Hood River County board hears warehouse appeal, wildfire presentation; candidate filing deadline nears
The Hood River County Board of Commissioners met twice this week, but minutes have not yet been published, so no decisions are known. The most consequential item on the agenda was a public hearing on an appeal of a denied warehouse permit. Separately, candidate filing deadlines for the 2026 general election are approaching, with the final day to file set for Aug. 25.
Warehouse appeal hearing
The board held a public hearing on Appeal #26-0035, which challenges the Planning Commission's denial of a permit for a warehouse and distribution facility of approximately 48,960 square feet. Staff recommends upholding the denial. No decision has been announced.
Wildfire protection presentation
At a special business meeting on Aug. 20, the board received a staff presentation on County Forest Wildfire Protection Measures. The board considered directing staff to prepare an Order for signature based on the presentation. No action has been reported.
Other board items
The board's Aug. 17 agenda included several consent items:
- Amendment 2 to the franchise agreement with Hood River Garbage dba Waste Connections.
- A resolution adopting new fees for Exhibit A-3 of the county fee schedule.
- Closure of the Ricardo TS #26-3 Timber Sale and release of bond funds for Rosboro Company, LLC.
- A contract for AXON Body Camera Equipment and Software.
These items were listed for approval, but the outcomes are not yet known.
Election filing deadlines and fees
A candidate filing form for the 2026 elections outlines the following deadlines and fees:
- Primary election filing: Sept. 11, 2025, to March 10, 2026; withdrawal by March 13, 2026.
- General election filing: June 3 to Aug. 25, 2026; withdrawal by Aug. 28, 2026.
- Filing fees: U.S. Senator $150, U.S. Representative $100, Statewide Offices $100, State Senator/Rep $25, County Office $50.
- Incumbents must file at least 7 days before the non-incumbent deadline.
- Candidates must file a campaign finance statement within 3 business days of receiving contributions or spending, unless exempt (under $1,500).
Separately, Courtnee Keilman filed a declaration of candidacy for the Cascade Locks City Council on Aug. 18, 2026. Keilman's residence is listed as 450 SE Sunset Ave, Cascade Locks, OR 97014, and occupation as electrician.
Coming up
No upcoming meetings are listed in the next 14 days. The next scheduled board meeting has not been announced. Residents should watch for the publication of minutes from the Aug. 17 and Aug. 20 meetings to learn the outcomes of the warehouse appeal and wildfire protection direction.