Benton County sets meeting to discuss public works and sewer issues with residents

During the recent Alsea Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) meeting held on April 10, 2025, community members expressed significant concerns regarding communication and collaboration with Benton County's Public Works department. The discussions highlighted the need for better engagement between local residents and county officials, particularly regarding infrastructure projects that directly affect the community.

One of the key topics was the lack of input from the Public Works department on critical issues such as sewer and water management. Residents voiced their frustrations over not being consulted about upcoming projects that could impact their properties and the overall community. A member of the CAC emphasized the importance of having a meeting with Public Works to discuss their plans and ensure that community concerns are addressed before contracts are awarded and work begins.

In response, another committee member acknowledged the ongoing challenges in communication and assured attendees that efforts are being made to improve the situation. They mentioned the establishment of a quarterly meeting involving various departments, including Public Works, to facilitate better information sharing and coordination. The goal is to create a central point of contact for residents to receive updates on projects and express their concerns.

The meeting also touched on the importance of transparency and timely updates from county officials. Committee members expressed a desire for regular reports on ongoing projects and a structured approach to communication, including the possibility of presentations from Public Works at future meetings.

As the CAC continues to advocate for community involvement in local governance, the discussions from this meeting underscore the need for proactive engagement between residents and county departments. The committee's commitment to fostering better communication aims to ensure that the voices of Alsea residents are heard and considered in decisions that affect their daily lives.