Public Meetings - Forest Grove, Oregon

Meeting date: August 24, 2026, 7:23 p.m. The Forest Grove City Council met for a regular session after a summer hiatus. Council President Valenzuela led the roll call, resulting in a full council present (all six members). The meeting began with a land acknowledgment, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a proclamation designating September 11, 2026, as the National Day of Service and Remembrance in Forest Grove (read in English and Spanish by Council President Valenzuela). Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (6-0) without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Dale Feek spoke about two emails he sent to council: one on mutual expectations and another on Senator Merkley's Wildfire Smoke Emergency Declaration Act. He also mentioned a recent Chamber of Commerce meeting where an incident involving Senator McLean at the Forest Grove sewage treatment plant (verbal assault, glasses thrown, arrest) was discussed. He urged council to support Merkley's bill. - Carol Allery read a scripture from 1 Corinthians 2:6-10 and offered blessings to the council. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026-35 – Purchase of Property for Kyle Park Expansion: Parks and Recreation Director Lane reported that the city won a bid for two parcels (lots 400 and 401) adjacent to Kyle Park, totaling 19.73 acres, at a cost of $217,800 from park systems development charges. The parcels provide direct connection to the future park and the Forest Grove Loop Trail. Approved by roll call vote 6-0. - Resolution 2026-36 – Intergovernmental Agreement with Metro for Acquisition Funding: Director Lane stated Metro will reimburse $200,000 of the purchase price, leaving a net city cost of $17,800. Approved 6-0. - Resolution 2026-37 – Intergovernmental Agreement with Clean Water Services (CWS): Assistant Manager Kim Izal presented an updated IGA, notable for allowing the city to bill CWS for sewer/stormwater revenue collection (increasing city revenue) and changing sanitary sewer SDC allocation from 80% CWS/20% city to 96% CWS/4% city effective July 1, 2027. The change also allows 50-50 cost sharing for replacement of pipes 12 inches and greater, estimated to save the city $10–16 million. Approved 6-0. - Resolution 2026-38 – Legislative Priorities for League of Oregon Cities (LOC): City Manager Jesse VanderZanden presented five consensus priorities from a July 13 work session: public meetings law clarity, infrastructure funding, land availability/land use streamlining, 2027 transportation package, and full funding/streamlining for housing production. Approved 6-0. - Resolution 2026-39 – Labor Agreement with AFSCME: HR Director Brenda Camelli and City Attorney Emily Guimont presented a tentative three-year collective bargaining agreement (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2029), already ratified unanimously by AFSCME. Highlights: Year 1 – 2% market adjustment + 4% COLA; Year 2 – 3.75% COLA; Year 3 – 3.25% COLA. Additional changes include accelerated vacation accrual, enhanced longevity incentives, new public works positions, and a CDL reimbursement/repayment clause. Health insurance remains at 95% city contribution; a task force will explore alternatives. Approved by roll call 6-0. - Resolution 2026-40 – City Manager Performance Review Adoption: Discussion held in executive session on June 22; council adopted the review unanimously (6-0). - Resolution 2026-41 – City Manager Compensation: HR Director Camelli provided market comparables showing the city manager’s base compensation is 0.74% above market median and total compensation 1.79% above median. After discussion, Councilor Schimmel moved to amend the resolution to a 3.25% COLA increase (matching unrepresented employees), applied to both salary and vehicle allowance. The amendment passed 6-0, and the amended resolution was approved 6-0. Council Communications & Reports - Council President Valenzuela: Reported on library commission tour of the police station (encouraged support for police bond in November), a visit to Cornelius Library and the former Cornelius Elementary School site for a future community center, and the upcoming Public Arts Commission 20th anniversary celebration on September 26 (4–6 p.m. at the library). Also noted several members of the policy advisory board are not seeking re-election. - Councilor Falconer: Mentioned the Chamber’s Cornrose Fest on September 19. Expressed heartfelt condolences regarding a tragedy outside city limits over the weekend, thanking first responders. - Councilor Marshall: Praised Cody and staff for the summer recreation program; noted that Parks and Recreation Board agreed with option B for an upcoming work session; announced next council meeting will be held at the police station to give a tour; and that Linda Harrington will replace PRX as a liaison. - Councilor Martinez: Sister City Committee reported a student delegation from New Zeon (10 students, ages 12–13, plus teachers) will visit Forest Grove October 20 – November 1. Also noted that the rural fire board reported that the bond has allowed staffing two engines 87% of the time in June (up from 37%), improving emergency response. - Councilor Schimmel: ADC was on sabbatical; TV Highway Transit Committee will meet in Forest Grove on September 29; CCE met at the police station; he took a tour of the Emerald Trail with Director Lane and introduced Metro Councilor Miles Palacio. - City Manager Jesse VanderZanden: Reported on a tour with Congresswoman Bonamici of Eastside transportation projects; advertising for Economic Development Strategic Plan (proposals due Sept 1); Civics Academy sign-ups closing today (Aug 24); annual Community Open House tentatively scheduled for October 27; contract with David Evans and Associates to audit comprehensive plan; Public Works Admin Building remodel opened August 7, ahead of schedule and under budget; downtown on-street parking added 20 spaces; fire levy impact (87% two-unit staffing in June); East Side Park nearing completion. - Mayor Wenzel: Highlighted the field trip with Congresswoman Bonamici, noting $850,000 in federal funds and an additional $1 million pending; mid-block crossing on Rose Grove delayed to year-end due to electrical parts; Habitat for Humanity ribbon cutting for two homes; attended Toyama prefecture’s 30th anniversary of sister statehood; requested data on city spending on homelessness for SHS/Metro; will present at Westside Economic Alliance on Sept 17; reminded of September events (Cornroast, Chalk Art, Public Arts 20th anniversary). Expressed sorrow for the weekend tragedy in Gales Creek and offered support for affected families and first responders. Key Outcomes - All eight resolutions (2026-35 through 2026-41 and the consent agenda) were approved unanimously (6-0). - City manager compensation set at a 3.25% cost-of-living increase, retroactive to July 1, 2026, applied to base salary and vehicle allowance. - The city acquired 19.73 acres for Kyle Park expansion at a net cost of $17,800 after Metro reimbursement. - The AFSCME collective bargaining agreement was ratified, effective July 1, 2026. - The city will submit five legislative priorities to the League of Oregon Cities. - A new IGA with Clean Water Services was adopted, changing SDC allocation and enabling billing cost recovery. - The next council meeting will be held at the police station to provide a facility tour.

This work session was held to discuss the future operations of the Forest Grove Senior and Community Center following a notice from Centro Cultural that they will cease management after December 31, 2026. City staff and a consultant presented two operational models and recommended a hybrid approach where the city manages the facility in partnership with nonprofits. Council members provided input on outreach, data collection, staffing, and budget, and ultimately reached consensus to pursue the hybrid model. Discussion Items - City Manager Jesse Vanderzana opened the session, noting the connection to the Vision 2040 plan goals of a healthy and active community and community connection, specifically actions 3.3, 3.6, 3.7, 4.4, 4.6, and 4.2. - The two options presented were Option A (nonprofit operated and managed) and Option B (city operated and managed in partnership with nonprofits, called the hybrid model). Consultant Megan from the parks and recreation master plan team presented demographic and engagement data showing that 31% of the community is Hispanic/Latino, but only 6-13% of poll respondents were from that group, indicating a need for better outreach. She noted that across all demographics, the top desires were clean facilities, restrooms, and free/low-cost recreation. - Director of Parks and Recreation Ann Lane detailed the hybrid model transition: a do-no-harm first year, maintaining Monday-Friday 8am-4pm hours, honoring existing leases, and reclassifying a recreation coordinator to a recreation supervisor for on-site management. Additional staffing would include cross-training cashiers from the aquatic center and expanding custodial and landscaping support. Estimated budget impacts showed a net expense increase of $30,200, with revenues expected from expanded rents ($25,000) and programming ($10,000 net gain of $5,000). - Council President Valenzuela stressed the importance of reaching the Latino community, suggesting partnerships with Centro Cultural, Adelante, schools, and Pacific University for volunteerism and intergenerational programming. She noted the city has repeatedly struggled to engage this population and urged staff to incorporate these connections. - Councilor Falconer requested that demographic data collection include income and housing status, as renters often face disparities in access to recreation. She emphasized that polling results can be skewed toward homeowners and higher income groups, potentially missing the needs of vulnerable populations. The mayor and other councilors voiced agreement. - Councilor Schimmel asked about assurance of retaining current senior programming and whether the budget could absorb the $30,200 increase. Assistant City Manager Kim Ezel confirmed the current budget can absorb the costs, with any adjustments to be brought forward if needed or included in the next biennium budget discussions. Director Lane clarified that the recreation coordinator would be moved from City Hall to the center, improving public access, and that staffing ramp-up would be gradual. - The City Manager clarified that the city's current staff would be stretched across facilities but with cross-training and backfill for cashiers. The existing buildings are not compromised. Key Outcomes - Council reached unanimous consensus to move forward with the hybrid model (city-operated in partnership with nonprofits). This decision is independent of the quality of past service provided by the Forest Grove Senior Center Board and Centro Cultural, for which the Mayor expressed appreciation. - Staff will begin placing personnel at the center as early as October 2026 to learn operations and build relationships, aiming for a smooth transition when Centro Cultural’s management ends on December 31, 2026. - The first-year plan includes maintaining existing programs, honoring current leases, and expanding offerings gradually. Budget adjustments of $30,200 will be absorbed by the current general fund, with monitoring and possible future amendments.

The Forest Grove City Council met on July 13, 2026, at 7:08 PM. The meeting included a public comment, presentations on regional transit, housing, and tourism, and approval of multiple ordinances and resolutions. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved by a 5-0 vote with no items removed. Public Comments & Testimony - Dale Feek spoke on two topics: first, he expressed support for the Forest Grove Permanent Supportive Housing project, noting collaboration between the city and county. Second, he shared philosophical reflections based on Aristotle's ethics, urging the council to consider mutual rights and obligations, including keeping promises, telling the truth, and not interfering with others' pursuit of happiness. Discussion Items - Metro Update: Council President Juan Carlos Gonzalez (Metro) and new Metro Councilor Miles Palacios presented. Key updates included: - TV Highway Transit and Safety Project: $100 million raised locally, $150 million from federal government conditional on $50 million from the state. Construction expected spring 2028, service by 2030. - Housing Accelerator Fund: $5 million one-time grant program for technical assistance on housing production. Applications open summer 2026. - Supportive Housing Services (SHS) oversight: New Regional Policy Oversight Committee formed; 13 more meetings before renewal ballot. - Parks and Nature Levy: Expiring in 2028; current rate 9.6 cents per $1,000 assessed value ($28/year average, raising $19 million annually). Proposed adjustment of 2-3 cents for inflation and growth. - Regional Refresh Fund: Up to $5,000 per project for cleanups, graffiti abatement, etc. Only 12% of funds went to Washington County; no applications from District 4 in last year. Council encouraged staff to apply. - Tourism Update: Amanda Yakos (Chamber of Commerce) presented a vision to make Forest Grove a destination for overnight stays. Key points: leveraging wine country, sake brewery, historic downtown, and year-round events. Marketing strategy includes KPIs for accountability. Council expressed support and noted partnership opportunities with Pacific University. - Forest Grove Permanent Supportive Housing Update: Jill Chen (Deputy Director, Washington County Housing Authority) and Lisa Varen (Real Estate Division Manager) presented. The project at 3127 Pacific Avenue will provide 44 studios/one-bedrooms for people exiting homelessness. Partners include Central Cultural, Transcending Hope, Walsh Construction, Scott Edwards Architecture, and Care Oregon. Funding: $2.5 million pre-development loan from Housing Authority Board, plus 9% low-income housing tax credits and $4 million gap financing from the state, plus rental assistance. No local SHS funds needed. Project timeline: community engagement and design over next 6-8 months, building permit winter 2027, construction start fall 2027. Councilor Martinez asked about inclusivity; staff clarified residents are referred through coordinated entry but will be integrated into the community via services. Councilor Schimmel suggested community engagement with local agencies. Discussed potential variances (balconies, playgrounds) due to population needs. - Ordinance 2026-03: Amend the Comprehensive Plan Map to remove General Industrial designation from territory to be removed from urban planning area. Approved 5-0. - Resolution 2026-32: Approve intergovernmental agreement with Washington County for CDBG program administration for plan years 2027-2029, with option to extend to 2032. Approved 5-0. - Resolution 2026-33: Place a measure on the November 2026 ballot for general obligation bonds to finance a new police facility. Estimated cost $29.5 million, cost to average homeowner $193/year ($17/month). Currently facility built in 1977, 12,120 sq ft for 42 personnel, with 34 deficiencies. New facility would be 45% larger. Construction could begin early 2028, occupancy 2029. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 5-0. - Ordinance 2026-03: Approved 5-0. - Resolution 2026-32: Approved 5-0. - Resolution 2026-33: Approved 5-0. - Directives: Council encouraged staff to apply for Metro's Housing Accelerator Fund and Regional Refresh Fund. City manager reported on upcoming events: BBQ with the Blue (July 18), National Night Out (August 4), police facility tours during farmers market (August 5), Civics Academy applications open August 3, community open house tentatively October 27. Public works improvements: parking added 20 spaces downtown, new wayfinding signs, East Side Park under construction, Rosegrove mid-block pedestrian crossing underway, Northwater transmission line connection completed. Library: record book sale ($6,900) and 1,362 summer reading signups. Council recessed until after summer break.

The Community Enhancement Program (CEP) Committee met on July 13, 2026 at 6:03 PM. The meeting included presentations from five grant recipients, discussion on the 2026-27 grant cycle, and approval of a new funding allocation. Chair Juan Carlos Gonzalez presided over his final meeting before becoming Metro Council President. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting via a motion by Councilor Falconer, seconded by Councilor Martinez. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were provided. Presentations American Legion Washington Post 2 - Veterans Tribute Park - Speakers: Tim Rippe (Chair, Forest Grove Veterans Action Network), Dale Fowler (Commander, American Legion Post 2), Miguel Camacho (Place Landscaping Services, via phone). - Project: A tribute park honoring all six military branches, focusing on service and sacrifice rather than specific wars or individuals. Future expansion to include first responders is under consideration. - Status: Four sites identified at three parks; public preference is Thatcher Park. Final design expected in August, with presentations to the Parks and Recreation Commission in September and City Council in October. An Oregon Department of Veterans Affairs grant application is due in January 2027. - Funding: The CEP grant covers design; construction will require fundraising and possibly city master plan funds. - Questions: Councilor Schimmel asked about community engagement geography; the presenters noted they have not tracked survey respondent locations. Forest Grove Elks Lodge Backpack Program - Speakers: Danielle, Heather, Nicole (program representatives). - Project: Provides food bags to students in the Forest Grove School District. Since January 26, 2026, they have distributed 2,678 bags to 129-146 students weekly, including 14 students with dietary restrictions and McKinney-Vento (houseless) students. - Volunteer Hours: 556 hours since late January. - Donations: $8,197 in food, $243 cash, $1,087 from a 50-50 raffle. - Expenditure: $10,346.84 of the $20,000 grant spent; on track for the year. - Outlook: Funds will last through January 2027; applying for additional grants and donations. Pacific University Longhouse Project - Speaker: Erica Andrew (Associate Director of Development for Grants). - Project: A community gathering space conceived by students for cultural expression. - Status: Raised $20,000 from the CEP committee and $14,000 from the community. Submitted nearly $300,000 in grants—all declined. Two outstanding requests for $35,000. Timeline is uncertain due to fundraising challenges and political climate around DEI. - Comment: Councilor Winslow expressed hope for future success, acknowledging shifting political tides. St. Vincent de Paul Utility Assistance Program - Speaker: Dave Wirtz (President). - Project: Provides utility assistance (specifically Forest Grove Utility) and food pantry services. - Expenditure: $11,314 paid since January 1, 2026, averaging $419 per household (range $77-$834). - Status: On schedule; grant funds will last the year. The program also supports food costs due to increased food prices. Forest Grove Cornelius Chamber of Commerce - Small Business Incubator - Speaker: Unnamed representative. - Project: Provides free business coaching and resources to entrepreneurs. In the past year: served 300+ entrepreneurs, delivered 100+ one-on-one coaching sessions, 15 business trainings, and launched 21 new businesses throughout the region including Forest Grove, Cornelius, and beyond. - Languages: Services available in English and Spanish. - Growth: New clients primarily come through word of mouth. - Comment: Councilor Schimmel shared that his daughter was an early beneficiary and praised the program. - Question: Councilor Martinez asked for a breakdown of businesses by city; the presenter agreed to provide it. Discussion Items 2026-27 CEP Grant Program Approval - Presenters: Assistant City Manager Kim Ezel, Stephanie, Joyce. - Overview: CEP is funded by $1 per ton of waste disposed and $0.50 per ton of putrescible waste. Eligibility requires projects to be within the Forest Grove School District boundary or benefit its residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and local governments. Funds cannot replace other sources and projects must be non-sectarian. - Funding Options: The committee debated whether to award grants this cycle or wait to accumulate funds. With approximately $46,500 available this year (and $100,000 anticipated next year), the committee decided to award three one-year grants of $15,000 each ($45,000 total), leaving a small balance. - Process: Applications will be accepted August 3 – September 11, 2026. Committee members will score and rank applications online from September 14-28. The top 3-5 applicants will be invited to present on October 12, 2026. Presentations will be 7-8 minutes with 2-3 minutes for Q&A. The committee also discussed ensuring grants benefit Forest Grove directly. - Consensus: The committee agreed on the process and ranking approach. Key Outcomes - Approved: Three $15,000 CEP grants for the 2026-27 cycle, to be awarded after presentations on October 12, 2026. - Approved: Timeline and evaluation process, including online scoring by committee members and ranked-choice voting to select top applicants. - Next Steps: Staff will begin advertising the grant cycle immediately; applications open August 3, 2026.

The Forest Grove City Council held a work session on July 13, 2026, to discuss two main topics: the city's top five legislative priorities for the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) and the Urban Renewal Agency's (URA) next steps for three developable properties. No public comment was taken, and no formal action was approved during either session. Discussion Items LOC Legislative Priorities City Manager Jesse presented background on the LOC process: every even-numbered year, member cities submit their top five policy priorities, which are tallied to form the LOC's advocacy agenda for the upcoming legislative session. Staff conducted an internal poll and recommended the following five priorities: 1) Transportation package and infrastructure funding, 2) Land availability and land use streamlining, 3) Public meeting law clarity, 4) Support municipal cybersecurity proficiency, and 5) (tied) Full funding and streamlining for housing production. Councilors shared their individual lists. Councilor Schimmel initially deferred to staff's recommendations. Councilor Falconer included housing production, land availability, water/wastewater infrastructure, transportation, and public meeting laws. Councilor Martinez agreed with staff. Councilor Marshall included transportation, infrastructure, land availability, public meeting laws, and housing production, but also expressed interest in alcohol revenue modernization. Mayor Wenzel noted that the fifth priority was a point of debate: staff's fifth was cybersecurity, but several councilors preferred full funding and streamlining for housing production. Councilor Falconer argued that cybersecurity was vague and that housing production directly aligns with the city's 2040 action plan and housing needs. Councilor Martinez emphasized cybersecurity's importance given AI and hacking threats. Mayor Wenzel noted two council members were absent and asked if the group wanted more time to research. Councilors agreed to decide that day. Councilor Schimmel changed his vote from cybersecurity to housing production. Councilor Marshall proposed alcohol revenue modernization instead. After a show of hands, the mayor declared a 3-2 consensus in favor of replacing cybersecurity with full funding and streamlining for housing production. The final five priorities are: 1) Transportation package, 2) Infrastructure funding, 3) Land availability and land use streamlining, 4) Public meeting law clarity, and 5) Full funding and streamlining for housing production. The city manager will submit these to LOC by September 25. Urban Renewal Agency Work Session: Properties and Marketing Pathways Assistant City Manager Kim and City Manager Jesse presented an overview of three URA-owned properties: Site B (1 acre, sloped, two failed RFPs for a grocery store), the Woodfold lot (2 acres, with month-to-month leases for storage buildings and food carts), and the theater building (town center core, requiring retail on ground floor, with potential for a boutique hotel of 14–31 rooms, but needing seismic and HVAC improvements). The presentation covered URA milestones (established 2014, debt issued twice, $7.27M of $15M maximum indebtedness used), case studies from Beaverton and Bend, and financial metrics: annual revenue $1M, annual debt service $577k, $370k for grant programs, $175k for operations, and $1.5M in unappropriated fund balance. Two hypothetical scenarios were discussed: (1) if the boutique hotel feasibility study recommends $2M in incentives, and (2) if the grocery store study shows insufficient capacity to attract a downtown grocery store. Councilor Falconer asked about city code barriers (e.g., height restrictions, floor area ratios) that may increase incentive requirements and suggested proactive code changes. Councilor Marshall asked if the URA could level Site B to make it more marketable (staff confirmed site preparation is an eligible use). Councilor Falconer also noted the decoupling of Pacific and 19th streets study could affect developer interest. The board discussed pausing some grant programs (e.g., storefront improvement) to focus resources on these properties. The mayor expressed openness to flexible development options beyond the original grocery store and boutique hotel visions. Key Outcomes - LOC Priorities: Council reached consensus on the top five priorities (see above). The city manager will submit the final list to the League of Oregon Cities by September 25, 2026. - URA Properties: Staff received direction to proceed with marketing assistance, particularly for the theater/boutique hotel property, including engaging a real estate professional to develop an offering memorandum and identify market barriers. Staff will also update the grocery store feasibility study and complete the boutique hotel feasibility study. A second work session is planned for August 2026 to review feasibility studies and discuss development pathways, including potential incentives, code changes, and site preparation. No formal action was taken at this meeting.

The Forest Grove City Council held a work session on June 22, 2026, covering three major topics: transient lodging tax (TLT) program updates, downtown placemaking options, and ballot language for a police facility bond. No formal action was taken, but council provided direction to staff on each item. Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) Work Session - Assistant City Manager Kim Ezel presented background on TLT, including legislative changes allowing up to 50% of local TLT revenue to be used outside direct tourism promotion and facilities. Forest Grove's TLT rate is 3.5% (total 14% with state and county). Revenue has been steady around $140,000 annually, but with the rate increase and expected higher collections, FY2026 revenue is projected at $180,000–$200,000. Currently, $100,000 has been collected in eight months. - Current TLT-funded programs: Public Art ($11,000 annually), Capital Grant ($2,500 per grant, low usage), Tourism Sponsorship ($45,000, popular, with $12,000 per organization cap), and Tourism Marketing ($44,000–$45,000 contract with the Chamber of Commerce). - Council discussed sunsetting the Capital Grant program due to lack of applications and rolling its $11,000 annual funding into the Tourism Sponsorship program. Council reached consensus to sunset the Capital Grant program and merge it with sponsorship. - Council also discussed creating a new event series funding subset within the Tourism Sponsorship program, allowing up to $20,000 per year for a series (defined as at least three events of same type, day, time, branding, target audience, and location). Councilors raised questions about location flexibility, eligibility for athletic tournaments, and balancing funding between single events and series. Staff will return with a resolution to formalize the program changes. Downtown Placemaking Work Session - This was the second work session on placemaking. Staff recapped council direction from previous meetings: prioritize parking code enforcement, wayfinding signs, retain parking limits, central city lot improvements, and a 15-minute parking stall pilot. Seven options for a festival/event location were presented, narrowed from ten. - Community outreach included meetings with Adelante, a downtown business forum (30 attendees), and the Chamber of Commerce. Stakeholders emphasized expandability, visibility, pedestrian safety, and minimizing business impacts. They expressed concerns about permanent street closures but were reassured about temporary closures for events. - Council discussed the prioritization of locations: 21st between Main and College, College Way North, College Way South, and the central city lot with alley closure. Some councilors supported starting with a smaller area (21st between Main and College) and expanding later. The final consensus was to maintain the priority of the four locations (21st/Main/College, College Way North, College Way South, and central city lot) for event programming. Council emphasized that this is an iterative process and that next steps include creating a standardized event permit packet and traffic safety plans, and pursuing funding for infrastructure improvements. Police Facility Bond Ballot Language Work Session - Staff presented the ballot language for a general obligation bond not to exceed $29.5 million for a new police facility. The language is nearly identical to the May 2025 measure that failed. The proposed levy rate is lower (in the 60 cents per $1,000 assessed value) due to lower interest rates. - Council reviewed the four required elements: caption (10 words: "General obligation bonds to replace the current police facility"), question (20 words: "Shall Forest Grove issue general obligation bonds not to exceed $29.5 million in principal amount for a new police facility?"), summary (175 words), and explanatory statement (500 words). Council reached consensus on all four elements without changes. - Staff provided a communications update: press release issued June 10, news articles, social media, farmers market booth, station tours, National Night Out on August 4, and Barbecue with the Blue on July 18. Councilor Falconer suggested emphasizing that the cost remained the same due to construction cost increases, not lack of scaling back. Staff will send calendar invites. Key Outcomes - TLT: Council directed staff to sunset the Capital Grant program and roll its funding into the Tourism Sponsorship program. Staff will develop a resolution for event series funding and bring back proposals for program adjustments, including potential percentage-based allocations. - Downtown Placemaking: Council reached consensus to prioritize the four locations (21st between Main and College, College Way North, College Way South, and central city lot with alley closure) for temporary event closures. Staff will develop a standardized event permit program, traffic safety plans, and seek funding for infrastructure improvements. - Police Facility Bond: Council approved the ballot language (caption, question, summary, explanatory statement) without changes. Staff will bring a resolution to the July 13, 2026 council meeting for final approval. Communications efforts continue with community engagement events.

The Forest Grove City Council met on Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:04 PM. The meeting included a proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month, volunteer awards, a parks and recreation update, and public hearings on a comprehensive plan amendment and utility rate increases. All votes were unanimous (7-0). Proclamation and Awards - The council proclaimed July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month in Forest Grove. - The Parks and Recreation Commission recognized the Gales Creek Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for volunteering at Thatcher Park: 47 volunteers planted 500 bare root dogwood trees in spring 2026 and spread wood chips in summer 2025. - The commission also recognized 50 students from Forest Grove Community School and their teachers and six parent volunteers for hands-on contributions to Thatcher Park this spring. Public Comments & Testimony - Dale Feek, a resident since 1966, spoke on three topics: - Data centers in Oregon, noting a webinar on June 24 from 6-7:30 PM about electricity demand, climate, and noise pollution. He stated that Green Data Center is paying for two transformers and transmission lines to get at least 40 megawatts of power. - An email from Tom Herman to Washington County commissioners about election security concerns, urging residents to register and vote early. - An email from Timothy Snyder describing current governance as "superpowered suicide." - No testimony was given during public hearings for the ordinance or resolutions. Discussion Items - Parks and Recreation Commission Annual Report (Joe Offer, Chair): - The commission meets at 7 AM on the second Wednesday of each month. - Major projects reviewed: East Side Park (ground broken), Forest Grove Loop Trail master planning, aquatic center renovation, and the PROS Master Plan. - Community engagement highlighted: trail development and fire danger mitigation were top interests. - New commissioners: Peter Truex (school board rep), Ben Burns (full term), Kelly Thompson (2-year term), Lauren Miller (1-year term). One seat will open next year. - Parks and Recreation Director Update (Ann Lane): - PROS Master Plan: Identified in Vision 2040; last updated in 2016. Contract awarded to Matrix Consulting Group in March 2026; project kicked off in June 2026. Will include assessment of all system assets, Lincoln Park Agreement review, aquatic and senior center viability, and feasibility of a multi-use recreation facility. Final plan to be adopted by council ordinance. - East Side Park: Approximately 8 acres near B Street Storage; design includes pond-like aesthetics. Naming will involve community input, possibly through local schools. - Forest Grove Loop Trail: Trail alignment map complete; next steps include final design and securing funding. Estimated cost for Kyle Park (8-acre site) is $8.84 million (February 2026 estimate). - Kyle Park: Land donated in 2007; master plan grant awarded September 2022; final design completed August 2025. Public open house showed strong interest in the bike-focused design. Construction documents are next, pending funding. - Council Communications: - Council President Valenzuela shared a presentation on community development block grant accomplishments, including housing projects and infrastructure (e.g., senior center restroom repairs, Cornelius roundabout). - Councilor Falkner reported confirmation to the Land Conservation and Development Commission; first meetings this Thursday and Friday. - Mayor Wenzel proposed changing the timeline for selecting MYAC representatives to the NLC conference to October, and exploring a chaperone agreement with Hillsboro. - City Manager Jesse provided updates: new Finance Director Kathy Huber Nickerson (30 years experience); Heather Street/Mountain View Lane closed June 16 for emergency water intertie project; College Way water main replacement to complete mid-July; Fun for All Fund awarded $9,000 from 40 applications; police station tours on June 27. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0. - Ordinance 2026-03 (Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment): First reading approved 7-0; public hearing continued to July 13, 2026. Removes 2.6 acres from Forest Grove's general industrial designation to allow Cornelius to annex the parcel. - Resolution 2026-28 (Water Rates): Approved 7-0. Establishes a 3% increase effective July 1, 2026; average residential increase of $1.24 per month. - Resolution 2026-29 (Sewer Utility Rates): Approved 7-0. 3% increase; average residential increase of $2.29 per month. - Resolution 2026-30 (Surface Water Management Rates): Approved 7-0. 3% increase; average residential increase of $0.41 per month. - Resolution 2026-31 (Clean Water Services Rates): Approved 7-0. Accepts CWS increases: sewer 4%, surface water 4%, sewer SDC 2.7%, SWM SDC 2.7%. Average combined utility increase across all fees: $3.94 per month. - Executive Session: Council convened a closed session under ORS 192.660(2)(i) to evaluate the city manager's performance; no decisions made.

The Forest Grove Planning Commission met on June 13, 2026, to conduct a public hearing on a city-initiated amendment to the Forest Grove Comprehensive Plan. The proposal would remove the General Industrial plan designation from 2.6 acres of property currently in the Forest Grove Urban Planning Area and add it to the Cornelius Urban Planning Area, facilitating future annexation into Cornelius. The commission also approved meeting minutes, heard a director's report on upcoming projects, and set the July 20 meeting date. Consent Calendar - The planning commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting via voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment Period: No members of the public provided comment during the general public comment period (Zoom attendees were unable to raise hands due to technical issues; none spoke). - Public Hearing Testimony: The chair called for testimony in favor, opposition, and neutral. No one signed up or spoke in any category. The public testimony portion was closed. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment: Staff presented a city-initiated amendment to remove the Forest Grove General Industrial Plan designation from a 2.6-acre portion (part of a 17-acre parcel) located northeast of the 24th Avenue Industrial Area and east of U Street. The area is to be withdrawn from the Forest Grove Urban Planning Area and added to the Cornelius Urban Planning Area. The action follows the adoption of the Urban Planning Area Agreement (UPAA) amendments by City Council on April 13, 2026. The decision criteria include Oregon Statewide Land Use Planning Goal 2 (minor plan amendment) and ORS 190.010 (intergovernmental cooperation). - Commissioner Questions: Commissioners asked about the impetus for the change, which stemmed from developmental interest timing with countywide UPAA updates. The portion in Forest Grove is largely undevelopable (floodplain, slope, wetlands). Without the amendment, the parcel would be bisected, requiring a partition for annexation by both cities. The property is privately owned and currently unincorporated. Commissioner Ellis expressed hesitation due to lack of information about future development (e.g., potential data center), but acknowledged the action simplifies jurisdictional boundaries. - Director's Report: Community Development Director introduced new Planning Commissioner Autumn King and new Assistant City Manager Kimmy Zell. He provided updates on: - TV Highway Access Management Plan: Property owner outreach to begin August 2026; aims to consolidate 38 driveways to reduce collisions. - Housing Capacity Analysis (state-mandated): Currently 33% complete; will come as a legislative amendment with a work session. - Housing Production Strategy: To follow within a year of the capacity analysis. - Legislative changes (HB 2138, HB 4037, SB 974) affecting housing review processes; a work session planned for early fall, with code amendments in winter. - Next meeting date: July 20, 2026 (moved from July 6 due to holiday). Key Outcomes - Motion Passed: Commissioner Birdall moved to recommend that the Forest Grove City Council adopt an ordinance implementing the comprehensive plan map amendment. Commissioner Farrell seconded. The motion passed unanimously (7-0) via roll call: Commissioners Anderson (yes), Birdall (yes), Chair Ellis (yes), Farrell (yes), Rivera (yes), King (yes). - Minutes Approved: Voice vote unanimously approved the previous meeting minutes. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for July 20, 2026.

The Forest Grove City Council met on June 8, 2026, to recognize a long-time volunteer, adopt three proclamations, approve several intergovernmental agreements and resolutions, and receive updates from council members and the city manager. All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless otherwise noted. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, comprising routine items, was approved unanimously (7-0) by motion of Councilor Martinez and second by Council President Valenzuela. No items were removed for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Dale Feek spoke during public comment, expressing support for the three proclamations (Juneteenth, Gun Violence Awareness Month, Pride Month) and thanking the council for including a Spanish translation. He then read a lengthy statement from Robert Roush criticizing the Trump administration and calling for high voter turnout in the 2026 midterm and 2028 presidential elections to strengthen democracy. - No other members of the public or Zoom attendees offered comment. Proclamations - The council read and adopted three proclamations: - Juneteenth – Proclaiming June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth in Forest Grove, marking the 160th anniversary of the end of slavery in the United States. - Gun Violence Awareness Month – Designating June 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness Month and urging community collaboration to reduce gun violence. - Pride Month – Proclaiming June 2026 as Pride Month, recognizing the LGBTQ+ community and calling for inclusivity and acceptance. - All proclamations were approved without separate votes. Discussion Items - Library Cooperative Operating Agreement (Resolutions 2026-23 and 2026-24): - Library Director Colleen Winters presented two resolutions for a five-year cooperative governance agreement (2026–2031) between Forest Grove and Washington County on behalf of WCCLS. Key changes include updated terms, baseline service levels, service boundaries, and a funding formula that increases Forest Grove's contribution by 24% in the first year (from $1 million to $1.24 million). The city must approve by June 30, 2026, to avoid disruption of library services. Councilor Schimmel commented on the importance of cooperative work. Both resolutions were approved 7-0. - IT IGA with Tigard (Resolution 2026-25): - Assistant City Manager Kim Ezel presented a partnership with the City of Tigard for IT services, valued at $144,000, funded by the city's information systems fund. The agreement is expected to save the city approximately $96,000 compared to a private firm. Councilor Gustafson praised the creative solution to long-standing IT staffing challenges. The resolution was approved 7-0. - Mid-Biennium Budget Transfers (Resolution 2026-26): - Kim Ezel explained that the resolution adopts budget committee-recommended transfers for the 2025–27 biennium. The budget committee unanimously recommended approval on May 12 and 19, 2026. A roll call vote resulted in unanimous approval (7-0). - Solid Waste Rate Increase (Resolution 2026-27): - City Manager Jesse reported that Metro is increasing the solid waste tipping fee from $162.14 to $176.70 per ton, effective July 1, 2026. Waste Management proposes passing only this increase through, with an average rate increase of 3.5% (ranging from 2% to 4.5% depending on fee type). Recycling fees remain unchanged. The resolution was approved 7-0. Council & City Manager Reports - Council Communications: Several council members reported on recent meetings and activities, including the library commission, policy advisory board, Chamber of Commerce, EDC, and a celebration for Carlos Gonzalez's election as Metro President. Councilor Schimmel noted support from the Chamber for the police facility bond. - City Manager Report (Jesse): - Senators Merkley and Wyden requested $2.96 million for the TV Highway project in the Senate appropriations bill; the House request is $1 million. Reconciliation will determine final amount. - Washington County is holding an open house on June 11, 2026, regarding the Highway 47, Fern Hill, and Maple intersection redesign; construction could begin as early as 2027. - The city approved a letter of intent for a $20 million FEMA BRIC grant; staff will submit it May 2026. - The public works building is ahead of schedule (completion by end of July vs. August). - The annual pavement overlay and curb ramp project was advertised June 3; bids due June 2026. - Fire department staffing improved from 35% to 94% readiness (29 of 31 days in May) thanks to levy-funded positions. - The city pool reopened May 26 ahead of schedule after renovations. - Daybreak Rotary Club partnered with parks to beautify the north entrance sign. - Mayor’s Announcements: - Noted upcoming ODOT summer projects with major closures in the Portland area. - Recognized Annie Gough (Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council member) as recipient of the Friends of the Library Scholarship. - Encouraged attendance at the Washington County open house (June 11), the Habitat for Humanity fundraiser, and the Boarding Commission volunteer thank-you reception (June 18). Key Outcomes - All resolutions (2026-23 through 2026-27) were approved by a unanimous 7-0 vote. - The city manager is authorized to sign the library cooperative agreements, the IT IGA with Tigard, and the solid waste rate adjustments. - The meeting adjourned to a work session on enterprise zones. Additional Notes - The meeting included a land acknowledgment, Pledge of Allegiance, and recognition of a 38-year volunteer, Mr. Hatch. - The consent agenda was approved without discussion. - No public hearings were held; the public hearing item was converted to a discussion due to no contested issues.