Open Gorge: The Skamania Dispatch & Klickitattler

The Hood River White Salmon Bridge Authority is moving forward with a counter-intuitive interchange design that would have you temporarily driving on the left side of the road when you land on the Oregon side. In our recap of the 4/13/26 to 5/11/26 meetings, we break down why engineers love the "Safety Paradox," why cyclists are raising concerns, and how the bi-state agency plans to manage its new sixty-seven million dollar budget.In This Episode:Unanimous approval of the Authority's $66.9 million annual budget.The cash-flow friction keeping pressure on the Port of Hood River loan.A brewing regulatory standoff over replacing protected parkland.Federal lobbying efforts and the push for Bridge Investment Program (BIP) funding.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comReview agendas, packets, and public comment forms at the Hood River-White Salmon Bridge Authority Website.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

A tense day for the Columbia River Gorge Commission as legal counsel issues a stern warning over public records, while state leaders from Oregon and Washington deliver a "cold shower" on the upcoming budget cycle. This episode covers the May 12, 2026, Commission meeting at Elk Ridge Golf Course.In This Episode:The ADU Debate: A new working group is formed to look at Accessory Dwelling Units.Climate Crosswalks: How the Gorge is aligning with new Executive Orders from Governor Kotek.Vital Signs: Why the Deschutes River is losing its status as a cold-water refuge for salmon.The "Data Center" Rhetoric: Residents and tribes push back against new transmission lines.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comOfficial Meeting Materials & VideoThe Vital Signs Data HubStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In this episode, we dive into the April meetings for the White Salmon City Council and the White Salmon Tree Board. We’re looking at a growing push from residents for municipal childcare solutions, the rising costs of our water infrastructure, and why a procedural rule might accidentally doom a historic oak tree.In This Episode:Water rates, reservoir cleaning, and the search for new infrastructure funding.How new state mandates are forcing changes to police body camera public records.The city's strategic grant application for the Bluff Trail's southern trailhead.The Tree Board's battle against a flat-fee loophole for developers cutting down mature canopy.The delay on the Gaddis Park volunteer cleanup.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comWhite Salmon City Council Agendas & Minutes: whitesalmonwa.govWhite Salmon Tree Board Agendas: whitesalmonwa.govDocumenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. Please credit Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local, and link in show notes to https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

This month at the North Bonneville City Council, a long-simmering frustration with failing internet infrastructure escalated into a full-blown life-safety crisis. We break down the stark warnings from residents about disabled fire alarms, and how a regulatory gap leaves the city with limited leverage to fix the problem.In This Episode:Water System Risk: Why the city had to authorize an emergency withdrawal from its Money Market account for a critical well pump.Fire Department Strain: Cascading vehicle failures and the ghost of a pre-COVID FEMA grant.The Dais is Full(er): Jeff Blakeley is appointed to Seat #4, and why the council rejected a mayoral pay raise.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch with comprehensive metrics and jargon-busters at skamaniadispatch.com.Join the next meeting: Stream or attend North Bonneville City Council on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m.North Bonneville City Website & AgendasStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Bingen's downtown takes a hit as a contractor strikes an unmarked water main, flooding local businesses and forcing month-long closures. We dive into the major flood that swept through town, and our request to help solve the mystery of who is clogging the city’s water system with a distinctive item: red cotton shop rags!In This Episode:The missing locate wire and the fallout for Carmen's KitchenSewer plant upgrades and the expensive problem with red shop ragsThe BNSF Quiet Zone diagnostic timeline and the Walnut Street hurdleState-mandated middle housing friction on Lois LaneThe new Building Committee and Gorge Heritage Museum repairsA forthcoming Immigrant Community Support StatementResources & Links:Read the full written text at skamaniadispatch.comWater main break floods Bingen businesses, forces closuresBingen City Council Agendas & Minutes: City of Bingen WebsiteStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In this episode, we dive back into the new proposal to fine reckless hikers $1000, including the legal strategy to keep that money local. We also cover the urgent bureaucratic "pinch point" threatening the Forest Youth Success summer program and how local businesses can access federal disaster relief. This episode covers the Skamania County Board of Commissioners meeting held on May 5, 2026.In This Episode:The SAR Fine Debate: Why the Sheriff’s Office wants to bypass state revenue-sharing, and why rescue pros are worried it could make trails more dangerous.The FYS Funding Crisis: A federal contract rejection has fifty-four local students in limbo.SBA Disaster Relief: How to access up to two-million dollars in storm recovery loans.Local Safety: A shout-out to the Crag Rats and where to find hiking safety essentials.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comHiking Safety Essentials: The Ten Essential SystemsApply for Disaster LoansOfficial Meeting Agenda & PacketReach out to provide feedback or make a public comment at [email protected] Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

 In this episode of the Skamania Dispatch, we dive into the April 16th Stevenson City Council meeting, where residents staged a highly organized pushback against the city's mandatory sewer connection ordinance. We break down the difference between "proximity" and "condition-based" rules, and look at how neighboring cities in Oregon and Washington are softening the financial blow for homeowners.In This Episode:Balancing pedestrian safety and stormwater runoff on Lasher Street.Securing the Rock Creek water intake before summer.The appointment of a new City Council member.Approaching deadlines for the permanent City Administrator search.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.com.Review the April 16 Meeting Packet & AgendaWatch the full City Council Video via the city website.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Klickitat County is shifting how it views childcare, moving from a private family issue to treating it as critical economic infrastructure. We look at a recent site visit to Boardman, Oregon, to see how public-private partnerships might cure our local "childcare desert." We also break down the county's pushback against state energy codes, and why housing experts are warning that our regional fear of short-term rentals might actually be making the housing crisis worse.In This Episode:A $21 million state public health funding cut forces lean operations locally.The new "Frontier Defense" strategy against state energy mandates.How the Planning Commission is updating ADU rules, and the "Option-Value" catch-22 of missing middle housing.Bids awarded for Courthouse exterior stucco and painting.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comRead Nathan Wilson's reporting on the county's childcare desert in the Columbia Gorge News.View the official meeting agendas and packets at the Klickitat County website.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Did you pack your map and compass? We are diving into the April 21st and April 28th Skamania County Commissioner meetings, where the Sheriff's Office introduced a controversial new proposal: a one-thousand-dollar fine for negligent hikers who trigger Search and Rescue missions. We unpack the county's funding strategy, the pushback from national rescue professionals, and what it could mean for your next weekend on the trail.In This Episode:Armed Auxiliaries: The county officially approves a new volunteer Sheriff's Auxiliary force.Quarry Tensions: The Storedahl Quarry Environmental Impact Statement is finally public, sparking immediate pushback from the West End.Space Crunch: Why the Hegewald Center's community meeting space is being eliminated.Boat Launch Crackdown: County officials coordinate with state wildlife agents to monitor unpermitted commercial fishing guides.Library Hours: Good news for readers as the Stevenson library prepares for seven-day-a-week operations.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch with deeper policy analysis at skamaniadispatch.com.Audio recordings and full meeting packets for the April 21 and April 28 meetings are available via the Skamania County meeting portal.Documenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. With thanks to Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Trail Safety Resources:Ready, Set, GORGE!: Your local guide to trail conditions and seasonal hazards.The Ten Essentials: A checklist of the ten items you should never hike without.WTA Trail Smarts: Expert advice on navigating PNW terrain safely.Safety Tip: Always text a friend your exact route and a "panic time" to call for help if you haven't checked back in.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Today marks exactly eighty years since the devastating May 5, 1946 fire that wiped out the bustling riverside village of Old Underwood. In this special anniversary episode, we explore the sheer ambition of the early Gorge fruit growers, the “Sunday conflagration” that changed the town's trajectory, and the new life taking root on the waterfront today.In This Episode:The ancient Indigenous roots of the Underwood crossing.How a pioneer boat landing became "The Most Famous Fruit Belt in the World."The perfect storm of economic shifts that kept the lower commercial core from rebuilding.Underwood’s hopeful next chapter, happening right before our eyesA shoutout to our favorite local historical archives.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at SkamaniaDispatch.comUnderwood Through the Years by Mary Kapp and Kathy LaMotteThe Upbuilding of the White Salmon Area: Historical Misinformation Exposed by Ralph BrownColumbia Gorge Interpretive Center MuseumConfluence ProjectYakama Nation Cultural CenterColumbia Inter-Tribal Fish CommissionUnderwood Park and Recreation District (UPRD) Gorge Heritage MuseumHistoryLink.orgStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

At the April 2026 EFSEC meeting, the state is pushing forward on major energy infrastructure, clearing significant pre-construction hurdles for the massive Horse Heaven project, including legally binding plans to track local pronghorn antelope. We're also breaking down averted state budget cuts, new legal rules for authentic tribal consultation, and what the latest environmental scoping means for local transmission lines.In This Episode:The Cascade Renewable Transmission project hits a major environmental review milestone.A deep dive into how wildlife mitigation actually works on the ground for solar projects.Good news for the agency's budget and technical hiring freeze.New state laws changing how the council conducts government-to-government tribal consultation.Brief updates on the Columbia, Hop Hill, and Wallula Gap solar sites.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comText of Bill SHB 2496Horse Heaven Clean Energy CenterRead the full April 15 meeting packet and agenda, and watch the full video at EFSEC's website. Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

During the 4/14 Skamania Board of County Commissioners meeting, we learned summer road construction is officially hitting the Wind River Highway, bringing a single-lane bottleneck and detours to Carson starting this May. Plus, we're breaking down a thirty percent drop in projected timber harvests for the county, and looking at why federal food assistance rules are suddenly straining our local support networks.In This Episode:FEMA relief is finally unlocked for December's winter storm damage.WAGAP leadership transitions and a new tribal housing partnership.Commissioners voice frustration over a stagnant Homeless Housing Council.An early noxious weed season brings temporary staff to the county.Celebrating twenty-five years of service from Chief Deputy Clerk Paula Diaz.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comView the BOCC agendas and Zoom links at the Skamania County WebsiteSNAP Cuts in OBBBA/H.R. 1: Billionaires Win, Working Families Lose2024 Columbia Gorge Community Health AssessmentDocumenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. With thanks to the Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

On this episode, we unpack the April 14th Klickitat County Board of Commissioners meeting, focusing on the mounting pressure facing our local emergency medical services. With 911 calls steadily rising, we look at how the county is managing the strain and why a dedicated non-emergency "day car" is suddenly on the table.In This Episode:Addressing the severe childcare and preschool shortages in rural areas like Wishram and Bickleton.Debunking local rumors about billionaire land buyouts and identifying the county's actual major landholders.Construction funding updates for the Columbia Gorge Community College advanced manufacturing facility.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comKlickitat County BOCC Portal & Meeting AgendasColumbia Gorge Community College Facilities UpdatesStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Procedural gridlock is freezing Gorge housing policy. The Economic Vitality Committee missed its quorum for the second straight meeting, stalling crucial votes on Accessory Dwelling Units. We unpack the debate over short-term rentals, look at the reality of building on agricultural land, and review the agency's new media rules. This episode covers the April 8 Economic Vitality Committee and April 9 Communications Committee meetings.In This Episode:Discussing ADUs and whether the fear of illegal use is just a "red herring"Testing the "Ag Income" Rule: Is it a filter for farmland, or a wall against development?The Rules of "Strategic Silence": New media protocols and social media limits for Commissioners.Permitting Delays: Why Klickitat County's new online portal is stuck waiting on the Oregon state budget.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comView raw agendas and videos for the Economic Vitality Committee and the Communications Committee.Documenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. With thanks to the Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In this episode, we unpack the April 7th meeting of the Trout Lake Community Council (with lots of relevant updates for all Klickitat county residents) where Skyline Hospital executives made an urgent, last-minute plea for a property tax hike. But with recent school levies already squeezing wallets across the region, local councilors are warning of serious "tax fatigue" ahead of the April ballot.In This Episode:Skyline hospital looks to lift its tax levy lid to bring critical medical services closer to home, but will "tax fatigue" be a barrier?Trout Lake's affordable housing survey reveals a massive demographic blind spot and confirms a total lack of rental inventory.Why missing data from young, working families could cost Klickitat County vital state parks funding.Community radar: Rumors of DNR logging near the airfield and a church's new local land purchase.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comView the Skyline Hospital Value Report & Levy Info hereDocumenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. With thanks to Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Klickitat County hit a massive infrastructure roadblock during the weeks of 3/31 and 4/7. The county was forced to legally reject every single bid across four major public works projects, hitting the reset button on thousands of dollars of deferred maintenance. And, STR regulations are finally updated, with an implementation schedule hitting the calendar. Finally, could trash contracts with bigger cities save the county budget?In This EpisodeThe finalized 2027 timeline for Short-Term Rental enforcement.Chasing regional trash contracts to boost county revenue.Legacy stormwater challenges and private easements on Adams Slope.A major triage upgrade for the county's 911 dispatchers.Resources & LinksRead the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comApril 7, 2026 Agenda PacketStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

 In this episode, we break down the Skamania County Board of Commissioners meeting from Tuesday, April 7th. We’re diving into the Columbia River Gorge Commission's updates on disaster rebuilding, the debate over Accessory Dwelling Units, and why the strict rules around "temporary" workforce housing are putting a massive financial squeeze on local farmers and families.In This Episode:State lawmakers sweep the Public Works Assistance Account, replacing local grant dollars with higher-interest loans.Title III emergency funds are officially approved for local fire and EMS.Federal bureaucratic delays threaten the upcoming Forest Youth Success summer season.New state SNAP benefit rules mandate eighty hours of work or volunteering, raising concerns for rural residents.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comFind full agendas, audio recordings, and meeting minutes at skamaniacounty.org.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Imagine qualifying for essential developmental disability services, only to be told the waitlist just to get an assessment is over a year long. That's the reality uncovered at the April 1st meeting of the Klickitat-Skamania Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board. We're breaking down what's causing this massive structural bottleneck and what local advocates are doing to help families bridge the gap.In This Episode:Why recent testing data from the White Salmon School District is raising alarms for special education students.The critical childcare deserts in rural Klickitat County and the severe impact on respite care for families.Klickitat Valley Health's funding push to get Medicated Assisted Treatment directly into the county jail.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comKlickitat-Skamania Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board Official Site: https://www.ksddab.org/Documenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. Please credit Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local, and link in show notes to https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In this episode, we are looking at the Goldendale City Council's March 2026 meetings, and unpacking a major financial threat quietly draining the city's public safety budget. We break down how a cascade of controversies and ongoing mismanagement at the Klickitat County jail, including a recent two-million-dollar wrongful death settlement, is forcing local municipalities to foot the bill for extreme medical clearances just to process standard arrests.In This Episode:Escalating issues with the county jail contractThe tightrope of state road funding: why the city used stop signs instead of lowering the speed limit on twenty-first street.Distributing over one hundred thousand dollars in lodging tax grants for local tourism.Securing multi-year contracts for the city's police and municipal employees.Resources & Links:Read the full written Klickitattler at skamaniadispatch.com Review the full March 2 and March 16 Council Packets at the City of Goldendale Website.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In this March round-up for Stevenson, we cover the growing friction over mandatory sewer connections and the emergency repairs needed for the city's failing water intake. We also dive into the Planning Commission's heated debate over a proposed hop-farm campground that has Skamania Lodge threatening legal action.In This Episode:An emergency, quarter-million-dollar fix for the Rock Creek water intake.The defeat of a "Sanctuary City for Gender Diverse Peoples" resolution.New City Council appointments and upcoming Planning Commission vacancies.Municipal tourism funding for the CAT Dog Mountain shuttle.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comhttps://upliftlocal.news/with-recall-efforts-resolved-stevenson-council-member-lucy-lauser-resigns/City of Stevenson Agendas & Zoom links: ci.stevenson.wa.usWatch the full meeting recordings on the City of Stevenson YouTube ChannelStay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

This month, White Salmon is wrestling with the real-world costs of rapid regional growth. We’re breaking down the latest moves from the White Salmon City Council, the Planning Commission, and the Tree Board, covering everything from a massive tree removal plan for the new bridge to the surprisingly fierce debate over shared sewer lines for new housing.In This Episode:The Cost of Density: Why local developers and the city's Public Works department are clashing over shared utilities and trenching costs.Speed Zones: The Pucker Huddle Coalition's push for slower traffic on State Route 141, and why the city is hitting the brakes on their support letter.Mail Stalemates: The latest (or lack thereof) on White Salmon's fight with the USPS over at-home delivery.Free Blueprints: The Planning Commission's pitch for pre-approved housing plans to cut red tape.Resources & Links:Read the full written version of the newsletter at skamaniadispatch.com.Access raw agendas, Zoom links, and public comment forms for upcoming municipal meetings at the city's official portal: whitesalmonwa.gov.Explore policy solutions for urban infrastructure at Strong Towns and the Incremental Development Alliance.Documenter notes are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. thanks to Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

We wrap up a busy March 2026 in North Bonneville, covering recent City Council actions and a critical Planning Commission meeting. We discuss the city’s proactive mapping of underground utilities, the ongoing regional environmental friction spilling into local comment periods, and a massive 71-page update to the Critical Areas Ordinance that could impact riverfront property owners.In This Episode:Mitch Patton's public comment regarding the Bradford Island cleanup board.The expensive push to replace an obsolete fire hydrant near City Hall.The search for a summer maintenance worker and streamlined building permits.Why a 71-page environmental code update is crucial to keeping state grant money flowing.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comNorth Bonneville City Council & Planning Commission Agendas: https://northbonneville.net/government/council-meetings/Critical Areas Ordinance draft amendments: https://northbonneville.net/planning/periodic-review/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Skamania County is bracing for the financial fallout of a state-level budget mistake that threatens local public health services. We also dive into the aging infrastructure of our temporary homeless shelters and a culturally charged interview for the regional library board. This episode covers the Skamania County Board of Commissioners meetings from March 17 and March 24, 2026.In This Episode:Public health budget frictions emerging out of the WA state legislative sessionWhy county buildings used for emergency shelters are reaching the end of the line.A look at the intense cultural stakes surrounding the open Fort Vancouver Regional Library board seat.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.com.Review the raw Agendas & Minutes: Skamania County Meetings PortalDocumenter notes used in this episode are available for republishing under Creative Commons license CC by 4.0. With thanks to the Columbia Gorge Documenters, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Governor Ferguson approved the massive Carriger Solar project in December, but a major judicial review petition from the Yakama Nation has brought development to a grinding halt. Today, we break down the legal and cultural friction at play, and explain why this Klickitat County lawsuit matters for the entire Gorge. Plus, we touch on updates from the Cascade Renewable Transmission project, and look at a new state mapping tool that brings a huge win for public transparency.In This Episode:EFSEC's new "eProgrammatic" GIS mapping tool goes live for public use.Substitute House Bill 2496 passes the legislature, paving the way for better government-to-government tribal consultation.Updates on the Cascade Renewable Transmission (CRT) project's environmental review process.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comRead the full text of EFSEC Resolution No. 360 detailing the Yakama Nation's arguments: EFSEC Resolution 360Track the Carriger Solar project and find raw meeting materials at the EFSEC Project PageAccess the new eProgrammatic Transmission Tool at efsec.wa.gov (Search "Programmatic")Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

In today's episode, we dive into the Klickitat County Board of Commissioners meeting from March 24th. We look at a massive emergency contract extension needed to cover medical leaves at the 911 dispatch center, exposing the hidden vulnerabilities in our rural emergency networks. We also cover traffic safety and the continuing discussion over Accessory Dwelling Units. In This Episode:Speed limits are officially lowered to 35 mph on Hill and Counts roads following neighborhood advocacy.Growing friction with WSDOT over 60 mph speeds near the SR 14 Lyle tunnel trailheads.The county's move to make Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) easier to build by cutting bureaucratic red tape.The looming 2027 delay of the state's controversial new building and wildland-urban interface codes.Resources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.com.Review official agendas, minutes, and public comment forms at the Klickitat County Website.Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

The replacement of the Hood River-White Salmon bridge is accelerating, but a multimillion-dollar land dispute with Oregon State Parks threatens to drain local funds. Today, we cover the 3/9 & 3/23 HRWS Bridge Authority meetings, break down the creative cross-border strategies local leaders are using to fight back, the logistical nightmare of dismantling the old toll booths, and the ticking clock on federal funding.In This Episode:The impending collision between the new bridge and existing toll boothsHistoric tribal agreements and federal red tapeWashington D.C. lobbying efforts to unlock $8 million in stalled cashThe October 2026 federal funding cliffResources & Links:Read the full written Dispatch at skamaniadispatch.comView meeting agendas, packets, and public comment forms at: https://hrwsba.gov/meetingsGorge Documenter notes on the HR Port Authority Meeting: https://www.documenters.org/assignments/regular-meeting-19442/report/Documenter notes on the 3/9 HRWSBA meeting: https://www.documenters.org/assignments/bi-monthly-meeting-19253/report/Thanks to Columbia Gorge Documenters for releasing their notes under CC by 4.0, powered by Uplift Local: https://upliftlocal.news/columbia-gorge/columbia-gorge-documenters/Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

Klickitat Board of County Commissioners is shifting into an offensive legislative posture as local budgets get squeezed by Olympia and Washington D.C. This week, we break down a massive seventeen-year accounting error by the state that shorted the county two million dollars, the data privacy risks of the new federal SAVE Act, and what you can do right now to protect the White Salmon Library from future budget cuts. Catch up on the 3/17 Klickitat BOCC meeting.In This Episode:The unfunded mandate crisis crushing rural public defense.The thirty-five million dollar price tag of the federal SAVE Act on Washington auditors.A step-by-step guide to defending the White Salmon Library's budget.The upcoming April fifteenth tour of the Boardman "Families First" childcare center.Resources & Links:Read the full written version of the newsletter at SkamaniaDispatch.comhttps://www.klickitatcounty.gov/643/Board-of-County-Commissionershttps://www.familiesfirstchildcarecenter.com/aboutEmail the Board of County Commissioners: [email protected] Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.

At the March 10th 2026 Skamania County Board of Health Meeting, our unique geographic location is creating a "blind spot" for local health data, making it harder to track viruses like the flu and RSV in our community. Plus, the health department is teaming up with the Prosecutor's office to ramp up crackdowns on severe nuisance properties to protect our groundwater and prevent major fire hazards.In This Episode:The Skamania County Board of Health adopts a brand new Mission, Vision, and Values statement.A look at the new administrative rules for appointing Board of Health members.Updates on the role of the Board of Health in tackling environmental hazards and nuisance properties.A new six-week chronic pain management class is starting in the county.Resources & Links:🗞️ Read the full written Dispatch: skamaniadispatch.comChronic Pain Class Info: Call (509) 427-3850 to register.Regional Health Info: Contact Amy Raney (SWACH Coordinator) at (564) 397-5721.Next Meeting: Tuesday, June 9th at 1:30 PM.Meeting Materials: https://www.skamaniacounty.org/home/showpublisheddocument/17644/639083204898800000Stay Connected with the GorgeThe Skamania Dispatch and The Klickitattler are community-led projects of OpenGorge.org.To stay updated on local news, governance, and community events across the region, you can sign up for both newsletters at SkamaniaDispatch.com. For real-time updates and to join the conversation, follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/OpenGorge.