February 27, 1997. An Oregonian story reports that Sauvie Island is one of eight finalists for a women’s prison. It would be sited on 130 acres along Gillihan Road. Department of Corrections confirms that it would be the largest correctional institution in the state, with 1,600 inmates, 1,200 of them maximum security. Opposition is swift. A team of people print a flyer and coordinate door-to-door delivery to all island households. A sign is hung on the bridge and islanders generate newspaper, radio and television coverage in protest.
March 10, 1997. Prison Siting meeting in Hillsboro that many islanders attend.
March 11-17, 1997. Extensive media coverage, posters, artifacts, flood videos, handouts of lists of concerns and coordination with other prison-opposition groups around the state.
March 18, 1997. Public meeting held on the island. More than 400 people turn out. At one point the question is asked, “Is there anybody here in favor of the prison?” Not a hand is raised.
March 19-22, 1997. A 70-page book of data in opposition is researched, organized, printed and mailed to the Department of Corrections and all their consultants. Topics include wetlands, flood, recreation, wildlife, water and sewage.
March 28, 1997. Final candidate sites announced. Sauvie Island not on the list.
—compiled from island newsletters