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Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election
Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election
Oregon House again delays vote to reschedule transportation tax election

Published on: 02/27/2026

This news was posted by Oregon Today News

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State election officials had urged lawmakers to get Gov. Tina Kotek’s signature by Wednesday due to deadlines for the May election.

News Source : https://oregoncapitalchronicle.com/briefs/oregon-house-again-delays-vote-to-reschedule-transportation-tax-vote/

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MAYOR'S MESSAGE Looking back on 2025, I’m struck by how much of the work our Police and Fire teams that never makes headlines—but makes a real difference in everyday life here in our community. At a recent Council meeting, Police Chief Chris Chapanar and Fire Chief Jeff Adkins walked us through the year in review. What stood out most was steady progress, thoughtful improvements, and a continued commitment to serving our residents with professionalism and care. In 2025, the Police Department responded to 31,088 calls for service, a decrease of about 7.9% from the year before. Case numbers also declined to 3,427, and total arrests dropped from 1,200 to 1,092. Chief Chapanar emphasized that numbers never tell the whole story. Staffing levels play a big role in what officers are able to do proactively. At one point last year, the department was down six members due to retirements, injuries, and turnover. When that happens, officers must focus first on priority calls, which can mean fewer traffic stops and fewer proactive patrol checks. Even so, there were several positive trends that directly affect daily life in our neighborhoods and business districts. Criminal trespass and criminal mischief both decreased. Burglaries dropped by about 20%, and stolen vehicles were down more than 50%. Those reductions matter. They represent fewer break-ins, fewer repeat nuisance situations, and fewer residents dealing with the disruption of property crimes. There were also areas that deserve our attention. Traffic crashes rose significantly, from 188 to 273, and DUII arrests increased to 143. Chief Chapanar was clear that DUII is a completely avoidable crime, and while enforcement plays a role, community choices are equally important. Slowing down, driving attentively, and never getting behind the wheel impaired are simple actions that protect everyone. One encouraging development has been the department’s online reporting system, PD Connect. Over the past year, nearly 400 reports were submitted online, including crime tips, abandoned vehicles, thefts, and other concerns. Each report is reviewed and routed appropriately, helping the department respond efficiently while giving residents another convenient way to communicate. Behind all of this is an enormous amount of work that often goes unseen. Dispatch handled more than 128,000 calls last year, dispatchers and officers logged thousands of hours of training. The dedication of these professionals, especially while navigating staffing challenges, deserves real recognition. Fire Chief Jeff Adkins shared that the Fire Department responded to 4,033 calls in 2025. The majority—2,739—were medical-related. The remainder included public assists, fire-related calls, and hazardous condition responses. One of the biggest themes from the Fire Department this year was investing in people. With leadership transitions and retirements, the department filled key positions, including bringing on new firefighter engineers. Chief Adkins highlighted the success of the apprentice program, which helps individuals enter the fire service by reducing traditional barriers and providing structured, hands-on training. It’s already proving to be a strong pathway for developing local talent. Another important change in 2025 was the implementation of what the department calls “Code Charlie.” In practical terms, this allows firefighters to be cleared from certain low-acuity medical calls when an ambulance is already responding. Patient care is still covered, but the fire engine doesn’t need to roll in every instance. This reduces wear and tear on equipment, lowers risk and exposure for firefighters, and keeps crews available for higher-priority emergencies. It’s a smart refinement that helps preserve resources while maintaining service levels. Chief Adkins also spoke about long-term readiness. The department now has a 100-foot platform ladder truck at the station, and while it requires specialized training before full deployment, it significantly enhances our ability to respond to complex emergencies. Efforts are also continuing around facility improvements, including pursuing grant opportunities for seismic upgrades. One of the most meaningful moments during the Council discussion was the appreciation expressed for both departments. Public safety work happens 24 hours a day, often under challenging circumstances, and with limited resources. The professionalism, adaptability, and dedication shown by our Police and Fire teams are something we should all be proud of. As we move into 2026, the focus remains clear: strengthen staffing, refine systems, invest wisely in equipment and training, and continue building trust with the community. Public safety is not just about responding to emergencies—it’s about prevention, partnership, and steady improvement. Thank you to Chief Adkins, Chief Chapanar, and every member of their teams for the work you do every day to keep our community safe. -Joe Benetti, Mayor of Coos Bay

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