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About Vernonia's voice. (Vernonia, OR) 2007-current | View Entire Issue (June 1, 2007)
voice vernonia’s june 2007 Vernonia Citizens Show Support for City Staff Approximately 100 citizens turned out at the Vernonia City Hall on Monday May 21, to show support for City Administrator M.R. “Dick” Kline and his staff. Eight individuals, including elected officials, city staff members, and citizens took the microphone to express their support for Kline, and talk about their view of his job performance. The rally was organized by citizens who were concerned that Kline has been facing unwarranted criticism from the local press, and had become the subject of misleading statements made by individu- als. City staff has been under fire as well and has been working under significant distress for weeks. The rally was kicked off by Mayor Sally Harrison, who welcomed the crowd and introduced the speakers. Among the speakers in support of Kline were County Commissioner Tony Hyde, Jim Tierney from Community Action Team (CAT), Parks Commit- tee member Casey Mitchell, City Councilor Shirlee Daughtry, Planning Commission Chair Dan Brown and Community Learning Center Director Jessica Jones. Tierney, who works closely with many city officials and staff in his position with CAT, stated “Dick Kline is the best city Administrator I have ever worked with.” Citizens held signs that read “We Love Vernonia,” “Vernonian’s for a Bright Future,” and “Dick Kline – We Support You.” A petition was circu- lated and signed, expressing support for city staff. Kline has been criticized in the local media recently for his inability to give satisfactory answers 1984 mist drive, po box 321 vernonia, oregon, 97064 MIKE PIHL LOGGING CO., INC 503-429-1470 cell 503.789.1268 shop 503.429.1473 fax 503.429.0252 Specializing in Private Timber Free Estimes Ernie’s Filling Station Prime Rib Fridays! 8oz • 10oz • 16oz Stop in and fill up on our tasty home cooking! Toll Free 888-755-0910 to questions about the city’s financial situation. In addition, local media sources have complained that the city is not responding to their requests for public records, and that the media is being over–charged for the preparation of those requested documents. Kline has expressed dissatisfaction with the current situation, and in his “ability to effectively perform my duties,” due to these distractions. In meetings with city officials he has stated that he may not stay in Vernonia. This prompted a quick response from rally organizers, who instigated the gathering on short notice through emails, phone calls, face-to-face conversations and flyers. Kline came to Vernonia last year as in- terim City Manager, and was hired permanently two months later, after City Administrator Robin Bassett left the position. Kline inherited a budget that was facing shortfalls, and several community projects that were under-funded, including the wastewater treat- ment facility, the Community Learning Center, and the Bicycle/Pedestrian sidewalk project on OA Hill. When asked later to comment on Kline’s performance as City Administrator, Mayor Sally Harrison said, “The decision to hire Dick Kline was the best decision I’ve ever made. I can go in at any time and get answers to my questions. He is a joy to work with.” Kline, in the midst of preparing the city budget for next year, has not announced any deci- sions about his future in Vernonia. New Day Massage and Bodyworks 847 Madison Avenue, Vernonia OR 97064 For appointments call: 503-429-4677 OLUTE Health Maintenance & Stress Reduction Heather Lewis, LMT, LMP, CLT Insurance accepted #10732 advertise here contact us at ads@vernoniasvoice.com STEVE HEMEON–YOU CALL, WE HAUL Crushed Rock All sizes Pit run MARBLE & GRANITE Quality Fabrication & Instalation Derek Handegard & John Stacey, owners I am 13, mature, responsible I have references & transpo can be arranged. Jessica Davis Dance Camp June 25,26,27 ages 4 & up ballet classes all experience levels 429-0850 CCB#159794 phone (503)429.2617 fax(503)429.0941 absolute@agalis.net Your kids are safe with me! & certified in CPR & First Aid. 11126 Hwy 202, Birkenfeld, OR ABS 16 Quality Sandy Loam, Topsoil & Barkdust 503.755.2767 Mist, OR Gretchen’s Saddlery Custom Leather Crafting & Repair The Clever Cricket New, used & handmade items for children and their families 503-429-5049 www.clevercricket.com 728 Madison Avenue Vernonia, Oregon,97064 open Wed. to Sat., Noon to 6pm SpiralzSalon karin, owner 503.429.1012 Gretchen Johnston Custom Saddle Maker Free Estimates & Consultation kim, becky, lori �503� 429�8484 712 bridge st., vernonia, or, 97064 715 Bridge Street, Vernonia OR, 97064 10-5 TUES.-SAT. 12-4 SUNDAYS Padlocks Available STORAGE TOO 503-429-STOR [7867] 58605 Nehelem Hwy South, Vernonia, OR Monday-Friday 11-6 Saturdays 10-5 Sundays Best men’s & women’s clothing, flip flops jewelry & bead supplies 503.429.2530 884 Bridge Street, Vernonia, OR BIKES • NEW & USED • REPAIRS & SERVICE phone 429-1011 717 Rose Avenue Vernonia, OR, 97064 TRIPPLE bike service S