OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Astoria City Council Regular Meeting - October 7, 2025

City Council & Commissions — Tuesday, October 7, 2025
BodyAstoria, Oregon
SessionCity Council & Commissions
DateTuesday, October 7, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 1:48:27

Transcript — Verbatim
0:24

Good evening and welcome to the Monday, October 6th, 2025 meeting of the Australia City Council.

0:31

For the record, the time is 6 p.m.

0:33

Mr.

0:34

Spence, if you could lead us in the pledge, please.

0:41

Pledge allegiance to the flag to the United States of America.

0:46

And to the republic for Miss Anne's one nation, God.

0:57

Well, thank you for joining us all this evening.

0:59

It's been a long five weeks since our last regular meeting.

1:03

Good to see everyone here.

1:05

We have three proclamations to do as soon as we uh as soon as I in order ask our city manager to do our roll call.

1:15

So Mr.

1:15

Spence, the roll call, please.

1:16

Counselor Adams.

1:18

Here.

1:19

Oh sorry, Councilor Davis here.

1:21

Councillor Mazzarella.

1:22

Here.

1:23

Counselor Long.

1:26

Here.

1:27

So our first proclamation is for Latin American Heritage Month.

1:32

And Norma Hernandez is here.

1:36

Was here, there she is, uh, to join us this evening to receive the proclamation.

1:40

What we do is we uh have the counselors join in.

1:44

I will read the first whereas, and this week we will have Councillor Davis read the second, Councilor Mazzarella will read the third, and so on.

1:53

So whereas the period from September 15th through October 15th is recognized across the United States as a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latin American communities, and whereas the people whose heritage traces to Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and other Latin American regions represent a vibrant and diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and identities, including indigenous Afro-Latinx and non-Spanish speaking communities, and whereas the term Latinx or Latin Latin, Latinx, I don't even know how to pronounce that correctly.

2:32

Here I am, is increasingly used by many to reflect a more inclusive and self-defined identity, acknowledging that the term Hispanic was originally created by the U.S.

2:41

government and does not resonate with all members of our community.

2:44

And whereas the United States has always drawn strength from the contributions of diverse peoples and Latin American communities have played a vital role in shaping our national history and whereas Latinx residents of Clatzap County enrich our region as entrepreneurs, educators, artists, public servants, and community leaders, and their cultural heritage strengthens the social and economic fabric of our county and whereas we honor the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Latinx communities and affirm our commitment to equity, visibility, and celebration of all who call this region home.

3:21

Now, therefore, the City Council of the City of Australia, Oregon, does hereby declare September 15th, 2025 through October 15th, 2025, as Latin American Heritage Month in the City of Australia, and we call upon public officials, educators, and all residents to observe this month with meaningful ceremonies, educational activities, and community programs that celebrate the generations of Latinx individuals who have positively influenced and enriched our city, state, and nation.

3:55

This is where you applaud.

4:13

Sure.

4:14

Thank you so much.

4:15

And thank muchas gracias a todos.

4:18

And it is um great pride that it brings me here.

4:23

It is with great pride that I can represent our community.

4:27

And hopefully one day we will not have to just have one month to celebrate that we are so all integrated that we don't have to really remind people that we're here.

4:38

One day it could be just very um the flow will be very seamless, and we will still be here.

4:45

And now more than ever, we'll be in the other side of the block, just looking at you, making sure that everybody's here treating equally, and that we are remembered and respected, and to remind everybody we are part of this community, but we are very happy and honored that you uh chose to really celebrate with us.

5:04

Thank you.

5:12

I wanted to thank Norma for her personal contributions to the community over the past 20 years.

5:16

You've you've been fantastic, and we love having you join us here.

5:19

I'm so happy that you see guys not tired of me of telling you or me complaining about you need to do this, and you need to do that.

5:26

So I'm gonna take it for now.

5:28

Well, and you know that Mr.

5:30

Spence is not wearing a tie.

5:31

So yes, you see that I'm that is my doing, yes.

5:36

Yes, you are welcome.

5:40

Thank you, thank you so much.

5:42

Thank you.

5:51

And next up, something a little more serious, and that is domestic violence awareness month.

5:56

And we have Laura Parker from the county here with us to receive the proclamation.

6:02

I'll start with whereas the first domestic violence month was observed in October 1987, the same year that saw the initiation of the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline.

6:15

And in 1989, Congress designated October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

6:21

And whereas domestic violence is a pattern of assaultive and coercive behaviors, including physical, psychological, sexual, and economic abuse, social isolation and stalking that are used to maintain power and control over a person's intimate partner, and whereas the crime of domestic violence violates an individual's dignity, privacy, security, safety, and basic human rights, and victims should have help to find the compassion, comfort, and healing they need.

6:50

And whereas one in three women and one in four men in the United States experience rape, physical violence, and or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime.

7:01

Domestic violence is the single largest cause of injury and homicide for women.

7:07

And whereas approximately 15.5 million children are exposed to domestic violence every year.

7:14

Children exposed to domestic violence experience terror, isolation, guilt, helplessness, and grief, and have a higher risk of engaging in criminal behavior and substance abuse and becoming victims of crime.

7:26

And whereas domestic violence impacts the health and well-being of our community, and whereas it is incumbent on every citizen to play a role in preventing and ending domestic violence.

7:37

Now, therefore, be it here by resolved that the City of Astoria City Council does hereby proclaim October 1st, 2025 through October 31st, 2025, as domestic violence awareness month in the city of Astoria.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Community Engagement█████████████████████████25%
Procedural████████████████16%
Water And Wastewater Management██████████10%
Public Safety████████8%
Homelessness██████6%
Affordable Housing█████5%
Disaster Preparedness████4%
Economic Development████4%
Utility Assistance████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Astoria City Council Regular Meeting - October 7, 2025

On October 7, 2025 (meeting called to order at 6:00 PM and adjourned at 8:38 PM), the Astoria City Council held a regular meeting in the 2nd Floor Council Chambers at 1095 Duane Street. The council issued three proclamations, approved the consent calendar, and voted unanimously on three regular agenda items: a lease amendment for Recology, adoption of the Combined Sewer Overflow Integrated Plan, and a new Utility Assistance Pilot Program. Councilor Vance Lump announced his resignation effective November 1, 2025, citing inability to afford housing in Astoria. Public comment included requests for park maintenance and strong concerns about public safety. The council also entered executive session to consult with legal counsel and then voted to remand a land use appeal (Magie Appeal) to a hearings officer.

Proclamations

  • Latin American Heritage Month: Proclaimed September 15 – October 15, 2025. Norma Hernandez of Consejo Hispano accepted and spoke about inclusion and community visibility.
  • Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Proclaimed October 2025. Laura Parker from Clatsop County Juvenile Department highlighted survivor support and distributed purple awareness pins.
  • Great Oregon Shakeout: Proclaimed October 16, 2025 as Great Oregon ShakeOut Day. Fire Chief Dan Crutchfield encouraged earthquake preparedness drills.

Reports of Councilors

  • Councilor Andy Davis: Reported on constituent concerns about homelessness, attended Harbor’s “Soup Bowl” benefit, flagged potential impacts of FEMA BiOp on coastal communities.
  • Councilor Andrea Mazzarella: Received many emails on vacant homes and housing affordability; attended League of Oregon Cities Centennial Conference.
  • Councilor Elisabeth Adams: Attended League of Oregon Cities Conference and Northwest Oregon Housing Summit; recognized educator Malcolm van Meer; announced upcoming library listening session.
  • Councilor Vance Lump: Announced resignation effective November 1, 2025, due to Astoria’s expensive housing market—his home’s price increased by 161% since purchase, and no rental in Ward 4 was affordable (one-bedroom average rent over $1,400/month). Urged action on housing crisis.
  • Mayor Sean Fitzpatrick: Attended employee appreciation lunch, reported on downtown issues (encampments hurting businesses), highlighted Elks Lodge losses, recognized Coast Guard support during federal shutdown.

Consent Calendar

  • Approved unanimously (5-0) with motion by Councilor Adams, second by Councilor Davis.
  • Items included: approval of four sets of City Council meeting minutes (June 16, June 23, July 7, July 21, 2025); Parks Advisory Board minutes (August 27, September 24, 2025); updated intergovernmental agreement for Oregon Records Management Solution (ORMS) consulting services; additional services requests for library renovation ($10,278); contract with Goserco, Inc. for dispatch center recording system.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Lisa Morley (Alderbrook Neighborhood) questioned whether the Utility Assistance Pilot Program would require other ratepayers to subsidize costs if demand exceeded the $25,000 budget. Staff clarified the amount is already in the current budget; expansion would require future rate discussion.
  • Kim Supple (Uniontown Association) requested permission to clean and maintain the Uniontown Maritime Memorial Park and to decorate the Doughboy Monument for the 2025 holiday season.
  • Mary Hadreas (speaking for herself and Tom Hadreas) expressed strong concerns about downtown safety, describing multiple incidents involving homeless individuals, drug use, and threats to residents. Urged council to adopt enforceable laws to protect the community.

Discussion Items

  • Authorization to Amend Recology Western Oregon Lease Area (Item 8a): City Manager Scott Spence explained Recology requested an additional 18,000+ sq. ft. east of the transfer station to meet Oregon’s Recycling Modernization Act requirements. Councilor Davis asked about current use of the parcel; staff said it contains unused storage and an old shed to be cleaned up. Council discussion minimal. Motion by Councilor Mazzarella, second by Councilor Lump, passed 5-0.
  • Adoption of Astoria Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) Integrated Plan (Item 8b): Staff reported $25 million already spent since the 1990s with 80–90% of outfalls addressed; remaining work estimated at $25–30 million. The plan extends the Phase Five deadline from 2028 to 2044, reducing rate burden and allowing more time for grants. Councilor Davis expressed support. Motion by Councilor Adams, second by Councilor Mazzarella, passed 5-0.
  • Approval of Utility Assistance Pilot Program (Item 8c): A six-month pilot providing an ~10% discount for households at or below 30% of area median income (e.g., family of four must earn under $28,900/year). Budgeted at $25,000, administered by Clatsop Community Action (CCA) for $1,250 (5% administrative overhead). Council discussion emphasized low income threshold, seniors outreach, potential future tiered support. Public comment by Lisa Morley asked about ratepayer subsidy. Motion by Councilor Davis, second by Councilor Lump, passed 5-0.
  • FEMA BiOp and Regional Impact (New Business): Councilor Davis sought direction on supporting signatory letters and possible financial contribution to legal/lobbying efforts. Straw poll: council supported being a signatory (4 yes, 1 not stated) but hesitant on financial commitment without more information.
  • Revisiting Camping Ordinance (Mayor’s Request): Mayor Fitzpatrick asked council to consider revisiting the camping ordinance, citing negative feedback. Councilor Mazzarella and Councilor Lump expressed opposition; Councilor Adams wanted to first meet with service providers; Councilor Davis said it depends on specific action. No formal vote; discussion deferred.

Key Outcomes

  • Recology Lease Amendment: Approved 5-0.
  • CSO Integrated Plan: Approved 5-0; extends deadline to 2044.
  • Utility Assistance Pilot Program: Approved 5-0; program to run for six months starting after setup.
  • Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0.
  • Magie Appeal (Post-Executive Session): Council voted 5-0 to remand the matter to a new hearings officer to conduct a hearing and develop findings. Motion by Councilor Davis, second by Mayor Fitzpatrick.
  • Councilor Resignation: Councilor Lump will resign November 1, 2025. Council to appoint a replacement within 60 days; will consider candidates in Ward 4.
  • Future Meetings: October 27 work session with community partners; November 24 work session on city charter; December discussion on transportation and traffic safety advisory committee.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening and welcome to the Monday, October 6th, 2025 meeting of the Australia City Council. For the record, the time is 6 p.m. Mr. Spence, if you could lead us in the pledge, please. Pledge allegiance to the flag to the United States of America. And to the republic for Miss Anne's one nation, God. Well, thank you for joining us all this evening. It's been a long five weeks since our last regular meeting. Good to see everyone here. We have three proclamations to do as soon as we uh as soon as I in order ask our city manager to do our roll call. So Mr. Spence, the roll call, please. Counselor Adams. Here. Oh sorry, Councilor Davis here. Councillor Mazzarella. Here. Counselor Long. Here. So our first proclamation is for Latin American Heritage Month. And Norma Hernandez is here. Was here, there she is, uh, to join us this evening to receive the proclamation. What we do is we uh have the counselors join in. I will read the first whereas, and this week we will have Councillor Davis read the second, Councilor Mazzarella will read the third, and so on. So whereas the period from September 15th through October 15th is recognized across the United States as a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latin American communities, and whereas the people whose heritage traces to Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and other Latin American regions represent a vibrant and diverse tapestry of cultures, languages, and identities, including indigenous Afro-Latinx and non-Spanish speaking communities, and whereas the term Latinx or Latin Latin, Latinx, I don't even know how to pronounce that correctly. Here I am, is increasingly used by many to reflect a more inclusive and self-defined identity, acknowledging that the term Hispanic was originally created by the U.S. government and does not resonate with all members of our community. And whereas the United States has always drawn strength from the contributions of diverse peoples and Latin American communities have played a vital role in shaping our national history and whereas Latinx residents of Clatzap County enrich our region as entrepreneurs, educators, artists, public servants, and community leaders, and their cultural heritage strengthens the social and economic fabric of our county and whereas we honor the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Latinx communities and affirm our commitment to equity, visibility, and celebration of all who call this region home. Now, therefore, the City Council of the City of Australia, Oregon, does hereby declare September 15th, 2025 through October 15th, 2025, as Latin American Heritage Month in the City of Australia, and we call upon public officials, educators, and all residents to observe this month with meaningful ceremonies, educational activities, and community programs that celebrate the generations of Latinx individuals who have positively influenced and enriched our city, state, and nation. This is where you applaud. Sure. Thank you so much. And thank muchas gracias a todos. And it is um great pride that it brings me here. It is with great pride that I can represent our community. And hopefully one day we will not have to just have one month to celebrate that we are so all integrated that we don't have to really remind people that we're here. One day it could be just very um the flow will be very seamless, and we will still be here. And now more than ever, we'll be in the other side of the block, just looking at you, making sure that everybody's here treating equally, and that we are remembered and respected, and to remind everybody we are part of this community, but we are very happy and honored that you uh chose to really celebrate with us. Thank you. I wanted to thank Norma for her personal contributions to the community over the past 20 years. You've you've been fantastic, and we love having you join us here. I'm so happy that you see guys not tired of me of telling you or me complaining about you need to do this, and you need to do that. So I'm gonna take it for now. Well, and you know that Mr. Spence is not wearing a tie. So yes, you see that I'm that is my doing, yes. Yes, you are welcome. Thank you, thank you so much. Thank you. And next up, something a little more serious, and that is domestic violence awareness month.

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