Astoria — Leaders from Clatsop County recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to press federal officials on key infrastructure, environmental, and emergency management priorities affecting the coastal community.
County Commission Chair Mark Kujala and Vice Chair Courtney Bangs met with federal agencies and Oregon’s congressional delegation in an effort to secure funding and strengthen partnerships.
“We went to Washington, D.C. with clear priorities, and we made meaningful progress on issues that are critical to the safety, resilience, and future of Clatsop County,” Kujala said. “From levee improvements to emergency management funding, these conversations are helping move important projects forward.”
Among the key topics discussed:
- Levee Improvements: Officials met with leadership from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to outline a strategy for a countywide planning document aimed at prioritizing projects and positioning the county for federal funding.
- Habitat Conservation Plan: Discussions with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service highlighted ongoing challenges in the federal review process, with both sides committing to continued coordination.
- FEMA and BRIC Funding: Meetings addressed developments tied to Federal Emergency Management Agency policies, including legislative efforts and the status of local Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant applications.
- Westport Sewer District: County leaders advocated for federal funding to support wastewater treatment plant upgrades.
- Coast Guard Support: Officials emphasized the importance of continued investment in the United States Coast Guard, including fast response cutters and the potential homeporting of Offshore Patrol Cutters in Astoria.
- Federal Coordination: Meetings with Oregon’s congressional delegation focused on aligning infrastructure priorities and advancing stalled projects and funding requests.
- Federal Partnerships: The delegation also attended a reception hosted by U.S. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici to strengthen relationships and maintain momentum on county priorities.
“This visit reinforced that Clatsop County’s needs are being heard,” Bangs said. “We’re building the relationships and momentum needed to navigate complex federal processes and bring real resources back to our communities.”
County officials say they will continue working with federal partners in the coming months to advance these initiatives and secure funding for projects aimed at improving safety and resilience across the region.
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