Is this you? As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.
Claim your profile
Articles by Harold Fleming
Council considers ordinance on misuse of 911
Digital access for 99¢ your first month. Then $2.99/month. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now Skip to content During its meeting Thursday, Oct. 22, Longview City officials considered an ordinance that prohibits misuse of the 911 emergency response system, after reports of people repeatedly calling the emergency line and tying up resources. Council directed staff to develop an ordinance for future consideration.
Commissioners approve Meals on Wheels grant
Digital access for 99¢ your first month. Then $2.99/month. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now Skip to content During its meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Cowlitz County commissioners approved several measures, including a new Community Development Block Grant application supporting senior nutrition programs, an updated County cash handling policy, and the continuation of three members of the County Board of Health. The commissioners also proclaimed Friday, Oct. 23 through Saturday, Oct.
Kelso City Council weighs property tax increase
Digital access for 99¢ your first month. Then $2.99/month. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now Skip to content During its meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20, Kelso City Council discussed a possible property tax increase, as the city prepares its 2027-28 budget. The budget is projected to have a $900,000 deficit. City staff outlined rising criminal justice costs and limited revenue as factors contributing to the shortfall.
Board reviews strategic plan
Digital access for 99¢ your first month. Then $2.99/month. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now Skip to content During its meeting Monday, Oct. 12, the Longview School Board began with a work session to discuss proposed strategic goals for the school year. Members considered goals related to student achievement, safety, financial accountability and board governance. They also discussed emphasizing accountability and transparency in the financial goal following the recent Mark Morris scandal.
Cowlitz County ponders animal control costs
Digital access for 99¢ your first month. Then $2.99/month. Cancel anytime. Subscribe now Skip to content During the Cowlitz County Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13, the County’s road division reported it has maintained 527 miles of road and has 72 full-time employees. Crews completed more than 59 miles of chip sealing this year, compared with 62 miles last year.
Longview School Board approves district’s retirement plan Original
By Harold Fleming, Longview/Kelso Correspondent During its meeting Monday, Sept. 28, the Longview School Board approved Resolution 820, amending the district’s 403(b) retirement plan. The 403(b) is an optional, employee-funded retirement benefit, and the changes to amend the district are intended to keep the plan compliant with IRS requirements. The district uses Omni for third-party administration and legal support for the plan.
Cowlitz County approves landfill contract
By Harold Fleming, Longview/Kelso Correspondent During the Tuesday, Sept. 29 meeting of the Cowlitz County Commissioners, the board approved a $200,000 contract with Lester Equipment Repair and authorized Public Services Director Mike Moss to execute the agreement. The contract is for maintenance and repair of heavy equipment at the county landfill. The County already has several equipment maintenance vendors, including Pape and Peterson CAT.
Columbia County proposes countywide transient lodging tax
The following is a press release prepared by Columbia County. Columbia County recently proposed a countywide transient lodging tax (TLT) to support community services and tourism. The proposed tax would affect stays of less than 30 days in hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, RV parks, campgrounds, vacation rentals, and similar facilities. On Wednesday, Sept. 2, the Board of County Commissioners Approved Order No. 29-2026 “In the Matter of Calling an Election to Consider Adoption of…
Longview Fire Department presents 2025 annual report
During its meeting Thursday, Sept. 24, Longview City Council held the annual Fire Department report. The department currently operates two fire stations, built in 1975 and 1979. Staffing includes 31 firefighter EMTs, 15 paramedics, three battalion chiefs, an administrative battalion chief, a fire marshal, the fire chief and an administrative assistant.
Cowlitz County receives federal forest fund
During its meeting Tuesday, Sept. 22, Cowlitz County Commissioners discussed roughly $21,000 in federal forest funds received by the County. The money helps fire agencies cover costs when they respond outside their districts, particularly in federal forest areas and around Mount St. Helens. The commissioners noted the funding has historically been quite small, generally around $20,000, and the federal government provided no money the previous year.
Port of Longview awards project to 3 Kings Environmental
During its meeting Wednesday, Sept. 23, Port of Longview Commissioners awarded the BRFOR silo demolition project to 3 Kings Environmental Inc. The Salmon Creek consultant was the low bidder at about $5.49 million, which includes sales tax. The bid was more than $600,000 below Port Engineer William Burton’s estimate and budgeted amount. The Port received three bids, all within 10 percent of one another and Burton’s estimate. CEO Ron King was authorized to execute the…
Clatskanie Harvest Festival returns Sept. 26
Clatskanie Farmer Collective will wrap up its outdoor Farmers Market season with the annual Clatskanie Harvest Festival on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Cope’s Park (60 Lillich St.) in downtown Clatskanie. The Harvest Festival marks the final outdoor market of the year and brings together local farmers, food makers, artisans, music, activities and a few distinctly Clatskanie traditions. One of the day’s biggest attractions will be free apple pressing throughout…
Meet the Rainier mayoral candidates on the ballot
Candidate Forum Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026 6 to 7:30 p.m. Rainier Riverfront Center, 48 W. 7th St. Vanessa Meza Why are you running for mayor? The choice to run for mayor was simply to give choices to the people. It’s not about glory or power for me. It’s about moving forward and getting things done. It’s about listening to what the needs are of the community and doing the right thing for everyone. Being involved…
Group purchases new sensory tools for J.A. Wendt students
This year’s special needs students at J.A. Wendt (JAW) elementary were in for a pleasant surprise upon their return to this school year. Their teacher, Shannon Smith, worked alongside the volunteers at Wahkiakum Autism Awareness to outfit their classroom with a wide range of new sensory items and resources. Looking closely at each student’s needs, Smith utilized the funds raised within our community to purchase a new hug swing, a sitting spin chair, a visual…
Cowlitz County receives $200,000 grant
During the Tuesday, Sept. 15 meeting of the Cowlitz County Commissioners, the County was notified it will receive the $200,000 CRNA grant requested in July. The grant will fund a geomorphic study of the Tuttle and Cowlitz rivers. Commissioners discussed transferring administration of the grant from DEM to Public Works, which already handles grants and reimbursements. Public Works plans to work with Building and Planning and involve the Rivers Need Room group and other agencies…
Kelso City Council discusses major drug seizure
During the Kelso City Council meeting Tuesday, September 15, Kelso Police Chief Fletcher reported a significant drug investigation. A Kelso officer initially stopped a vehicle for a license plate violation. The traffic stop resulted in the seizure of approximately four pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl, and more than $27,000 in cash. The driver was reportedly already the target of an ongoing drug investigation. A regional SWAT operation later resulted in another seizure that included another…
The Eagle in 1976
Cathlamet News Anniversary celebrated Mr. and Mrs. Myron Ougendal, daughter Kristin of Port Angeles, and Linda Ougendal were hosts for the 35th wedding-anniversary reception for their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Ougendal. Many friends and relatives visited the Ougendal home on Sunday. Following the reception, a family reunion dinner was served by the Lettie Warren Guild. Fifty-three family members were able to participate in this event. The following are the guests who attended from out…
Columbia County opens temporary shelter for displaced residents
The following is a press release prepared and submitted by Columbia County. Columbia County has established a temporary shelter at the Columbia County Fairgrounds for residents displaced from a fire at a St. Helens residential building that affected 24 housing units. One individual was transported via emergency medical services to an area hospital. Some residents have been able to secure other accommodations, while others remain in need of temporary shelter and housing assistance. The American…
Council advances Mint Valley roof evaluation
During the Thursday, Sept. 9, meeting of Longview City Council, staff reported continuing condensation problems at the Mint Valley Racquet Complex. The city has already spent about $205,000 replacing insulation, but condensation remains an issue. Staff requested approximately $25,000 to hire a building envelope specialist/building scientist to determine the actual cause and appropriate permanent solution. The specialist would evaluate the building and develop recommendations for the eventual repair.
Wildfire risks drive up costs for Northwest utilities
When power lines are blamed for starting a wildfire, costs to utilities can stretch into the billions and trickle down to consumers. Earlier this year, PacifiCorp settled a federal lawsuit over its lines allegedly starting six fires in Oregon and California, burning nearly 300,000 acres of public land. Thousands of residents also filed claims against the investor-owned utility, which serves two million customers in the West.
Council discusses airport operating budget
During its meeting Tuesday, Sept. 1, Kelso City Council discussed and approved the SW Regional Airport 2027 operating budget, which is set at $6,431,042. Because the runway is scheduled for complete repaving, landing field repairs will be reduced from $100,000 in 2026 to $50,000 in 2027. Local FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) projects match $150,000, covering the local match for the runway project and the west taxiway design. Runway lighting rehabilitation design has been completed. The…
County authorizes emergency water system grant
During its meeting, Tuesday, Sept. 1, Cowlitz County Commissioners were asked to authorize Chair and Commissioner Richard Dahl to sign two documents needed to obligate a $1 million federal grant for the Riderwood Emergency Water System. The project is intended to address recurring water shortages in Riderwood. The County has already submitted plans and specifications and obtained the necessary special-use permit.
Review results in no operations changes
The following is a press release prepared and issued by Columbia County Public Works Director Michael Russell Columbia County Public Works has completed its review of employee reporting locations and daily operational procedures and has decided not to make changes to current employee reporting locations. Public Works will instead implement a programmatic approach to road maintenance while continuing to operate from its current shop configuration.
Commissioners discuss defensive training costs
During their meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18, the Cowlitz County Commissioners discussed the budget for defensive-tactic training for correctional officers. The County has budgeted up to $40,000 over two years for the outside training. Officials said actual spending has been drastically lower, though, at about $17,000 one year and $18,000 the other. The $40,000 is a maximum authorization rather than an expected annual expenditure. A quoted rate is roughly $281.25 per hour. Staff noted that the…
Council moves forward with flock cameras
During the Kelso City Council meeting Tuesday, Aug. 18, citizens raised concerns about flock cameras that are installed and are being used to collect extensive information about vehicles and people, facial recognition, inaccurate plate readings, data sharing, privacy, potential misuse by law enforcement and cybersecurity. Council later confirmed the city has three cameras installed and is prepared to operate up to 10 cameras.
County updates wildfire protection plan
Columbia County Emergency Management, in partnership with local fire agencies and community partners, is updating the Columbia County Community Wildfire Protection Plan, and is encouraging residents to participate in community meetings and an online survey. The Community Wildfire Protection Plan identifies wildfire risks and helps guide efforts to reduce those risks, improve preparedness, and protect people, property, infrastructure, and natural resources. Residents know their communities best.
Public Services seeks additional $25,000 for landfill haul truck
During the Cowlitz County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, Aug. 11, Public Services asked the commissioners to increase the budget for a used landfill haul truck from $200,000 to $225,000. The County originally set aside $200,000 during last year’s budget process, but available trucks in the Northwest are running closer to $200,000 before taxes and transportation. The truck being sought would cost about $225,000 total. Officials are looking for a truck with roughly 6,000 hours, six-wheel drive…
Board provides 2026-27 district budget
During its meeting Tuesday, Aug. 11, the Longview School Board projected enrollment at about 6,232 full-time equivalent students, making enrollment the district’s largest revenue driver. The state approved a 2.6 percent inflationary increase for salaries and benefits, and the state benefit rate increased about 5.13 percent to $16,488 per funded FTE.
Cowlitz County approves developmental disabilities services contract
During their meeting Tuesday, Aug. 4, Cowlitz County commissioners approved a contract with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Developmental Disabilities Administration to fund services for people with developmental disabilities in the county. A small portion supports Child Development Services for children from birth to age three.
Longview City Council discusses E-bike regulations
During the Longview City Council meeting Tuesday, July 28, the board discussed regulations for E-bikes in public parks and sidewalks. There are three classes of E-bikes: Class 1: Pedal assist only, up to 20 mph; Class 2: Throttle capable, up to 20 mph; and Class 3: Pedal assist up to 28 mph. Council members proposed to ban all e-bikes in parks and on sidewalks, ban only Class 3 e-bikes, leave regulations unchanged while increasing education…
Kelso Council advances public safety tax
During its meeting Tuesday, July 21, Kelso City Council approved an ordinance for a 0.1 percent public safety sales tax. Officials said the tax is expected to generate more than $325,000 in revenue annually, which will support police services, criminal justice expenses, and increase public defense costs.
Longview Council negotiates garbage collection rates
During its meeting Tuesday, July 21, Longview Council proposed basing garbage rates on the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Staff offered the city 32 gallon carts, 60 gallon carts, 90 gallon carts (current size) available to single person households who produce less waste.
Port of Longview advances major projects
During its meeting Wednesday, July 22, Port of Longview Staff reported the IRCE project is 37 percent through scheduled work days and about 61 percent through the budget, with spending front-loaded due to purchasing materials. Crews have begun a major utility relocation, replacing a 36-inch sewer force main beneath the future rail corridor, installing a new high-density polyethylene (HDPE) sewer pipe, and relocating an existing water line after the sewer work is complete. The utility…
School board approves acting superintendent’s contract
During its meeting Monday, July 13, the Longview School Board approved Acting Superintendent Patti Bowen’s contract to span from May 21 through Aug 31. As of July 1, Bowen receives a monthly salary of $18,902 for the acting role. Board members noted this is not a permanent superintendent contract and does not determine former Superintendent Karen Cloninger’s employment role in the future. Later in the meeting, the administrators presented a preliminary 2026-27 General Fund budget,…
Cowlitz County begins condemnation process for culvert project
During its meeting Tuesday, July 14, the Cowlitz County commissioners authorized the condemnation to proceed in obtaining the remaining property rights needed for the Allender Road Culvert Replacement Project. Replacements include a double box culvert, which currently has load restrictions. The project is funded 85 percent through the Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board, with a 15 percent County match.
Commissioners approve bypass project, pavement contract
During its meeting Tuesday, July 7, Cowlitz County commissioners awarded the construction contract for the Burma Road–Toutle Park Road Bypass Project to Tapani, Inc. for $1,234,000. For the project, stabilizing the existing roadway would likely cost $3 million to $5 million, and environmental permitting alone could take two to five years. Because of unstable soils, river erosion and underground groundwater seepage, there is no guarantee a repair would last.
Port of Longview discusses infrastructure
During the Port of Longview meeting on Wednesday, July 8, Commissioner Keith Wilson urged the Port to help lead a regional coalition addressing long-term impacts from the 1980 Mount St. Helens eruption. The commissioners discussed sediment buildup in the Cowlitz River, the flood risks associated with Spirit Lake, long-term dredging needs, protection of river communities and Port infrastructure, fish passage and sea lion predation, and federal coordination among multiple agencies.
Longview Planning Commission advances animal shelter proposal, ADU updates
During its meeting Tuesday, July 7, the Longview Planning Commission proposed an expansion to fairgrounds access through Paradale Lane. Residents strongly opposed expanding vehicle access from Paradale Lane beyond the annual county fair, pointing out increased traffic through a residential neighborhood would be nonsensical.
Cowlitz County Commissioners report growing jail population
During the Cowlitz County Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, June 30, Corrections Director Jim Fox reported the average daily population (ADP) is 178 inmates in 2026, up from 171 in 2025. Jail expenditures are seven percent below budget and 12 percent below overtime budget. Cities will now pay $115.08 per inmate per day, a 7 percent increase that began Wednesday, July 1. Following its contract, the Washington Department of Corrections (DOC) rate increases five…
Cowlitz County reviews fire response
During its business meeting Tuesday, June 23, Cowlitz County Commissioners discussed the June 19 landfill fire on Tenant Way. The newly installed Pano wildfire detection cameras were alarmed and immediately alerted 911 and Cowlitz Fire District 6, allowing the fire to be extinguished before it reached nearby timber. Officials said the system likely prevented a much larger wildfire. The County pays $40,000 annually for the five-year camera system and is now purchasing a MoviTHERM thermal…
Port of Longview announces State legislative update
During its meeting Wednesday, June 24, Port of Longview staff announced that Washington had another budget shortfall of about $2.5 billion. Lawmakers passed a supplemental budget after introducing over 1,200 bills, with 267 bills reaching the governor. The Legislature approved a 9.9 percent tax on personal income above $1 million. The Port secured $15 million for dredging the Lower Columbia River. The funding was found through a partnership with the Ports of Vancouver and Kalama.…
Longview School Board advances improvement plan
During its meeting Monday, June 22, Longview School District Acting Superintendent Patti Bowen announced the district is now implementing its six-year improvement plan. Administrative teams met Thursday, June 18, to begin implementation. Every school will find two improvement goals that align with the overall district objectives to improve student outcomes and conditions.
Planning Commission debates expanded stream buffers
During the Board of County Commissioners’ meeting on Tuesday, June 16, Cowlitz County staff proposed stream changes that would impact the buffer fish-bearing from 100 feet to 180 feet and non-fish/seasonal streams from 50 feet to 100 feet. The buffer sizes are determined by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) Site Potential Tree Height model and the FEMAT (Forest Ecosystem Management Assessment Team) curve.
Kelso Council delays transportation plan
During its meeting Tuesday, June 16, Kelso City staff presented Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Improvements (T01) before Council. The proposed improvements would take place on Allen Street, Cowlitz Way, and Fourth and Fifth avenues, with roughly $660,000 in grant funding and no local financial match required. Construction on these improvements would begin in 2027. Many council members questioned the idea of widening the bicycle lanes on Fourth and Fifth avenues because it could narrow traffic lanes.
Congresswoman celebrates opening of Southwest Washington grain project
The following article was provided by the office of Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez Last week, Washington Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez spoke at the ribbon cutting for a new grain storage and loading facility at the Port of Chehalis. This project marks a major expansion for the Port in its capacity to store and ship grain. This new facility will dramatically increase market access for farmers and ensure they are able to continue the important work of feeding the country.
Columbia County mourns the loss of St. Helens administrator
John Walsh served as St. Helens city administrator since 2012 and was widely respected throughout Columbia County for his dedication to public service. Search and recovery efforts continued Sunday after Walsh reportedly fell into the Columbia River near a St. Helens dock on June 13. Courtesy Photo. Late Saturday, June 13, news emerged that Columbia County resident and St. Helens Administrator John Walsh, having slipped off a St. Helens dock and into the Columbia River, did not resurface.
Fire and EMS send levy lid lift to voters
During its meeting on Thursday, June 11, Longview City Council honored 19 residents who completed the eight-week Longview 101 program, a free civic education program created by the City of Longview to help residents better understand how local government uses finances, public works, police, fire, parks, and the library. City Staff proposed a city wide logo and rebranding effort. The logo changes will differentiate the identities of Longview, Wash., and Longview, Texas.
Cowlitz County frustrated by utility delays
During its meeting on Tuesday, June 9, the Cowlitz’s Board of County Commissioners commemorated the support given to those personally affected by the Nippon Dynawave tragedy. The GoFundMe campaign had raised nearly $280,000 for affected families. Multiple public hearings have been scheduled. The public hearings for the Three Rivers Regional Wastewater Authority discharge and industrial pretreatment policy and the Burma Road Toutle Park bypass project are scheduled for Tuesday, July 7.
Kelso Council approves airport runway grant
During its meeting Tuesday, June 2, the Kelso City Council approved a runway resurfacing and lighting project at the Kelso Airport for roughly $5.4 million. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will be responsible for 95 percent of the funding, the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) will be responsible for 2.5 percent, and the remaining 2.5 percent will be funded locally. The project is expected to prolong the airport’s “life” by 20 years.
Board of Commissioners provides Nippon Dynawave update
During the Cowlitz Board of County Commissioners meeting Tuesday, June 2, Commissioner Steve Radar presented an update on the Nippon Dynawave tragedy. Radar noted federal and state investigators remain on site, air quality and water PH testing is ongoing, and all chemical discharge from the site has stopped. The County scheduled a public hearing for Tuesday, June 30 to consider changes to building and planning fees. This would be the first major review in four years.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Harold
Contact Harold, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack