Did You Know...

02-14-05 Thank you again for those who donated money and services to the VPD K9 Program. We hope to purchase the ballistic vest soon and have Officer Krueger wearing it shortly after that. Look for photos in the Independent and on the VPD website. We continue to accept donations for other equipment and training items for the K9 program and hope to do another demonstration in the near future. Officer Krueger recently did a demonstration for 600+ students at the Rainier School. The VPD will be participating in the state-wide enhanced patrols for DUII and Safety Belt violations from now until October. In January I conducted a seatbelt usage survey and found 85% of drivers were wearing their safety belt which is below the state average of 92%. Just this morning (14th) I assisted CCSO with an accident on Scappoose/Vernonia that would have been a fatality if not for the driver wearing his safety belt. Please wear your safety belts, have your children in safety seats, and do not drive when under the influence of any substance or when you are overly tired. Over the past month I received notification on various traffic issues here in Vernonia. One issue was that of trucks speeding and using "jake brakes" to slow down. Particularly on State St. near Stoney Point Rd. Vernonia City Ordinance #742 prohibits the use of engine braking or "jake braking". The fine is $315 and does not include an emergency braking situation. The other issue is the failure of vehicles to yield to pedestrians in and adjacent to the crosswalks. Please watch for children and adults waiting to use the crosswalks and actually in the crosswalks, especially around the schools and downtown. Be careful, courteous, and patient when driving and when you are a pedestrian. Together we can make downtown Vernonia a much safer place.