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In Support wrote on Jan 20, 2009 2:41 PM:
I have worked with chain restaurants and the prospect of getting them to the Bay Area, the main reason they wont come is the negative attitude of the community and the lack of support for
tourism which is a large chunk of their business. Seems to me all the people who complain are just looking for something to complain about, so thank you for all you have done to make our
community look bad. I am so glad you won and have convinced all the businesses you want so desperately to not come to our area! I support the Visitors Center remodel, it is a step (finally) in the right direction.
tourism which is a large chunk of their business. Seems to me all the people who complain are just looking for something to complain about, so thank you for all you have done to make our
community look bad. I am so glad you won and have convinced all the businesses you want so desperately to not come to our area! I support the Visitors Center remodel, it is a step (finally) in the right direction.
bs wrote on Jan 17, 2009 9:00 PM:
Matt wrote: "Maybe if some of you would leave your trailers and visit places like Newport or Astoria you would see that nice downtown, waterfront and visitors information areas are key to attracting tourists and investment."
Just out of curiosity Matt, what do you think came first in those communities.. the nice downtown and waterfront, or the visitor's center? Seems like were spending money on the cart (which already exists), rather than the horse don't you think?
And to answer "well" who wrote: "So my question is, who is going to police the 1.1M bathrooms?" Why, the police of course... being constantly directed to clean the bums out of the bathrooms rather than work on your theft, drug, traffic, violence, and child abuse problems.
Just out of curiosity Matt, what do you think came first in those communities.. the nice downtown and waterfront, or the visitor's center? Seems like were spending money on the cart (which already exists), rather than the horse don't you think?
And to answer "well" who wrote: "So my question is, who is going to police the 1.1M bathrooms?" Why, the police of course... being constantly directed to clean the bums out of the bathrooms rather than work on your theft, drug, traffic, violence, and child abuse problems.
Well Cont. wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:23 PM:
The obnoxious looking Kiosk does nothing to help either. Both the Hub & Hall buildings have to lock their bathroom doors due to bums hanging out in them. So my question is, who is going to police the 1.1M bathrooms?
I'm sorry but we have far too many real eyesores in this community to even be pondering this.
If it has to be for 'urban renewal', then paint or demolish all those rusty old buildings along the waterfront.
Doh!
I'm sorry but we have far too many real eyesores in this community to even be pondering this.
If it has to be for 'urban renewal', then paint or demolish all those rusty old buildings along the waterfront.
Doh!
Well wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:19 PM:
I guess some of us just had no idea they were looking to improve the visitor's center, or the surrounding landscape wouldn't be so dilapidated.
*shrug*
*shrug*
Matt wrote on Jan 15, 2009 7:35 PM:
I still can't believe that all you uninformed yokels want to turn the Bay Area into some gritty industrial town rather than fund urban renewal. Rather than being proactive about bettering and beautifying your community, you complain and watch it deteriorate more. It's no wonder the area is in such bad condition, being populated by ignorant, tax-evading rednecks. Maybe if some of you would leave your trailers and visit places like Newport or Astoria you would see that nice downtown, waterfront and visitors information areas are key to attracting tourists and investment.
I can't figure out why the only kind of development you people want comes in the way of Wal*Marts, gas refineries and new McDonalds/chain restaurants.
It is embarrassing to tell people I am from the Bay Area because it has such a bad reputation around the state.
I can't figure out why the only kind of development you people want comes in the way of Wal*Marts, gas refineries and new McDonalds/chain restaurants.
It is embarrassing to tell people I am from the Bay Area because it has such a bad reputation around the state.
Chris wrote on Jan 15, 2009 1:51 PM:
Here is a concept. How about some of you learning how to spell before you post some idiotic comment on this blog.
I personally support this project and unless you have ever taken the time to stop by this visitor center you don't know what you are talking about. This is an old building that is very small and needs to be upgraded to represent this area. Like it or not we ARE a tourist destination and that is what is keeping this area afloat in the summer months.
I personally support this project and unless you have ever taken the time to stop by this visitor center you don't know what you are talking about. This is an old building that is very small and needs to be upgraded to represent this area. Like it or not we ARE a tourist destination and that is what is keeping this area afloat in the summer months.
I got an idear wrote on Jan 15, 2009 1:28 PM:
How's bout we take dat millun bucks and put tit twards bringin in sum new rest'rants? We sub-dize everthin else, why not sum gud rest'rants. Outback, Chilis, Red Robin or any such chain 'ould be nice.
Dis is da rednek waighin in on de sit'wation.
Dis is da rednek waighin in on de sit'wation.
Richard wrote on Jan 15, 2009 1:02 PM:
We could just tear down the existing building and put up some type of drive through pamplet holder. 1.1 million of money we don't have sounds like a bad idea.
Greg wrote on Jan 15, 2009 10:16 AM:
Maybe when they are done with the new bathrooms we can take our money and dreams and flush them down those plush toilets.
beebsie wrote on Jan 15, 2009 9:57 AM:
SOLUTION: I've considered not paying my property taxes until they stop coming up with these ridiculous ways to fritter our money away. Furthermore, the 90 minute parking restriction in the downtown area has kept me away since they initiated it. I don't know about anyone else, but I can't do any serious shopping in an hour and a half.
BARNEY WILLIS wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:44 AM:
THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO REASON WHY OUR TAXES CAN NOT BE REDUCED BY STOPPING INSANITY LIKE THIS. THERE IS NO LAW THAT SAYS POLITICIANS MUST SIEZE OUR MONEY AND CALL IT URBAN RENEWAL. IT'S TIME TO YELL OUT THAT WE WONT TAKE IT ANYMORE.
Beach Weasel wrote on Jan 15, 2009 8:04 AM:
New Zealand has a very Oregon like feel to it. All communities in tourist oriented New Zealand have public restrooms with visitor info provided nearby. In the villages it may just be in the form of signage. The larger towns have a staff that book tours, find you a room, and advise on restaurants. Initally you stop to use the rest room. Often you stay or
sat to eat when you find out what is happening in the region. This system is very effective. Go for it Coos Bay!
sat to eat when you find out what is happening in the region. This system is very effective. Go for it Coos Bay!
outaheresoon wrote on Jan 14, 2009 2:41 PM:
How many people traveling south will stop since the building is almost as you leave town? And, how many traveling north will stop when their first observation as they enter town is the lovely adult book store?
waste wrote on Jan 14, 2009 12:55 PM:
When you drive to Bandon, Florence, Newport, and other areas that actually look appealing to tourists and make them want to stop, have any of you ever stopped at the visitor center in those towns? Or do you just get out and stroll the town, seeing what there is to see? I'd wager more than 99% of you have never stopped at the visitor center in those towns. What a waste and a joke a 3800 sq. foot facility here is. Bizarre, stupid, wasteful decisions with other people's money. Urban renewal money is not "free" as the city so often claims, it does cost you, and there will be costs the city is liable for that likely arent being shared or that have been bothered to be calculated.
Notindistrict wrote on Jan 14, 2009 12:47 PM:
Virtually every suggestion from these comments, as to where else to spend the money, is not in the Coos Bay Urban Renewal District and the money can’t be spent that way. Get informed before you complain.
disgusting wrote on Jan 14, 2009 12:33 PM:
It disgusts me that rather than work towards making the downtown area appealing to tourists, we build a lavish visitor center. For what? To hand out a map to all of the vacant dillapidated buildings?
It just hasn't been the same since the city got rid of our star tourist attraction.... Grile's $30,000 plastic salmon in a moldy fish tank on the boardwalk.
It just hasn't been the same since the city got rid of our star tourist attraction.... Grile's $30,000 plastic salmon in a moldy fish tank on the boardwalk.
Just Me wrote on Jan 14, 2009 11:37 AM:
In my opinion if you want to attract people to Coos Bay, first start with getting rid of all the eyesores when you very first arrive in our town! Such as Bunker Hills famous motel on the hill above the smoke shop and all that mess around there! What a great first impression that is of our area huh? Why don't we use OUR urban renewal dollars for that to start with and work from there? I also agree with Surfer Mike about Bastendorf Beach with no facilities out in that area also. We need to prioritize before spending all these dollars for something that's not really needed updated at this point. I have lived here for 31 years and never stepped foot in that place!
I have a question if you know wrote on Jan 14, 2009 11:20 AM:
Isn't the reason why we don't have hotels and restaurants right on the water because we have to get utilities across hwy 101?
Couldn't this money go towards that?
If you look at Astoria, they are building up their water front, which in turn advances the economy so little coffeeshops and touristy shops emerge downtown. Also, they renovated a theater and a historic hotel.
Let's look at a model that is actually working and go from there.
Couldn't this money go towards that?
If you look at Astoria, they are building up their water front, which in turn advances the economy so little coffeeshops and touristy shops emerge downtown. Also, they renovated a theater and a historic hotel.
Let's look at a model that is actually working and go from there.
JW wrote on Jan 14, 2009 10:15 AM:
I thought it interesting that the photo accompanying the story shows the Visitor Center surrounded by water - perhaps from the recent high tides and rain? I do think some public restrooms might be a good idea because of the farmer's market though I wonder who would keep them clean. However, I think the "morphing" of the project to 1.1 million is way out of line for the needs of the community. There is limited parking and what parking exists by the Visitor Center would probably be taken by the expansion so where would people park? The comment about driving by it before you realize it is there is true and, though I have been in it, I can't see that expanding it would add that much to the tourist economy here. If the urban renewal dollars are limited as has been said, surely there are other projects which would do the community more good than this proposal.
resident wrote on Jan 14, 2009 9:36 AM:
Seems to me it would be a good idea to make the Visitor Center and the Maritime Museum together.
surfer mike wrote on Jan 14, 2009 9:20 AM:
talk about screwed up priorities. the main beach at bastendorff hasn't had a functioning toilet going on two years now, so visitors end up defecating and urinating in the bushes up and down the beach. add in absolutely no enforcement of dogs without leashes and owners that don't clean up their poop(all beaches), not to mention idiots who drive vehicles on the beach, etc., and one is left with the question as to who this expansion and construction really serves.and why come back to visit the beaches(and subsequently spend money in the community)and natural beauty when it leads to a shoddy, if not dangerous experience. this is definitely a case of putting the cart before the horse. to paraphrase,"if you clean and tend it, they will come".......
DearJustpayingAttention wrote on Jan 14, 2009 8:47 AM:
The Urban Renawal money is ours - all of ours. It's time that we got to say how its spent. Any person traveling 101 and stopping at Bandon, Florence or Reedsport for a motel, meal, or to visit the Visitor Center will not stop at Coos Bay's Visitor Center. Stop fooling yourself! Spend the million to give visitors something that will grab them and say stop here. The Mill Casino understands this. Sad that the clowns who we elected dont.
local yokel wrote on Jan 13, 2009 9:17 PM:
You know this is a dumb project, you know with all the troubles we have it's a great big waste of money.............sure do miss the Cinnamon Bear!!
Nancy wrote on Jan 13, 2009 8:10 PM:
It's hard to suddenly stop and find a place to park on either of the 101 north and south lanes in order to check out a dandy visitor center. By the time the sign has registered and an opportunity has risen to actually turn a corner and backtrack...the urge is gone and there goes all the tourists still heading out of town. Let's not even get into the hassle of trying to figure out any logic to the 1-way streets in Coos Bay. Is this one of those things where if you build it they will come?
qualified wrote on Jan 13, 2009 4:30 PM:
Is the writer of this article qualified. Isn't he an actor at LTOB?
justpayingattention wrote on Jan 13, 2009 4:18 PM:
Wow, what a frenzy you people have whipped yourselves into. You people don't have a clue as to the purpose of an Urban Renewal District and the restrictions it has on spending its money or for that matter how it must exist within debt. In this case the debt will be paid by money it already has. No one will have to dip into their pockets for this. This new Editor is smart enough to omit half the story so as to create controversy among those who are not informed or make little effort to be informed. He is selling papers, but it won't be enough to save Lee Publications. Have you seen the price of its stock lately?
Resident wrote on Jan 12, 2009 2:54 PM:
Do they promote the contractors, whose City of Coos Bay business licenses went up 60 percent in January?
Another downtown merchant wrote on Jan 12, 2009 9:42 AM:
To downtown merchant:
If you want maps, go to the visitor center and pick them up, they give them out for free. If you'd spend less time complaining, and more time figuring out all that the visitor center does for you, perhaps you could find the time to thank them for promoting your business.
If you want maps, go to the visitor center and pick them up, they give them out for free. If you'd spend less time complaining, and more time figuring out all that the visitor center does for you, perhaps you could find the time to thank them for promoting your business.
Downtown merchant wrote on Jan 11, 2009 3:26 PM:
If you want to do some real good, let's raze the existing building and help the Maritime Museum get established by funding the visitor center as part of that project - which is a real tourist attraction.
Downtown merchant wrote on Jan 11, 2009 3:25 PM:
Hey, this makes every bit as much sense as that lame (and very expensive) "Oregon's Adventure Coast" campaign, which published a 17-page booklet WITHOUT ANY LOCAL MAPS except for a vague how-to-get-there-from-the-I5 and put only a buried link to Google Maps on their extensive website.
Current Student wrote on Jan 11, 2009 2:39 PM:
Our tourism department (if it exists) IS SO DATED. Coos Bay has such a lush culture... To draw tourists to this town, it takes more than saying DUNE RENTALS and BEACH. We have to create this unique persona for Coos Bay. People should want to go to Coos Bay and say... "Wow this is sort of a neat place..." It takes young people who have a greater understanding of whats HIP and NEW and INTERESTING to people. Not this dated crap like adding a bathroom...
What a JOKE
What a JOKE
Sooooo Important wrote on Jan 11, 2009 12:06 AM:
When is the last time any of you stopped at a visitor center? NEVER! What another waste of money by the government.
moved wrote on Jan 10, 2009 4:13 PM:
give those laid off county workers a job by having them monitor the new toilets in the new 1.1 million tourist info center. i even bet they can carry on a conversation with all those tourists that stop by.. maybe the 8.40 an hour will keep them off the hunger lines.
Stop Government Thieves wrote on Jan 10, 2009 3:09 PM:
1.1 million on worthless boondoggle like this in a recession financed by a BOND? Great, more unsustainable DEBT. That's what caused the financial meltdown in the first place! You people in Coos Bay need to a referendum on any City official who supports this.
Just Another Example wrote on Jan 10, 2009 2:21 PM:
Of our "leaders" putting the interests of tourists above their own residents. I could maybe understand it if we were at least getting some sales tax from them, but really. We're having way too many other problems to be making investments like this against the will of the people who actually live here and pay the salaries of these so-called leaders. Wonder how many of the same airport board people are in on this one?
Steve Pickering wrote on Jan 10, 2009 2:20 PM:
I made my comments at the City Council meeting. More of the bloggers need to attended not only the council meetings, but all the work sessions and committee meetings too. Then unlike MoonPenny, you would know when there are changes made to policies (Urban Development and Facade Program) and what is going on and why.
Elizabeth wrote on Jan 10, 2009 2:02 PM:
Very VERY well said, Puzzled.
I can't believe this idea is even being entertained, let alone rushed. Heck, they don't even weed & maintain the landscape around the existing center!
Outrageous and offensive, Coos Bay.
I can't believe this idea is even being entertained, let alone rushed. Heck, they don't even weed & maintain the landscape around the existing center!
Outrageous and offensive, Coos Bay.
I agree with EYSA wrote on Jan 10, 2009 2:00 PM:
Why can't the boardwalk support businesses like Pike's Mkt in Seattle?
Get rid of the rail lines, string 'em over to East Side, thecity owns all of the land over here too.
Get rid of the rail lines, string 'em over to East Side, thecity owns all of the land over here too.
Donald wrote on Jan 10, 2009 9:18 AM:
To Renew This-that is a great idea! Brookings used urban renewal money to match dollar for dollar the money spent by store owners to update their facades. Some of the nastiest looking buildings now look beautiful. That makes tourists recommend the area to friends and family. Who would recommend Coos Bay after visiting?
PRACTICAL wrote on Jan 10, 2009 8:56 AM:
How about the Urban Renewal businesses reroute your thought process? Find an existing building that already has bathrooms and offices, turn the place into a coffee shop with lots of brochures. In Reedsport we have Christmas in July where folks volunteer their skills to fix homes where the owners are unable to. We have police and community that yearly come around and haul off old vehicles, friges, scrap to recycle. Volunteers put together the playground at the elementary school. Fire dept could go through and practice structural demolition on condemned buildings. How about habitat houses for those willing to do some work? A million bucks could buy a lot of paint and bleach. How about using your resources to coordinate a city wide effort? Put on your work boots instead of your high heels for the sake of urban renewal.
amazing wrote on Jan 9, 2009 10:35 PM:
Amazing with the economy the way it is, that this would even be considered. People losing their jobs left and right and fighting to feed their families, and were spending this kind of money to add some bathrooms. As much as I have driven around downtown over the years, I have NEVER seen anyone at that visitor center, and I'm sure that it's not just because they didn't have a bathroom.
reality check wrote on Jan 9, 2009 10:33 PM:
The only thing this will benefit are the transients on the boardwalk, who will sleep, bathe, and drink alcohol in the restrooms 24/7. That will really impress our tourists when they stop in to use the potty. This probably isn't a concern though, as they likely feel having the police on speed dial will fix it when they have to call 20 times a day.
WOW wrote on Jan 9, 2009 7:30 PM:
Some recession huh? Let me get this straight...We have enough money to spend 15 million on a ridiculous new airport terminal and we have money to spend on a new visitors center? Are you kidding me? There isn't anything better to spend money on in these days and times. What are we doing? Who is running this show? Why don't we just take all the money we spend on these ridiculous structures and give it to another state or something, at least it would go to good use. I for one think that the citizens of Coos Bay and North Bend need to unite and get someone in office who has some sort of idea what they are doing. I for one am considering moving for the sole reason that this is a dying community and it is directly attributed to the people in charge.
moonpenny wrote on Jan 9, 2009 4:57 PM:
To Renew this: If you knew the owners of those buildings, you would know they "refuse" to use the grant. They have to use their own money too (matching funds) and at this point, they have refused. They want it for free.
moonpenny wrote on Jan 9, 2009 4:55 PM:
I am all for sprucing up the building, but im more for filling in the "gaps" on the highway left by business' long gone. Why not put some money into a strip mall or two. Nothing huge, the one near the new McDonalds is perfect! The even smaller one across the street from Kozy Kitchen in North Bend, is great too. THAT would encourage business' to open and grow, and tourists will come where they see life. Then put a business center in there :)
RENEW THIS wrote on Jan 9, 2009 3:47 PM:
The urban renewal money would be better spent improving the facades of the ugly, dirty and outdated existing storefronts and signage that line the streets coming in and going out of Coos Bay/North Bend. Who wants to stop and shop in some village that looks like a dilapidated ghetto from the 1950’s? Coos Bay/North Bend is in need of a serious makeover. If it at least looked CLEAN around here it would be a little more welcoming to travelers and maybe more of them would stop and spend their money here.
smd wrote on Jan 9, 2009 3:04 PM:
Lets discuss what REALLY keeps some of these smaller businesses alive? It is basic needs. The Ocean beaches/Sand dunes already brought the Tourists here.
For instance:
Tourist get hungry and have to eat somewhere since they are so far from home.
Tourist, being curious, might walk down the street and see something interesting in a window so they go in. (Doesn't take a fancy center for that)
This might also be a surprise but Tourist even stop and talk to locals! They might ask questions about where the best spots are to eat or spend time.
The truth is, I might stop at the visitor center but I always try the places the locals recommend.
We need to focus on keeping our kids here with better paying jobs and opportunities rather than improving a Visitor Center for a few tourists. Before concerning ourselves with tourist dollars, because lets face it those dollars are going to come anyway, Let's be proud of where we live and grew up by taking care of our community and making it a better place for the next few generations.
For instance:
Tourist get hungry and have to eat somewhere since they are so far from home.
Tourist, being curious, might walk down the street and see something interesting in a window so they go in. (Doesn't take a fancy center for that)
This might also be a surprise but Tourist even stop and talk to locals! They might ask questions about where the best spots are to eat or spend time.
The truth is, I might stop at the visitor center but I always try the places the locals recommend.
We need to focus on keeping our kids here with better paying jobs and opportunities rather than improving a Visitor Center for a few tourists. Before concerning ourselves with tourist dollars, because lets face it those dollars are going to come anyway, Let's be proud of where we live and grew up by taking care of our community and making it a better place for the next few generations.
What a Shame wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:12 PM:
WEho cares what the visitor center looks like. It it run down and in great need of some TLC but, what building in the coos bay area doesn't. Simply, it looks as good as anything else in coos bay.
smd wrote on Jan 9, 2009 2:06 PM:
Urban Renewal dollars spent improving 1 location? Why? To benefit the Econ. Devl. Committee and THEIR businesses?
Almost the same information the Visitor Center has that draws tourists here is the same information obtained at a Rest Stop.
Prioritizing by improving the Visitor Center first? Would it be better to increase the aesthetics of the areas that DO actually bring in money first? Possibly an active Pier or commercial space near the Ocean/Dunes/Waterfronts? Hopefully, attracting these people back to the Bay Area?
Big picture? Are you serious? Putting a tourist store in the Visitor Center is helping local businesses how? It seems it would be taking business away from the local small business owners.
Also, a Small Business Incubator is not what we need! We have enough small businesses for crying out loud. We need bigger business which means we should focus on more buildings and demographics rather than this Visitor Center. This should be last on the “Big Picture” list as it is NOT a defining factor in what brings people to our city. The Ocean and Dunes are what brings in tourism dollars.
Almost the same information the Visitor Center has that draws tourists here is the same information obtained at a Rest Stop.
Prioritizing by improving the Visitor Center first? Would it be better to increase the aesthetics of the areas that DO actually bring in money first? Possibly an active Pier or commercial space near the Ocean/Dunes/Waterfronts? Hopefully, attracting these people back to the Bay Area?
Big picture? Are you serious? Putting a tourist store in the Visitor Center is helping local businesses how? It seems it would be taking business away from the local small business owners.
Also, a Small Business Incubator is not what we need! We have enough small businesses for crying out loud. We need bigger business which means we should focus on more buildings and demographics rather than this Visitor Center. This should be last on the “Big Picture” list as it is NOT a defining factor in what brings people to our city. The Ocean and Dunes are what brings in tourism dollars.
DAB wrote on Jan 9, 2009 11:58 AM:
Is Meth-blight a tourist draw? Seems this money could have been spent in other areas, such as ridding the area of dopers, and drawing larger corporations to the area, providing jobs.
Kat wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:54 AM:
Coos Bay Fan wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:55 PM:
I saw the presentation at the Chamber's IBO on the waterfront plans for walkways, museum, public and private development. I understand there is a business incubator plan to go along with this new visitors center. We have a nice core of downtown retail businesses and the city is trying to create an environment of prosperity with tourism. It is a vison that takes time to realize. Recognizing our assets and the actual best bet growth industry of tourism is not a waste of money, it is an investment in our future.
YEAH, AND OPITZ AND HIS TIN CUP ARE ALL OVER YHIS ONE TOO !!!
I saw the presentation at the Chamber's IBO on the waterfront plans for walkways, museum, public and private development. I understand there is a business incubator plan to go along with this new visitors center. We have a nice core of downtown retail businesses and the city is trying to create an environment of prosperity with tourism. It is a vison that takes time to realize. Recognizing our assets and the actual best bet growth industry of tourism is not a waste of money, it is an investment in our future.
YEAH, AND OPITZ AND HIS TIN CUP ARE ALL OVER YHIS ONE TOO !!!
To Resident wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:32 AM:
The Bond will be paid from urban renewal money of which it has nearly 3 million dollars. But, because of a quark in the law, an Urban Renwal District must operate in debt. The City Council is composed of people that a large portion of our community voted for and trust. Either trust them or get better informed and run for office yourself.
To Homer wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:21 AM:
You need to watch channel 14. Daily is the most cridical of Ron Opitz. I think he is just being pragmatic.
Resident wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:17 AM:
To Get Informed--You are right that urban renewal money is earmarked only for projects such as this. However, this story says it will be a bond. A bond is usually a loan, while a grant is a gift. Are we borrowing a million dollars to upgrade the visitors' center?
justpayingattention wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:15 AM:
The money comes from the property taxes within the Urban Renewal District, which happens to be composed of a large number of businesses that benifit from visitors to the area. This building is much more then just a Visitor Center, it will have a tourist store featuring products from the south coast, it will have a small business incubator center, it will have a conference center for local organizations, ie. Downtown Assoc., Egytian Theater Board and it will house the Coos Bay Economic development offices. This project is a hugh shot in the arm for exactly the people who are paying for it, "The taxpayers of the Urban Renewal district"
homer wrote on Jan 9, 2009 9:02 AM:
Nice to see that the clowns on the Coos Bay City Council are so eager to spend your tax money. City Councilman Daily keep telling people that you can't do anything to attract business and in a couple years we'll elect someone who cares. What an idiotic statement. You want to leave the job to Opitz who has been paid more than $500,000 and has created two jobs?
Here We Go Again wrote on Jan 9, 2009 8:38 AM:
The city wanted the college (which is obviously broke) to pay for new police officers, but yet the city has $1 million to blow on ridiculous projects like this? Something is seriously wrong here.
Common Sense wrote on Jan 9, 2009 6:57 AM:
That's my point, actually there is MORE $$$ from DC Washington going north along the East coast & a better fit weather wise then just counting on California! I've NEVER heard of them advertising on East coast TV & they should hit the major newspapers in those areas also! Basically stop worrying about visiting center's appearance when the problem is getting them to visit Oregon in the first place!
Enough already wrote on Jan 9, 2009 6:13 AM:
Gee CoosBay needs a 24hr toilet smack dab in the middle of 101 yippee.What makes you think that vandals are going to treat your million dollar toilet any better than the other ones.This project already stinks.
Good Grief wrote on Jan 9, 2009 12:30 AM:
In what world are you folks living in that you think urban renewal money can be used to fund the county's problems? Is it the same world where you think the construction companies in the area are just booming with business?
God forbid the city wants to actually improve the area! Get educated before you continue to complain about every single improvement project.
Folks complained when Bandon Dunes was going to be built, they complained when the mall spent money upgrading, and now you have something new to complain about. This should make your day I guess.
God forbid the city wants to actually improve the area! Get educated before you continue to complain about every single improvement project.
Folks complained when Bandon Dunes was going to be built, they complained when the mall spent money upgrading, and now you have something new to complain about. This should make your day I guess.
To Common Sense wrote on Jan 9, 2009 12:18 AM:
They do advertise nationally, they fund the promotions committee which does so. The state and regions of Oregon also advertise nationally and internationally. Just cuz you don't see it in the World, doesn't mean it isn't happening.
And so you know, the majority of our visitors come from the west coast, not the east coast.
And so you know, the majority of our visitors come from the west coast, not the east coast.
DT Business Owner wrote on Jan 9, 2009 12:13 AM:
As the owner of a business that relies heavily on tourists, I think this idea is fabulous. I know first hand how important that center is to all the businesses. Many of my customers come in after being referred from there when they may have just moved on to the next town. I think its wonderful the city is doing something to help our economy. For those that think tourists don't spend money here, they are misinformed.
MR. SHERMAN wrote on Jan 8, 2009 11:32 PM:
I HAVE BEEN WORKING OUT OF THE COOS BAY AREA FOR 4 MONTHS NOW.MONTANA IS THE PLACE AND COOS BAY IS NOT.I AM BORN AND RAISED IN COOS COUNTY AND LOVE THAT PLACE,BUT THERE IS NO ECONOMY THERE AT THIS POINT.IT IS SAD TO GO ONLINE AND READ SOME OF THE THINGS GOING ON AT HOME.I LIVED IN COOS BAY FOR OVER 32 YEARS NOW AND HAVE YET TO BE IN THE VISITORS CENTER.IT WOULD BE A CRYING SHAME TO PUT MONEY TOWARDS SOMETHING THAT WILL NOT BRING THE COMMUNITY REVENUE.WHO IS ARE CITY GOVERNMENT AND WHAT ARE THEY DOING ?
Chris wrote on Jan 8, 2009 9:58 PM:
I Support the expansion of the Coos Bay Visitor Center. Have any of you ever looked at the statistics for the number of Tourists that actually utilize this center. Thank you to the City of Coos Bay for seeing this need and addressing it. Ignore the fools that can't see the big picture!
James wrote on Jan 8, 2009 8:52 PM:
Same Old Same, Well I think we should waste money attrating tourists. Hello how about more storefronts along the boardwalk as it was originally drafted. We have to them to stop first!
Esya wrote on Jan 8, 2009 7:00 PM:
I have been an eager tourist to Coos Bay in the past, and plan to come again. However, I think the mayor and the council are either not too bright or are on the take by the construction/design firms. Colorado also spends a lot of money on attracting tourists (and makes some) but I can vouch for the fact that people do not use tourist centers enough to warrant a one million dollar set of toilets. The main reason people don't stop as much is that you have not cleaned up your unused industrial sites nor have you done anything to support an attractive atmosphere for local businesses. Not big national chains, but advertising for unique local places. Instead of RV parking lots on the bay you need open space and picnic areas or pleasant places with outdoor atmospheres such as skylights, not casinos.
Better common sense wrote on Jan 8, 2009 6:40 PM:
You are right COMMON SENSE. Before I plan any trip, I always call ahead of time the towns I plan on driving through, just to see if they have a LNG plant. I'll be sure to avoid that town!!!! Get real, that LNG terminal will have NO impact on tourism in any way shape or form. I do agree with you as far as the wasted money on a bigger center. This is a bad idea any way you look at it.... I too have traveled to many states and cities and I always look for large chain restruants since we have none in the Bay Area. We have a beautiful water front, why not dump the 1.1 million on developing the water front for future restruants and stores? We have no Old Town tourist attraction like some of our fellow towns (Bandon) along the coast, mnaybe it's time we look into that?
Anthony wrote on Jan 8, 2009 6:01 PM:
I think the point of this is being missed. The Visitor Center's purpose is not in itself designed to attract people to the coast. It's purpose is to direct people that are already driving through or staying here to places they might have missed if they didn't stop at the visitor center. It should work to get people to eat at local restaurants that might be off the beaten path of the 101 like the Mediterranean cafe or the original Kozy Kitchen.
Anthony wrote on Jan 8, 2009 5:57 PM:
the point is being missed. The Visitor Center's purpose is not in itself designed to attract people to the coast. It's purpose is to direct people that are already driving through or staying here to places they might have missed if they didn't stop at the visitor center. It should work to get people to eat at local restaurants that might be off the beaten path of the 101 like the Mediterranean cafe or the original Kozy Kitchen. It should market the downtown shops that we are investing in like the pottery shop and others. I understand that the Visitor center doesn’t see a lot of visitors but maybe the building is part of the problem/Marketing/Local hotels/Motels just not plugging it. The visitor center should be a place where local businesses of all kinds should send their tourists to promote Coos bay North bend so that people will spend more time here and realize that we are more than the Mill Casino and Bandon Dunes Golf Resort!
george wrote on Jan 8, 2009 5:12 PM:
okay.. y'all have to admit that's a sad looking building. It needs some sprucing up and lets face it, our area could use some better looking buildings on Hwy 101. I for one am glad to see the city councilors improving our area, I'm tired of seeing things shut down, its nice to see something built up.
ashamed wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:34 PM:
WOW!!! Try spending that money on the business around the Coos bay Area, not on tourists that litter our steets with the phamphlet they recieve from the visitor center. Give every Coos bay taxpaying business part of that one point one million dollars (taxfree) to improve their business. Now, that would be money well spent!!!
Get informed wrote on Jan 8, 2009 4:32 PM:
So much negativity.. that's all i see here. Get all the facts first please.
It will be a multi-purpose building, not just a visitor center but an economic development center to help new businesses get started. It will include public restrooms of which there aren't any on that part of downtown.
Talk to anyone that works in that building and they will tell you there are many visitors that come in to get more information and find out what there is to do, and yes, they often give visitors so many options that they end up spending more time, and more money in our area; and there are LOTS of visitors that come to this area and fill up the hotel rooms.
Urban renewal dollars can only be used for specific projects, such as this. It can't be used to give to the county to save jobs, or buy railroads or build a waterfront restaurant. Do everyone a favor and get informed first before bashing your city councilors.
It will be a multi-purpose building, not just a visitor center but an economic development center to help new businesses get started. It will include public restrooms of which there aren't any on that part of downtown.
Talk to anyone that works in that building and they will tell you there are many visitors that come in to get more information and find out what there is to do, and yes, they often give visitors so many options that they end up spending more time, and more money in our area; and there are LOTS of visitors that come to this area and fill up the hotel rooms.
Urban renewal dollars can only be used for specific projects, such as this. It can't be used to give to the county to save jobs, or buy railroads or build a waterfront restaurant. Do everyone a favor and get informed first before bashing your city councilors.
Resident wrote on Jan 8, 2009 3:28 PM:
At the minimum, I believe this project would lack the support of most citizens at this time. World editor, I am waiting for your editorial on this one!
what wrote on Jan 8, 2009 3:24 PM:
1.1 million dollars?? Didn't the school ask for money? Maybe that million should go to educating our kids and not attracting tourists.
chirpyone wrote on Jan 8, 2009 3:21 PM:
Agree agree agree with all the comments.
Especially the comment on a National Restaurent
Especially the comment on a National Restaurent
Coos Bay Fan wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:55 PM:
I saw the presentation at the Chamber's IBO on the waterfront plans for walkways, museum, public and private development. I understand there is a business incubator plan to go along with this new visitors center. We have a nice core of downtown retail businesses and the city is trying to create an environment of prosperity with tourism. It is a vison that takes time to realize. Recognizing our assets and the actual best bet growth industry of tourism is not a waste of money, it is an investment in our future.
justaguy wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:48 PM:
Wow - those two bathrooms must have solid gold fixtures at that rate! I agree that clean public restrooms would be a plus....but for a REASONABLE price. Boy - talk about a bridge to nowhere!
C wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:42 PM:
Don't we have more important things to be spending our (rather limited) money on than the visitor's center? Some people (and by some people I mean the city council) needs to learn how to prioritize. Besides, tourists aren't going to stop soley because there's a fancy visitor's center. Maybe we should put our money and efforts into attracting outside businesses to come to Coos Bay. The tourists will come if there's something to come to.
Gene wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:38 PM:
We have traveled to all but two of our states and have never gone in a visitor center. Everything you can want to know about an area is online. Besides, most people know where they are going prior to leaving home. Use the money to buy up the railroad tracks and get rid of them. Then, build something that people will stop for on the land by the river.
boot them all out wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:34 PM:
Is this why my property went up during the worst housing market on record?? So someone in the city can help their buddys get rich on their pet projects. This should be blocked form happening and people should go to all of the council and planning meeting on this. They need to audit the whole budget for this.It really stinks of corruption. I never, ever, see any visitors at the visitor center is the ironic sick part of this..
What a Shame wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:30 PM:
What is the city of Coos Bay going to show off anyway, the tied up fishing boats, the enormous loss of jobs in the area, the sights where mills USED to be, the sights of the still standing mills with no one around anymore, all of the idle loggers and parked logging trucks park? A lot to see, right? I could go on and on.
Sasha wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:20 PM:
Ohhhh, yarn ball! A snake petting zoo. We could name the biggest snake Jeff.
Randy E wrote on Jan 8, 2009 2:09 PM:
I've been all over this great nation of ours, and I've never stopped anywhere to see a city's "visitors center". I hope they have plenty of benches so all the laid off road crew workers will have a place to spend all their leisure time! This isn't what the citizens of Coos Bay want, it's what the city council wants. TIME FOR CHANGE!!!
Just me wrote on Jan 8, 2009 1:42 PM:
They really need to bring someone from the outside world in. You know someone other than small town minded individuals to give them ideas. No one would stop here just for a stinking vistors center unless they planned on visiting already duh. Building the worlds largest yarn ball would bring more people here then that.
Common Sense wrote on Jan 8, 2009 1:36 PM:
Go figure this one out, Mayor Jeff McKeown wants that California LNG SCAM (Which will discourage tourists from wanting to come here), but supports this 1.1 million expension to attract tourists? I've always said it's a toss UP between the 3 stooges (Coos Bay city commissioners, Port commissioners & Air port commioners) on who wastes MORE tax payers $$$...
Better solution to attracting tourists is: Nation wide advertising mainly focusing on the East coast from DC going North! Telling & showing pictures of our beautiful coast, Crater Lake, ski places & the rest of the tourists places to see! This plan would be CHEAPER & MORE effective in bring tourists here!
Better solution to attracting tourists is: Nation wide advertising mainly focusing on the East coast from DC going North! Telling & showing pictures of our beautiful coast, Crater Lake, ski places & the rest of the tourists places to see! This plan would be CHEAPER & MORE effective in bring tourists here!
Burns wrote on Jan 8, 2009 1:08 PM:
"I don't understand how this will attact people here"
Two things:
1. It's "Attract"
2. It won't
Chalk it up to another case of mismanaged appropriations or as another way of putting it: We're spending YOUR tax dollars the way WE see fit.
"Visitors and tourists are one of the few things within our grasp to nurture"
Sorry, but that's a falsehood that has been allowed to continue since the invention of the T dock; campers, tourists, and especially people in their RV's spend very little in the Bay Area. Why would anyone drive all the way to the coast w/o first stopping by Costco and stocking either the trunk or shelves of their RV?
Just one look at the RV parks tells the real story.
No offense to Crow/Clay but this whole ideal smells bad.
Two things:
1. It's "Attract"
2. It won't
Chalk it up to another case of mismanaged appropriations or as another way of putting it: We're spending YOUR tax dollars the way WE see fit.
"Visitors and tourists are one of the few things within our grasp to nurture"
Sorry, but that's a falsehood that has been allowed to continue since the invention of the T dock; campers, tourists, and especially people in their RV's spend very little in the Bay Area. Why would anyone drive all the way to the coast w/o first stopping by Costco and stocking either the trunk or shelves of their RV?
Just one look at the RV parks tells the real story.
No offense to Crow/Clay but this whole ideal smells bad.
smd wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:49 PM:
ARE YOU SERIOUS!?!? What type of tourists are we planning on attracting with an improved Visitor Center? They are not coming to stay at the Center. they are coming to grab pamphlets and information and then go check out the sites.
This is a waste of money! The chamber of Commerce used to also be housed in that building. Now that they have been moved out for awhile I think that there is PLENTY of room remaining considering that building has been doing just fine all these years.
The idea of this is proposterous and thinking that your community members are dumb enough to fall for the "city doesn’t have much say in attracting big business to the area, but it can do something to attract tourists." line is ridiculous! We have one of the largest land lines for an improved Port not to mention acres upon acres of land that is not being used. Somehow, we are not moving for improved commercial routes, Industrial contracts or trade.
What's really going on here?
This is a waste of money! The chamber of Commerce used to also be housed in that building. Now that they have been moved out for awhile I think that there is PLENTY of room remaining considering that building has been doing just fine all these years.
The idea of this is proposterous and thinking that your community members are dumb enough to fall for the "city doesn’t have much say in attracting big business to the area, but it can do something to attract tourists." line is ridiculous! We have one of the largest land lines for an improved Port not to mention acres upon acres of land that is not being used. Somehow, we are not moving for improved commercial routes, Industrial contracts or trade.
What's really going on here?
Also confused wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:22 PM:
Are you kidding me? We're laying off road workers and there are funding issues in every single county/city department, and you want to spend $1.1 Million on the Visitors Center??? How many jobs would that cover for a year?
Puzzled wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:22 PM:
So there is $1.1 million available to impres visitors to the center. Impress them instead with clean, repaired roads and lack of roadside trash. A much more visible and impressive way to present our area. Why is it elected officials forget the "smaller" picture when talking about spending our tax dollars?
Coos Bay Kid wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:11 PM:
Awesome. Please re-route the traffic so all the tourists can see the new building. Give me a break!
GET REAL wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:08 PM:
I think that we need to get rid of all the city officials and start over. They do not know how to spend our money wisely and they always want to build things we dont need. When people come to visit our town they already know what there is to do and see here. So to build a fancy new visitor center is just a crazy idea !!!
Rick James wrote on Jan 8, 2009 12:00 PM:
So you add 400 square feet and the price goes up $400,000? Who do they hire to build at $1,000 per sqft? Even the total of 1.1 million for 3800 sqft. is nearly $300 per sqft. Are we now Southern California? With the economy the way it is I'm sure there are some hungry contractors out there.
Gerry wrote on Jan 8, 2009 11:49 AM:
Well, thats all very interesting but I guess the folks planning this haven't done much traveling. Having had a large gift shop right on Hwy 101 downtown and greeted lots of tourists in the store and traveled all over the United States many times, I think I can tell you what the tourists are looking for in Coos Bay. They want a nationally known eating establishment. The mom and pop restruants in town are great for the locals who know them but, traveling people want an establishment they know. One they don't have to worry about getting sick from the food. A nice clean place they can go into and sit at a comfortable table and look at a familure menu. IF some one was real smart they would build a large chain type restruant, one with a well known name, right at the waters edge, hook other local shops to it and watch the money flow in. If the casino was smart they would do that, then they could run downtown Coos Bay out of business altogeather...
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