I returned from being out of town for less than a week to the distressing news about the Radio Shack fire, one of the newest and most attractive buildings in Cave Junction. First, I want to thank the IVFD and other units who responded to the fire and prevented it from spreading and doing even more destruction. We are so fortunate to have them in town. When I saw the damage to the building, I was overwhelmed by emotions of despair, frustration, and helplessness. CK Designs, the owners of the property, have put a lot of behind-the-scenes hours working with city and county planning and were just about ready to begin the outward facing process. I know this seriously sets back the project and I sincerely hope they will continue moving forward.
So many people and organizations, like Main Street Cave Junction (MSCJ) and the IV Chamber of Commerce have put a lot of time, energy and thought into how to make our community more attractive and welcoming. And we are starting to see progress. The sad part is that if Cave Junction had 24/7 policing this might have been avoided. Unfortunately, the majority of voting residents have made it clear that they are not willing to pay for this service. So, I guess we get what we pay for. I don’t know how to change this. The city of Cave Junction has one of the lowest property tax bases in the state and there are no existing funds for additional services.
I could use and would welcome any positive thoughts and ideas you might have about how we can continue to move our downtown revitalization forward. I know that the I.V. HOPE Village steering committee is working hard and moving closer to providing services for those with housing insecurities and transitional housing in Cave Junction that should lessen the homeless impact downtown and in Jubilee Park. MSCJ is working with the city to add attractive downtown lighting and new banners. What other ideas do you have that can help make our downtown more welcoming and attractive?
Other news to report is that the city’s utility clerk, Deanna Rodriguez, is leaving to spend more time with family. Fortunately, Deanna will continue part-time through March to help train her replacement. Deanna has worked for the city for almost six years and her cheery spirit will be missed by all of us and we wish her the very best.
