Take the Justice System Improvement Program post-election survey
Following the May 16, 2023, Special Election, the Board of Commissioners are seeking feedback from voters about bond measure 2-140, Bonds for Community Safety, Mental Health, and Homelessness Services Facilities.
We are committed to listening and learning from the many perspectives in our community as we continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of those we serve. Survey responses are anonymous and will be compiled into a report and shared with Benton County leaders later this fall.
Take the survey
En Español
Questions may be directed to pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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View the 2021-2023 Biennium Report
Benton County is pleased to announce the availability of its Biennium Report for 2021 through 2023, a comprehensive report highlighting our county's activities, achievements, and future. This document offers insight into the County's performance over the past two years and outlines its vision for the future.
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National Hispanic American Heritage Month
September 15th is a significant date, because it’s the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries such as Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua from Spain in 1821. Mexico and Chile also celebrate their respective Independence days this month as well, also from the Spanish Crown.
We have federally recognized September 15th through October 15th as National Hispanic American Heritage month for a variety of reasons, but most clearly, because of the immense contributions made to what we now call the U.S. by the Hispanic and Latina/o/x community. Did you know that the economic output from the Hispanic American community accounts for $2 trillion in the U.S.? Additionally, nearly 5 million Hispanic and Latina/o/x owned businesses contribute $800 billion to our economy annually.
Learn more about significant figures from the Hispanic American and Latina/o/x American community
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"Benton County Public Podcast" Episode 3 & 4 now available
We are excited to announce episode three and four of the "Benton County Public Podcast". This podcast is a platform for County officials and community members to engage in meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most to the residents of the County.
Episode 3 featured insights into fire season 2023 with Oregon Dept. of Forestry Protection Unit Forester Leo Williamson, Albany Fire Dept. Public Information Officer Sandy Roberts, Benton County Emergency Manager Bryan Lee & host Dan Crall.
Episode 4 features insights into water quality, testing and monitoring, compliance, emerging issues, and protecting local water systems with Interim Environmental Health Manager Scott Kruger, Public Information Officer Cory Grogan, and host Dan Crall.
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Road closures and construction updates
North Albany
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Springhill Drive between Scenic Drive and Buena Vista Road is only open for local access from Aug. 7 to Sept. 15, due to a Full Depth Reclamation Project.
Philomath
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Chapel Drive will experience a temporary closure to through traffic from Sept. 5 to 20. The closure will be in effect from South 13th Street to Bellfountain Road.
Read more about active construction projects..
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Survey extended for Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Community leaders in Benton County are working with the Oregon Dept. of Land Conservation and Development to update the County’s Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Natural hazard mitigation plans detail community risk for disasters and natural hazards, and potential actions to lower risk to people, property, and the local economy before the next disaster or natural hazard event happens.
Your survey responses are anonymous and will not be connected to any personal information. Data will be used to inform the disaster and natural hazards planning process.
Take the survey by Sept. 10.
En Español
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Assessor’s Office to conduct property reappraisals in September and October
Why reappraisals?
To provide the most precise property values, periodic re-appraisals are necessary. During this process, our appraisers will focus on properties where our records lack sketches and photos.
What to expect when we visit your property
Our appraisers will always be easily identifiable, wearing Benton County vests and carrying official identification cards. They will always approach your door first. During the site visit the appraiser will:
- Update dwelling information currently on record.
- Verify measurements of all structures.
- Take photographs of the property.
Next steps
Following the reappraisal cycle, our appraisers will also be responsible for fielding and verifying property sales that occurred in the 2023 calendar year. We will issue additional information as we move into that phase.
Learn more
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Budget updated provided on courthouse project, timeline extended
Our design plans for the Benton County Courthouse and District Attorney’s office located at the new Community Safety and Justice Campus have been delayed, requiring changes in cost estimates and delaying construction. Review the report on the project (p. 70) the commissioners received during their July 5 Board meeting at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis.
Review the full article.
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Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month
September is also Suicide Awareness and Prevention month. Although a very serious topic, and an issue that is prevalent in every community, talking about suicide is still a difficult subject to discuss.
Many of us have likely known or met someone who may have experienced suicidal thoughts – no one is immune to experiencing this, regardless of age, gender, background, or any other factors. If you know anyone who is struggling with these thoughts, or are yourself, please consider reaching out to Lines for Life, a suicide prevention and crisis center located in Oregon.
- Alcohol & Drug Helpline – 800.923.4357
- Military Helpline – 888.457.4838
- Racial Equity Support – 503.575.3764
- Senior Loneliness Line – 503.200.1633
- Youthline – 877.968.8491
For more information, please visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Picture by: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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Benton County is hiring!
Our featured position this month is: Deputy District Attorney
Deputy District Attorneys represent the State of Oregon in the following cases and matters: criminal, civil commitments, juvenile delinquencies, juvenile dependencies, civil forfeitures, death investigations, public records appeals, and provide legal assistance to law enforcement in criminal investigations.
Apply today or view additional vacancies.
Questions? Call 541-766-6697 or email Renee at renee.hammill@bentoncountyor.gov.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices.
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This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. | | | | |
