Public Meetings - Astoria, Oregon

The Astoria City Council met for a brief regular meeting. The Council dispensed with the pledge and reports, had no consent calendar items, and considered one regular agenda item: reconsideration of the previously approved request for proposals (RFP) for a technical update of the 2019 Downtown Parking Study. After staff explanation and public comment, the Council voted 4-0 to withdraw the RFP. The meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m., followed by a planned work session. Note: The agenda, minutes, and transcript identify the meeting as Monday, February 23, 2026, 6:00 PM; the supplied timestamp of February 24, 2026 14:00 UTC is used for this summary. Attendance - Present: Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick; Councilors Andy Davis, Elisabeth Adams, Joshua Conklin. - Absent: Councilor Andrea Mazzarella. - Staff present: City Manager Scott Spence, Public Works Director Jeff Harrington, Finance & Administrative Services Director Hilary Norton, Police Chief Stacy Kelly, Fire Chief Dan Crutchfield, Parks & Recreation Director Jonah Dart-McLean, Assistant to the City Manager Ryan Quigley, City Attorney Blair Henningsgaard. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Lisa Morley (4908 Cedar Street) expressed concern about reconsidering the previously approved RFP. She said the Council had already fully discussed and voted on the item at the prior meeting, described the reconsideration as confusing and unusual from a public perspective, and suggested it appeared some members were pressured into revisiting the decision. - Mary Eng / Mary Ng (PO Box 12; the minutes list the surname as Eng, while the transcript says Ng) gave a personal tribute to her late mother, a veterans' nurse, and reflected on her family's history of helping people experiencing homelessness. She encouraged the Council to prioritize compassion, accessibility, and disability awareness, and urged the city to ensure sidewalks, shelters, facilities, and libraries are disability-friendly. Discussion Items - City Manager Scott Spence explained that the Council had approved issuing an RFP for a technical update to the 2019 downtown parking study at the February 17, 2026 Council meeting. He noted that after further discussion during a work session, Council members expressed interest in a broader approach to parking, including development of a more comprehensive citywide parking master plan. Staff recommended withdrawing the approved RFP to allow time for a more holistic discussion and direction on long-term parking strategy before proceeding with consultant work. - The Council had no questions or discussion after the staff presentation. - Councilor Joshua Conklin, after noting he had voted against the item previously, moved to withdraw the RFP related to the technical analysis and update of the 2019 Downtown Parking Study. Councilor Andy Davis seconded the motion. Key Outcomes - Motion to withdraw the RFP for the technical update of the 2019 Downtown Parking Study passed 4-0. - Voting for: Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick, Councilor Elisabeth Adams, Councilor Andy Davis, Councilor Joshua Conklin. - Voting against: None. - No other business was conducted. - The meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m.; the Mayor stated the Council would take a seven-minute break, then begin a work session, with another break at 7 p.m., aiming to finish by 8 p.m.

Note on date discrepancy: The agenda and minutes list the meeting as Tuesday, February 17, 2026, but the user-provided context states the meeting took place on February 18, 2026. This summary uses the provided date of February 18, 2026, as instructed, while acknowledging the discrepancy. The Astoria City Council held a work session on February 18, 2026, to discuss the Astoria Downtown Parking District, parking code updates, enforcement modernization, and the broader parking management strategy. No formal actions were taken, but staff received specific direction on next steps. Discussion Items - Parking Code Updates: Assistant to the City Manager Ryan Quigley presented three areas of the municipal code (Sections 6.350–6.370) needing updates: (1) clarifying definitions and removing the term "parking area"; (2) aligning posted signage with code (e.g., signs say 2-hour parking 9 a.m.–6 p.m. except Sundays/holidays, but code says 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.) and updating outdated exemption language (e.g., meter bagging resolutions); (3) replacing Section 6.365 on data collection with modern practices to reduce privacy risks and administrative burden. Staff recommended an ordinance to update this code. - Parking District Boundary: Council discussed expanding the current district boundary (last updated in 2004) to include areas near planned developments such as Copeland Commons, Dairy Gold, DHS, the film museum, and the old jail site. Councilor Adams and Councilor Davis supported expansion to include the commercial C-4 zone and the historic downtown overlay, noting potential impacts on adjacent residential areas. Staff will propose a revised map with several options for public engagement. - Parking Enforcement Modernization: Police Chief Stacy Kelly reported that enforcement currently uses manual tire chalking, with citations increasing from 393 in 2024 to 964 in 2025. He proposed a license plate reader (LPR) system that automates duration tracking, electronic citation generation, and online payment/appeals. Estimated first-year cost is $60,000, with annual maintenance of $2,000–$4,000. The system could integrate with future paid parking modules. Finance Director Hilary Norton noted potential benefits for collections and customer service, but requested further review of impacts on in-person payments. Council expressed support for including this in the upcoming budget process. - Parking Strategy Direction: Council engaged in an extended debate about the need for a comprehensive parking master plan versus proceeding with immediate actions. Councilor Davis argued that best practices are well known and advocated for a data-driven, demand-based approach and investment in enforcement technology, opposing a costly parking study. Councilor Adams reiterated the need for a master plan to guide decisions. Councilor Conklin and Mayor Fitzpatrick acknowledged both perspectives. Staff noted that technical analysis may still be needed for future demand from developments. The discussion clarified that council's vision includes a strategic master plan encompassing guiding principles, off-site parking, park-and-ride, and impacts on residential zones. Key Outcomes - Direction to staff: - Pause advancement of the proposed Request for Proposals (RFP) for a parking study. - Schedule additional council discussion focused on developing a comprehensive parking master plan (to be incorporated into a future work session after addressing homelessness). - Proceed with updates to the parking code for clarity and consistency (ordinance to be brought back to council). - Continue evaluating modernization of parking enforcement technology (license plate reader system) through the upcoming budget process. - Return with additional information regarding potential parking district boundary adjustments and stakeholder engagement (staff to present a revised map with options). - Next meeting: A regular meeting and work session will be held on February 23, 2026, to officially pause the RFP and discuss the homeless response, followed by agenda setting to schedule Councilor Davis's presentation on the parking strategic plan. No formal votes were taken.

The Astoria City Council held its regular meeting on February 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the 2nd Floor Council Chambers, 1095 Duane Street, Astoria, Oregon. The agenda and minutes list this meeting as Tuesday, February 17, 2026; this summary uses the date provided for the record. Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick presided, with Councilors Andy Davis, Elisabeth Adams, and Joshua Conklin present. Councilor Andrea Mazzarella was absent. The meeting included a National FFA Week proclamation, reports from councilors, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, and three regular agenda items: adoption of the Astor East Urban Renewal Plan amendment, approval of parks fee updates, and authorization of a downtown parking study RFP. The meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM. Proclamation: National FFA Week - Mayor Fitzpatrick and members of Council shared a reading of a proclamation designating February 21–28, 2026 as National FFA Week in Astoria. The proclamation recognized the Astoria FFA chapter's three-star national rating, its record 13 banners from the Northwest FFA District Convention, and its 428 members, making it the fourth largest FFA chapter in Oregon. Student representatives Jude O'Shawn and Lyndon Reed accepted the proclamation and spoke about FFA's impact on their leadership development. Reports of Councilors - Councilor Conklin reported on site visits to Tongue Point, including the WCT facility and a meeting with a boat lift owner, noting both operational challenges and future economic development potential. - Councilor Adams reported on a regional lobbying trip to Salem for Casa Mariposa funding, encouraging news about a downtown grocery outlet possibly reopening under new ownership, upcoming state housing capacity work under Oregon Goal 10, and the success of the Dark Arts Festival. - Councilor Davis reported that a COLPAC rate increase—the first in approximately 30 years—was approved, with the City's rate rising from $250 to $1,500 and not tied to inflation; he also attended DLCD training. - Mayor Fitzpatrick reported visits to WCT Marine and Columbia Steel, noting that a $20 million state-funded boat lift has been used once, and highlighted upcoming events including the Baker Building opening and a household hazardous waste collection day. Consent Calendar - The Consent Calendar included approval of draft minutes from September 29, 2025; October 6, 2025; and October 20, 2025; adoption of the 2026 Astoria City Council Work Plan; and a change-of-ownership liquor license application for Xanadu at 1104 Marine Drive. Councilor Davis noted the Work Plan guides council priorities. Motion by Davis, seconded by Adams, approved 4-0 (Fitzpatrick, Adams, Davis, Conklin). Public Comments & Testimony - Willis Van Dusen (Friends of the Astoria Column) spoke in favor of the Column parking fee increase, citing approximately $1.5 million in future restoration and maintenance needs and clarifying that the $5 rate in December and January provides a full-year pass. - Candace Chapman, activities director at Astoria High School, introduced students Ella Hawks, Teslin Winterstein, and Contura Jackson, who requested Council approval to hold the junior/senior prom at the Astoria Column on May 2, 2026, from 8–11 PM, with support from an anonymous donor and the Friends of the Astoria Column. The Council granted approval. - Travis Rowe, representing the Astoria School District, voiced support for the Aquatic Center discounts, highlighting benefits for staff recruitment, retention, and wellness. - Lisa Morley (Cedar Street) expressed general support for the fee update and asked about revenue distribution and effective date. - Robert Clark (145 Second Street) asked whether Aquatic Center discounts would extend to Tongue Point students and faculty; staff clarified the discounts apply to Astoria School District employees, and youth under 18 already qualify for reduced rates. - Robert Clark also raised concerns about the potential sale of a privately owned parking lot on Marine Drive between Second and Third Streets, previously used for food distribution and a Veterans Administration shuttle, which could reduce parking and affect community services. - Lisa Morley encouraged the City to begin planning for the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence on July 4, 2026, noting she had seen no local plans. Discussion Items 8.a Astor East Urban Renewal Plan Amendment - City Manager Scott Spence presented the second reading of Ordinance 26-02, which would amend the Astor East Urban Renewal Plan to add the Dairigold property and Copeland Commons as workforce housing opportunities. Spence noted the district has less than one acre of remaining expansion capacity and approximately $3.3 million available for reinvestment. The proposal had been reviewed by the Planning Commission and discussed by Council on February 2, 2026. - Councilor Davis recused himself from discussion and vote due to his service on the Copeland Commons board. Councilor Adams spoke in support, citing Oregon Goal 10's housing requirements. No public comment was offered. - Motion by Adams, seconded by Conklin, adopted 3-0 (Fitzpatrick, Adams, Conklin; Davis recused). 8.b Parks Fee Updates – Aquatic Center (F1) and Astoria Column (F5) - Resolution 26-05 proposed two fee updates. The Aquatic Center would extend youth/senior-equivalent discounts to active-duty military, veterans, and Astoria School District employees, changing the drop-in rate from $8 to $6 and the monthly adult pass from $70 to $55. The Astoria Column annual parking pass would increase from $5 to $10, with a $5 rate offered in December and January for a full-year pass; the City's share per pass would rise from $1 to $2, with the remainder going to the Friends of the Astoria Column. Implementation was targeted for around May 1, 2026, to support about $1.5 million in future capital needs. - Councilor Davis asked about the financial impact of the discounts; Parks & Recreation Director Jonah Dart-McLean stated the impact would likely be minimal and could increase facility usage. Council also discussed the timing of the December/January discount and the potential for online pass purchases, which is under consideration. - Motion by Conklin, seconded by Davis, approved 4-0. 8.c Downtown Parking Study RFP - Staff presented a draft RFP for a technical update to the City's 2019 downtown parking study. The study would assess current parking capacity, the impacts of anticipated developments including Copeland Commons, peer-city comparisons, demand management, seasonal trends, and alternative transportation strategies. Estimated cost is $40,000–$45,000, with RFP responses due April 15, 2026. - Councilor Davis opposed issuing the RFP, arguing the City has sufficient data and could apply best practices in-house; he suggested funds could be better directed to enforcement tools such as license plate readers. Mayor Fitzpatrick supported the RFP as a low-risk way to gather new information, noting it does not obligate spending. Councilor Adams offered conditional support, preferring to frame the work as a "parking master plan." Councilor Conklin acknowledged enforcement may be more important but supported receiving additional information. Staff noted an outside consultant could model future parking demand from five upcoming projects and analyze seasonality and constrained areas. - Motion by Adams, seconded by Conklin, authorized staff to publish the RFP by a 3-1 vote (Fitzpatrick, Adams, Conklin in favor; Davis opposed). New Business & Miscellaneous - Councilor Adams requested an executive session in the near future to discuss the employment of an officer or employee. Staff and Council agreed to schedule it during the upcoming agenda-setting process on February 23, 2026. - Lisa Morley encouraged the City to plan for the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence on July 4, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved 4-0, including adoption of the 2026 City Council Work Plan. - Ordinance 26-02 adopted 3-0; Councilor Davis recused. - Resolution 26-05 approved 4-0, and Council approved holding the Astoria High School prom at the Astoria Column on May 2, 2026. - Staff authorized to publish the downtown parking study RFP by a 3-1 vote. - Executive session deferred to the agenda-setting session on February 23, 2026. - Meeting adjourned at 6:55 PM.

The Astoria Planning Commission (APC) convened at 5:29 p.m. on January 27, 2026, in Council Chambers and via Zoom. The meeting began with the election of officers for 2026, followed by a work session on a proposed sign code amendment for the HC (Health Care) Zone requested by Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH), and a presentation on the Parks & Recreation Master Plan update. Commissioners also received a 2025 year‑in‑review report from the Community Development Director and an overview of upcoming projects. No public comment was offered on non‑agenda items. Consent Calendar - Election of Officers (2026): Commissioner Womack nominated Pat Corcoran for President (seconded by Commissioner Magie). Commissioner Womack nominated Brookley Henri for Vice President (seconded by Commissioner Magie). Commissioner Magie moved to nominate Tresa Abke as Secretary (seconded by Vice President Henri). All three were approved unanimously (7‑0). - Minutes of December 23, 2025: Approved as presented by a 7‑0 vote (motion by Commissioner Magie, second by Vice President Henri). Discussion Items 1. Work Session – Draft Sign Code Amendment for HC Zone (Columbia Memorial Hospital) Community Development Director John Roberts introduced the item, which is a precursor to a formal amendment expected at the February 24, 2026 meeting. CMH CEO Erik Thorsen and consultant Jesse Winterowd (Winterbrook Planning) presented the proposed changes, which would remove maximum limits on total sign square footage and total number of signs within the HC zone, while retaining existing dimensional, height, and public safety standards. The current phase of the hospital expansion requires approximately 680 square feet of signage, compared to the 150 square feet allowed under existing code. Commissioner comments and concerns: - Commissioner Francis asked about monument sign placement along Exchange Street; Winterowd clarified it would depend on the number of campus access roads. - Commissioner Womack questioned the implications of “unlimited” signs and whether the city would have any future oversight. Winterowd responded that dimensional limits still apply and that the changes are meant to avoid repeated variance applications. - Commissioner Kroening asked about dimensional versus square footage limits; Winterowd explained that individual sign sizes remain capped but total on‑site square footage would be unlimited. - Commissioner Haefker appreciated the scale of proposed signs. - President Corcoran asked how the 680 sq. ft. figure was determined (answer: by professional sign firms ZGF and Knot Studio) and inquired about tsunami evacuation signage. Winterowd said he would follow up. Corcoran also expressed concern about clutter at the intersection, noting other nearby sign variances, but was satisfied that wayfinding signs were internal. - Vice President Henri raised concerns about light pollution, asking about lumen limits and lighting temperature. Roberts acknowledged the city currently lacks good lighting regulations but is working on them. He noted that CMH would likely be exempt from future lighting code changes, which Henri argued should be addressed now to set a precedent. Winterowd agreed to review the “shielded from residential glare” language. - Commissioner Francis recalled that Columbia River Maritime Museum had resisted the city’s preferred parking lot lighting plan; Roberts confirmed that parking lot lighting would fall under the same code but that enforcement is currently subjective. - Commissioner Womack confirmed that design standards in the sign code still apply; Winterowd agreed they are not proposing changes to design standards. - Commissioner Kroening asked about the possibility of CMH selling part of the campus to another entity. Planner Taylor stated city code evolves with change, and Roberts noted that significant deviations would trigger provisions in the amendment. No formal vote was taken; the work session was intended to gather input for the February 24 hearing. 2. Presentation – Parks & Recreation Master Plan Update Parks & Recreation Director Jonah Dart‑McLean and consultants Brian Varricchione and Ian Sisson (Mackenzie Inc.) presented the update. The $84,000 project (funded by a $50,000 state grant and $34,000 city match) has included two open houses (170 attendees in November, 70 in January) and online surveys (400 responses to the first, over 600 to the second). The plan prioritizes maintaining existing facilities, though an indoor recreation space (e.g., aquatic center expansion) emerged as a top new project. Other priorities include an off‑leash dog area, additional restrooms, completing riverwalk lighting east of 35th Street, and updating the Trails Master Plan. Commissioners asked about survey consistency (surveys change based on prior feedback), funding processes (grants and phased implementation), and integration with the Heritage Square project (which has an EPA grant for filling the pit). The plan is expected to return to the APC for adoption this spring, with two more open houses scheduled for March 7 and April 18. Key Outcomes - Officers for 2026 were re‑elected unanimously (President Pat Corcoran, Vice President Brookley Henri, Secretary Tresa Abke). - The December 23, 2025 meeting minutes were approved. - Commissioners directed staff and CMH to refine the sign code amendment, particularly regarding lighting standards and the potential for unlimited sign totals. A formal proposal will be presented at the February 24, 2026 APC meeting. - The Parks & Recreation Master Plan update will continue community engagement; the APC will review the final draft later in 2026 before adoption into the Comprehensive Plan. - Upcoming APC agenda items: two conditional use applications (Sam Peterson), the sign amendment for the HC zone, and the annual DLCD training on February 12 at 5:30 p.m. The next regular APC meeting is February 24, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m.

The Astoria City Council met on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included the swearing-in of two new police officers, a proclamation for Career and Technical Education Month, reports from councilors, and action on several agenda items including a public hearing on an urban renewal plan amendment, adoption of final phase system development charges (SDCs), a contingency fund transfer for park pump repairs, and award of a trestle repair contract. Council also discussed new business items on COLPAC dues, an SDC deferral program, and homelessness response strategy. All votes were unanimous except one abstention. Presentation - Swearing in of New Police Officers: Chief Kelly read biographies of Eva Khamphouy and Nicholas Bradley; Mayor Fitzpatrick administered the oath. Officers were pinned by family members. Proclamation - Career and Technical Education Month: Council proclaimed February 2026 as Career and Technical Education Month. Clatsop Community College President Jarrod Hogue spoke on the importance of CTE programs. Reports of Councilors - Councilor Davis: Attended COLPAC meeting on dues increase; reported on council retreat; toured Coastal Family Health Center; announced two new business items. - Councilor Mazzarella: Praised the council retreat for reviewing 2025 accomplishments and reaffirming priorities; noted she would miss the February 23 work session but planned to raise a related item. - Councilor Adams: Highlighted that 10,000 eligible county residents lack access to health services; noted upcoming port, college board, and regional transportation meetings; raised concerns about downtown food access due to business closures. - Councilor Conklin: Reported on tours of Fort George distribution center and Upper Town Business Association meeting; announced a Valentine's Day event at Pier 39. - Mayor Fitzpatrick: Attended community memorials, Chamber banquet (presented George Awards), council retreat, and Coastal Family Health Center tour; emphasized the facility's commitment to serving all regardless of ability to pay. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) the consent calendar including: Library Advisory Board minutes (12/2/25), Maritime Memorial Committee minutes (1/5/26), Parks Advisory Board minutes (1/21/26), adoption of updated City Council Meeting Policy and Procedures, and a resolution amending the City's Policy on Nondiscrimination. Regular Agenda Items 9.a Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance to Substantially Amend the Astor East Urban Renewal Plan - Staff Presentation: City Manager Scott Spence presented a proposal to add 8.37 acres (Copeland Commons and Dairigold sites) to the Astor East Urban Renewal District to support housing development. The sites could accommodate approximately 120 housing units with a focus on workforce housing. The proposal had been reviewed by the Planning Commission and aligned with council priorities. Spence noted the Sunset Empire Transit District would see a $40,000 revenue loss over 2026-2034 across the entire district, but for these parcels the loss is minimal. - Council Questions: None. - Council Discussion: Councilor Adams raised constituent concerns about workforce housing development on the YMCA site. Councilor Davis disclosed prior communication with a property owner and abstained from voting. - Public Comment: Andy Kipp (461 Exchange Street) spoke in support, thanking the council for prioritizing housing and expanding affordability. - Motion and Vote: Moved by Councilor Mazzarella, seconded by Councilor Conklin to conduct first reading of Ordinance 26-02 and schedule second reading for February 17, 2026. Approved 4-0 (Councilor Davis abstained). 9.b Authorization to Adopt System Development Charges (SDC) Resolution Revisions 2026 - Staff Presentation: Staff and consultant FCS presented the final phase of a multi-year SDC implementation, updating fees for water, wastewater, stormwater, transportation, and parks. Key points: - Third and final phase of phased approach begun in 2023. - SDCs fund capital projects, not operations. - Approximately $685,000 collected to date, primarily from commercial development (95%). - Even after full implementation, Astoria's SDCs remain around the middle compared to similar cities. - Staff noted flexibility in applying transportation SDCs and tools such as scaling by housing size and potential deferrals. - Council Questions: - Councilor Davis asked about revenue sources: City Engineer Nathan Crater explained 95% from commercial, 3% residential, 2% city projects; SDCs apply to new construction, redevelopment, and change-of-use. No projects stalled solely due to SDCs. Adopted rates are about 50% of maximum defensible level. Inflation adjustments may be done administratively going forward. - Councilor Adams asked about impacts on downtown change-of-use projects: Crater explained transportation SDCs use ITE trip generation manual, and staff use professional judgment to select appropriate categories, which has helped avoid significant pushback. - Councilor Mazzarella asked about objectivity: Crater confirmed calculations are data-based but allow discretion for fairness and local conditions. - Council Discussion: General support for adopting SDCs as necessary for infrastructure funding. Concerns raised about impacts on small businesses and housing affordability. Staff highlighted mitigation tools: housing incentive program (up to $100,000), urban renewal funding, and potential deferral options. - Public Comment: None. - Motion and Vote: Moved by Councilor Davis, seconded by Councilor Adams to adopt the updated resolution. Approved 5-0. 9.c Resolution to Transfer Contingency Funds to Parks Maintenance (Parks Operations Fund 158) - Staff Presentation: City Manager Spence requested transfer of $40,000 from Parks Operations contingency to replace two failing sewage pumps at the city-owned Bumble Childcare building (former Yacht Club). One pump already repaired; second at risk. The Parks contingency has $75,000 available. State law (ORS 294.463) requires council approval for transfers over 15% of budget. - Council Questions: None. - Council Discussion: None. - Public Comment: None. - Motion and Vote: Moved by Councilor Adams, seconded by Councilor Conklin to approve the budget resolution. Approved 5-0. 9.d Authorization to Award 2025 Trestle Repair Project Construction Contract - Staff Presentation: Spence presented the project to repair trestles at Columbia Avenue and between 1st and 2nd Streets, critical for the Astoria Riverfront Trolley. Budget was $600,000. Six competitive bids received; lowest responsible bid from Bergeman Construction for $488,787. Staff also recommended a 20% contingency ($97,757.40) due to unpredictable repair conditions. - Council Questions: Councilor Davis confirmed all bids were for the same scope (low-bid procurement). Councilor Adams requested clearer bid process explanations in future staff reports. - Council Discussion: None. - Public Comment: None. - Motions and Votes: 1. Motion by Councilor Davis, seconded by Councilor Mazzarella to approve contract with Bergeman Construction for $488,787 after mandatory 7-day notice period. Approved 5-0. 2. Motion by Councilor Conklin, seconded by Councilor Adams to authorize 20% ($97,757.40) construction contingency. Approved 5-0. New Business & Miscellaneous - Councilor Davis: Raised COLPAC dues increase request (from $250 to $1,500 annually). Council expressed general support for the increase due to the organization's value but opposed automatic inflation adjustments. Also proposed exploring an SDC deferral program; motion to consider at March 2 meeting was seconded and will be further refined with staff input. - Councilor Mazzarella: Requested a comprehensive homelessness response strategy discussion rather than focusing solely on the camping ordinance. Council agreed to prioritize this topic at the February 23 Work Session. - Staff Forecast: Upcoming items include park fee update, parking fee discussion, and RFP for downtown parking plan update. Public Comments (Non-Agenda) - Teresa Barnes (875 Franklin Avenue): Urged council to prioritize revisiting the camping ordinance and broader homelessness response. Expressed concerns about individuals living outdoors in poor conditions, questioned decisions related to emergency shelter operations and funding, and emphasized need for transparent and effective use of city resources. Executive Session - Council entered executive session at 8:00 PM under ORS 192.660(2)(f) to consider exempt information. Reconvened at 9:20 PM with no additional business. Meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM. Key Outcomes - Approved unanimously (5-0): Consent Calendar, SDC Resolution Revisions (final phase), contingency fund transfer for pump replacement, trestle repair contract and contingency. - Approved 4-0 (1 abstention): First reading of Ordinance 26-02 for Astor East Urban Renewal Plan amendment; second reading scheduled for February 17, 2026. - Consensus on new business: Support for COLPAC dues increase (without automatic inflation adjustment) and direction to staff to refine SDC deferral proposal. Homelessness response strategy set for February 23 Work Session discussion. Note: The instruction specified meeting date as 2026-02-03, but all official documents (agenda, minutes, transcript) confirm the meeting took place on February 2, 2026. This summary reflects the actual date.

This work session of the Astoria City Council focused on two main agenda items: an update on the Development Review Audit progress and a discussion on next steps for developing the Darigold and Customs House sites. No formal action was taken, but council provided direction on guiding principles and next steps. Development Review Audit Progress Update - Staff reported that the audit, nearing completion, will deliver four key products: a current state assessment, a site plan review framework, targeted development code recommendations, and best practices comparisons. The goal is to improve efficiency, predictability, and customer service. - Community Development Director John Roberts noted that incomplete applications are a major issue. He stated that the city has historically accepted incomplete submissions, and a culture shift is underway to require more complete information at intake. - Councilor Elisabeth Adams asked about applicant education. Roberts indicated that pre-application meetings are available, but applicants sometimes ignore guidance. He also said outreach efforts (e.g., lunch-and-learns) have had limited success. - Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick raised the example of a small retaining wall, questioning why erosion control plans are needed even in dry conditions. Roberts cited capacity limitations in engineering as a bottleneck and said a dedicated engineer for private development review is needed. - City Manager Scott Spence noted that internal coordination has been inconsistent; applications sometimes bypass planning. Staff are moving toward a centralized intake within Community Development. - Roberts highlighted Astoria’s complex regulatory environment (overlapping geology, historic, and zoning requirements) as a factor in delays. - Plans for future code amendments were outlined, including site plan review, definitions, and public hearing requirements. These will go through Planning Commission and state review, extending the timeline. The first amendment package (with a substantive topic plus administrative updates) is already scheduled for Planning Commission work session on January 27, 2026, with a first hearing in February and council consideration in late March/early April. - Statistics: The Planning Department received 118 new business license applications in 2025, making it the most common application. Discussion on Next Steps for Darigold and Customs House Sites - Staff provided an overview of the Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) process, which received five proposals for each site. Staff recommended issuing separate Requests for Proposals (RFPs) due to differing site characteristics. - Council discussed and refined guiding principles. The top three guiding principles identified were: financial feasibility, site-specific compatibility, and diversity of housing types. Community engagement was also emphasized. - For the Customs House site: Council expressed strong support for a Community Land Trust (CLT) model for long-term affordability. Councilor Joshua Conklin argued the CLT should be a requirement, not just a scoring criterion; the council agreed to make it a condition. The target housing product is ownership-oriented (cottage clusters, duplexes, triplexes) with a price goal of $240,000–$350,000 to fill the market gap for middle-income residents (80-120% AMI, county-wide). Staff expects the RFP to be issued in March 2026. - For the Darigold site: Discussions centered on larger scale (60-120 units), mixed-use potential, and parking as the primary challenge—requiring coordination with the county and broader downtown parking needs. Council considered a mix of market-rate and deed-restricted units (e.g., 80% market-rate at 80-120% AMI, 20% restricted to 60% AMI). Staff indicated the RFP for Darigold will follow later, likely July-August 2026, due to complexities. - Councilor Andrea Mazzarella raised concerns about the 80-120% AMI target missing the 60-80% range, but staff explained that LIHTC-funded projects typically average 60% AMI, and a CLT model at Customs House would serve slightly higher incomes. - Councilor Andy Davis moved to direct staff to conduct additional analysis of proposals based on guiding principles; the motion passed. - Next steps include early community engagement (concepts, not details) and additional analysis of proposals. Key Outcomes - No formal votes (motions were for direction, not action items). Council provided clear direction on guiding principles and the requirement of a CLT model for Customs House. - Staff were directed to proceed with analysis and issue RFPs: Customs House by March 2026, Darigold later in summer 2026. - The meeting was adjourned at 7:36 PM.

The Astoria City Council held its regular meeting on January 21, 2026, beginning at 7:06 PM in the Council Chambers. All five councilors were present. The meeting covered approval of routine consent items, adoption of an ordinance readopting state statutes, discussions on updating the downtown parking study and on meeting minutes format, and public comments on homelessness and camping policies. The meeting was extended twice and adjourned at 8:34 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) with motion by Councilor Andy Davis and second by Councilor Andrea Mazzarella. - Items included: approval of the September 2, 2025 City Council minutes; authorization for the Police Department to purchase products for the 911 center from Century Link (Lumen), reimbursed by the State of Oregon; a Memorandum of Agreement between the Astoria Fire Department and the US Coast Guard Cutter Florence Finch for fire protection and emergency services at Tongue Point Pier; an updated Salary Resolution changing the job title from "Wastewater Supervisor" to "Wastewater Treatment Supervisor"; authorization to enter into an EMS Medical Director Contract with Dr. Sergio Camba and PDX EMS Consortium; approval of the 2026-27 Fiscal Year Budget Calendar; and a liquor license application for Hanthorn's Tap House (Astoria Seafood Co.) for a Full On-Premises Commercial Sales License. Public Comments & Testimony - On the parking study (7b): Quinn Hayes (34 Alameda Avenue) emphasized parking management and proactive planning for future growth; Sandy Davis (1109 Harrison Avenue) argued that enforcement, not capacity, is the key issue and suggested better enforcement systems; Lisa Morley (34908 Cedar Street) urged the council to clearly define questions in the RFP and consider event parking management. - On meeting minutes (7c): Lisa Morley (4908 Cedar Street) supported retaining detailed, transcript-style minutes because they allow searching and copying exact statements, and expressed concern that summaries would reduce accessibility; Marilyn Dito (318 37th Street) advocated for full verbatim minutes as a complete public record and questioned the value of replacing them with summaries. - Non-agenda public comments: Jacqueline Lamar (Grand Avenue) asked the council to review the City's camping code and find solutions for homeless individuals; Oloway Griffen (Fifth Street) also urged a review of the camping code and reported that many in the homeless community experience sexual assault, asking for the homeless to be included in the community. Discussion Items - Second Reading and Adoption of Ordinance Re-adopting State Statutes (7a): City Manager Scott Spence introduced the item, noting that the ordinance would readopt all Oregon Revised Statutes referenced in the Astoria Code to reflect 2025 Legislature changes. No questions or discussion. Councilor Elisabeth Adams moved, seconded by Councilor Andy Davis, to adopt Ordinance 26-01. Approved 5-0. - Request for Proposals for Technical Update of Downtown Parking Study (7b): Staff presented proposed deliverables: examine parking capacity, hot spots, seasonal changes; review parking district map and time restrictions; analyze future development impacts; and provide best-practice recommendations. Council discussion: Councilor Davis questioned the necessity of a consultant study, suggested using internal resources or seeking DLCD funding, and expressed concern about timing before major developments. Councilor Adams requested inclusion of parking type inventory and construction parking impacts. Councilor Conklin suggested studying potential switch of Exchange Street to one lane with diagonal parking and exploring the Coast Guard lot. Councilor Mazzarella asked whether the study could be broadened to a transportation master plan. Mayor Fitzpatrick emphasized being proactive and not deferring to a future council. Public comments reinforced enforcement and event parking. Direction: Council directed staff to refine the scope, consider in-house execution of some deliverables (e.g., reviewing parking boundaries, time limits, enforcement), explore DLCD and COLPAC partnerships, and return with a revised RFP. - Discussion on City Council Meeting Minutes Format (7c): Staff presented a proposed summary-style minutes format (took about 40 minutes to produce versus 2.5 hours for verbatim) and suggested linking to video recordings with timestamps. Council generally supported a more concise format, with Councilor Davis preferring that supplemented by video/closed captioning. Public comments opposed summary minutes due to loss of searchability and completeness. Direction: Council directed staff to develop a summary-minute format supplemented by video recordings and/or transcripts, and to bring a proposed approach for formal adoption. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 5-0. - Ordinance 26-01 adopting state statute changes approved 5-0. - Parking study: Staff to refine RFP scope and deliverables and return with a revised proposal; council encouraged in-house analysis and exploring external funding. - Meeting minutes: Staff to develop a proposed summary-minute format with video supplements for council consideration. - New Business: Staff reported a sewer discharge incident (approx. 4,000 gallons) due to contractor error; corrective steps taken. Council discussed exploring rideshare services like Uber/Lyft to reduce DUIs, with interest in further exploration. Staff also proposed restructuring a vacant cashier position to full-time to support utility billing. - Meeting extended twice (by 30 minutes and by 15 minutes) to accommodate agenda.

The Astoria Parks and Recreation Advisory Board met at City Hall, 1095 Duane Street, on January 21, 2026. The agenda listed a 6:45 a.m. start; the chair called the meeting to order at 6:47 a.m. The board approved the October 22 meeting minutes, heard public comment, reviewed Parks Master Plan progress, discussed removal of two red maples, evaluated the December Aquatic Center forum, voted to recommend a discounted Aquatic Center pass category, and heard staff reports on programs and lifeguarding. The board adjourned at 7:42 a.m. Public Comment - A speaker identifying himself as the president of the Friends of the Astoria Parks said the organization has 27 standing members, five officers, and three delegates at large. He expressed appreciation for the Aquatic Center open house and the Dec. 18 forum, but criticized the open house as lacking substance and called the button-jar budgeting activity 'not hardly a basis for government.' He also said the forum felt like 'this is what you're going to get' rather than genuine community direction, and urged more substantive discussion and public involvement. Approval of Minutes - A motion to approve the Oct. 22, 2025 draft minutes was made, seconded, and passed unanimously by voice vote. Chair Hernandez: What Do You Hear? - Board members reported strong school-district cooperation at the Aquatic Center, including upcoming home swim meets and a district event on Feb. 13-14. - Community members told the board the pool felt warmer, which was welcomed. - Early-morning Aquatic Center users were disappointed by holiday closures, including the MLK Day no-swim day. Employee and Volunteer Recognition - Staff recognized volunteer coaches Nick Sabolka and Superintendent Craig Hoppas for coaching youth basketball; recognition had been delayed from the December meeting after a power failure. - Grace and Haley O'Brien, recreation coordinators, were named employees of the month for November and December 2025. ACF (Astoria Community Foundation) Updates - Chair Hernandez had no formal ACF update after missing the previous meeting. - The Run on the River has been moved to May 30 and will start and finish at the Fort George warehouse. Board members were invited to volunteer. Old Business: Parks Master Plan Update - Ian Susan of McKenzie reported that the first open house and online survey drew more than 500 participants; an earlier preliminary questionnaire collected 150 responses, and a focus group and student survey were also conducted. - Most participants were Astoria residents or from nearby areas, were roughly age 30-60, and many had children at home. - Survey feedback showed strong support for maintaining and improving existing facilities over building new ones, plus interest in expanding the Aquatic Center with flexible indoor recreation and fitness space; adding public restrooms, including a permanent restroom at Fred Lindstrom Park and additional restrooms along the riverwalk; updating the 2013 trails master plan; a possible dog park at Tapiola Park; and replacing or improving playground equipment. - Aquatic Center feedback centered on expanding days and hours, adding swim lessons, warmer pool temperatures, and affordability. - The next open house is Saturday, Jan. 24, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the library, with two presentations, interactive prioritization activities, and a level-of-service analysis. The plan is expected to go to the City Council around May. New Business: 15th St. Triangle Maples - Staff said an arborist recommends removing two red maples in the 15th St. Triangle because they lack a central leader, have poor limb structure, and drop branches into the roadway. Staff are considering incremental pruning versus removal, and if removed, would replant a site-appropriate species. No formal action was taken. New Business: Aquatic Center Public Forum - Staff recapped the Dec. 18, 2025 public forum on Aquatic Center operations, staffing, and budget. - A board member said the forum felt like public input was discouraged and the status quo was defended, and suggested framing constraints as 'how do we get there' rather than reasons a request cannot happen. - Staff responded that the forum's purpose was to explain operational and revenue constraints, while the master plan process is the vehicle for larger future investment and staffing resource requests. New Business: Aquatic Center Fee Change - Staff recommended offering active and former military members and Astoria School District personnel the same Aquatic Center pass rates currently offered to youth and seniors, citing frequent requests, school district staff retention challenges, and a desire to welcome military families. Staff said the idea originated with the parks department, not the school district. - The board voted unanimously to support the fee change; the item will go to the City Council for final action. Staff Reports and Upcoming Events - The quarterly report for October-December 2025 was reviewed. - Registration is open for spring break and summer day camps; school swim lessons with Lewis and Clark students begin in February; an Easter egg splash is planned; and a movie-in-the-pool event is being considered for June. - Lifeguard recruitment remains a challenge: one applicant has applied so far, and two previous applicants withdrew. Staff discussed posting at high school and college job boards and noted Lake Oswego's new aquatic center is also competing for part-time staff, with full-time aquatic salaries there capping around $76,000. Key Outcomes - Approved the Oct. 22, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. - Voted unanimously to recommend the new military and Astoria School District Aquatic Center fee category to the City Council. - Took no formal decision on the 15th St. Triangle maples; staff will continue assessing options. - Confirmed the next regular meeting on February 25, 2026, with the following meeting on March 25, 2026.

On 2026-01-21 14:00:00+00:00 (the system date; the printed agenda and minutes list Tuesday, January 20, 2026), the Astoria City Council held a work session from 6:00 p.m. to 6:59 p.m. Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick presided, with Councilors Andy Davis, Andrea Mazzarella, Elisabeth Adams, and Joshua Conklin present. City Manager Scott Spence, City Attorney Blair Henningsgaard, and other department heads also attended. The session centered on a presentation by Friends of the Astoria Column President Jordan Schnitzer about preservation work, operations, the partnership with the Clatsop County Historical Society, plans for the column's 100th anniversary, and a proposed increase in the annual parking fee. No formal action was taken. Presentation: Friends of the Astoria Column - Jordan Schnitzer described the organization's 35-year history, beginning in 1988 when the City accepted help from a private board to restore the deteriorating column. Early work included $65,000 for scaffolding and canvas, cleaning off an ineffective tung-oil treatment, and guidance from a Getty Conservation Institute expert. - The Friends have raised millions of dollars over the years, including replacing the stairs. Schnitzer outlined the nonprofit's business model: gross column income was $1.2 million in the last year; the organization has two full-time and nine part-time employees and pays approximately $300,000 in wages. - The organization has $1.6 million in an Oregon Community Foundation fund and is aiming for $4-5 million to fund recurring conservation work, which is needed every 5-7 years at a cost of $500,000 or more per cycle. Conservation work is designed to be reversible so future techniques can be used. - The gift shop generated about $800,000 in sales last year. The balsawood glider program sells more planes than the U.S. Air Force buys, and an anonymous donor has sent $40,000 per year for five years to keep the glider price at $1. - Parking fee revenue totaled $360,000 in 2025, with an estimated 90-plus percent coming from non-Astoria visitors. The Friends paid the City $73,550 that year, and over roughly 10 years have paid almost $900,000. The City receives 20% of parking fees ($1 of the current $5 fee). The Friends also took over the park host house and grounds maintenance, saving the City an estimated $100,000 today. - Since March 2024, the Friends have operated under a joint operating agreement with the Clatsop County Historical Society. Executive Director Mac Burns described shared staffing, purchasing, custodial services, and programming. In 2025, 3,965 visitors went from the column to Historical Society sites. A January 2026 fitness challenge sold $1 cards to climb the column 20 times in January; six people completed 20 climbs on January 1, and prizes had to be reordered. - A proposed interpretive center has been put on hold until after the centennial to focus on the 100th anniversary. Centennial Celebration Plans - Schnitzer and event consultant Cindy Thompson presented plans for July 18, 2026: a free community celebration from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Heritage parking lot at 12th and Duane Streets, with food, dancing, multicultural booths, and about 40 Astoria organizations. - A smaller rededication ceremony is planned at the column for about 50-70 people, broadcast to the community celebration; Oregon Poet Laureate Ellen Waterston will write and read a poem. Tribal representatives have been engaged, and organizers said they are following the City's new tribal engagement policy. - A higher-end gala for roughly 150 people is planned at Lum Lodge, with the Oregon Governor committed to attend. The Friends are also working on a Rose Festival parade float that would be used in Astoria's Regatta parade and are coordinating with Astoria schools. Public Comments & Testimony - Willis Van Duzen, a former Astoria city official, spoke in strong support of the parking fee increase. He recalled the column's dangerous condition before the Friends' restoration, the later need for costly structural work, and the difficulty of fundraising for unglamorous projects. He described the extra $5 as an investment and a way to have visitors, not just local donors, help pay for future upkeep. Discussion Items - Councilor Elisabeth Adams asked about tribal engagement. Mac Burns replied that the Historical Society did not have a formal policy at the start, but both boards paused planning until the City's tribal engagement policy was approved and will follow it. Adams encouraged the Historical Society to adopt a policy aligned with the City's. - Councilor Andy Davis asked whether the City's revenue share would remain at 20% (rising from $1 to $2 per annual pass) and whether a shared pass with Historical Society museums was possible. Mac Burns described a 2025 pass experiment that brought about 4,000 people to the museums; in 2026 the pass will include the Heritage Museum. Davis proposed a lifetime pass, suggesting he would pay $100 to support the column; Schnitzer endorsed the idea, possibly at $100 initially, with funds placed in the investment account. - Councilor Andrea Mazzarella raised affordability concerns for families and children and supported the resident coupon. Schnitzer said the Friends give free passes to all high school students and are discussing a possible high school prom/dance at the column. - Councilor Adams suggested free days, such as January 1 or one day per quarter in the off-season; Schnitzer agreed January 1 could be a free day. - Councilor Joshua Conklin said he supported the increase if it includes lifetime membership and a few free days per year. - Mayor Fitzpatrick said he generally dislikes increasing costs but recognized cost increases over 10 years, noted that Astoria's lack of sales tax makes parking fees one way to collect tourist revenue, and said he would not oppose considering the increase. He asked to put it on a future agenda and invited the Friends to attend that discussion. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken, as this was a work session, but a straw poll showed council consensus to support exploring the parking fee increase from $5 to $10. - Council direction included maintaining the 20% City revenue share (approximately doubling the City's annual share from roughly $75,000 to $150,000), offering Astoria residents a $5 gift-shop coupon, developing a lifetime pass option, and establishing free access days. - The Friends plan to return in about six weeks with more detailed centennial celebration plans. City staff and the Friends will prepare the parking fee item for a future City Council meeting.