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2013-121-Minutes for Meeting March 12,2013 Recorded 4/5/2013COUNTY NANCYUBLANKENSHIP,PCOUNTY CLERKDS CONNISSIONERS' JOURNAL 04/05/2013 11:13:05 AM II 1111I II IIIIIilllll11111111 2 13- Z Do not remove this page from original document. Deschutes County Clerk Certificate Page Deschutes County Board of Commissioners 1300 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97701-1960 (541) 388-6570 - Fax (541) 385-3202 - www.deschutes.org MINUTES OF PUBLIC HEARING DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS TUESDAY, MARCH 12, 2013 Sunriver SHARC Conference Room The purpose of the meeting was to conduct a public hearing on the proposed Newberry Country Plan (South Deschutes County Plan). Present were Commissioners Alan Unger, Tammy Baney and Anthony DeBone. Also present were Tom Anderson, Interim County Administrator; Nick Lelack and Peter Gutowsky, Community Development; Laurie Craghead, County Counsel (via Skype); and 26 other citizens including media representative Jonathan Kahnoski of the Newberry Eagle. Chair Unger opened the hearing at 6:10 p.m. Chair Unger recognized Ed Criss and Hugh Palcic, who have served on the Deschutes County Planning Commission. Peter Gutowsky recognized the SRHOA for providing the facilities and services for this and previous hearings. He gave an overview of the process and presented a PowerPoint giving the details of the Plan. The Statewide planning process is now forty years old, and this Plan is a part of that. He explained that some residents did not like the terminology "regional problem solving", a State term, which has been replaced by "Newberry Country". The Board can close the hearing after oral and written testimony, and then coordinate with staff to conduct deliberations; or close the record for oral testimony, continue the written record and then coordinate deliberations; or continue the hearing to a specific date and time. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 1 of 8 Commissioner DeBone spoke briefly about the history of John Strong Newberry, whose name is attached to various features of the area. Commissioner Baney thanked all for participating and giving their voice. This has been a good process and feels that this is a product of a lot of public involvement. She asked that speakers be specific about their concerns or comments. Robert Ray of La Pine said he is wearing three hats today. (A copy of his testimony is attached for reference.) One hat is for La Pine Park & Recreation Board, as they are looking forward to the addition of federal land. Until they get the proper wording in Ordinance, they will have to get a mass gathering permit for public meetings. Speaking for the DEQ Steering Committee, he said they have come a long way since the Local Rule. The committee is coming up with their final recommendations. The County is final listening to what they have to say. He said that the Planning Commission and staff have worked hard, but a legislative committee tried to bypass the process regarding destination resorts or subdivision with an additional 1,000 homes. This bypasses Goal 11 regarding local input for local development. He hopes they can count on the Board to make sure this takes the right path. Commissioner Baney stated there are two bills in different areas now that seem to be bypassing the public process, so it is a legitimate concern. John Harding of La Pine has an issue with the paragraph dealing with groundwater. He said a lot of ground has been covered since then but does not address the situation. He would like to see this wording gone until there is better science behind it. He referred to language on page 36. Ed Criss said he wanted all of this language removed until they heard from the steering committee so it could be all-inclusive. He feels as written it is still damaging to property values. A lot of people are working with the DEQ on this issue, and there should be a placeholder for the committee's work. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 2 of 8 Mr. Criss stated that there should be a joint hearing over amending the Plan to get input on the committee's recommendation. They have gone too far down the path of reconciliation to not do this. As a citizen, he has learned about land use and there are a lot of issues with already platted land. Some Goals are being used to stop development of platted lots. The TDC and PRC programs are not working that well. There needs to be a new approach to this, and it should not be done in a patchwork quilt manner. They need to put all of these things on the table and learn more. The biggest problem is no infrastructure was planned at the time. There are a lot of infrastructure issues in southern Deschutes County, and they need to be addressed. He does not think they will see the confrontations they saw in the past. He feels the Master Plan concept is achievable. Mr. Lelack stated that this was brought up at the last meeting, but is not included. Mr. Criss noted that modern planning does not like how all these lots were platted out. They may be able to help correct this situation. The current way devalues the land; they need a real master plan. John Huddle spoke for Judy Forsythe, who could not be present. He read her comments into the record. Her document as read follows. "Thank you for taking testimony this evening. Up until now `almost' everything we have talked about is sitting in front of you in the form of Newberry Country. A Plan for South Deschutes County. But, now we are taking it up to the next level which is the judicial decision process and fine -tuning "what WE wants in OUR Plan". "You have staff working on your behalf and we have you, our Commissioners, working on our behalf, as well as our Planning Commissioners. All have greatly contributed towards a useful, easily understood and comprehensive Chapter for South County. "We have been telling you through this process what WE want in OUR Plan for South County, and I feel we are ALMOST there. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 3 of 8 "I know the Planning Commission's recommendations have been forwarded for your consideration and I would like to speak to one of those recommendations at this time. This South County Plan is already a living, breathing document to me and I can't wait to get the final version with its amendments and additions and/or deletions. All nice and clean and CORRECT, because I have literally used this copy up. "So, Policy 9.2 on page 23 says, "Conduct a joint Board of County Commissioners/ Planning Commission meeting with public comments in Newberry Country to address the recommendations of the South County/Northern Klamath County Steering Committee. "This is a recommendation from the Planning Commission, and my understanding is, you, our Commissioners, can accept or not accept it. Permit me to `re-word' Policy 9.2 to reflect the people's desires in uniting all the elements of this Plan. "Our unwavering `requirement' is that Policy 9.2 clearly reflect and direct a determined resolution to commit to and conduct a joint PUBLIC HEARING between the Board of County Commissioners and the Planning Commission in Newberry Country, on the South County/North Klamath County Steering Committee's recommendations once they are made and PUBLIC testimony taken. THIS is specifically what is needed: a PUBLIC HEARING, not a `meeting'. Up to this point, once they got past the community conversations, this has been, beyond a doubt, a good public process. "And, I am sure you, our Commissioners, do not want to short-change this `exceptional' and `unprecedented' process we have had, that is second to none. Let's take the last component of this South County Plan, the Steering Committee's recommendations, to the finish line together, and collectively have an open and `balanced' review of the recommendations, in a PUBLIC hearing, in Newberry Country. "I feel if our Commissioners can deliberate on what they have before them tonight including the two evenings of public testimony AND keep the door open for a PUBLIC HEARING on the Steering Committee recommendations, you will have rightfully served the citizens of South Deschutes County in this process. "Again, I greatly appreciate everyone's significant efforts in making this Newberry County: A Plan for South Deschutes County come alive. The staff, public, our Planning Commissioners and our Board of Commissioners. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 4 of 8 "We appreciate all the time, effort and energy afforded to South Deschutes County. If you want to fix this for the future, let's get into a timely, affordable and sustainable Master Plan." Mr. Huddle pointed out some incomplete numbers on Page 19, and that there have been over 200 articles in the Bulletin regarding property values and trends. He was concerned about some language that may not protect property rights. He thanked the Board and planning staff. He is an Upper Deschutes Watershed Council board member, and appreciates the efforts taken. Carl Jansen, President of the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Board and resident of Spring River, then testified. The Plan was established in 2003 with thirteen neighborhoods and now has 26. A lot of the partners are present at this time. He has worked with staff on the Plan since the outset. The strategic plans relating to natural resources and hazards are the focal point for his organization. They have suggested moderate changes and encouraged a variety of parks and other amenities. This should include safe river access. The Harper Bridge area is a major problem. He talked to the Park District manager, who feels this needs to include areas up to Spring River. Rick Scarbaugh thanked the Board for allowing this program to go forward, and staff for doing such a great job. He is pleased with the outcome. This is giving the Commissioners the tools they need to rectify planning that was not done in the past. It also gives the ability to put in the proper infrastructure that was not originally included. In regard to the groundwater issue, it comes down to cost. There is a big task ahead and very little money, but there is time to get it done. They need to be aware of the cost to citizens for sins of the past. Tanya Karlowics said she spoke at the last meeting around planning ideas. Colton Mullins talked about promoting substance abuse prevention, and including proper language relevant to this. (They provided a handout, attached for reference) Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 5 of 8 Ms. Karlowics said substance abuse negatively impacts many things. There are multiple benefits of including wording on substance abuse prevention best practices. As part of the goals of the plan, she noted that poverty is not well covered. She is working on a potential program for La Pine as part of an OSU course. There are about 11,000 residents in their zip code with a mean income that is quite low, when compared to Bend where it is much higher. The percentage of people living in poverty is much higher in La Pine. Many are considered homeless. Including this language opens the door to cover this problem. Commissioner Baney said this is how things happen, by people being engaged. She thanked them for including language regarding bicycling while impaired. Mr. Mullins said they work closely with TAPS and are trying to engage the legislature. Chair Unger asked Mr. Gutowsky about some of the statistics regarding poverty and struggling families. The Board can choose to amend the Newberry Plan as a part of this process, but it could be part of the work plan instead and likely should be included in the comprehensive plan and not just the Newberry Plan. Suzanne Putnam stated she purchased property here in 2006 after moving from New York. She loves the area and the people. Her lot is considered a `red lot'. There are two clauses in the plan on page 29, indicating her area is not considered development worthy. There are advanced water treatment systems that are in her price range. She is not sure the numbers stated as undevelopable or non-buildable still are relevant. It is early for her to submit information and has just learned of new options. She is excited about the options. She will submit something in writing. She feels the 1500 `red' lots are being discriminated against. Commissioner Baney asked how long it would take to get this information submitted. Ms. Putnam said it may take two weeks. Mr. Gutowsky said the decision is a process question at this point. Staff wants to know where the Board wants to go at this time. This has been the only request to keep the record open. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 6 of 8 Commissioner Baney asked about the language regarding meetings or hearings and whether there is a nuance. Mr. Gutowsky said that residents are comfortable with the terminology `hearing' because that infers participation. He does not think this language clarification would hurt the plan. The overall intent is to hear what the residents have to say. Chair Unger asked if there is a difference between a hearing and a meeting with dialogue. One may require more formality. Mr. Gutowsky said they have certain rules to follow for hearings. The community wants dialogue and participation and there is no limitation on what the Board wants to do. It doesn't pigeonhole staff or others to call it a hearing. Ms. Craghead said that a hearing is a formal process in which comments are on the record. A meeting with just dialogue does not mean that dialogue is part of the formal record of a land use proceeding. Commissioner DeBone said he went through this with the Park District in the past. They already have a good group norm in the Board. State law allows multiple levels on how meetings are run. There are different angles on this. He does not see a problem with how things are handled now. Chair Unger said they could close the oral testimony and leave the written record open for a while. He feels this is the direction they are taking. They could leave the record open for a couple of weeks. Regarding page 36, Commissioner Baney said that they can close the oral testimony, but how do they include new language without a hearing on the changes. Mr. Gutowsky stated said they welcome the DEQ Planning Committee recommendations. But there has been such an effort on the community to see this plan adopted. Even though the Committee is close to decisions, he would recommend going forward with the plan. This will be the kickoff of subsequent discussions regarding groundwater protection, including Goal 11. The Planning Commission is going to take feedback on the work plan. There has been testimony about a master plan as well. The sooner the plan gets adopted, there will be an ability to consider change through the work program. He feels they should go forward, knowing this is a living document. Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 7 of 8 Commissioner Baney said there should be adjustments to the groundwater policy. Mr. Gutowsky stated they can work with the Board to see how at the regular Board meeting they can consider the revisions on page 36. The Board will have to provide guidance to what they feel should change with this and other aspects. Mr. Lelack said the language on page 36 is directly from the DEQ. They did not propose to touch this at this time. This would likely be changed as work with the DEQ continues. It is a placeholder at this point. Additional options may be offered as well. Mr. Gutowsky said they added the website link to the DEQ. Commissioner DeBone stated that instead of referring to the DEQ statement, maybe a statement can be written that is different. He suggested those who are concerned might want to give it a try while the record is open. Mr. Lelack said that perhaps the record could remain open until March 29. Chair Unger closed the oral testimony, and left the written record open until March 29, 2013 a t 5:00 p.m. Mr. Gutwosky will work with staff on the Board's schedule for April and May to get the document in a position to be considered by the Board. Chair Unger thanked staff for all the interaction with the public. The oral hearing was then closed. The meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m. DATED this r~ Day of F 2013 for the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners (t& ter` Alan Unger, Chair (40~vwl~-2 Tammy Baney, Vice air ATTEST: Anthony DeBone, Commissioner Recording Secretary Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on the South County Plan Tuesday, March 12, 2013 Page 8 of 8 G~JT~s. cOG z~ BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK 0 Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Plan Date: .e- - IX r 13 Name 'R v B & Ri T' -,2- *1 -if Address • ° ' ~ 14' LA P►KE_ , c)/Z- Phone #s / gzZ3 1 7 7 3 ? E-mail address A - i o ?*414 M-, hr ~ h►.~h -3 In Favor ❑ Neutral/Undecided ❑ Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? ❑ Yes ❑ No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. c { BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING CD REQUEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed NewberKy Count Plan Date: / Z A _j Name fl A) *C-3 Address 3~,z~/tj~~~ . _ . ~C•~~ Phone E-mail address. ❑ In Favor ❑ Neutral/Undecided Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? F]Yes No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. v-c~s C ~vr o ti W -A Q < BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING RE UEST TO SPEAK 0 Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Plan Date: Name is [ y' S Address 3 rr,,~ i_a Phone #s ~ 3 d 2 2-. E-mail address In Favor ❑ Neutral/Undecided F-1 Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? eyes No 7 6 If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. SuIiM 0~J re C 4 o -A BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry „Country Plan Date: r Name D117,1 44r-Z4 Address X9 Z" Z-e e ~4fJ Phone #s .7/ E-mail address 0/717 In Favor F-] Neutral/Undecided Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? ❑ Yes No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the recor . a { BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Date: 2 Name Address r 0 Phone #s ~f ~ D C j 7 ~ ~S E-mail address r` t In Favor ❑ Neutral/Undecided Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? ❑ Yes B_90~ If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. U~J-r~s c0<. QO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING RE UEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Plan Date: 1--7) Name C C9 Address D 0 Phone #s E-mail address u In Favor F] Neutral Undecided Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? 1:1 Yes <No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the rec rd. { BOARD. OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK 04 Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed NewbetTy Count Plan Date: 3 Z (3 Name Address S a-- z.j r d~ ' Phone #s E-mail address r5 4 C_ ❑ In Favor F-] Neutral/Undecided ❑ Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? F-] Yes aNo If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. ~ BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING a ~ REQUEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Plan Date: Name Address ~0 50 Phone #s '-Li - ^1g ~ - !5 I- S ~ E-mail address 3 rn }~.(z IV\ ❑ In Favor F-] Neutral[Undecided Submitting written documents as part of testimony? 0 Yes F-] No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. ❑ Opposed U BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK Agenda Item of Interest: Proposed Newberry Country Plan Date: Name C"Zk ,n•~ Address O 1 113~ 1 L~> VA__ C e 0C4_1rr d Phone #s S W5 -5 `7 `7 Y 'S E-mail address _ S P6gk- r,4 C ya ❑ In Favor 1Z Neutral/Undecided F-1 Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? F-1 Yes No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. Robert Ray LPRD 16405 1" St Lapine Oregon 541-536-2223 re: Newberry Country planning Meeting Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners 1300 Wall Street Bend OR 97701 Commissioners, I want to thank you for the opportunity to address you this evening. The Lapine Park and Recreation District is thankful for the generous transfer of the 35 acres near Dorance Meadows. With that property and the BLM property transfer the district has more than tripled the size of its property holdings. As you know the BLM land is going to be used in part as a home for the Lapine Frontier Days and Lapine Rodeo grounds a partnership that we welcome. However until the District has the property and completes the necessary process involved in changing the zoning from F2 to Park we will need to have a mass gathering permit for the one time a year event.. I ask that you consider amending the plan to grant the permit for the next three years until that zone change can be approved. The Board hopes that by that time all the hearings and fees will have occurred and the property will have the zonal designation that does not require the Mass Gathering Permit. Robert Ray ar`oz-jlCZ /~o ►'1 yae. coqun M4.,- lltns Community Involvement and Partnerships Goal 2 Support public, private and non-profit partnerships. Policy 2.1 Foster a sense of shared identity and pride in South County through community projects, such as a beautification program to enhance the area for tourists, businesses and residents. Policy 2.2 Partner with the community to retain and improve South County's high quality of life. Policy 2.3 Support the community on projects that promote self-reliance, such as community greenhouses or gardens that increase the local food supply. Policy 2.4 Work with homeowner associations, road districts, community groups, government agencies, and non-profits to collectively address land use and natural resource issues, such as code enforcement or responsible animal husbandry. Policy 2.5 Encourage organizations like La Pine and Sunriver Chambers of Commerce, and Central Oregon Visitors Association to maintain and enhance webpages highlighting South County's regional amenities and community resources. Policy 2.6 Partner with the real estate community and others to provide education materials for new residents and/or property owners about rural lifestyles, including: Non-urban levels of public services (e.g. unpaved roads); Fire prevention; Noxious weeds; River and groundwater management; and Preservation of wildlife habitat. Policy 2.7 Collaborate with Lake and Klamath counties on regional issues that affect South County, such as groundwater quality, economic development, adult education, social services, transportation, and recreation, including trails. Policy 2.8 Support and encourage a diverse array of community partners to collaborate on comprehensive substance abuse prevention best practices. Policy 2.9 Promote community and individual engagement in comprehensive substance abuse prevention best practices as a means for promoting self sufficiency. Land Use Goal 3 Provide County assistance to address existing and emerging land use issues and opportunities. Policy 3.1 Collaborate with the South County community and City of La Pine to address: a. Business expansion and recruitment, including adding another grocery store and a movie theater; b. A 24-hour health care facility; c. Coordination among health care providers and clinics; d. Community greenhouses; e. Affordable senior housing and/or aging in place programs; f. Trail development suitable for walking, biking and equestrian use;; g. Farmer's markets; h. Public transportation; i. La Pine Neighborhood Planning Area (the area bounded by Burgess Road, US 97, 1st Street and Huntington Road); j. Post-high school education, employment retraining, adult learning, and vocational programs; k. Meeting locations allowing for remote teleconferencing; a-R4 1. Business practices which negatively impact substance abuse; and m. Other projects as identified. Economic Development Goal6 Foster a healthy economic and employment base in South County, while retaining the rural character. Policy 6.1 Promote La Pine as a regional commercial and employment center, through concepts such as: a. Maintaining and supporting La Pine's representation on Economic Development for Central Oregon's (EDCO) Board; b. Coordinating as needed with EDCO, La Pine and Sunriver Chambers of Commerce, Sunriver, the City of La Pine, and others to promote economic development opportunities; ate c. Collaborating with Klamath County, Gilchrest and Crescent; and d. Encourage business support and participation in substance abuse best practices which foster a successful youth and a stron em to ment base. Transportation Goal 12 Partner with Oregon Department of Transportation, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Sunriver and La Pine to address regional transportation issues. Policy 12.1 Coordinate solutions for pedestrians, bicycles and vehicles to cross Highway 97. Policy 12.2 Evaluate a north-south alternative to Highway 97 on the western edge of South County, extending from Burgess Road to Spring River Road. Policy 12.3 Coordinate with Oregon Department of Transportation and the City of La Pine on the La Pine Transportation System Plan. Policy 12.4 Work with the U.S. Forest Service to address maintenance of Forest Service roads that provide access to rural subdivisions, such as USFS # 44. Policy 12.S Encourage the use of partnering agency resources for comprehensive substance abuse prevention strategies in order to reduce impaired walking, cycling and driving. JUSTIFICATION Substance abuse negatively impacts many facets of community success. By reducing substance abuse we can: • Increase revenue due to the low productivity of employees • Decrease costs associated with on-the-job accidents, turn-over, absenteeism, etc. • Reduce crime (at least 80 percent of crimes involve alcohol or other drug use) • Improve the livability of our County by reducing the negative impact on visitors and community members (run-ins with intoxicated persons, unsightly trash, unsafe roadways, etc.) • Decrease medical costs from alcohol-related injuries, as well as diseases related to alcoholism • Increase high school and post-secondary education completion rates • Decrease traffic crashes due to DUII Because there are multiple benefits, the County's Comprehensive Plan should include and prioritize work on comprehensive substance abuse prevention best practices in multiple areas of the Plan. At the time of the 2010 U.S. Census, 11,018 people, comprising 4,662 households resided in La Pine, Oregon, a geographic area that encompasses 208 square miles. La Pine is approximately 30 miles south of Bend, Oregon, the largest municipality in Deschutes County, with a population of 76,639 people. The mean household income of households in La Pine was $46,753, with 32.7% of total households earning less than $25,000 and 16.4% earning less than $15,000. In comparison, the mean income of households in Bend, Oregon was $69,888, with 20.5% of households earning less than $25,000 and 9.3% earning less than $15,000. (factfinder2.census .gov) According to the Bend La Pine Schools Homeless Liaison, a total of 514 students were identified as homeless as defined by the McKinney Vento Act of 1987. One hundred twenty-six (126) of those students currently attend schools in the South County Schools area, which includes La Pine and Sunriver. The inclusion of language specific to poverty allows for opportunities to address this issue. Further, it opens the doors for steps to be taken to improve life for individual residents of Southern Deschutes County, thus creating a healthier more vibrant community. Thank you, Tonya Karlowicz (541) 788-5291 Think Again Parents Substance Abuse Prevention Team, South County March 12, 2013 Dear Board of County Commissioners, I am unable to attend this very important meeting today, but as a volunteer with the Think Again Parents Coalition, wanted to express my support of the additions to the Newberry Country Comprehensive Plan as it relates to substance abuse prevention. Think Again Parents of South County (TAPS) is a grass roots coalition created in 2001 to address substance abuse prevention in South County. Our missions is for alcohol and drug free minors in a positive, healthy community. We know underage substance abuse negatively impacts our youth and community and it also is a predictor of other risky behaviors. We do not believe that is what our community or our families want for our youth. With collaboration and partnerships with the City of La Pine and businesses, we believe we can better accomplish our goals. Substance abuse prevention efforts as part of a comprehensive plan is the right direction for a healthy community for all of South County. Substance abuse negatively impacts many facets of community success, by reducing substance abuse we: • improve the livability of South County by reducing negative impacts on visitors and community members • Increase high school and post-secondary education completion rates • Reduce crime These are just a few of the positive impacts that prevention can assist with, if we can make this a priority. I would encourage you to please accept these additions to the plan knowing that TAPS has been working on these issues in the community for some time, but with more collaboration we can gain more success. Sincerely, Mary Fleishmann TAPS volunteer 541-318-8789 C..) ThinkAgainParentS, Substance Abuse Prevention Team of South County March 12, 2013 Dear Board of County Commissioners, I am unable to attend this important meeting, but as the Chairperson of the Think Again Parents Coalition, 1 wanted to express my support of the additions to the Newberry Country Comprehensive Plan as it relates to substance abuse prevention. Think Again Parents of South County (TAPS) is a grass roots coalition created in 2001 to address substance abuse prevention in South County. Our mission is to encourage alcohol and drug free minors in a positive, healthy community. We know underage substance abuse negatively impacts our youth and community and it also is a predictor of other risky behaviors. I believe this mission is greatly enhanced by the cooperation and participation of the City of La Pine and the business community. After working with coalitions such as TAPS for over 25 years I know that the more participants we have in planning and implementing the best practices for substance abuse prevention the more we create positive and lasting results. Some of those results are: • Improved business atmosphere by reducing the negative impacts of youth substance abuse and the criminal behavior that can accompany such abuse. • Increase activities that will promote a healthy community and provide alternatives for youth to negative behaviors will impact how our community looks to visitors as well as encourage others to live a healthy lifestyle. • Partnerships that support parents will help them encourage their children to become healthy and responsible adults contributing to the overall health and economic stability of the area. These positive impacts wi I I serve the South County area well into the future. I would encourage you to please accept these additions to the plan knowing that TAPS has been working on these issues in the community but with greater participation from more community partners we can have a larger and more sustainable impact. Sincerely, Lee Ann Forrester TAPS Chairperson 541-536-4821 The Communication Across. Barriers "Opportunity Community Model" The Opportunity Community (00 model is a national movement designed to create the types of communities we all want to live in. This can be achieved by increasing prosperity for the people living in the crisis of poverty. Dr. Donna M. Beegle combined her experience of living for 28 years in extreme migrant labor poverty, with 20 years of studying and working with communities to create a research-based model for assisting people to move out - and to stay out - of poverty. At the core, the (OC) model addresses seven key issues that prevent us from reducing poverty: 1. No clear definition of poverty. 2. Varying views of the causes of poverty. 3. Education about poverty and its impacts on people provided by the media which promote stereotypes. 4. Resolutions, actions, programs, funding allocations and policies are created without the voices of people from generational, working class, immigrant, and situational poverty. 5. Efforts to eradicate poverty are isolated and focused on (at best) assisting people to cope with current poverty conditions. 6. The "Deficit" model is the primary framework for addressing poverty. 7. Economic development is misaligned with the human capital available. The OC model employs a comprehensive approach that builds on the existing strengths of people in poverty, business, social service, education, healthcare, justice, faith-based organizations and com1111-inity members Communication Wcurrwnt Rsprockxes Poorly Across Barriers (Archived) to make a difference for their region. This model has similar components as the Collective Impact process, Tamarack's Vibrant Communities Model, and the Circles Campaign for engaging diverse support from the community. However, the OC model goes beyond building collaborations and partnerships. At its core, the OC model: 1. Serves people from generational, working class, situational, and immigrant poverty. 2. Provides structure for a better-connected community network resulting in a more effective and efficient poverty-fighting system. 3. Provides community-wide education to increase awareness and understanding about the real causes of poverty - Educating people living in poverty (Neighbors) and volunteers (Navigators and Specialty Navigators) - then connecting Navigators and Neighbors in strong relationships. 4. Trains community professionals to serve as Specialty Navigators and support the efforts of Navigators who are working to access resources and opportunities for their neighbors. 5. Increases engagement of sectors of the community not previously involved in fighting poverty. 6. Builds capacity of helping professionals who serve people in poverty. How Can We Become An Opportunity Community? Communication Across Barriers (CAB) provides structure and support for implementing and sustaining the OC model. The first step for a community is to gather community support. Broad-based, diverse involvement is key to OC success. Identify potential partners in your community (see "Who should be involved?" for examples). At this point, CAB assigns an Opportunity Coach to assist in building partnerships and in the implementation of the model. Your Opportunity Coach will help with problem solving advice, financial and grant-seeking assistance, regular phone and email coaching support, and help you identify one anchor organization to serve as champion and leader for the project. The Opportunity Coach will provide a step-by-step guide and assist with the implementation of the model. Who is a Neighbor? A Neighbor is a person living in poverty - people of all ages, races, families and backgrounds. The decision of who participates in the Opportunity Community is made by the community. Some communities allocate a certain number of slots for people who are homeless, people incarcerated, people who are working and in poverty, immigrant poverty, and people experiencing situational poverty. The OC model serves all context of poverty and specializes in serving people from generational poverty. The OC includes an education program for Neighbors that is designed to remove the shame that prevents people from moving forward; to rebuild the hope that stops people from grabbing opportunities; and to reduce the isolation of poverty by connecting Neighbors to Navigators and building community wide networks of support. Anyone can be a Navigator. Navigators are community members who agree to become trained (throi►gh the OC model) to understand different experiences of poverty, to learn the structural causes of poverty, and to gain communication and relationship building skills. Navigators commit to sharing their contact information and to using their networks to assist their Neighbor to access resources and Support for moving out and staying out of poverty. Who are Specialty Navigators? Specialty Navigators are members of the community who work in organizations that provide resources or opportunities (colleges, hospitals, housing, courts, etc.). Specialty Navigators agree to take and return calls from Navigators and to assist them in understanding how to navigate their system Who are Super Navigators? Super Navigators are people who have experienced poverty, but have made strides to move out. Super Navigators offer support to Navigators who struggle to connect with their Neighbors in poverty. Who should be involved? Successful OCs engage local non-profits, business, government/social service agencies, faith-based organizations, statewide networks and volunteers. For example, consider the following groups in yoUr area: • Business Leaders • Department of Human Services • Community Action Agencies • United Way • K-16 schools • Employment or other workforce department • Chamber of Commerce • Non-profits • Foundations • Health organizations • Justice organizations Who is a Navigator? When should 1 start? Once you gather your community partners, it typically takes 4-6 months of preparation for implementing the model and developing the tools for sustaining the model. This allows time for adequate planning, recruiting volunteers, training Navigators, registering Neighbors to attend the Opportunity Community Conference (education program), securing donations and sponsorships, and building awareness and support in your community for creating an Opportunity Community. How much time and support are needed? The project has a one-year cycle, designed to be ongoing as needed. The Opportunity Community Conference (the educational program) is designed to be annual with a class of Neighbors "graduating" at the end of the program. Graduates are invited to return and volunteer with the model or even become Navigators as they move out of poverty. Project costs for subsequent years are significantly reduced with CAB's "train the trainer" program that prepares local trainers to train Navigators and recruit Specialty Navigators. The Leadership Committee and other committees working on the OC will typically meet once a month for the duration of the planning period (4-6 months prior to Opportunity Conference), meeting more frequently as needed. All community partners are also asked to attend a Prosperity SUrnmit session with Dr. Beegle at the beginning of the planning period. Communities with the most success have designated an "anchor organization which hires or uses in-house staff to serve as a OC Coordinator (approx. 20 hours per week). The coordinator is key for model sustainability, Neighbor/Navigator support, ongoing training of Navigators, recruitment of Specialty Navigators, coordination, and building community awareness and support. Navigators spend about 5-12 hours per month working with their Neighbors (for a minimum of six months) plus a one-day poverty training session, and attendance at the Opportunity Conference where they are matched with their Neighbors. How are results measured? The OC model utilizes a variety of tools and methods to gather information about the results of a model. These include: • Neighbor Opportunity Community Conference pre- and post-evaluations - completed by Neighbors • Navigator training evaluations • Phone interviews and focus groups - conducted at 6-month intervals for two years by the OC Coordinator with the support of Navigators and volunteers • Six month journals of Navigators • Input of the Planning Team (and community partners) Below are the key measures that these methods track: • Hope • New businesses started • Reduced isolation • Housing • Access to transportation • Increased confidence • Dental/medical/mental health care • School attendance by Neighbors' children • Employment • Wages • Education • Literacy • Work-provided benefits • Government or other assistance needed (e.g., SNAP, TANS, emergency food assistance) • Neighbors becoming leaders Why should we become an Opportunity Community? Results: • Empowered Neighbors - low-income individuals and families with hope, tools, support and connections to get out and stay out of poverty. The ability to use new tools and ideas as well as better awareness of the resources that are already available. An understanding that they are cared about by their community. • Trained Navigators and Specialty Navigators - increase in community members active and engaged in bettering their community. • Strengthened social safety net - new resources, more people engaged in fighting poverty and enhanced use of existing resources. • Better-connected community - across age, race, income and education levels. For more information: Visit us online: www.combarriers.com Send us an e-mail: cforbes@combarriers.com Call us: (503) 590-4599 Become an Opportunity Community- the kind of community everyone wants to live in! Start Here.