Heat is especially dangerous for those already experiencing health problems or for those who are houseless and experiencing severe exposure to this current heat wave which is anticipated to top 100 degrees for the next several days. Cooling shelters are available.

Nearly 80 individuals joined a Mid-Columbia Houseless Collaborative meeting on February 13 to learn about progress made toward its goals during 2023, review strategic plan updates, and get an overview of key activities and projects planned for 2024. One highlight was the connections the group is making in the region.

Daniel Henderson of Oregon City and John Graves of Portland work on an eve strut for the new metal building being constructed on West Seventh Street, south of the Underriner Ford dealership.

Rocky Schultz of Lyle shows off her rock and landscape work at the Annex, or former Oregon Motor Motel at 200 W. Third St., in The Dalles on Tuesday, Sept. 26. Schultz works for Mountain Services owned by James Smasne. Completion of the Annex is coming into view as final touches are being made to the building.

The Dalles City Council will hear more about the recent purchase of the Oregon Motor Motel and plans for it to be converted to transitional housing for houseless people living in The Dalles.  Mid-Columbia Community Action Council Exec. Director Kenny LaPoint will provide information on Project Turnkey 2.0 at their regular meeting scheduled for 5:30 p.m. tonight, Monday, Feb. 13. The meeting will be held at City Hall, 313 Court Street.

Jennifer Joseph, of Windermere Real Estate and Kata McNulty of Kiddie City Child Care have raised $1,000 for Mid-Columbia Community Action Council with their “Photos with Santa” fundraiser.

Impending infrastructure failures push Council to make expenditures to repair water and sewer systems now rather than later.

Council will hear about or consider items that total more than $1.9 million tonight, April 11th, at their regular meeting. The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce’s budget, a new contract for future City Manager Mathew Klebes, and money requests from Parks and Rec. as well as Mid-Columbia Community Action Council are in the mix.

There is hope on the horizon for those seeking to eke out an existence living on the streets of The Dalles while experiencing other problems such as mental health and addiction challenges. A local Agency has secured property and $2.8 million in an effort to get people off the street, build careers, and create stable homes.