CGCC President Advocates for Ballot Measure 33-111 to Support College Infrastructure
Since August of 2023, I have been honored to serve as your President for Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC). As reflected in our mission, CGCC is committed to advancing economic growth, to promote the prosperity of all residents throughout the college’s district, and helping communities thrive in the face of today’s fast-changing social and economic realities. I am proud of the college’s commitment to our students and our communities and excited about what the future holds for our region.
I want to make sure you are aware of Ballot Measure 33-111 appearing on the November ballot. The measure allows investment in CGCC’s infrastructure in both Hood River and Wasco counties. The passage of the bond would not increase current tax rates and would allow the college to continue investing in facilities and programs that improve educational and economic opportunities in our region.
The proposed $13 million bond would maintain the current tax rate of $0.27 per $1,000 of assessed property value, which would ensure continued investment in local education infrastructure without increasing current property tax rates. Bond approval also would unlock an additional $5.5 million in state matching funds, amplifying this local investment.
The bond would fund improvements across both The Dalles and Hood River campuses, focusing on safety, updating aging systems, and modernizing classrooms and labs to meet evolving needs. Safety systems, including security cameras, auto-locking doors, and seismic upgrades, are essential for a secure learning environment.
As we continue to adapt to today’s specialized job training and workforce needs, CGCC recognizes the value of strengthening our technology capabilities and network infrastructure at both campuses. At The Dalles Campus, we would also upgrade our commercial kitchen, an incubator for local food service startups. In Hood River, we would redevelop the campus to meet the needs of students and community partners. This would include retrofitting classrooms for healthcare classes, supporting the upcoming Agricultural Technology program, and creating larger, flexible spaces for gatherings.
The bond would also refinance loans used to build the successful Regional Skills Center and student housing, which would free the college up to invest in new and existing programs.
Finally, please accept my invitation to come visit our campus (at either location) and meet with me to discuss local educational and economic needs. The college is a vital community resource, and my commitment as your President is to elevate and ensure that we are maximizing the positive impact for our students and residents throughout the Gorge.
To reach me and schedule an appointment to visit the campus, please email tprince@cgcc.edu or call 541-506-6013.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kenneth Lawson
President, Columbia Gorge Community College
