URR negotiations update

Here's a list of references to stories regarding updates on the Urban and Rural Reserves processes. The latest and greatest is a proposal by now President David Bragdon and Metro Councilor Carl Hosticka of Tualatin. Here's a snapshot from their proposal...specific to Cornelius. [I focused in on it].

The result is less than 1/2 what Cornelius originally proposed for...I guess ANY Urban Reserve area is better than NONE AT ALL. The original request asked to boundary the Tualatin to the South... and an imaginary line connecting Verboort Rd (Forest Grove) and Evergreen Rd (Hillsboro) would be it's northern border.

1. http://blog.oregonlive.com/hillsboroargus/2009/12/metro_councilors_pitch_growth.html
2. http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/1260903008121100.xml&coll=6
3. http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2009/12/washington_county_request_for.html
4. http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=126041082236391400
5. http://djcoregon.com/news/2009/12/09/some-farmers-want-protected-farmland-open-for-development/

OPB - Think Our Loud Up or Out?

Yes....yet another meeting of the minds on Urban and Rural Reserves...what to do with our (sacred), I mean precious, I mean existing farmlands. Do we preserve them? Leave them and their inhabitants as they are for years to come...and instead grow from within city centers and GO UP. OR do we make use of the farmlands and expand our city centers and label the land as 'future' Urban Reserves and see future homes for Jobs/Homes. OPB and the Forest Grove NewsTimes host Washington County Commisioner/Chairman Tom Brian (PROPONENT of OUT) and Portland Mayor Sam Adams (PROPONENT of UP) tonight at 7:00 @ the Civic Center in Hillsboro for an hour long discussion. Here's some references...

1. http://www.opb.org/thinkoutloud/shows/or-out/
2. http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=126047866584907700
3. http://www.co.washington.or.us/News/reserves-hearings-and-radio-discussion.cfm
4. http://blogs.wweek.com/news/2009/12/11/sam-adams-vs-tom-brian-two-visions-of-the-future-face-off-in-hillsboro/
5. http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/index.ssf/2009/12/adams_brian_will_debate_urbani.html

Predatory Lenders from California Out Once Again

Talk about some convincing SPAM/Junk-Mail. Beware of letters like the one I just received last night. "Form 1008-S Payment Reduction Notification" the well packaging envelope reads. This company pulls up the stops to try and fool the recipient into a too good to be true offer. Perferated edges, advesive...very much like a checks from the Treasury.
Inside...you'll find print/verbage that speaks of a "Govermental Economic Stimulus Act of 2008" or "HR 5140 Economic Stimulus Act of 2008" or just plain "STIMULUS ACT". All BS to look, feel, and read like something approved by a Federal Government action.

Then at the bottom is the real deal...fine print stating "WE ARE NOT SPONSORED OR AFFILIATED WITH YOUR CURRENT LENDER AND THIS ADVERTISEMENT IS NOT AUTHORIZED BY YOUR CURRENT LENDER AND YOUR LOAN INFORMATION WAS NOT PROVIDED BY YOUR CURRENT LENDER."

I think its very sad...and very predatory for a lender to go to these lengths to try and SnAG! some business disguising themselves to try and lure people in REAL need with their mortgages and finances. Big banks increasing their Interest Rates on good customers is one thing...this is blatant abuse of peoples emotions by SHARKS! Shame on them...may they all get Coals for Christmas. =)

Take care everyone. God Bless. And Buyer BEWARE on this one.

TriMet Bus Changes

Summary of Bus Service Changes
Route 57 Changes - Forest Grove<->Beaverton TC

Last of 3...Abandoned Buildings b/w Fred Meyer and Cornelius Stadium is Burned Down

It took all of 4 monthes or so...now all 3 abandoned buildings on TMT Development's land have been burned down by the Cornelius Fire Department. Down with the old...in with the new...Well at least...we look forward to better & brighter Cornelius future. Cheers!

http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=125858555794171400

Hot Off the Griddle - Copy-n-Paste 11-8-2009

Director Richard Meyer announced that they are seeking written quotes for water main replacement on N. 14th Street as the first phase of the “Main Street Connectors” project. The work is expected to cost below the $50,000 threshold for bidding and there is a need to start work before December 1st. The remainder of the project for the street improvements on 11-12-13-14 streets will follow normal bidding procedures. Most of the work is paid from a “stimulus” injection for the Community Development Block Grant program.

Commentary: Back in February I mentioned the 'stimulus' funds Cornelius had acquired - http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story_2nd.php?story_id=123498699405998800 Here's a link to a FG Newstimes article, at the time.

Radio Talk Show Host Editorial on Cornelius/Walmart Aspirations & Beyond

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/jayne_carroll/index.ssf?/base/columnist/125727605482850.xml&coll=6
Time for a Gulp of Wal-Mart Love Potion by Jayne Carroll

Jayne does a great job asking open-ended questions for a political discussion in her editorial today. I'm flattered with her take on it to be honest.

Excerpts/condensed version...

"What a difference a bad economy makes."... "the good folks [of Cornelius] are downright euphoric over [Wal-Mart]." "Not only will Wal-Mart deliver 300 needed new local jobs and millions for street improvements, many Cornelius residents believe the retail giant is the precise economic shot in the arm they desperately need. " "[Most] in Cornelius can't wait until the new megastore opens its door for business." "Cornelius is anticipating..[Walmart to be]...a magnet for consumers throughout the region."

Great open-ended questions: Q4 is my favorite...because it may imply/pay a compliment to us citizens of Cornelius.

Q1: Is Cornelius a barometer for a changing attitude in Oregon toward the controversial, often reviled Wal-Mart? Or is Cornelius, a city facing even more economic carnage than the rest of Oregon, an anomaly?

Q2: As companies and talent leave our beautiful state in abundance for better economic opportunities elsewhere, are communities starting to reject the utopian policies of left-wing ideologues?

Q3: Will we soon see other job-hungry cities putting out the welcome mat to businesses considered odious to the politically correct?

Q4: Or are the no-nonsense, practical people of Cornelius reflective of a new Oregon - where we recognize that our state's magnificence, livability and families cannot be maintained without adequate jobs and economic opportunity?

Q5: Is Oregon's "smart growth" finally being recognized as great for big government but utterly stupid for a hopeful, prosperous Oregon future?

Jayne Carroll hosts The Jayne Carroll RadioTalk Show Monday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. on KUIK AM1360.
Her e-mail address is radiojayne@aol.com.
For comments or questions, call her at 503-648-0101 or at 503-640-1360 during show hours.

OH MY Oregonian

What's next? Oprah? =)

Thanks to Casey Parks for how article on the Cornelius Walmart and its future debut in Washington County. Work is certainly underway and I'm part of a growing number of people looking forward to another place to save a little more. Thanks ~ Jose

Cornelius bucks NIMBY trend, embraces Wal-Mart by Casey Parks, the Oregonian
http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2009/10/cornelius_bucks_nimby_trend_em.html

NIMBY = "Not In My BackYard"

Update to Urban Reserves

http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story_2nd.php?story_id=125633065342299000
State slams Washington County reserve designation, by Christian Gaston of The Forest Grove News-Times

Commentary: This is basically the same news as I posted last time. Except with a better summary in the FGNT paper. The graphic from the Hillsboro Argus was nice though. ;)

Excerpts: "Forest Grove and Cornelius’s hopes to expand north of Council Creek have been met with controversy, with the Washington County Farm Bureau and 1000 Friends of Oregon pitching steep opposition."

"The foursome – Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen, Clackamas County Commissioner Charlotte Lehan, Washington County Chairman Tom Brian and Metro Councilor Kathryn Harrington – met last week and developed a list of tentative urban reserve and rural reserve designations."

"The list is more notable for the 27,106 acres of reserves the four didn’t agree on – and subsequently left for further discussion. Land north of Forest Grove and Cornelius, which farming advocates oppose including in urban reserve, land north of Hillsboro and Highway 26 and the Stafford triangle are some of the most notable lands."

Quick update on Urban Reserves

http://blog.oregonlive.com/hillsboroargus/2009/10/reserves_leaders_some_areas_ar.html

'Reserves leaders: Some areas are easy to agree upon' by Nick Christensen, the Hillsboro Argus.

In summary: Cornelius wants lands north of Council Creek for Industrial land expansion, the preliminary agreed upon areas remains south of the exisitng UGB. However, north of Council Creek is label as "Urban Areas for Further Discussion". This was the area Washington County helped Cornelius recommend as Urban Reserves on September 21, 2009.

Personal Take on Today's "Field Research"

I must say this is the first time I've actually been excited and anticipating checking out a construction site. It's very personal to see the place you call home and the surrounding areas change, for better or for worse; i.e. beneficial construction or graffiti on the other end. That's the main reason I've taken such an interest in planning, developments, and changes that can & will affect the place I call home today & in the future.

It was refreshing to be out there today on a beautiful Saturday afternoon...experiencing the Change first-hand with some other Cornelius residents I came across in support of the Walmart coming to town. It was nice to talk positively about our City...the progress made on the roadways and Main-Street area of Adair...the lights, the furniture, and all the new sidewalks. Great things to speak of in such gloomy recession minded times.

So I was like a grown-up kid watching his Tonka trucks move around...I describe it as an Onsite CATerpillar Demonstration..I mean...all the types of Machinery you can think of were out there. And these guys are working Fast...pushing dirt...rolling over it...time and time again...spraying water on it...dumping more dirt...non-stop. And to know that this has been going on for just a week or so...is impressive.. All 16 acres of the property look like they've been altered by these machines already. Hard to imagine that this was once thought to be the place for more cul-de-saqs, residences, a road, and several lots. Now that plan and those old homes, and the grass field are gone and soon so will the trees...all to make way for Commerce.

I welcome Walmart because I know it will attract many to at least shop in Cornelius and make us known for something more than the tiny town between Hillsboro & Forest Grove that's 3 miles wide. I don't care that we'll probably be known as the place where 'That Walmart Is". I think we're all in hopes of getting decent restaurants and shops in the area. Making this place we call home more livable and sustainable by the day. Thank you Walmart and welcome to our town of 10-11,000.

First Video of Photo Set - Walmart Site and Misc.

This is the first of hopefully many videos to come over the next several weeks of construction of our future beloved Walmart. My gf and I drove around the site starting from the NW corner (manufactured home area/fire access entrance)...around through 4th...and finally crossing Adair. The photos I took are basically facing the future 'entrances' to the Walmart. Get a good look of the views and the trees...because they will soon be gone to make way for Walmart.

I had the pleasure of meeting a senior couple that lives near the Northern fence of the property...Pat & Jerry. The nicest people...they're dealing with the pains of Construction literally next to their home - shaking of the plates...engine noise etc. But Pat said she can't wait for "Wally"... its been a long time coming [4-5 years]. Jerry too was taking photos of all the activity.

To describe the environment...they could spray water on bulldozers with a garden hose, they're so close. I let Pat and Jerry in on the plans as I understand them from site-plans...what the view from their house will look like etc. They were truely excited. Til next time. ~Jose

Another article about Walmart making headway

Cornelius Wal-Mart lurches toward 2010 opening, C. Gaston, Forest Grove Newstimes

http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=125503831177416600

Shown in the photo above [from article] is equipment and work in progress overseen by Engineered Structures Inc. of Boise, Idaho.

Walmart Site Activity - Woohoo!

Engineered Structures Inc. (ESI) has been desginated as the General Contactor on the project. Work on the intersection of 4th has been started. Pictures to follow. Below is a Hillsboro Argus bulletin.
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/1254853229176660.xml&coll=6

Excerpt: "A Wal-Mart spokesman said Monday that an official groundbreaking could be scheduled for the next few weeks. " ... "Construction of a store typically takes nine months to a year, setting up a late 2010 opening -just in time for the holiday shopping season."

Metro- Making the Greatest Place - Public Hearing (Beaverton City Hall)

My 5 min & 1.7 seconds of fame! I was alloted 2 minutes to speak like everyone else at Metro's Public Hearing for their Making the Greatest Place agenda item. Timer is circled in white. Councilours from Left to Right, Rex B., Counc. Park, Counc. Libery, Counc. Carl Hosticka, Pres. D. Bragdon, and Kathryn Harrington (not shown in picture).

I read a letter that I'd handed to the 12 people on the Dais...Michael Jordan stepped into the audience half way through the 29 people testifying. 5 other guest representatives were on the Dais/Daus...1 rep for Washinton County, 1 for Tigard, 1 for North Plains, 1 from Cornelius [Jef Dalin, Woohoo!] ...and 1 other I forget...I think Tualatin maybe.

Anyhow...the hearing started about 5:15 -> 8:00. These poor guys/gals had to sit through it all. With the occasional break, stepping away from the forum.


Here's the transcript of the letter I read/handed out:

I’ve been on the Cornelius Planning Commission for 6 months now, so I’m a
rookie to land use planning. Before then, I had little knowledge of
Cornelius’s UGB lines, parks, its small library, or how low budget the city is.
That all changed once I took notice of development along the main street and
also Hillsboro Argus headlines regarding Walmart or Mayor Kidd and his MAX to
Forest Grove. In fact, next week Cornelius will celebrate the completion of the
Adair Main Street project after 10 years of work, made possible primarily with
grant money. All of you are invited.

I’m disappointed with Metro
staff’s stance on Cornelius specifically. It’s okay that you close the
‘chapters’ on Cornelius during UGB expansion requests, but recommending against
any land north of Council Creek as offlimits for Urban Reserves is closing the
‘book’ on our aspirations for a self-sustaining community. It’s a stretch to
call Cornelius a great place to live, but certainly it is not a great place to
Work. Not yet that is. Lastly, Metro’s idea of growing south seem premature,
given most lands north of the Tualatin are Flood Plain, with peaks and valleys.
Not very attractive for future industrial partners.

Now I
understand Hillsboro is the STAR of the Region. It’s drawn the interests of
Intel, Genetech, Solarworld and countless others to the region, bringing 1000’s
of jobs and making Washington County very marketable in the process.
Establishing places like Tanasbourne, world-class Orenco Station, and a
beautiful network of parks. Please allow Cornelius the opportunity over the next
50 years to fill in and be more like its big brother
Hillsboro.

Some recent examples to note, Cornelius parks have been
largely untouched over its history, Kids and their families rely heavily on
basketball hoops on the streets, roaming the streets on bicycles, or playing on
School District lands. Graffiti is a nuisance all throughout our neighbors. And
the growing % of disabled people learn to maneuver around broken pavement that
is beyond disrepair. Please help Cornelius sustain itself for the long haul to
come and not Band-Aid issues with funding support at Metro discretion.

After the meeting Metro Councilour Rex B stopped by to say Hello and Thank me for sitting through the whole meeting. Nice to have face time with our elected officials.

Cornelius Main Street Celebration (North Side - Adair)

Cornelius will be celebrating the completion of the Adair project b/w the stretch of roadway of 10th->20th Avenues; including sidewalks, underground utilities, lighting, and furniture. It took 10 years to see this to completion, but its certainly worth it! I think it looks great. Can't wait for the renovation spread onto Baseline and all the avenues connecting Adair & Baseline...That's to be seen.

The hardcopy of the Cornelius Master Plan is available as a Reference at the Cornelius Public Library on 14th Avenue / Adair..adjacent to City Hall - Easy to Miss.

http://www.corneliuschamber.org/index.asp?Type=B_EV&SEC=%7BBF114A59-125D-4279-ACA4-C5A676AAEA5D%7D&DE=%7B77880404-0E08-456E-B78E-1879C08402BD%7D

Plan your Parking Strategy now..Cornelius Walmart ;)

Below is a detailed layout of the Walmart to be constructed, of the Site Overall. In the upper left hand corner you'll notice what appears to be an entrance...yes...however this will only be available to Emergency Vehicles only as the access crosses the Manufactured Homes of several Cornelius Residents. The entrance nearest to the Upper Right Hand Corner was the section of land previous reserved for the entrance to the future Residence plans...BEFORE these 16 acres were rezoned to Commercial Land for Walmart a few years ago. The entrance off of 4th Avenue is the middle-right section of the Picture indicated where the intersection of Barlow Ct & 4th Avenue take place...what is now a 3-way intersection will become a 4-way intersection for the Walmart...tricky part is where the new entrance is planned...there were Houses previously there...who knows how the Utilities situation is to be handled? I'm sure its somewhere buried amongst the 100's of pages of Blueprints. Also to note, they'll be a screening walls of sorts blocking the views of Semi-Trucks to the Forest Grove side of Residences and other partial walls along the North and East parameters. I've also indicated where the Large Sign and Coming Soon sign will be located. And of course the Detention Ponds for Stormwater as well.


Not indicated on this map are the 5-6 acres of lands to be developed for Storm Water removal...that utlimately makes its way safely to the Tualatin...some land due south of this map and west INTO Forest Grove School District territory will be utilized. ODOT and the Railroad people will be involved in these efforts too...because 36" pipe will need to be installed all to channel this future water. THIS HAS to wait until the end of the 2009-2010 school year however ~ June 2010.

Also, the amount of work that will be down to improve the roads of 4th Avenue and Adair to support the Walmart...sidewalks, stormwater installations, and the like.

The order and phases of the work is not well understood to me simply by looking at the plans...my guess is the sign permit pulled for the Coming Soon sign will come first.

Where the coming soon sign will be placed.

Be on the lookout for the "Future Home of Walmart" i.e. Coming Soon sign on the property by 4th/Adair. Where it gets placed will be right by the designed 'Adair entrance'.

We'll just have to wait and see

I spent a good amount of time looking over the drawings for the Walmart. One gets tired of looking at diagram after diagram, index after index...trying to imagine what everything would look like in 3D.

Quick summary: The layout will be pretty much the same as the Fred Meyer in Cornelius...the site will "face" east, the Garden Center will be closet to Adair, then the Home section, The Misc. Items, then The Grocery closest to the Northside of the Property. From those driving cars, they'll be 1 entrace from Adair, and 2 off of 4th Avenue, and 1 Emergency Only entrace on the NW end corner of the property. They'll be plenty of trees planted according to City rules, 2 Detention ponds for water run off and an interesting project that will dig up a stormwater removal system that will cross Adair/Baseline/and the P&W railroad to end up by a swale currently in place North of the Fern Hill School in Forest Grove land.

Others things worth noting:

• Subway (which is strange because there is a franchise just across the street in front of the Forest Grove Inn)
  
• Recycling Center
  
• Pharmacy
• Optical
• Can serve ~ 4,000 customers max at one time.
  

Super Walmart Update...All the details of the exact building you'd ever want & more

What's 6 feet tall (at a minimum) & 8 feet wide? Give up?

The proposed sign reading "Future Home of Walmart" at Adair/4th Avenue site. Be on the look out. I will be!

Also become familiar with the # 4221, because this will be the designation given to our Cornelius Walmart.

And it's future address is 220 N Adair St, Cornelius, OR, prepare to write your Welcome letters to the future staff & management...because I'm sure in 2010 and beyond you'll be seeing a lot of them.

I've recently come across the following site: http://www.bxwa.com/bxwa_toc/private/2408/rc1_wal_mart_supercenter_corne_89165/info.php

It contains every single detail of what the site will look like, plans for containing stormwater, the Subway that's planned, Eco-friendly roofing, you name it...you should be able to find it there. I'm big on planning, so I'll probably spent a considerable amount of time browsing through these 100's and 100's of pages...

Interesting Take on URR

Clark Gallagher, columnist for the Hillsboro Argus writes an inspiring piece on his take of Metro's ideology and an example of what can come of their "Eurocool" take on Land Use Planning.
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/clark_gallagher/index.ssf/2009/09/metro_shouldnt_try_to_be_euroc.html

Excerpts: 1. "...Metro believes one size fits all." 2. ",,,Metro looks like a restrictive land use eco-nerd on steroids. Unabashed, Metro's philosophy is growth should be up -- not out. Everybody should use bikes, light rail, buses, or walk to work. Cars should be discouraged. " 3. "Rural sensibilities [on the Metro Council] are rare. A no-growth attitude willing to push economic development north and south will hamper economic development...Trouble is communities like Cornelius take it on the chin in search for industrial land. That's tough to face when it comes to money to run schools and prop up infrastructure.

Plug: "To get [Metro's] attention you need to get involved in their upcoming public meetings. The only one in Hillsboro is between 2-4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at the Hillsboro Civic Center, Rooms 113B and C. Don't ask why they scheduled it in the middle of a work day. You can figure that out."

Great piece Clark, thanks for the support & new perspective!

Produce little Trash in your Household? Choose WILL CALL service

I recently received my Bill from Cornelius Disposal Service, Inc. (CDS) in the amount of $23.35, the same amount I'd been charged a monthly earlier for using the service every week during the month of July. However August was different...I hadn't taken out any trash, recycling, or yard debris..yet I was still being charged for a full month of service. Why? As it turns out one has to advice CDS before a vacation or times when no service will be requested. If one doesn't do this...you will be charged..understanding no 'actual service' was rendered.

Sounds fishy right? It was to me too. Considering in the past before the new 'fancy containers'...garbage men would log whether service was rendered or not, then charge appropriately.

I'm sorry to say I can't trust this company's policies, accounting, or business practice now. So check your bills...make sure they're accurate and watch for charges that misrepresent reality.

So regrettably I will pay this bill in full to avoid a future argument and making a bigger stink of this situation. Patron Beware!

Note: 'WILL CALL' can be requested. Apparently one can call CDS @ 503-357-3510 and request a day in advance to have Trash picked up during your usual Service Cycle.

Walmart Blowing More Smoke?

http://blog.oregonlive.com/hillsboroargus/2009/08/walmart_claim_draws_skepticism.html

In a recent article in the Hillsboro Argus they quote a Walmart spokesman claiming that soon they'll be out to bid for construction. The fact remains that city has given Walmart plenty of time/opportunity to keep their permits alive. The time runs out in January, at which time Walmart must show "considerable construction"...i.e. foundation at a minimum. The article highlights how this would be very costly given that the faithful rains of Oregon will be coming around in no time.

Good luck to Walmart with the "bids" and foundation processing, and hope that Cornelius doesnt have to restart the permits process with them. Walmart must know that they'll dealing with a very tiny and little to no budget city...and they may be taking advantage. Looking for the cheapest prices from builders, squeezing every last penny they can before they invest in construction.

Cornelius & Metro Exchange Ideas, Thought, and a piece of their Mind(s)

http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2009/07/cornelius_to_metro_why_wont_yo.html
Elizabeth Suh, The Oregonian

First, thanks to Elizabeth Suh for taking time out of her schedule to travel to Cornelius of all places and spend a evening from 7:00PM-9:00PM in the Council Chambers (no A/C mind you) reporting. We appreciate your dedication, and your article(s).

She goes on to accurately describe the discussion held at the meeting. Outbursts and all.

Interesting Links from OregonLive.com

Paths linking past and present, Connie Baron, Special to the Oregonian and Michelle Trappen, The Oregonian
http://blog.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/2008/03/paths_linking_past_and_present.html
My commentary: A great article highlighting the pioneers of the places we call home.
Meek, Cornelius, Cornell...

Washington County Cities use down time to prepare for rebound, Jonathan Nelson, Special to the Oregonian
http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2009/04/washington_county_cities_use_d.html
My commentary: A dense briefing about what the little neighbors are planning: Cornelius and Forest Grove. Trying to share some sparks from Hillsboro's success.

To serve and protect -- on a shoestring, Jill Rehkopf Smith, The Oregonian
http://www.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/index.ssf/2008/09/to_serve_and_protect_on_a_shoe.html
My commentary: Given recent events in my neighborhood..an Increased Visibility of Graffiti all around, I find this article eye-opening.

Metro/UGB/Cornelius = DENIED!
Both by Nick Christensen, March 2008
http://blog.oregonlive.com/hillsboroargus/2008/03/officer_recommends_metro_ok_co.html
http://blog.oregonlive.com/hillsboroargus/2008/03/metro_rejects_cornelius_ugb_re.html

Urban / Rural Reserves Process 1/2 completed

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/1247854844231860.xml&coll=6
Forum explains growth requirements, Hillsboro Argus, Nick Christensen

Excerpt:

"...Metro's John Williams, who oversees the study process for the regional planning agency, explained the state has a mandate to think about 20 years worth of growth. Mary Kyle McCurdy, the reserves representative for 1,000 Friends of Oregon, said two-thirds of the Metro area's growth will come from children and grandchildren of existing residents.
"We have a lot of capacity for relatively modest increases in density for this region," she said. "No one's talking about the region looking like the Pearl District. But downtown Beaverton, Hillsboro and Cornelius can handle more density without going out into farmland."
That's the goal of the Washington County Farm Bureau, which proposed setting a rural reserve for one mile around the existing urban growth boundary, essentially boxing in growth for the next half century. "

My commentary:

With all due respect to Ms. McCurdy & 1,000 Friends of Oregon: Now I haven't been around for very long in Cornelius.. But I disagree that Cornelius like Beaverton/Hillsboro can handle more density 'without going out into farmland'. I agree with others views that Cornelius needs to expand its UGB in order to bring in Industry, i.e. high concentration of jobs. The open spaces/ vacant lots within the city limits may bring jobs, but more likely restaurant chains, small service stores, and vendors that employ < 50 max. We're thankful to have Wal-Mart coming in about a year to at least give the employment base a jolt for 200-300 people. My point is, I think its an unfair assessment/commentary to lump in Cornelius with cities like Hillsboro and Beaverton with far greater land mass. Compare City Budgets and Historical accounts of Land Use, and please base commentary on such things. For example, Cornelius is said to have 1/2 the # of jobs for # of residents, land valuations are far less than neighboring cities, and I can easily understand why Cornelius has a hard time supporting itself. Police, Fire, and bare necessities like Parks, and all the other folks that make our city function and development survive on a slim income. In summary, Cornelius needs jobs, therefore it seeks to partner with industries, and consider itself a worthy member of the Portland "Metropolitan" area. Hillsboro and Beaverton owe all their current momentum to the likes of Intel, Tektronix, and Nike. Why should Cornelius be any different? We're just trying to catch up. :) The alternative is for Cornelius to throw it's cards in and become Forest-Boro or Hillsgrove, and avoid nonsensical discussions and uphill battles with neighbors and Metro Councils."

Cornelius Graffiti Hall of Shame

These images are being shared to emphasize the audacity these vandals have in our neighborhoods in Cornelius. A full span of some unsuspecting neighbors fencing is completely violated with black spray paint.

2nd Old Building to be Burned

http://www.kuik.com/Article.asp?id=1415804&spid=

At 6:00PM Monday July 20, 2009, the Cornelius Fire Department will be burning down a large old strip mall. This building is near the intersection of 26th Ave/Baseline, just by Cornelius Stadium Theatres and the Car Wash location.

" This event will be a benefit to all parties as this event will: A) give firefighters the rare opportunity to do some unique training on a large scale building in a live fire situation B) demolish the strip mall that has sat in disrepair for several years C) remove one less target for graffiti D) remove a structure that has been a target for illegal activity."

I agree with the author, events like these promote the beautification of Cornelius.

Bridge Construction up until New Year's 2010

http://www.co.washington.or.us/LUT/TransportationProjects/cornelius-schefflin-rd.cfm?page=Map

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/124725368476130.xml&coll=6

I think there's plenty of options to 'go around' Cornelius-Schefflin Road...the same way we had to withstand the SusBauer closure for so long and those of us that drive up through 19th/20th to head to 26. Now 10th Ave is Cornelius are going to see plenty of attention, woohoo! It needs it. 10th between Adair/Baseline is gross!

Rail Corridor to Forest Grove on the BackBurner

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/124725367976130.xml&coll=6
Hillsboro Argus article - Kidd upset with Forest Grove rail ranking

The article goes into Mayor Kidd's (Forest Grove) frustration on the ranking of the Forest Grove corridor - on level with a rail to Troutdale. Metro is favoring a corridor between to 2 shopping centers of Washington Square and Clackamas Town Center. The presumption is that building rail in a high density area makes it easier for Federal backing.

Cornelius and Forest Grove can't compete on that basis. Kidd's quick to mention that the Blue Line extension to Forest Grove would be the cheapest of all the corridors to create as the space where the tracks would be are already public (owned by the State of Oregon).

I agree with Mayor Kidd on all counts. However, my thought is Forest Grove is seen as a 'squeaky wheel' is the eyes of the State and Metro. Let's wait and see what happens to traffic once the WalMart is completed and other business attract visitors to the Cornelius's 'bottleneck'. I see a possible worst case scenario: there will be increased automobile traffic...#57 bus route delays...and Emergency Vehicle among other safety concerns...for instance Speeding down country roads with Bicyclists around. 2 lanes westbound and 2 lanes eastbound can only push so many vehicles through. Anyhow...I hope it doesnt come to this before the State thinks its a good idea to invest in its future, and not leave it to the cities burden alone.

More News about Cornelius - Not good though

http://www.kptv.com/video/20014140/index.html?treets=ptl1&tid=26510978624813&tml=ptl1_9am&tmi=ptl1_9am_1_11000107102009&ts=H

Another home burglary within a mile or each other, presumably done at daylight again. Thieves broke in through a screen window opening left open in the back of the house for fresh air. $2,000 worth of jewlery, cash, and credit cards were stolen among other things.

This pair of sour news comes at a time just before Cornelius hosts its own 'National Night Out Against Crime' to take place Tuesday, August 4 at Harleman Park.

http://www.ci.cornelius.or.us/index.asp?Type=B_EV&SEC={E7EE025B-0D0B-42F5-A031-40FE82BB2449}&DE={61D148DA-B4C1-4450-97F3-837B19D811E2}

News about Vandalism

http://www.kptv.com/video/20002622/index.html?treets=ptl1&tid=26510978624813&tml=ptl1_9am&tmi=ptl1_9am_1_11000107092009&ts=H

I came across this video today about a family's home that was Vandalized. Paintballs on the gentleman's car. Graffiti "X2" markings on the property. They'd actually broken in...stole an X-box, and disturbed all sorts of things included opening the fridge and breaking open the guy's eggs. This all occured during broad daylight. I can't believe it. These gangs are getting out of control. These young guys need better things to do!

My neighborhood too has been affected by Vandalism and Graffiti...mailboxes, fences, the side of mail boxes, and houses even. Nothing is off-limits for these guys. Are they marking their territory, or just showing off amongst friends and are proud of their work? Who knows?

Fires Started!

Me and the fam went out for a little walk to check out the 'Practice Burn' exercise for the Cornelius Fire Department. This was 1 of the 3 buildings scheduled for demolition from a previous Blog posting.

Cornelius Parks, my perspective

Tomorrow, Monday - The Parks Advisory Board will discuss their Parks Master Plan.
I wanted to do my own little homework and drove around visiting Cornelius's current park offering.

Listed here: http://www.ci.cornelius.or.us/index.asp?Type=GALLERY&SEC={EA25527E-3494-4017-A0E9-76A7ADFBDCDC}

10 so-called "Park"s and 2 Open Space Parcels of land. The 2 open space I did not visit, and I couldn't locate "Free Orchards Park - 1493 S Fawn Street".

Here's my ranking: [Best to Worst]
1. Tarrybrooke - Good use of the Basketball Court, nice open space, what a park should be.
2. Harleman - Nice Large space around the School Area, perfect for Concerts/Entertaining Events...I'll certainly check out again
3. Alpine - Cute, Small, Park Space -> City focused on developing further - GOOD
4. Dogwood - Good mix of activity -> City focused on developing further - GOOD
5. Water - Nice little space and gathering area [Awful view of a Cell Tower and Huge Cement structure]
6. Aboretum - How is this a park? I don't get it.
7. City Hall - Green Rectangular Space of Lawn = Park?
8. Ryland - Super Steep location, easy to miss, Very outdated equipment.
9. Steamboat - Long forgotten it seems to me. A lot of overgrowth, and littered. What a shame.
10. Free Orchards??? Where is it?

Other comments: I think the true parks Cornelius has and maintains are the Top 5 above...the rest are I.M.O. either 1) not really "parks" or 2) starved of attention. The City should get the word out, ask for volunteer support, ask for resources. We're in Oregon, people! We're crazy about preserving green spaces, even more so if they're in our own backyard.

I think Cornelius really needs to focus on maintaining and bringing their current "parks" up to speed BEFORE they go thinking BIG about future developments. Everyone likes NEW stuff. I'd survey the residents surrounding the parks in place, and ask them their satisfaction level, and go from there.

Please fill out this 6 question survey for Cornelius

http://www.corneliussurvey.com/

There you'll find a quick set of questions that will assist in the planning of the City of Cornelius's PARKS MASTER PLAN. It is scheduled for final review and adoption October 2009. Your participation is greatly appreciated.

Improvements could range from favoring hiking/running trails to sporting facilities/swingsets...

1 comment box allows "real" input...the rest is either multiple choice/scale based/the like.

Have a part in the future of Cornelius!

Planning Commission, for me? Hold the applause...

So it looks as though my efforts to publish commentary on Cornelius Developments have gotten some notice. In the span of a few months, I've received feedback from local newspapers, city personnel, Wal-Mart reps, and co-workers (albeit most, if not all, jokingly). Anywho...it was amongst all this interest that I stumbled apon an opening for a spot on the City of Cornelius's Planning Commission. *Trumpets sound* Just kidding.

Honestly, I'm honored to be a part (1/7 to be exact) of the process thats in place to support the City Council and City government as a whole. I look forward to learning the details and behind-the-scenes work that goes on into Land Use approvals, etc. Who wouldn't want to know where there money goes to after its TAXED AWAY? I'm interested. FYI: Planning commission members are volunteer. See? Tax Money saved already. Go Cornelius!

All joking aside, I think I'll have to 'self-censor' most of my commentary going forward in this forum. Seeing as the Planning Commission has Legal Authority and all. Bias, ex parte, and all that jazz, you know?

Too bad for me though...I'll have to return the voucher for lifetime supply of Laundry Detergent courtesy of Wal-Mart. Totally Joking. I wouldn't dare return it! :)

I have to get back to work on my proposal of mandating that residents install Pink Flamingos on their lawns now.

Until next time,
Commisioner Jose
Formerly known as, just plain Jose

P.S.: Please don't hesitate to visit www.ci.cornelius.or.us and check for upcoming Planning Commission dates, the public is always welcome to play a part in the process for more perspective. 7 representing 10,000+...we may miss an idea here and there. ;)

The Planning Commission usually meets on the 2nd/4th Tuesdays of the month.

Current Topic: Parks Master Plan, can't remember the name exactly.

Wal-Mart update 'Summer Construction'

From the Cornelius City Manager's weekly update: "Great News - Wal-Mart's construction plans arrived on Tuesday (April 14)! They will be reviewed quickly and returned for any corrections before a permit is issued. A summer groundbreaking is planned."

Fire(s)! Wait... these were planned...oh.

From Cornelius City Manager {Dave Waffle}'s weekly 'Hot Off the Griddle' [Sunday March 29, 2009]:

"TMT Development has finally agreed to the demolition of the three decrepit, white-frame structures with numerous broken windows on their property between the Burger King restaurant and N. 26th Street on Baseline Street. All three will be burned as part of training exercises before June 30th. YEAH!"

In other news...MAX extension to Forest Grove update?

Kidd ready to pitch Forest Grove rail
Hillsboro Argus, Nick Christensen
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/123515401512430.xml&coll=6

Excerpt: "Metro is launching a study of the next 30 years of rail construction, and an extension of the Blue Line from Hillsboro to Forest Grove is one of 15 lines the regional planning agency will consider for construction before 2040. "

Commentary: All power to Mayor Kidd! Good Luck proposing this, try not to let Metro stand in your way.

Metro's "Regional High Capacity Transit System Plan"
http://www.oregonmetro.gov/files/planning/hct_fact_sheet-020609.pdf

Commentary: From what I understand, this is a long-range plan to evaluate corridors for additional transportation needs.

"...first shovel of dirt - could come by July 1"

Wal-Mart sets a summer groundbreaking
Planners receive permit applications for supercenter in Cornelius
Forest Grove NewsTimes, by Chrisitan Gaston
http://www.fgnewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=123554675337965200

Commentary: I hope to be there!

The Giant is waking up...

I just received an update that Wal-Mart is moving forward with its plans for their upcoming store in Cornelius! This was provided from none-other than Dave Waffle, City Manager, Cornelius in his weekly "Hot Off the Griddle" piece. In his e-mail distro message he wrote "Here's this week's report. I hope you enjoy some more good news. This time about the Wal-Mart store and a Fire Department grant."
Commentary: Congratulations to those at the City of Cornelius, PACLand, Wal-Mart, and all others that were involved in each stage of planning! I for one, look forward to the Development in our little City and wish us all a better tomorrow.

Added Feb 24, 2009: http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/1235503208196460.xml&coll=6

Congratulations to Cornelius, Thanks to Obama

Cornelius scores federal funds for road, sidewalk development, Forest Grove News Times
http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=123498699405998800


Excerpt: "The city won a community development block grant last week that will pay for the repair of sidewalks and street surfaces on 11th, 12th, 13th and 14th streets between Adair and Baseline Streets, filling out the city’s downtown redevelopment plan." 'By 2011, the town center will be rebuilt, essentially from Walgreen’s [20th Avenue/Baseline&Adair] to St. Alexander’s Church [10th Avenue/Baseline& Adair],” City Manager David Waffle said. “That’s pretty exciting.' "

Commentary: I guess this addresses Phase 5 of the plan illustrated above.

Reference: http://www.ci.cornelius.or.us/vertical/Sites/{74DDA728-822C-4D15-9791-000615642E9D}/uploads/{4DCDCE12-4478-4730-AAC0-6C31041C0620}.PDF

Hillsboro Argus Article City Manager Referred to and Some Archives

Flurry of paperwork means Wal-Mart moving closer to groundbreaking by Nick Christensen, The Hillsboro Argus
http://www.oregonlive.com/news/argus/index.ssf?/base/news/1234554642179080.xml&coll=6

Excerpt: "City officials in Cornelius are expecting mega-retailer Wal-Mart to submit formal plans this month for its proposed supercenter on Fourth Avenue."

City of Cornelius, Cornelius Public Works Advisory Board
http://corneliusor.govoffice2.com/vertical/Sites/%7B74DDA728-822C-4D15-9791-000615642E9D%7D/uploads/%7BA74DA247-D0E3-47ED-B7CA-1E3506BD59F4%7D.PDF

Excerpt: "Mr. Keyes informed the board Wal-Mart plans to go out-to-bid in March [2009]. Jeannine Murrell asked if the intersection at 4th and Adair would be re-engineered. Wal-Mart’s plans include reconstruction of the intersection at 4th and Baseline."

Hot Off the Griddle, Cornelius City Manager's weekly report
October 2008
http://www.ci.cornelius.or.us/vertical/Sites/%7B74DDA728-822C-4D15-9791-000615642E9D%7D/uploads/%7BB2C7B50A-39F0-47B9-9EFF-D2749401E9F8%7D.PDF

Excerpt: "The prospect of Wal-Mart construction this summer [2008] appears less and less likely...Wal-Mart would need to resubmit construction plans for the smaller store promptly in order to be underway during the summer’s dry weather. Guess we should be like Chicago Cub fans and “wait ‘til next year”."


Cornelius Wal-Mart opening not expected until 2010, Oregonian
Jill Rehkopf Smith
http://blog.oregonlive.com/breakingnews/2008/05/cornelius_walmart_opening_not.html

Excerpt: "Meyer said he expects the plans by fall and that company officials say they want to be ready to bid out the plans next spring, in 2009. With construction generally taking 12 to 15 months, that would put a grand opening in 2010."

Oregonian writer and City Manager update

Elizabth Suh, reporter for Hillsboro, Forest Grove, Cornelius, and North Plains wrote me :

"Wal-Mart is planning to start building this year and to open next year. They're not sure when... They said there's no doubt the project will break ground this year."

Dave Waffle made references to Wal-Mart in his "Hot Off the Griddle" weekly :

"[Cornelius] completed acquistion of the last piece of street right-of-way on N. 4th Street for the Wal-Mart Supercenter this past week. A spokesperson confirmed the pending submittal of plans in last week's Hillsboro Argus. Watch for construction to begin this summer and an official announcement soon."

Forest Grove NewsTimes and Link Provided by Blog Visitor

Thanks to Christian Gaston @ the Forest Grove NewsTimes for giving me the opportunity to get my blog out there! Front page no less. Thanks.

And thanks to the 'Anonymous' someone who posted a link along with his comment...
http://www.nypost.com/seven/02072009/postopinion/opedcolumnists/fly_on_the_wal_154007.htm?page=0

It's a story in the NY POST about a gentleman who went "undercover" applying + working for Wal-Mart and discovering all it's cracked up to be, from his perspective.

Some of my favorite excerpts:

"This a company that is helping families ride out the economic downturn, which is providing jobs and stimulus while Congress bickers."

'Imagine that you are young and relatively unskilled, lacking academic qualifications. Which would you prefer: standing behind the register at a local gas station, or doing the same thing in the most aggressively successful retailer in the world, where ruthless expansion is a way of life, creating a constant demand for people to fill low-level managerial positions? A future at Wal-Mart may sound a less-than-stellar prospect, but it's a whole lot better than no future at all."

" Coworkers assured me that the nearest Target paid its hourly full-timers less than Wal-Mart, while fast-food franchises were at the bottom of everyone's list."

"Low wages are not a Wal-Mart problem. They are an industry-wide problem, afflicting all unskilled entry-level jobs."

City Manager feedback of my Blog

I received feedback from non-other than Cornelius's City Manager Dave Waffle, himself! I'd solicited feedback from the city as to the content of my site.

In Mr. Waffle's email response he shared that "[Cornelius is] expecting Wal-Mart's developer to drop off the construction plans any day now." He also added, "Of course we've expected that for many monthes also."

Commentary: From what I've read, I think the developer is PACLand, apparently the 'go to' construction firm for Wal-Mart in the PacNW.

I'd previously posted that the Cornelius Wal-Mart was proposed to be 204,000 sq.ft...initially I believe it was. Since then the plans have been reduced down to 154,000+. Something about having to change from a storm water detention system, to surface-runoff system with a natural system [which takes up planned surface area].

Reference: http://www.pacland.com/
Reference: "Wal-Mart scales back Cornelius store plans" Feb 11, 2008
http://blog.oregonlive.com/breakingnews/2008/02/walmart_scales_back_cornelius.html

Example of the "Road to Wal-Mart"

Title: "Ready for Wal-Mart" Portland Business Journal, July 27, 2007
http://portland.bizjournals.com/portland/stories/2007/07/30/story1.html?page=1

Summary: Essentially what the article reports on a business owner's risk of converting the former Hank's Thriftway into a Grande Food, Hispanic Foods Market. Interesting because part of it describes his having to adapt to the "Mexican calendar", strategically caring items that his "new customer" base would like. It's a great story, showing the genius behind how business can be versatile and corner a market that Wal-Mart may or may not tap when they come in.

Commentary: It's pretty cool that this business owner had the foresight, looking ahead 2-3 years, establishing a new customer base, knowing 40% percent of Cornelius residents are Hispanic, and 80% of Hispanics in Oregon being Mexican. Maybe forming a loyal customer base will work to his advantage, or Wal-Mart may just learn to cater to them as well.

Great Links

Title: Wal-Mart will help Cornelius ‘address its image’ Sep 19, 2007

http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=119022173450519000

Bonus: Photo of Dave Waffle, Cornelius City Manager - I think highly of this man's work for our city. I belive he's a bright man and really cares about the planning and ongoings of the city, doing the most he can with the limited funds from the heavily taxed residential base. I also like to find out what's happening from his regular bulletin, cleverly named "Hot Off the Griddle". Here's a snapshot for a recent "Cornelius Gazette".

Title: "Wal-Mart back on track in Cornelius" Jan 28, 2009

http://www.forestgrovenewstimes.com/news/story.php?story_id=123316569192316700

When is the Grand Opening? Whose all coming?

Sept 11, 2006 - Go ahead for Walmart - "204,000 sq. ft" - 1st store in Washington County Oregon. Construction is expected to take 9 to 11 months. Following that, the hiring process would take another three months, putting a grand opening about a year and a half away from the time they break ground.

Brief: That would put current estimates from March 2009 -> September 2010 GRAND OPENING. Assuming Wal-Mart breaks ground in March and the 1 1/2 year estimate above is accurate.

Commentary: After the City of Hillsboro* & Beaverton* both said NO, Cornelius said YES, Please!. I guess the rest of Washington County (Forest Grove*, Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin, North Plains*, Banks*, Durham, Gaston*, and King City) just weren't appealing to Wal-Mart strategically, because as far as I know development hasn't been proposed there. Nevertheless, I think Wal-Mart will draw from the customer base they're likely targetting, the gold-mine of Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Forest Grove residents. In addition I think people on average of 8 miles or 15 minute drive away from Cornelius, will shop at Wal-Mart. My thought is Beavertonians will refuse the commute and instead continue to bargain hunt at their myriad of shopping malls within reach..K-Mart, Target, WinCo, Cedar Hills crossing, Tanasbourne, and the occasion Washington Square. Of course, the same goes for anyone S/E of them - Sherwood, Tigard, Tualatin, Durham, and King City.


* In my opinion, the most likely residents from which city they'll commute.

References:

Oregonian - Washington County section

http://blog.oregonlive.com/washingtoncounty/2006/09/walmart_gets_goahead_for_corne.html

Washington County, Oregon Wikipedia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Washington_County,_Oregon

Current Status as of Feb 2009

Search: wal-mart or walmart "cornelius", yields 140,000 results.

Here are the relevant links:

http://www.walmart-oregon.com/home/wm1/cpage_57/cornelius

Caption reads: Wal-Mart Alters Design Details; Closer To Breaking Ground on New Supercenter

Excerpt:

"We know that residents in Cornelius and throughout Washington County eagerly await the store’s opening, and we’re committed to making that happen as quickly as possible”, said Wal-Mart spokesperson Jennifer Spall. The public will see demolition of vacant homes on the site shortly. Wal-Mart has joined the Cornelius Chamber of Commerce in anticipation of being a part of the local community.

Commentary:

The vacant homes have since been demolished and leveled. A total of 8 homes, it looks like. All that remains are the landscape and piles of trash and belongings. In addition to grass lands there's piles of gravel to walk on. It was a little sad to walk on really, seeing as it once was the footprint of several family's homes. I was especially touched when I walked into someone's previous garden, of which the mini-plastic fencing was still in place. Well these are the sacrifices other make to make way for growth, expansion, and hopeful prosparity.

Welcome to my 1st Blog

Hi there,

I'd like to welcome you to my blog - and to Cornelius, OR. I have been a resident (and taxpayer) of Cornelius, OR since Summer 2006, when I purchased my home here. I am 27 years old, and originally a transplant from South Florida. I work at Intel in Hillsboro.

The purpose of this blog is to publish current status and commentary on local neighborhoods, businesses and maintenance/development in Cornelius, within walking distance of my home. The reasons for this blog are: I want to know what I have near-by, I'd like share my view with others, and I look forward to intelligent exchanges of ideas and other perspectives.

My main focus is on the growth of Cornelius as a prosperous city. I'd like to see 1.) Reduction/Elimination of Graffiti/Vandalisms/Crime. 2.) Clean streets 3.) Properly Maintained Local Streets 4.) Successful Local Business environment.

That being said...In my opinion, all of the above items can be achieved with 2 things: 1.) Local residents involvement 2.) City's help (provided Tax-payer base)

One topic that has stirred much contrevasy is the planning on a Wal-Mart coming into town. I predict this will mark a "turning point" in Cornelius's future with BIG change, beyond the usual traffic concerns. Wal-Mart will join the likes of Starbucks, Walgreens and good'ol Fred Meyer in playing the role of attracting more customers into local businesses. I haves hopes and am already seeing signs of a better tomorrow for Cornelius, it's residents and its businesses. That being said, I'd also like to use this blog to comment on public as well as private development like Wal-Mart, such as Cornelius's MAIN STREET project revamp. Please enjoy my content, commentary, and please feel free to take part by writing me some feedback.