. Helens & Columbia County)
Serving families throughout Scappoose, St. Helens, Warren, Deer Island, and surrounding communities, Columbia County United offers recreational and competitive soccer programs for youth of all skill levels. Fall teams are available for elementary and middle school players.
Register: https://columbiacountyunited.teamsnapsites.com
Vernonia Youth Soccer
Vernonia-area families can find youth soccer opportunities through local recreation programs and Columbia County youth leagues. Parents are encouraged to check with Vernonia schools and community organizations for current registration information.
Register: angela@tesdall.us
Rainier Youth Soccer
Youth soccer opportunities are available for Rainier families through local recreation programs and regional Columbia County leagues. Registration information is available through the city’s parks and recreation partners and local youth organizations.
Whether your child is stepping onto the field for the first time or returning for another season, fall soccer is a great opportunity to stay active, build teamwork, and make lasting friendships. Register early, as many programs have limited roster availability.
Register: sportsaffinity.com
Vendors Wanted for Banks National Night Out
The City of Banks is now accepting vendor applications for its annual National Night Out celebration on the first Tuesday in August at Sunset Speedway.
Booth space is free of charge and open to a wide variety of participants, including local businesses, nonprofit organizations, community groups, school clubs, sports teams, and parent associations. Vendors are encouraged to use the event to connect with the community, recruit volunteers, share information, or host fundraisers through games, merchandise, or other activities.
For more information or to reserve a booth, contact Chrystina at Banks City Hall:
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Phone: (503) 324-5112
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Email: cvilar@cityofbanks.org
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1431
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-374, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.DarceyEdwards@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/edwards
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