CZ Trail in the Fall

As the leaves turn and we head into fall, things are anything but slowing down around Columbia County. Much like the cyclists on the CZ Trail, we're keeping things moving!

It's been a busy few weeks reconnecting with local businesses, Main Street organizations, Chambers, community leaders, and partners around the state. From updating tourism listings to exploring new opportunities, there's plenty happening behind the scenes.

If I haven't made it to your neck of the woods yet, don't be shy. Give me a call, send me an email, and let's get something on the calendar. I want to hear what's happening in your corner of the county, what challenges you're facing, and how I can help.

I'm also heading to the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit, October 22–24, to connect with recreation leaders, agencies, and tourism partners from across Oregon. Have an idea, question, or opportunity you'd like me to bring along? Let me know before I head out. I'm always happy to make sure Columbia County has a voice in the conversation.

Keep wandering (and watch out for slippery leaves),

Wela Negelspach

Columbia County Tourism

Port of Columbia County

503-310-3861

wandercolumbiacounty@gmail.com

Making Waves:

What's Next for Scappoose Bay Marina?

Making outdoor recreation more accessible is about more than adding a new kayak launch. It's about making the entire experience work for more people.

As part of the Port's Recreation Ready project, 126 people participated in a community survey, followed by a focus group to take a closer look at accessibility challenges and opportunities.

Among respondents who answered the question, 67% supported the proposed improvements.

Participants also identified the need for safer docks, better access to the water, improved launching options, and solutions to parking and congestion challenges.

One takeaway stood out: accessibility isn't one-size-fits-all. From parking to paddling, every part of the experience matters.

Why it matters: Better access means more opportunities for residents and visitors of different ages and abilities to enjoy Scappoose Bay.

The feedback will help inform the Port's next steps.

On the November Ballot

Measure 5-314

Columbia County voters will decide on November 3 whether to establish a countywide Transient Lodging Tax (TLT).

Under the proposed measure, the county tax would be 13% in unincorporated areas and cities without an existing lodging tax, and 4% in cities that already collect one.

Under the proposed measure, net county lodging tax revenue would be divided between two purposes: 50% for County services and 50% for tourism related uses.

Why it matters: The proposed lodging tax would be paid by visitors staying in overnight accommodations throughout Columbia County. If approved, it would establish a new source of revenue for County services and tourism related uses.

Whether you're a lodging operator, business owner, or resident, it's worth understanding what's proposed before ballots are due.

Sit. Stay. Post.

Free Social Media Training

for Small Businesses

Running a small business means wearing a lot of hats. Owner, bookkeeper, customer service, marketing department, and occasionally the person who has to Google why the printer stopped working.

And somewhere between all that, you're supposed to keep up with social media. Sit. Stay. Post. Repeat.

Travel Oregon is sharing a free Social Media for Small Teams webinar, presented by Miles Partnership, on October 28, from noon to 1 p.m.

Pick up a few practical tricks for making social media work harder for your business, without adding more hours to your day (or hiring a golden retriever to manage your Instagram).

Why it matters: Visitors are scrolling for their next great find. A little social media know-how can help make sure your business is one of them.

Ever wonder how businesses end up on Travel Oregon's website?

There's a good chance OTIS has something to do with it.

OTIS (Oregon Tourism Information System) is the statewide database that helps connect visitors with places to stay, eat, shop, and explore. Its listings provide information to Travel Oregon and other tourism partners.

I'm making my way around Columbia County, checking existing listings, refreshing outdated information, and looking for businesses and attractions that might be missing.

And that's where your local Destination Management Organization (DMO) comes in. Think of me as your connection to OTIS. You focus on running your business, and I'll help make sure the right information gets into the right hands.

Why it matters: Visitors can't discover what they don't know exists. Good photos, accurate details, and a current website can help turn someone passing through into someone stopping in.

Not sure if you're listed? Just send me an email. I'll check your listing, help with updates, or see whether your business qualifies to be added. No need to navigate another system or figure out another acronym. That's what I'm here for.

Lodging Owners:

Don't Miss Your Free Listing

If you operate a hotel, motel, campground, RV park, or other eligible lodging property, here's a little housekeeping worth doing.

The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association (ORLA) is collecting lodging listing updates for the 2027 Official Oregon Visitor Guide.

Eligible properties can receive a free basic listing, and you don't need to be an ORLA member to participate.

Deadline: December 1, 2026.

Why it matters: Travelers use the guide to plan where they'll stay while exploring Oregon. A free listing is an easy way to help make sure your property is part of that search.

And Just Saying.......

"Nice things don't just happen. Someone has to roll up their sleeves and make them happen."