A town hall meeting on metal theft is scheduled for 7 p.m. on May 8 at the Senior Center in downtown Albany. It is sponsored by Rep. Andy Olson, Sen. Frank Morse (R-Albany) and Rep. Sherrie Sprenger (R-Scio).

"Metal theft is a direct result of the methamphetamine crisis," Olson said. "Metal theft hurts small businesses and drives up costs on consumers and taxpayers. We will discuss recent laws and public-private partnerships aimed at combating this crime."

During the 2007 session, the Legislature passed HB 3026 to strengthen reporting requirements for individuals seeking to sell scrap metal. It requires dealers to maintain accurate records to help prevent the sale of stolen material.

The town hall speakers include Linn County Sheriff Tim Mueller and Albany Police Chief Ed Boyd, Jeff Stone from the Oregon Association of Nurseries, and Jay Burcham of Burcham's Metals.

"We invite the public to attend this important town hall and learn what they can do to help prevent metal theft," Rep. Sprenger said. "It is one part of our efforts to stop meth and improve public safety in our communities."

The Senior Center is located at 489 Water Avenue NW in Albany. The town hall is expected to last one hour.