Public Meetings - Cornelius, Oregon

Cornelia City Council held a regular session on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the council chambers. Four of five council members were present (Councilor Nunes Burgan having resigned on March 5th). The meeting covered announcements, public comment, a financial audit presentation, and a discussion on filling the council vacancy. Consent items were approved, and the council agreed to extend the recruitment timeline for the vacant seat. Consent Calendar - Motion to adopt the consent agenda was made by Councilor Godinez Valencia, seconded by Councilor Lopez, and passed unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Angel Nicolas Mendez spoke about the Drake Learning Center (DLC) at the public library. He noted the center is now closed except for special events and urged the council to make it more accessible for general use, especially for the 52% Latino community. He emphasized the importance of literacy and education for youth. Staff responded that the DLC is currently open only during programmed activities due to staffing shortages and a recent leak; they are hiring a new staff member and looking into volunteer opportunities to expand access. Discussion Items - City of Cornelius Audit Report – Ryan Pascarella of RADW presented the audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Key points: - Two separate audits were performed: one for the city and one for the Urban Renewal Agency (URA). Both received unmodified (clean) opinions. - New accounting pronouncement expanded the definition of compensated absences to include estimated sick time usage and employer taxes, increasing the accrual. - The city purchased the Grande Foods building in May 2025, recorded with related debt and lease revenue. - Two minor findings: expenditures exceeded final appropriations by approximately $32,000 in the general fund (materials & services) and $44,000 in the URA (materials & services). These were not considered severe and do not require corrective action. - The city has received the Government Finance Officers Association award for its annual comprehensive financial report for 17 consecutive years, plus awards for a Spanish-language popular report (15 years) and distinguished budget presentation (18 years). - City Council Vacancy Recruitment Timeline – Following the resignation of Councilor Nunes Burgan, staff proposed a two-week application period with interviews on April 6th. Council discussed extending the timeline to allow broader community outreach. Mayor Deline suggested advertising in the April Gazette and closing applications on April 21st, with interviews and deliberation on May 4th and oath of office in June. This would give the appointee time to file for the November election if desired. All council members expressed support for this modified timeline. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously to adopt the consent agenda. - The council agreed to extend the council vacancy application period to close on April 21, 2026, conduct interviews on May 4, 2026, and swear in the new councilor in June 2026. The application will be advertised in the city newsletter and on social media. - The State of the City event was announced for May 6, 2026, from 6-7 PM in the council chambers. Mayor's Report - Mayor Deline reported on the Metropolitan Mayors Consortium meeting where mayors gave feedback to Metro about economic development constraints, particularly the lack of industrial land. The Mayor also spoke to Indivisible Forest Grove about the effects of federal immigration enforcement activities in the city. Adjournment - Motion to adjourn made by Councilor Godinez Valencia, seconded by Councilor Lopez, passed unanimously.

The Cornelius City Council held a work session on city discretionary community contributions and a regular meeting on March 2, 2026, addressing a range of financial, land use, and policy items. The work session explored guidelines for the city's discretionary contributions, while the regular meeting included public hearings on a transportation system plan amendment and street vacation, approval of several resolutions, proclamations, and appointments. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, including routine approvals, was adopted unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Will Dyke (local farmer) expressed concerns about the width of SW 345th Avenue for farm equipment and drainage runoff if the annexation proceeds. He urged the city to ensure the road can accommodate farm machinery and to address stormwater runoff with the drainage district. Mayor Delaney acknowledged the need to balance development with agricultural uses. - Sam Dalrymple (resident, 448 S 28th Ave) asked whether a 12-foot sidewalk planned for the area would be maintained when the collector designation moves from S 29th Blvd to SW 345th Ave. Staff confirmed the sidewalk would continue north and eventually connect to Council Creek Trail. Discussion Items - Work Session: City Discretionary Community Contributions – City Manager Peter Brennham presented a comparison of discretionary contributions between 2023 and 2026. In 2023, the city made 21 contributions totaling $60,000 and 10 community events at $17,300. In 2026, the totals have shifted, with the Cornelius Farmers Market event costing $25,000. Notable changes: the Family Justice Center contribution decreased from $13,500 to $2,000, while League of Oregon Cities (LOC) dues rose from $11,000 to $13,000 (projected $14,000 in 2027). Councilors suggested creating guidelines, performance indicators (e.g., attendance, leverage), and a tiered system for events. Staff will bring a framework to the budget committee. - Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Presentation – Assistant City Manager Ellie Jones presented the 20-year CIP, identifying $43.6 million in capital projects ($6.7 million general fund, $27 million street fund). Completed projects include Umsa Causeway ($1.9 million) and water booster pump station. Additions include new facility upgrades. Councilors asked about ODOT coordination for a traffic light at 345th and safety concerns; staff noted ongoing design work with the railroad and ODOT. - Quarterly Strategic Plan Update – City Manager Brennham reported on the first formal update of the 3-year strategic plan (4 goals, 20 objectives, 65 actions). Twelve actions scheduled for Q4 2025 and Q1 2026 were reviewed. Highlights: a consultant hired for economic development in the town center, $1.3 million in grants for the future recreation center, civic leadership academy applications open, and a communications plan/branding consultant being selected. Council discussed leveraging past alumni for recruitment. - Proclamations – The council proclaimed April 6–10, 2026 as Community Development Week, April 2026 as Fair Housing Month, and March 24–30, 2026 as Farm Worker Awareness Week. - Public Hearings – - Ordinance 2026-3 (Minor TSP Amendment): To move the collector designation from S 29th Blvd to SW 345th Ave. Council discussed safety for farm equipment, school bus access, and ODOT coordination. The hearing included testimony from the public. Approved. - Ordinance 2026-4 (Street Vacation): To vacate S 29th Blvd north of Dogwood Street to allow development. No public testimony. Council raised concerns about future school bus routes. Approved. - Supplemental Budget 2 (Resolution 2026-13): Eight items totaling $74,000 for fire department, $2,100 for library, $5,500 for city manager, and adjustments to internal services fund. Council approved. - Resolutions – - Resolution 2026-14: Authorized a contract with Centro Cultural for utility bill low-income relief eligibility verification. Councilor Gordinez abstained (works for Centro). Approved. - Resolution 2026-15: Established a solid waste collection low-income relief program with a 50% reduction for households at 185% of federal poverty level. Councilor Gordinez abstained. Approved. - Resolution 2026-16: Adopted the City of Cornelius Emergency Operations Plan, replacing the 2014 joint plan with Forest Grove. Chief Morris presented the plan's structure and roles. Approved unanimously. - Appointments – Samuel D. was appointed to the Planning Commission (term through December 2029). Brenda Gonzalez Pacheco was appointed to the Budget Committee (term expiring December 2026). Both approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Work Session: Staff will develop a framework for discretionary contributions and present it to the budget committee. - Ordinance 2026-3 (TSP Amendment): Approved unanimously (4-0 roll call). - Ordinance 2026-4 (Street Vacation): Approved unanimously (4-0 roll call). - Resolution 2026-13 (Supplemental Budget 2): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2026-14 (Utility Low-Income Relief): Approved (3-0-1, Gordinez abstained). - Resolution 2026-15 (Solid Waste Low-Income Relief): Approved (3-0-1, Gordinez abstained). - Resolution 2026-16 (Emergency Operations Plan): Approved unanimously. - Appointments: Both approved unanimously. - Proclamations: Adopted by acclamation. - Council Reports: Mayor Delaney advocated for industrial land expansion north of town and noted ongoing legislative efforts. Councilor Gordinez reported on COLPAC dues increase and ICE resources. City Manager recognized staff achievements, including a firefighter scholarship and water certification.

On February 24, 2026, the Cornelius Planning Commission held a public hearing to consider the Laurel Crown Type 3 conditional use permit, planned unit development (PUD), and subdivision application. The meeting was called to order at 8:00 PM by Chair Dave Waffle. The project proposes a 230‑lot residential subdivision on property owned by the Hillsboro School District, located south of Tualatin Valley Highway and west of 345th Avenue. The commission voted unanimously to approve the application with specific corrections and conditions, including a five‑year phasing timeline. Public Comments & Testimony - Larry Wright (2801 South Dogwood) opposed the project, arguing that without completion of 345th Avenue, the two existing roads (Dogwood and Alpine) cannot handle the additional traffic from 230 units (estimated 460 cars). He also expressed concern about construction traffic and speed bumps hindering traffic flow. - Timothy Pomeroy (2706 South Dogwood) opposed the project, raising concerns about the change from a planned high school to an elementary school, inadequate emergency services, potential damage to concrete streets from heavy equipment, and traffic congestion. He noted that 345th Avenue is not scheduled to open until phase three (around 2029). - Sam Dell Rumpel (448 South 28th) opposed the project, objecting to the reduced lot sizes west of 29th Street (R7 zoning) and requesting that lots match the existing 8,276‑square‑foot average. He also recommended restricting all construction vehicle traffic to 345th Avenue to avoid damage to concrete streets. - Stuart Kelsey (452 South 28th) opposed the project, emphasizing that without a left‑turn lane at 345th and TV Highway, residents will likely use 26th Avenue, worsening existing congestion. He called for better planning of ingress/egress. All four speakers opposed the development as proposed. Discussion Items - Staff Report (Ms. Freyer): Presented the project overview, applicable criteria, and corrections to the staff report (page 2: March 2 not March 3; page 33: 230 lots not 220; conditions of approval 13 and 27 clarified for phasing). The applicant requested a five‑year phasing window (option 2B) to allow for market conditions and to align with the city’s 345th Avenue improvements. - Applicant Testimony (Mimi Ducas, AKS Engineering): Described the project as a continuation of Laurel Woods, with a mix of detached and attached homes, alley‑loaded homes off collectors, a central park (71,000 sq ft of recreational open space vs. 69,000 required), and a mini‑roundabout at Dogwood and 345th. The applicant noted that the design reflects lessons learned from Laurel Woods, including traffic calming and parking solutions. - Traffic Impact (Todd Mobley): Explained that the adopted standards allow for congestion and that the 345th connection will reduce trips on 26th Avenue. The applicant committed to restricting land development construction traffic to 345th Avenue. - Construction Access (Paul Selke): Stated that concrete streets are stronger than asphalt and that heavy equipment will be routed via 345th, not through existing neighborhoods. - Commission Deliberations: Chair Waffle expressed disappointment about the lack of a high school but supported the project. Commissioners discussed the phasing option, with consensus to choose option 2B (five‑year extension) to provide flexibility. The motion included the staff‑report corrections. Key Outcomes - Motion: The planning commission voted unanimously (4‑0) to approve the Laurel Crown Type 3 conditional use permit (CUP 2025‑4), planned unit development (PUD 2025‑02), and subdivision preliminary plat (SUB 2025‑02) based on the findings in the staff report, public testimony, and evidence, with the following corrections: - Page 2, basic fact number 5: change from March 3 to March 2. - Page 33: correct lot count from 220 to 230. - Condition of approval 13: street names shall be noted on the final plat for each phase. - Condition of approval 27: within each phase, public streets must be constructed to city standards and substantially completed before building permits are issued for that phase. - Phasing: The applicant was granted the five‑year phasing option (2B) for submitting final plats. - Next Meetings: The commission scheduled a work session for March 24, 2026 (fourth Tuesday), and noted that no applications are currently pending for April. Future work sessions will focus on code amendments.

The meeting convened with the Cornelius Urban Renewable Agency (CURA) Board and then the regular City Council. The CURA Board elected officers, approved minutes, and received its first annual urban renewal report. The City Council adopted the consent agenda, recognized a 20-year employee, received updates on the Council Creek Regional Trail and police traffic data, discussed elected official training, appointed a budget committee member, proclaimed February as Black History Month, and heard council and mayor reports. Consent Calendar - CURA Board: Approved the minutes from May 5, 2025 and January 5, 2026. (Motion carried unanimously) - City Council: Adopted the consent agenda (items not specified) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either the CURA Board or the City Council meeting. CURA Board Elections - Chair: Councilor Lopez was nominated and elected unanimously to serve a one-year term as Chair. - Vice Chair: Board member Godinez was nominated and elected unanimously to serve a one-year term as Vice Chair. Urban Renewal Report (Presentation) - City Manager Brandon presented the first annual report on the urban renewal fund, which was established in 2019. The fund generated approximately $634,000 in 2025, including $48,000 in interest. The report covers nine taxing districts impacted by tax increment financing. No board questions followed. Recognition – Erica Martinez (20 Years of Service) - The City Council recognized Erica Martinez for 20 years of service to the city. She started in public works and later moved to City Hall as the first point of contact for customers. Councilors praised her kindness, dedication, and community support. Council Creek Regional Trail Update (Presentation) - Jonas Kalfkins, Senior Project Manager at Washington County, provided an update on the East-West corridor of the trail. Two projects: trail segments (RAISE grant) and crossings (Riffer grant). Design completed September 2024; awaiting Federal Highway approval for construction. Crossings design in progress, with an online open house planned for April 2026. Construction anticipated starting January 2027, with completion late 2027/early 2028. Councilors requested in-person options to address the digital divide and translation services. The county agreed to consider in-person events. Cornelius Police Report – Roundabout Traffic Data - Deputy Brian Appell presented crash data for the 19th Avenue and Davis Street roundabout (January 2022 – November 2025). No significant increase in crashes was observed; the roundabout appears to have improved traffic flow. Council noted the intersection was previously dangerous. Elected Official Resources and Training - City Recorder Rochelle reminded councilors of free ethics training from the Oregon Government Ethics Commission (OGEC) and League of Oregon Cities. She highlighted the Statement of Economic Interest (SEI) training in March with a filing deadline of April 15, 2026. A discussion on annual legal training versus every other year ensued; councilors preferred a mix of topics including mental health, empathy, and media training. The required public meeting law training is once per term. Budget Committee Appointment - The council unanimously approved the appointment of Samuel Del Rimple to Position 5 on the Budget Committee, term expiring December 2028, effective immediately. Proclamation – Black History Month - Mayor Delane read a proclamation declaring February 2026 as National Black History Month in Cornelius, encouraging residents to learn about Black history and support equity. Council Reports - Councilor Godinez: Reported on ICE actions in the community, urged residents to stay safe, sign up for Echo (Equity Corps of Oregon), and call 911 if in danger. - Councilor Sitlali: Shared personal experience with mental health, encouraged reaching out for help (988), and expressed gratitude for being alive. Mayor’s Report - Mayor Delane attended Attorney General Dan Rayfield’s town hall, noting tension in the last half hour. He urged community members to hold the appropriate agencies accountable and to stay safe during ICE operations. He expressed concern for long-term impacts on children and the community. City Manager Update - City Manager Brandon encouraged residents to apply for the 2026 Civic Leadership Academy (April cohort, applications open). The program is open to Cornelius residents, including high school juniors/seniors. Key Outcomes - CURA Board: Chair Lopez and Vice Chair Godinez elected. Minutes approved. - City Council: Consent agenda adopted. Budget committee appointment approved. Proclamation issued. - Decisions: Legal training to be offered every other year with alternative topics in off-years. In-person open house for trail crossings to be considered. - Next Steps: County to follow up on Federal Highway approval; council to complete mandatory ethics training; community to be informed of training and leadership academy.

The Cornelius Planning Commission convened on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the city council chambers. All four commissioners were present (Baker, Hinze, Owens, Waffle). The meeting consisted of an appointment interview and unanimous recommendation for Sam Dowrole to the planning commission and budget committee, followed by a public hearing and unanimous recommendation to approve a minor transportation system plan map amendment (CPMA 2025-1) that shifts a collector designation from South 29th Boulevard to Southwest 345th Avenue. Public Comments & Testimony - Sam Dowrole (appointment interview): A 30-year Cornelius resident (South 28th Avenue) and engineering manager with 25+ years in software. He expressed interest in serving on the planning commission and budget committee, citing recent local developments (Laurel Woods, Hillsborough school parcel) and a desire to help guide growth. He noted concerns about street bump-outs on 26th Avenue and Dogwood that could impede large vehicles like his 36-foot RV. - Sam Dowrole (public testimony during hearing): As an audience member, asked whether the originally planned 12-foot sidewalk connecting Laurel Woods to the railroad walking path would still be provided on 345th Avenue. Staff confirmed pedestrian and bicycle accommodations will be included in future design. Discussion Items - Appointment of Sam Dowrole: Commissioners questioned Mr. Dowrole on his vision for Cornelius, professional background, and hands-on construction experience (building a house with his family). No conflicts of interest were declared. The commission unanimously recommended his appointment to the city council, with the item to appear on the March 2 city council agenda (as noted by staff, due to publication deadlines). - Minor Transportation System Plan Map Amendment CPMA 2025-1: Staff (Barbara, Community Development Director) presented the proposal to remove the collector designation from South 29th Boulevard north of Dogwood Street and place it on Southwest 345th Avenue from Dogwood Street north to Tualatin Valley Highway. - Background: The original 29th collector was part of a 2014 grand bargain (House Bill 4068). The alignment became infeasible due to a significant grade differential with the railroad, railroad demands (lower tracks, close crossings), and escalating costs (from $7.1 million in 2023 to $14 million post-COVID, while only $6 million in transportation development funds were collected). A planned water tank site was also abandoned. Community outreach showed overwhelming support for opening 345th as an outlet. - Applicant testimony: Melissa Slotomaker (AKS Engineering, representing Holt Homes) emphasized that the shift is a common-sense improvement: it reduces conflicts with the rail line, provides better collector spacing (consistent with other collectors spaced 1,200–2,000 feet apart), uses land more efficiently, and removes an awkward collector-to-local connection (29th to Alpine Road). - Commissioner questions: Chair Waffle asked about lane widths for farm equipment; staff clarified that design details (lane width, bike lanes) are not part of this map amendment and will be determined later by the city engineer. Commissioner Owens declared ex parte contact (works at Yorchards Elementary on 26th Avenue) but no audience objection was raised. Commissioner Hinze noted attending prior city council discussions but felt no bias. Staff reiterated that the amendment does not preclude future local streets and is only a designation change. Key Outcomes - Unanimous vote (4-0) to recommend Sam Dowrole’s appointment to the planning commission and budget committee to the city council. The item will be on the March 2, 2026 city council agenda. - Unanimous vote (4-0) to recommend approval of the minor transportation system plan map amendment (CPMA 2025-1) to the city council. The motion was based on the staff report, findings, and testimony. The council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting the amendment by ordinance. - The next planning commission meeting is scheduled for February 24, 2026 at 7:00 PM in the council chambers, with no work session. The commission expects to review amendments to the municipal code in March.

The Cornelius Urban Renewal Agency Board and City Council held a combined meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, starting at 7:00 PM. The meeting began with the Urban Renewal Agency Board session, followed by the City Council regular session. Key actions included approving a minor amendment to the urban renewal plan for a parking study, passing a new parks master plan, updating the urban planning area agreement with Washington County, naming the Mariposa Causeway, and adopting several new policies on park shelter reservations, artificial intelligence use, and participation in the Bee City USA program. Several board and commission appointments were also confirmed. Both Chair Lopez and Councilor Nunez Barragon were excused from the meeting. Consent Calendar - Urban Renewal Agency: The board unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the December 1, 2025 meeting minutes. Motion by Mayor Dahlin, second by Board Member Vaughan. All in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - Urban Renewal Agency: No members of the public testified during the public hearing for Resolution 202601 (Urban Renewal Plan Minor Amendment). - City Council: No members of the public spoke during the public comment period for items not on the agenda. Urban Renewal Agency – Elections - Elections for the positions of Chair and Vice Chair of the Urban Renewal Agency Board were postponed to the February 2026 meeting. Members cited the absence of nearly half the commission and the Chair as reasons to hold the election when all members could be present. The decision to postpone was made without a formal vote. Urban Renewal Agency – Resolution 202601: Minor Amendment to Urban Renewal Plan - Discussion: Staff presented Resolution 202601 to amend the Urban Renewal District Plan to add a project related to parking. The amendment would allow for funding a parking study, which would assess current parking availability, inform future parking management strategies (e.g., time limits, designated lots), and coordinate with future redevelopment of the town center. Board Member Delane asked clarifying questions about the study's potential to identify dedicated parking areas and integrate parking with future redevelopment (e.g., below-grade or stacked parking). Staff confirmed the study would provide such information. - Outcome: The board unanimously passed Resolution 202601, approving the minor amendment to the Cornelius Urban Renewal Plan. Action takes effect immediately. City Council – Recognitions & Presentations - Employee Recognition: Staff recognized Carlos Martinez, Finance Analyst, for his five years of service. City Manager Ellie described his key role in finance: ensuring paychecks and invoices are processed, managing the P-Card system, assisting with cash receipts and utility accounts, and managing the citywide fixed asset database (critical for audits). He also compiles the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Council members expressed appreciation for his pleasant demeanor and the high output of the city's small staff. - PGE Update: Representatives from Portland General Electric (PGE) gave an update. They noted that PGE has filed for a rate reset but committed to keeping residential rate increases below inflation. Growth in electricity demand (driven by electrification, heat pumps, and data centers) is now 2.5–3.5% per year, while new transmission has not been built since the 1970s. PGE’s system now includes 500 megawatts of battery storage (10% of capacity), helping to reduce peak energy costs. In Cornelius, approximately 62% of eligible residents use PGE’s income-qualified bill assistance programs; PGE aims to raise that to 80%. The utility is prioritizing planning partnerships with the city and offered tours of its new Incident Operations Center. - Community Events Update: Itzel presented a summary of 2025 events and previewed 2026 plans. Notable 2025 successes included the Take Care of Cornelius Day (which partnered with Habitat for Humanity to build a fence for two households), the Farmers Market (relocated to the Grande Foods parking lot and featuring special events like a punk art market and car show), the Community Dinner (moved to the new Cornelius Elementary School, drawing large crowds), and the Tree Lighting (also at the new school, with 450+ crafts for children). New for 2026: an Emergency Preparedness Fair, a city-hosted State of the City event in the afternoon, and a larger 9/11 Memorial Ceremony for the 25th anniversary. A ribbon cutting for the Mariposa Causeway is planned for spring. City Council – Civic Leadership Academy Topic Ideas - City Manager Brandom proposed expanding the Civic Leadership Academy for 2026, funded in part by a Ford Family Foundation grant. He floated the topic: “How to envision the future of the Cornelius Boosters in changing times,” referencing declining volunteerism. Councilors discussed making the topic multi-generational, focusing on volunteer recruitment and civic engagement for the 20–40 age range and newer neighborhoods (e.g., Laurel Woods). Councilor Godinez expressed a desire to solicit community input via a Gazette poll, but Brandom noted logistical constraints. The consensus was to focus broadly on “volunteerism and civic engagement across generations and cultures.” City Council – Appointments to Regional Policy Bodies & City Boards/Commissions - The council approved several appointments and reappointments to various bodies: - Economic Development Commission: Reappointed Anthony Mendoza (Position 5, through 2028), Alma Lozano (Position 6, 2028), Robert Dixon (Position 7, 2028); appointed Maria Caballero Rubio (Position 8, 2028) and Cecilia Giron (Position 14, 2028). - Budget Committee: Reappointed Andrew Denley (Position 1, term expiring December 2028); appointed Janet Fleshman (Position 4, term expiring December 2027). - Planning Commission: Reappointed Reheaness (Position 1, through 2029). - Public Infrastructure Advisory Board: Reappointed Janet Fleshman (Position 5, through 2028). All motions passed unanimously. City Council – Hearings & Ordinances - Ordinance 2026-01 (Parks Master Plan): Staff presented the Parks Master Plan, a legislative amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. Park acreage doubled from 25.3 acres (2019) to 54.1 acres (2025). The plan identifies park-deficient areas and prioritizes new parkland acquisition. Councilor Vaughan asked why the plan wasn’t simply updated; staff explained the dramatic growth in acreage and demographic changes warranted a full rewrite. The public hearing had no testimony from the public. The council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance (first reading), waiving the second reading. - Ordinance 2026-02 (Urban Planning Area Agreement): Staff presented a new Urban Planning Area Agreement with Washington County, replacing the 1988 version. The map shows remaining unincorporated areas north of the city (industrial), area north of Council Creek (Metro park), and area east of TV Highway (mainly residential with a pocket of very low density residential for farm uses). The council voted unanimously to approve the ordinance, waiving the second reading. City Council – Resolutions - Resolution 2026-01 (Pedestrian Bridge Naming): Staff presented a proposal from the Public Infrastructure Advisory Board to name the pedestrian bridge in Laurel Woods the “Mariposa Causeway.” The bridge connects the west and east sides of the Laurel Woods neighborhood, is about 2,300 linear feet, and has enough freeboard to avoid flooding. Council unanimously approved the resolution. - Resolution 2026-02 (Water Park Booster Station Change Orders 11-18): Staff presented the final set of eight change orders (11–18) for the Water Park Booster Station, which is substantially complete. The council unanimously approved the resolution. - Resolution 2026-03 (Jacobs Work Order 22): Staff presented Work Order 22 with Jacobs Engineering for a risk and resiliency analysis and emergency response plan, required by the America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. The analysis is due June 30, 2026; the emergency response plan is due December 31, 2026. Council unanimously approved. - Resolution 2026-04 (Park Shelter Reservation Policy): The park shelter reservation policy was proposed to address increasing demand, especially at Mariposa Park. Key changes: a four-hour reservation limit during peak season (April 1–September 30), two weekend shifts (10 AM–2 PM and 3 PM–7 PM), and priority for Cornelius residents during January–March for peak season reservations. Concerns were raised about enforcement, but staff emphasized the policy aims to encourage equitable use rather than police residency. Council unanimously approved the resolution. - Resolution 2026-05 (Artificial Intelligence Use Policy): The policy provides guidance for city staff on responsible AI use, emphasizing transparency, equity, privacy, and that AI does not replace human judgment. It allows drafting routine documents and research but prohibits use with confidential information or for automated decisions affecting individuals. The IT committee and legal counsel reviewed it. Council unanimously approved. - Resolution 2026-06 (Bee City USA Program Application): The city manager proposed joining the Bee City USA program (run by the Xerces Society) to support pollinator conservation. Requirements include a standing committee (Public Infrastructure Advisory Board), planting pollinator-friendly vegetation, reducing pesticide use, and hosting education events. The annual fee is $200. The council unanimously approved the application. Key Outcomes - Urban Renewal Agency Board: Elections postponed to February 2026. Resolution 202601 (parking study amendment) passed unanimously. - Parks Master Plan (Ordinance 202601) and Urban Planning Area Agreement (Ordinance 202602) both approved unanimously. - Eleven board/commission appointments/reappointments confirmed for the Economic Development Commission, Budget Committee, Planning Commission, and Public Infrastructure Advisory Board. - Resolutions passed: Naming Mariposa Causeway, approving booster station change orders, authorizing Jacobs engineering contract, adopting park shelter reservation policy, adopting AI use policy, and applying to Bee City USA. - Council reports included reminders about immigration resources, signing up for ECHO alerts, and thank-yous to staff for community events.

The Cornelius Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 9, 2025, at 8:00 PM in the city council chambers. The meeting included approval of multiple sets of minutes, two public hearings on legislative comprehensive plan amendments, and a staff presentation on improving public testimony materials. All recommendations were made to the city council. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Five sets of planning commission minutes (June 24, August 12, September 9, September 23, and October 28, 2025) were approved unanimously. Commissioners were advised they could vote on minutes even if they did not attend those meetings. Public Comments & Testimony - Neither public hearing received any oral or written testimony from the public. No speakers appeared in person or online for either the Parks Master Plan or the Urban Planning Area Agreement amendments. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Amendment 2025-02 – Parks Master Plan: Staff presented a new Parks Master Plan to replace the 2009 plan. The plan provides a blueprint for the city's park system, which has doubled from 25 to over 54 acres since the last plan. Key changes include new community parks, pocket parks, trails, and a community center concept. Staff reviewed compliance with statewide planning goals (especially Goal 8 – recreation), Metro’s Urban Growth Management Functional Plan, and city comprehensive plan criteria. The plan includes extensive public engagement (surveys, community events, work sessions). Commissioners noted a typo (missing beginning year in a population growth statement) and expressed appreciation for the plan’s stewardship and risk management sections. No opposition was raised. - Comprehensive Plan Amendment 2025-03 – Urban Planning Area Agreement (UPAA): Staff presented an updated UPAA to replace the 1988 Washington County/Cornelius agreement. The new agreement clarifies jurisdictional boundaries within the urban growth boundary, corrects outdated designations (e.g., a cemetery still classified as industrial), and reflects annexations and growth since 1988. Staff noted the county is also amending the Forest Grove map to resolve a parcel split over natural resources. Commissioners discussed future efforts to expand the urban growth boundary through the state legislature. - Staff Presentation on Public Testimony Improvements: Staff introduced a draft handout and poster board aimed at helping community members understand how to provide testimony that addresses decision criteria. Ideas included a simplified “who we are” FAQ and application-specific criteria displays. Commissioners supported the effort, suggesting a debrief and addition of a FAQ section for those unfamiliar with quasi-judicial processes. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes: The five sets of minutes were approved unanimously. - Recommended Parks Master Plan (CPA 2025-02): The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the comprehensive plan amendment to the city council for adoption. - Recommended Urban Planning Area Agreement (CPA 2025-03): The commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of the updated UPAA to the city council, with a note about needed map cleanup. - Next Steps: The city council will hold public hearings on both amendments on January 5, 2026. Staff will refine the testimony materials for future meetings. Upcoming work sessions include a January 13, 2026 work session on code amendments and a January 27, 2026 hearing on a transportation system plan map amendment.

The December 1, 2025 meeting of the Cornelius City Council included a work session on emergency funding for immigrant communities, a quarterly strategic plan update, and a regular council meeting with recognitions, updates on the small business support center, ARPA expenditures, the Cornelius 2045 vision plan, and approval of a new intergovernmental agreement for fire services. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously, including routine approvals. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the council meeting. Recognitions & Presentations - Employee Recognitions: Mark Grigoli was recognized for 5 years of service in Public Works. Laura Christie was recognized for 30 years of service to the city, with special thanks from the Police and Fire Chiefs. - Chamber of Commerce Small Business Support Center Update: Cecilia Hiron reported that the center opened in May 2025, serves 4–5 people daily, and has provided over 90 one-on-one technical assistance sessions. She noted that nine local businesses reported revenue losses of 50–80% due to ICE enforcement activities. The center has partnered with over 20 nonprofits and government entities. - ARPA Expenditures Update: Assistant City Manager Ellie Jones reported that of $2.8 million in ARPA funds, $2.6 million has been spent, with $210,000 remaining. Key remaining items include a communications plan and rebranding. - Cornelius 2045 Vision and Action Plan Update: City Manager Peter Branham highlighted progress on all four goal areas: 14 actions under culture/community/diversity (including a new mural and youth advisory council), 10 actions under connectivity/accessibility (sidewalk projects, transit advocacy), 12 actions under parks/recreation (parks master plan update, pollinator gardens), and 15 actions under strategic growth/development (small business support, housing initiatives, emergency preparedness). Discussion Items - Emergency Funding Process (Work Session): City Manager Branham proposed allocating $10,000 each to Centro and Adelante Mujeres to support community members impacted by aggressive immigration enforcement. Funds would be restricted to Cornelius residents and cannot directly support undocumented individuals due to legal constraints. Council discussed monitoring, the need for mental health services, and safety concerns. Councilors expressed support for the general approach and emphasized the importance of safe documentation. The council also discussed an advocacy letter to state officials, with consensus to finalize it soon. - Quarterly Strategic Plan Update (Work Session): The new 2025–2028 strategic plan has four goals: economic development in the town center, civic engagement, staff/volunteer capacity, and community identity. Council discussed the need for community-driven initiatives, such as a CERT program and more accessible engagement opportunities like "cafecito con Cornelius." - Fire Services IGA (Resolution 2025-63): The council approved a new five-year intergovernmental agreement with Forest Grove for limited fire-related services (inspection, prevention, and major incident PIO support), replacing two legacy IGAs. The agreement includes clear termination and renewal terms. Council discussed lessons learned from the previous consolidation experiment and the need for performance metrics. - Committee Assignments: City Manager Branham reviewed potential assignments for council members to various regional committees, including Washington County Coordinating Committee, Greater Portland Inc. Small Cities Group, JPACT, CPAC, TV Highway Project Policy and Budget Committee, and Council Creek Regional Trail. Key Outcomes - Emergency Funding: Council gave general consensus to proceed with $10,000 allocations to Centro and Adelante Mujeres, with the city manager authorized to finalize agreements. The council also supported continued outreach to Virginia Garcia for mental health services and directed staff to consider data collection on incidents. - Strategic Plan: Staff will finalize an implementation tracker and report back regularly. The council endorsed the plan's direction. - Resolution 2025-63 (Fire IGA): Approved unanimously by a vote of 5-0. The new IGA takes effect immediately and runs through 2030. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Upcoming Events: The annual tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for December 5, 2025, at 5:45 PM at Veterans Memorial Park, followed by holiday music and activities at Cornelius Elementary School.

Note: The transcript states the meeting was held on Monday, November 17, 2025, but the provided metadata indicates the meeting date is November 14, 2025. This summary uses the metadata date. The meeting included a regular session, a work session, and a special meeting. The regular session began with the swearing-in of new Councilor Citlali Nunez Barragan, followed by public comments overwhelmingly focused on recent aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in Cornelius. After extended public testimony, the council moved to a work session to discuss community needs and possible responses. The evening concluded with a special meeting in which the council unanimously ratified a proclamation declaring a state of emergency. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted unanimously with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Numerous community members, educators, and advocates spoke about the impact of ICE enforcement. Key points included: - Megan Fitzgerald, a teacher at Echo Shaw Elementary, reported that students are experiencing trauma, parents are making emergency custody plans, and teachers are walking students to school because parents are afraid to leave home. She urged a state of emergency and allocation of funds to protect immigrant families. - Olivia Patricia Mendiano demanded that Flock cameras be turned off, alleging they are being used to share information with ICE. She cited constitutional and biblical references opposing the mistreatment of foreigners. - Alma also called for the removal of Flock cameras, stating they are being weaponized against the community. - Erica Diaz Tofayono, a district family resource coordinator, described witnessing ICE agents near schools and bus stops, and the daily fear experienced by families. She requested a state of emergency. - Robert Glover criticized the process of appointing Councilor Nunez Barragan, alleging it was pre-determined and based on DEI rather than qualifications. He resigned from the Planning Commission in protest. - Andreas Escalera expressed fear for his family's safety and questioned the limits of ICE authority, noting recent incidents of agents forcibly taking people from homes. - Sarah Jacques provided a list of actionable items for the city, including funds for detained individuals, rental assistance, and connecting families to resources. - Jorge Cisneros stated that the city is behind in addressing the issue and called for a community migration watch. He referred to ICE agents as "terrorists." - Carla Reyes, representing a civil rights organization, requested a state of emergency and civil rights monitoring. - Lopez Reyes, a community member and former Juntos coordinator, highlighted that fear is preventing families from accessing education resources, and that immigrants contribute billions in taxes and are essential workers. - Jacqueline Arzate Castañeda shared her personal story of fleeing the country at age eight and now, as a college student, working in an elementary school where children fear for their parents. She begged for a state of emergency. - Cassandra Arzate Castañeda, a public health student, called for a state of emergency and suggested that police should at least intervene to prevent impersonation of ICE agents. - Natalie Tahimarua spoke about the fear of racial profiling and the burden on older siblings if parents are detained. - Sherry, a community worker, emphasized the need for prevention rather than after-the-fact resources. - Ruthie Carlo from Indivisible Forest Grove shared solutions from neighboring cities, such as pamphlets to distinguish ICE from local police, and working with police to understand Oregon statutes. - Edgar Baker defended Councilor Nunez Barragan against Robert Glover's comments, stating she is a capable and engaged community member. - Laura Mannon, a longtime resident and educator, compared ICE tactics to the Gestapo and urged the council to do everything in its power. - Melissa Timm, an English language development facilitator, described incidents of ICE circling schools and taking parents, and called for proactive community organization. - Fernando Garis Vera, a former outreach worker, shared his experience with border patrol in Texas and urged the council to take action. - Josefina, a 20-year resident, speaking in Spanish, pleaded for help and asked the council to represent and protect the community. - Ayla Hoffler suggested using power of attorney for children, adoption, and educating the public about contributions of undocumented workers. She also proposed barricading school areas to protect children. Discussion Items - After public comments, the council moved to a work session on community needs. - City Manager Brandon provided context, noting the city's strategic plan and the 2016 resolution supporting inclusion. He outlined legal constraints and resources available. - Chief Coley discussed the difficulty of giving blanket advice on interactions with ICE, as each scenario is different. He clarified that Cornelius police do not use Flock cameras; two cameras placed by retail stores at the request of the Sheriff's Office were being removed. He also explained that federal agents are not required to identify themselves to local police, but officers would ask and would intervene in cases of egregious excessive force. - Council discussed potential uses of emergency funds: direct aid vs. organizational support. Councilor Lopez favored direct funds to nonprofits like Centro Cultural's Esperanza Fund. Councilor Vaughn stressed fiscal responsibility and transparency. Councilor Godinez Valencia emphasized the need for organization and coordination across jurisdictions. - Council unanimously expressed support for declaring a state of emergency. They discussed duration, settling on a date through the next council meeting (January 6, 2026) with the option to renew. Key Outcomes - Oath of Office: Citlali Nunez Barragan was sworn in as a new city councilor, filling a vacancy. She expressed her love for Cornelius and her commitment to the community. - State of Emergency: The council authorized a special meeting to ratify a proclamation. Resolution 2025-61 was passed unanimously, ratifying the mayor's proclamation of a state of emergency due to aggressive federal immigration enforcement. The emergency powers include redirecting city funds, suspending procurement procedures, implementing safety protocols, issuing multilingual communications, coordinating with partner agencies, and other measures authorized under city code. The state of emergency will remain in effect until terminated by the city council, with a target review at the January 6, 2026 meeting. - Police Actions: Chief Coley confirmed that two Flock cameras installed by private businesses at the request of the Sheriff's Office would be removed. The city will also explore posting images of Cornelius police officers in uniform to help community members identify legitimate law enforcement. - Resource Availability: The city will continue to update its website (Cornelius OR.gov) with immigration resources and will accept suggestions from the community. Councilor Godinez Valencia mentioned whistle packs and legal observer training with the ACLU. Councilor Nunez Barragan shared library and Centro Cultural resources.