Public Meetings - Tualatin, Oregon

The meeting began with a pledge of allegiance led by Councilor Reyes, followed by public comment (none offered) and the consent agenda. Special reports featured updates from Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) on youth services at PlanBeck Gardens and from Clackamas County on supportive housing services. General business included approval of advisory committee appointments. Council communications covered regional transportation, staffing shortages, and a proposed letter to ODOT. Consent Calendar - Regular meeting minutes of February 9, 2026 – approved unanimously. - Resolution 5944-26 – exempting specific affordable housing developments from property taxes – approved unanimously. - Resolution 5945-26 – authorizing the city manager to execute a grant agreement for Metro Area Communications Commission grant awards, appropriating special purpose revenues in the city's general fund for FY 2025-26 and rescinding Resolution 5942-26 – approved unanimously. Discussion Items - CPAH Grant Presentation – Catherine Moore (Director of Programs) and Julie Luna Dominguez (Resident Service Coordinator) reported on PlanBeck Gardens: 116 units fully leased, 300 residents (over 100 children under 18). They described youth services, events (e.g., Halloween party, field trips planned for kayaking and zoo), and partnerships (Sherwood School District, Neighborhood Health Center, Horizon Church). Councilors expressed pride and support; Councilor Brooks asked about volunteer opportunities and transportation barriers. Julie noted a request to Ride Connection for a shuttle for seniors/disabled residents. - Clackamas County Supportive Housing Services Update – Vahid Brown (Deputy Director) presented data: Since 2021, 2,871 people housed (exceeding the 10-year goal of 1,065 PSH placements and 2,130 household stabilization goal). The $73.5 million budget includes permanent supportive housing (PSH), eviction prevention, shelter (238 beds), rapid rehousing, and outreach. Retention rate for PSH is 95%. Innovations include a 23‑hour crisis stabilization center (opened late 2025), a Housing for Success program (economic empowerment with matched savings), and city‑led initiatives (Tualatin Food Pantry received a $250,000 grant for HVAC/refrigeration). Councilors praised coordination and flexibility; Councilor Hiller noted the program’s success and asked about serving Tualatin residents (the coordinator said all services are available via Coordinated Housing Access, phone 503‑655‑? – number was partially given). Councilor Brooks asked about university partnerships and funding volatility. - Advisory Committee Appointments – Councilor Reyes presented recommendations from the council committee: Budget Advisory Committee – Gerardo Sanchez Velasquez (adult) and Teddy Shacknardis (student); Tualatin Parks Advisory Committee – Beth Dittmant and Nisha George; Core Area Parking District Board – Gary Harborman. Motion to approve was seconded and passed. - Council Communications – Councilors reported on various meetings: - Councilor Pratt: New recvan, linear park construction near PlanBeck, Knife River takeover at former site, PCARD policy revision, West Coast library literacy program, new volunteer coordinator, SoulSmart bronze designation (energy-efficient permitting). - Councilor Sacco: WRWC meeting on Willamette intake facilities and drought report; no quorum at IDEA committee; ethics training. - Councilor Hiller: WCCCA board budget – understaffed by 80 employees, overtime costs, concerns about city cost increases; thanked TriMet’s John for connecting with PlanBeck Gardens; volunteered to work on 103rd/IBac intersection stop sign issue. - Councilor Brooks: National League of Cities conference attendance; titanium committee; REAL kickoff; Arts Advisory Council selecting finalists for bus wraps; women’s caucus for LOC; early childhood leaders peer network; proposed a transportation advisory committee (supported by others; directed staff to scope for a future work session). - Mayor Bubenik: JPAC meeting – Metro’s 2023 RTP amendment to include 82nd Ave, TV Highway, and Montgomery Park projects; Metro passed USDOT review; high-speed rail project (Portland–Seattle–Vancouver, BC) in planning; Metro’s future vision update (50‑year outlook). Washington County Mayors selected Mayor Beach Pace (primary) and Mayor Lacey Beatty (alternate) for Metro’s Regional Policy and Oversight Committee. - Council President (unspecified speaker): Participated in TriMet Line 96 test ride (no stops, so time not reflective); Clackamas County Metro subcommittee on regional transportation options; Metro supporting regional economy (Portland lost jobs – one of 5 of 50 metro areas); League of Cities legislative updates; proposed letter to ODOT supporting funding for I‑5 Boone Bridge Environmental Planning with an added request for auxiliary lanes from Tualatin exit to Wilsonville. Council consensus to support the letter with that amendment. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. - Advisory committee appointments approved unanimously. - Council directed staff to scope a possible transportation advisory committee for a future work session. - Council agreed to support a letter to Senators Wyden and Merkley and Representative Salinas requesting ODOT funding for the I‑5 Boone Bridge project, with an added paragraph requesting auxiliary lanes. - All other items (reports, communications) received no formal vote but were acknowledged.

This work session covered two agenda items: an update on the city website redesign project and a discussion regarding the future of the Honey Bucket business operating in a light manufacturing zone. The council reviewed the website staging environment and deliberated on potential pathways for Honey Bucket to remain at its current location. Discussion Items - Website Redesign Update: Megan George, Deputy City Manager, and Heidi Stanley, Creative Communications and Marketing Program Manager, presented the progress of the website redesign project. The project is within budget at approximately $105,000 of the authorized $150,000. The staging environment was demonstrated, featuring improved search functionality, hover states, translated options via Google Translate, and dedicated pages for parks, police, and library. The council noted the integration of meeting minutes and agendas is still under development. Council members expressed positive feedback and requested beta testing volunteers. - Honey Bucket Business Discussion: Aquila, from Community Development, presented the background. The business has been operating in a light manufacturing zone since October 2024, and a code interpretation found the use (solid waste treatment and recycling) not allowed. A voluntary compliance agreement is in place, holding enforcement in abeyance pending council direction. Council considered two options: a text amendment to allow conditional use in light manufacturing, or a zone change from light manufacturing to general manufacturing for the specific property. Council members expressed concerns about changing light manufacturing zoning, which serves as a buffer between industrial and residential areas. Honey Bucket COO Jason Perry answered questions, confirming that a waste tank had been removed and operations are now largely indoors, with wastewater directly dumped at Clean Water Services. Councilor Brooks and others opposed opening light manufacturing to conditional uses, citing potential impacts on community health and environment. Mayor Bubenick suggested exploring a zone change to general manufacturing for the two lots (Honey Bucket and adjacent landscaping company). Councilor Gonzalez and Councilor Reas supported this approach. Councilor Hillier expressed openness to the zone change idea but wanted to understand staff impacts. Councilor Sacco opposed changing zoning for future unknown businesses. The general consensus was to allow Honey Bucket to pursue a zone change application from light manufacturing to general manufacturing. Key Outcomes - Website Redesign: The project is on track for launch; beta testing will be offered to council members. Staff will follow up with an email for volunteers. - Honey Bucket: Council directed staff to work with Honey Bucket to initiate a zone change application from light manufacturing to general manufacturing. The voluntary compliance agreement will remain in effect during this process. No formal vote was taken; the direction was a general consensus.

The Tualatin City Council met on February 9, 2026, to discuss a range of topics including proclamations for the Vietnamese Lunar New Year and the Employee of the Year, a presentation from TriMet on proposed service cuts and budget deficits, updates from Just Compassion and the Backyard Habitat Certification Program, the Juanita Pohl Center Advisory Committee annual report, and approval of the 2026 Council Priorities and Actions. The meeting also included public comment and council communications. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved: work session and regular meeting minutes from January 26, 2026, a new liquor license application for Ancestry Brewing, and Resolution No. 5942-26 authorizing a Metro Area Communications Commission grant agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - Catherine Ball, a resident of Plan Back Gardens, expressed concerns about the proposed cuts to Line 76 and Line 96, including reduced frequency, longer travel times affecting her daughter's school commute, and bus reliability issues. She requested more frequent service and asked how to submit a petition to the council. Discussion Items - Proclamation – Vietnamese Lunar New Year Celebration Day: Council recognized February 21, 2026, as Vietnamese Lunar New Year Celebration Day, presented by Councilor Brooks. - Employee of the Year Presentation: Sherilyn presented the 2025 Employee of the Year award to Frank Butler, Network Administrator, highlighting his contributions to the city's technology infrastructure. - TriMet Budget and Service Cuts Presentation: Sam Desou Jr., General Manager; JC Venetta; Tom Mills; and Board Member Robert Kellogg presented TriMet's $300 million budget deficit and proposed 10% service cuts by July 1, 2028. Proposed cuts include eliminating Line 97 (Tualatin-Sherwood Road) and modifying Line 76 and Line 96. They offered revised proposals to save Line 97 by connecting it with Line 38 and reducing Line 94 frequency from 20 to 30 minutes. Council members raised concerns about access to county seats, youth transportation, low ridership metrics, and the need for needs assessments. TriMet noted that 35% of riders are transit-dependent. - Just Compassion Overview: Michael Austin, Deputy Director, provided an overview of services including street outreach, shelters, eviction prevention, and a safe parking program. He noted that 30-40% of shelter residents are employed but face housing debt barriers. - Backyard Habitat Certification Program Annual Report: Program Manager Catherine reported over 100 participants in Tualatin (20 acres enrolled, 2,300 native plants installed), with environmental benefits valued at over $5 million regionally. - Juanita Pohl Center Advisory Committee Annual Report: Supervisor Sarah Shepard reported 16,525 program participants in 2025 (27% increase over 2024), a 400% meal program participation increase since city takeover, and 83% of participants paying the requested $5 donation. Committee Chair Susan Nowak emphasized the center's role in reducing social isolation. - 2026 Council Priorities and Actions: Sherilyn presented the mid-cycle update with minor revisions to outcomes and actions across seven categories. Councilor Brooks requested adding an action for clear communication on policy decisions regarding legislative advocacy. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously. - 2026 Council Priorities and Actions: Approved with the note to rephrase action 1.1 to "best practices including from other cities." Further discussion on legislative communication was deferred to the February 23 work session. - TriMet: Council committed to continued advocacy for transit service and to share feedback with TriMet, including bus reliability issues and the need for better youth and low-income transit access. - Council Communications: Councilor Brooks reported on meetings with Representative Walters, the CCAA interviews, CAC evaluations of the Civitas report, and attendance at the regional transportation briefing (R1 Act), where projects like Boone Bridge and Highway 99 were noted as priorities. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting adjourned to executive session without returning to open session.

The Tualatin City Council held a work session on January 26, 2026, primarily to discuss the Clear and Objective Code Update project aimed at revising the Tualatin Development Code to comply with Oregon Revised Statutes 197A.400. The presentation was led by Madeline Nelson (Planner) and Teresa Montalvo (Planning Manager). The council also received the city manager's report and conducted round table discussions on various topics including TriMet service cuts and a proposed transit feasibility study. Discussion Items - Clear and Objective Code Update Overview: Staff reviewed the purpose of the project, which is to audit and update development code to use clear and objective standards (numeric, measurable) to reduce barriers to housing. An audit identified issues such as conditional use permits for multifamily/retirement in low-density residential zones, discretionary language (e.g., "private entry area"), and access management standards with city manager discretion. The project timeline aims for formal adoption by end of calendar year 2026. - Policy Question 1 – Two-Track System vs. Adjustment Process: The council discussed whether to replace the existing two-track (clear & objective vs. discretionary) system with a single set of standards plus an adjustment process (a staff-level deviation from specific standards). The Planning Commission recommended maintaining the two-track system for most applications but piloting an adjustment process only for multifamily housing. Council concurred, noting the discretionary track is rarely used and an adjustment process would provide flexibility without a full overhaul. - Policy Question 2 – Multifamily Standards: Follow-up on whether to create a new two-track for multifamily. Planning Commission advised creating a single set of clear and objective standards for multifamily and piloting the adjustment process there. Council agreed, seeing it as a manageable pilot. - Policy Question 3 – Multifamily and Retirement in Low-Density Residential (RL) Zones: Discussion on whether to allow multifamily and retirement housing by right in RL zones (currently requiring a conditional use permit). Planning Commission recommended prohibiting them in RL zones for now, but revisiting via broader zoning changes in the future. Council concurred, citing concerns about neighborhood scale and infrastructure, and interest in future comprehensive planning for senior housing. Council also noted that middle housing (duplex, triplex, quadplex) is already allowed in RL zones per state law. - TriMet Service Cuts: Council discussed a draft letter to the TriMet Board of Directors expressing opposition to proposed service cuts, especially the 96 line affecting Plan Beck Gardens. Council approved sending the letter with an additional sentence specifically mentioning Plan Beck Gardens residents' reliance on the route. - Transit Feasibility Study: Mayor reported on a meeting with Lake Oswego, West Linn, and Sherwood to explore a feasibility study for a next-generation transit district using technology and flexible routing. Council supported allocating $30,000–$40,000 in the next budget and directed City Manager Sherilyn to lead the effort, including an intergovernmental agreement. Councilor Hillier requested inclusion of youth voice in the study. - Other Reports: City Manager reported on the January 25 fire at Tualatin Community Park rustic shelter (insurance process underway), Clean Water Advisory Commission budget and forensic audit follow-up, and budget season kickoff. Councilors gave updates on various committee meetings, including the Chamber of Commerce, regional water providers, arts advisory committee, liquor license/parking committee, and legislative updates from JPAC and Senator Merkley's open house. - Transgender Day of Visibility Proclamation: Councilor Sacco proposed adding a Transgender Day of Visibility proclamation to a March 2026 agenda. Four councilors expressed support, so it will be added. Key Outcomes - Council approved the Planning Commission's recommendations on all three policy questions for the Clear and Objective Code Update: maintain two-track system for most uses, create a single set of clear and objective standards for multifamily with an adjustment process pilot, and prohibit multifamily/retirement by right in RL zones (with future study). Draft code amendments are expected in late spring/early summer 2026. - Council approved sending the TriMet letter with the amendment regarding Plan Beck Gardens. - Council endorsed pursuing a multi-city transit feasibility study and directed staff to include funding in the upcoming budget and to involve youth perspectives. - Council supported adding a Transgender Day of Visibility proclamation to the March 2026 agenda. - The work session concluded with a break; the regular city council meeting resumed at 7:05 PM local time.

The Tualatin City Council met on January 26, 2026, at 8:00 PM. The meeting included a proclamation for Black History Month, public comments regarding PGE transmission line construction on Stafford Road, approval of the consent agenda, and special reports from Tualatin Valley Pride and Republic Services. Proclamation - Black History Month Proclamation: Councilor Brooks read a proclamation declaring February 1–28, 2026, as Black History Month, recognizing the 100th anniversary of the first national observance and encouraging reflection on African American history and contributions. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council approved the work session and regular meeting minutes of January 12, 2026. - Resolution 5941-26: Authorized the city manager to execute a deed acquiring the Gertz Construction Company property for a public right-of-way. - Vote: Unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Chris Paul (private citizen, ADEA committee member): Spoke as a private citizen, emphasized emergency preparedness and the value of loving one's neighbor. Urged community engagement and noted that Jesus would attend city council meetings. - Ed Wagner and Kelly Bartholomew (Safe Stafford Road organizers): Opposed PGE's high-voltage transmission line project along Stafford Road. They stated that 258 trees would be removed, poles would be 100–130 feet tall (average new height), and the project violates the urban reserves IGAs. They asked the city to file an injunction to stop construction until legal appeals (LUBA) are resolved. - Wanda Lichtenberg (Stafford Road resident): Opposed the project, citing environmental damage, wildfire risk (referencing 2020 Oregon fires), lack of water resources, and a prior two-hour fire response time. Mentioned Portland City Council's unanimous denial of a similar PGE project in Forest Park. - Jim Walker (Stafford Road resident): Opposed the project, arguing that 112 kV transmission lines are industrial and unsafe for a residential area. Cited research showing failure risk increases 10,000% at wind speeds over 60 mph. - Keith Okerstrom (Stafford Road resident): Opposed the project, citing aesthetic damage to the Willamette Valley views, property value loss, and the importance of the IGA for protection. - Joe Raddy (Stafford Road resident): Opposed the project, alleging PGE lacked transparency, poles are graded for higher voltage than stated, and safety concerns for nearby homes, a church, and a school. Asked if the county informed the city; City Attorney confirmed notification on August 26, 2025. - Lenille van der Mullen (Safe Stafford Road member): Opposed the project, stating property values could drop 30–40%, and cited a fire caused by a PGE transponder explosion that burned for two hours. Accused PGE of deceit and asked the council to resist. - Susan Vandenberg (Stafford Road resident): Opposed the project, noting four poles will be 70 feet from her home, creating fire hazard and property value loss. Discussion Items - Mayor's Response: Acknowledged public comments, noted emails from mayors of West Linn and Wilsonville, and stated the city attorney is coordinating with other city attorneys. No resolution was reached. - Special Report – Tualatin Valley Pride (Kit Laura Lee, Andy Duttinger, Rachel Grime): Presented on the organization's mission to create community for LGBTQ+ residents. Received $400 from an outside agency grant for outreach and marketing for the 2026 Pride event on May 31, 2026. Planned to use funds for a reusable banner. - Special Report – Republic Services (Cindy Rogers, Travis Comfort): Presented the 2024 annual report. Key statistics: 6,000+ households served 12 times per month (2.5% increase over 2023); 9,000 tons of residential material collected (1.5 tons per household); 12,722 commercial tons (4% decrease); 8,573 industrial hauls (22,000 tons); $13 million+ revenue, $275,000+ franchise fees paid; $5.4 million disposal expense, $2.4 million labor. Bulky waste event: 240 vehicles, 29 tons. Los Casitas cleanup: 3.14 tons. New electric trucks complement climate action plan. Updated recycling guide distributed. Discussed Recycling Modernization Act (effective July 2025), contamination reduction, and battery recycling legislation. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously. - No Action on PGE Project: Mayor noted ongoing discussions with other cities; no injunction or formal decision was made. - Republic Services Report: Received and acknowledged; no rate increase requested. - Council Communications: Councilor Hillier noted temporary removal of the prescription drug drop box at the police department due to floor repairs; expected to return in a few months. Council President Pratt thanked the police force for de-escalation and trauma-informed training. - Adjournment: Motion carried unanimously.

The Tualatin City Council held a work session on January 12, 2026, the first of the new year. Agenda items included a summary report from the December 2025 Board and Committee Summit, a detailed update on 2025 city council priorities, discussion and pre-approval of recurring proclamations for 2026, a proclamation request for Vietnamese Lunar New Year, and council member round table updates covering regional transportation, housing, and community events. Board and Community Summit Summary Report - Deputy City Manager Megan George presented the summary of Tualatin's first-ever Board and Committee Summit, held December 10, 2025 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Juanita Pohl Center. Of 58 invited attendees, 37 attended (excluding council and staff). All permanent boards/committees were represented except the Core Area Parking Board. - Four goals: provide council with direct information from advisory members, connect members to the 2030 vision, facilitate interaction among members and council, and show appreciation. Small groups answered four questions on strengths, challenges, opportunities, and priorities. - Key themes from group discussions: friendly community, traffic and lack of public transit, lack of a downtown, housing costs and senior housing, need for third spaces and gathering places, desire for innovative projects like food carts and farmers markets, and excitement about downtown redevelopment, the new riverfront park, and Parque las Casitas. - A human spectrum exercise on six questions showed: majority agreed traffic is the top complaint; most disagreed that only current issues matter; most felt neighbors are not well-informed; opinion was mixed on risk-taking for innovation; agreement on ability to influence issues; and unanimous excitement about the next five years. - Council feedback: President Pratt found it valuable and wants to repeat. Councilor Sacco said the spectrum exercise was validating. Councilor Brooks suggested including Spanish-speaking community in future. Councilor Hillier appreciated trust-building and suggested a more personal appreciation gesture. The mayor noted validation of priorities and surprise at willingness to take risks. An evaluation survey for board/committee members is due the following Friday. 2025 City Council Priorities Update - Sherilyn presented the status of 2025 priorities across seven focus areas, summarizing over 55 slides. Council will set 2026 priorities at a January 17 advance meeting. - Neighborhood Engagement (8 actions): Street tree inventory complete; sidewalk/street tree backlog project RFP in process; ongoing community involvement organization (CIO) work; CIO boundary map update expected spring/summer. - Housing (5 actions): Housing capacity analysis grant awarded; legislative compliance monitored; green space maximization ongoing; homeless service funding via outside agency grants; meeting with Clackamas County rescheduled. - Economic Development (8 actions): Downtown revitalization phase 2 underway with University of Oregon; Leviton area zoning not prioritized; staffed urban renewal positions; wayfinding and parking signage improvements ongoing. - Transportation (6 actions): Transportation System Plan adopted; project prioritization contract starting; advocacy with Thorn Run; Basalt Creek bus shelter completed; continued work on neighborhood transportation safety program. - Environment (7 actions): $1.25 million grant for seismic valves; new sustainability program manager hired; in-pipe micro turbine project, water resiliency, and B-City efforts ongoing; tree ordinance review not started. - Parks and Recreation (7 actions): Recreation program expansion with consultant; program comparison against peers planned; integrated pest management draft; city data tool purchased; parks replacement fund model presentation in February. - Communication and Identity (7 actions): IDEA committee annual report due; trauma-informed training (three of four sessions complete); strategic communications plan not started; comprehensive plan work paused; website nearly complete; strategic planning ongoing via gaps and needs analysis. - Councilor Pratt raised concerns about park maintenance budget, water conservation strategies, incubator/food cart promotion, residential parking near apartments, deterrence of current Leviton zoning, CIO coordination with DEI, and change orders on bids. Council discussed these for the January 17 advance. Pre-Approval of Proclamations for 2026 - Staff presented the tiered proclamation policy. Recurring tier 3 and 4 proclamations (Black History Month, Pride, Juneteenth, Hispanic Heritage Month, Native American Heritage Month, Small Business Saturday, etc.) were discussed for pre-approval to avoid missing deadlines. - Councilor Brooks supported pre-approval to avoid discomfort with volunteers. Councilor Hillier noted pre-approval does not preclude future requests. Council added NAMI Clackamas for Mental Health Awareness Month and trans day of visibility (pending IDEA committee). General consensus to pre-approve the list. Proclamation Request: Vietnamese Lunar New Year - A tier 4 request from the Vietnamese Community of Oregon for a proclamation on February 21, 2026. Council recalled a previous positive presentation. Councilor Brooks supported, noting the Asian community is the third largest in Tualatin. Approved unanimously with expectation that the requester will attend to accept. Council Round Table Updates - City Manager Sherilyn: CDBG application for public facilities; two additional rapid flashing beacons requested; picnic shelter reservations open; riverfront demolition ongoing (A-frame down); police lobby closed Jan 15-18 for floor work; city year program classes underway; volunteer coordinator Jackie Conan retiring with over 200 applications received. - Councilor Gonzalez: Attended immigration support meetings with Governor Kotek and Congresswoman Bonamici; families fearful and children may be left at school. - Councilor Brooks: Met with Dr. Johnson for council prep; met with Explore Tualatin Valley to update public art coordination; PAB applications reviewed but HUD budget unknown; state faces $15 billion shortfall; attended LOC women's caucus and water consortium executive committee. - Councilor Sacco: IDEA committee meeting focused on connecting community groups and forming relationships with Grand Ronde tribe; Chris Paul led a food drive collecting 100-200 pounds of food; CAC reviewed timeline and evaluation criteria for redevelopment reports; attended C4 meeting with Clackamas County legislators. - Council President Pratt: Attended employee appreciation breakfast, shop with a cop event, holiday event at Parque las Casitas (distributed $2,200 worth of toys), housing forum, Clackamas County Business Association meeting, and LOC women's caucus finance committee. - Mayor: Metro Mayor's Consortium: cooperative purchasing effort led by Sherwood and Portland; ODOT signature update; HB 3115 (repeal of time-place-manner) likely in short session. Washington County Coordinating Committee: community connector shuttle pilot in Beaverton/Tigard; county exploring vehicle registration fee increases; county facing $5M deficit for FY26-27, $9.4M anticipated for FY27-28. League of Oregon Cities: property tax reform education campaign. TriMet service cuts: 10% cut required by July 2028, proposal at 6.49% now; 97 bus eliminated, 96 bus changed to slower route; green line cut back to Gateway; lift service reduced; cuts disproportionately in Multnomah County (68%). Council urged to prepare for TriMet's February presentation. Washington County legislative priorities: oppose unfunded mandates, preserve $1.2M for courthouse planning. Aging task force: senior housing concerns raised at housing forum, TriMet open house Jan 22 at library.

The Tualatin City Council held a regular session on January 12, 2026, beginning at 8:00 AM. The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance, introductions of new staff, public comment, a grant presentation from the Pili Group, the IDEA Committee annual report, approval of a contract for a major intersection study, and council communications regarding community safety and immigration enforcement. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda unanimously, which included: - Approval of the regular meeting minutes from December 8, 2025. - A business license (doing business as Miller's Homestead Restaurant). - Resolution No. 5940-26 authorizing the city to accept a grant from the Oregon Water Resources Department for the water reservoir seismic improvements project. Public Comments & Testimony - BJ Park (resident, former IDEA Committee member) expressed opposition to the proposed land acknowledgment, stating it falsely declares Tualatin as "stolen land" and undermines the legitimacy of the U.S. He claimed he was removed from the IDEA Committee under false pretenses because of his stance, and noted that a white woman was reappointed while he was not, calling it hypocrisy. - Chris Paul (IDEA Committee Chair) responded, clarifying that Park was not reappointed due to attendance issues (missed meetings) and not because of his opinion on the land acknowledgment. Paul stated he takes Park's views seriously and the committee is carefully considering the issue. Special Reports Pili Group Grant Presentation - Marilu Serrano (representing the Pili Group) and Betsy Rodriguez Roof (Community Engagement Coordinator/translator) presented on the group's work supporting Hispanic women through workshops, Zumba, mental health classes, and a community cookbook. They noted that attendance has dropped from an average of 20 to 10 participants due to fear of ICE enforcement in the community. The group uses grant funds for facility fees, materials, and events. Council members expressed gratitude and offered support, with Councilor Gonzalez providing a personal message of encouragement in Spanish. IDEA Committee Annual Report - Chris Paul (Chair) and Aaron Stimson (member) presented the committee's 2025 accomplishments and 2026 recommendations. Achievements included supporting city proclamations for Transgender Day of Visibility and Pride Month, community outreach at Viva Tualatin and the Pride concert, and providing feedback on food cart regulations and the CORA downtown revitalization plan. The committee's work plan focuses on culture and identity, community engagement, and housing/public safety. Recommendations to Council: incorporate accessible transportation, affordable housing, and community gathering places into CORA; and prioritize community gathering and multicultural food carts in food cart regulations. Councilor Brooks asked about the committee's diversity and biggest gaps; Chris Paul noted the need for better public engagement. Councilor Hillier encouraged the committee to provide input on TriMet's transportation listening sessions. Councilor Sacco thanked the committee for leading a food drive that collected 100–125 pounds for the Tualatin food pantry. Discussion Items Resolution 5939-26: Awarding Contract for Tualatin-Sherwood Road/Boons Ferry Road/Railroad Intersection Study - Mike McCarthy (City Engineer) and Abby McFetterage (Engineering Associate) presented the project. The intersection is one of the highest-ranked for crashes and congestion, with train delays of 20–30 minutes. Phase 1 will evaluate options including a "big build" (bridge or tunnel), a "smaller build" (surface turn lanes), and a no-build alternative. The consultant team (Kittelson) will provide high-level cost estimates, feasibility, and visual renderings. The full timeline for a big build could extend to 2037. Council discussed the need for creative solutions, railroad involvement (Portland and Western), and potential impacts of longer trains. The resolution was approved unanimously via roll call vote (all ayes). Advisory Appointments (Budget Committee) - Councilor Pratt and Councilor Sacco (CCAA committee) recommended three appointees to the Budget Committee for terms expiring December 31, 2028: Chris Brun, Elizabeth Michaels, and Daniel Bach Huber. Council approved the appointments unanimously. Council Communications - Councilor Brooks raised two items: a pending Supreme Court case on Roundup (glyphosate) liability, and a proposed battery plant with overhead wires near the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge (a federal preserve), noting potential impacts on downtown redevelopment. - Councilor Brooks also requested a work session to discuss information from a recent community training on immigration enforcement, legal rights, and public safety. She expressed concern about incidents of violence and the need to inform the community about what city police can and cannot do. Councilor Gonzalez noted the city's limited role under state law, and Councilor Pratt suggested sharing the training materials and recording with all council members. The council agreed to disseminate the information and consider a future work session. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the consent agenda (three items). - Unanimous approval of Resolution 5939-26, awarding a contract to Kittelson for the Tualatin-Sherwood Road/Boons Ferry Road/Railroad intersection study (Phase 1). - Unanimous approval of three appointments to the Budget Committee. - Next steps: The city will share the community training materials (PowerPoint, recording, contacts) with all council members. A work session may be scheduled to discuss the role of local law enforcement and community resources regarding immigration enforcement.

The City of Tualatin held a public forum on December 16, 2025, to discuss severe rent burden and affordable housing, as required by Oregon House Bill (2018). The meeting included a presentation from city staff, a panel from Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH) and Community Action, public testimony, and discussion with council members. The forum highlighted the challenges of high rental costs, limited transportation, and accessibility barriers. Public Comments & Testimony - Catherine Ball (resident at Plan Beck Gardens) raised transportation issues, noting TriMet bus line 96 is unreliable and infrequent, causing her and other residents to miss appointments and struggle with school commutes. She suggested a Tualatin shuttle or connection to Wilsonville's SMART service. - James Black (Tenant with lived homelessness experience) expressed skepticism that building more housing would create affordable units, citing the Commons on Tualatin River charging $1,800 for a studio. He advocated for rent control measures. - Rebecca Morgan (single mother, child care provider, survivor of homelessness) described rent burden as "biological," sharing her own story of chronic instability, safety concerns in her unit (structural movement), and the cascading effects on her daycare business and family. She stressed the need for accountability, relocation support, and protections for home-based child care providers. - Cynthia (resident) noted TriMet's reduced frequency (from every 15 minutes to every hour) and acknowledged TriMet's driver shortage. - Heidi Johnstone (advocate for disabled and elderly) highlighted a "silent crisis" of seniors and disabled individuals being locked out of housing due to lack of elevators and ADA compliance, even in subsidized properties. She criticized Washington County's accommodation request process and warned of retaliation against those asserting disability rights. Discussion Items - Presentation by Erin Engman (Senior Planner): Engman explained that the state defines severe rent burden as 25% or more of renter households paying over 50% of income on rent and utilities. Tualatin's vacancy rate is 4.3%, and household incomes have not kept pace with rising home prices. The city's housing needs analysis projects demand for over 1,000 new dwelling units by 2040, with a deficit of high-density land. Staff also reviewed city progress: code amendments for middle housing, tax exemptions, equitable housing funding plan, and the recent opening of Plan Beck Gardens. - Panel on Plan Beck Gardens: - Melissa Stark (CPAH): Plan Beck Gardens opened in March 2025 with 117 units (11 units with 16 for permanent supportive housing, 47 units at 30% AMI or below, 8 project-based vouchers, 69 units at 40-60% AMI). Over half are two- to four-bedroom units for families. The complex is 100% leased as of September 2025. - Julian Dominguez (Resident Services Coordinator at Plan Beck Gardens): He organizes resource fairs and community events, working with partners like Tualatin Together. - Derek Lopez (Community Action): He supports the 16 permanent supportive housing units, helping residents obtain furniture and set up their homes. He noted success stories but acknowledged long waitlists. - Utility Billing Concerns: Council members and residents discussed the burden of separate utility bills (PGE, water/sewer/garbage) not included in rent. Derek Lopez and Julian Dominguez noted that residents at Plan Beck Gardens pay only PGE separately; other utilities are included. However, many apartments bill tenants for water/sewer/garbage at inconsistent rates, leading to large unexpected bills and eviction risks. Councilmember Hiller noted that utility assistance programs exist (e.g., PGE subsidy up to 40%, community action funds, Tualatin utility bill assistance up to $300/year) but require direct billing. - Mayor’s Response to TriMet Issues: The mayor acknowledged the transportation crisis, noting that TriMet will appear before City Council on February 9, 2026, to present its financial situation. He urged residents to attend and share their experiences to advocate for bus route 96 and other services. - Disability and Accessibility: Councilmembers and panelists discussed the need for elevators in new buildings and ADA compliance. SEPA (CPAH) noted that newer properties have elevator access and can accommodate requests for grab bars and other modifications. Key Outcomes - City Council and staff committed to advocating for TriMet services, particularly the 96 bus line, at the February 9, 2026 meeting. - Staff will revisit the equitable housing funding plan under council direction, studying potential funding strategies (e.g., tax exemptions, land acquisition). - No formal actions or votes were taken; the forum was held to gather public input and fulfill state requirements for addressing severe rent burden. - Council encouraged continued public participation at regular council meetings, especially from underrepresented groups (e.g., Spanish-speaking residents).

The Tualatin Development Commission met on December 8, 2025, in a regular meeting (replacing a previously scheduled work session) to consider property acquisition, an interfund loan, budget amendments, and a downtown revitalization report. All three resolutions were adopted unanimously, and the commission received a presentation on the downtown community identity final report. Consent Calendar - Approved the Tualatin Development Commission meeting minutes of November 4, 2025, and November 24, 2025, unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments on items not on the agenda or during the public hearing on the budget resolution. Discussion Items - Resolution 643-25 – Property Acquisition (Matthias Property): Staff presented a request to authorize the purchase of real property at 18925 SW 84th Avenue (the Matthias property) for $600,000 from a willing seller. The property consists of two parcels totaling 0.28 acres – a parking lot with lawn area and a single-family home (formerly a dentist office and radio station). The acquisition is part of the CORA 18970 catalyst project, a public-private partnership to deliver attainable housing and commercial retail. The commission approved the resolution by roll call vote (7-0). - Resolution 644-25 – Interfund Loan: Following the property purchase approval, staff requested authorization of an interfund loan of $600,000 from the Southwest Urban Renewal District (SWERD) to the Core Opportunity and Reinvestment Area (CORA) district. The loan may be repaid over up to 10 years with interest set at the local government investment pool rate. Staff noted that SWERD collections are ahead of projections due to the PGE development. The commission approved the resolution by roll call vote (7-0). - Public Hearing & Resolution 645-25 – Budget Amendments: The commission held a public hearing to consider changes to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 adopted budget. Staff explained three types of changes: (1) transfers of appropriations within funds, (2) adjustments for unanticipated conditions (e.g., moving reserves to appropriations), and (3) creation of a new CORA project fund. Specific actions included transferring $600,000 from SWERD reserves to the CORA project fund for the property purchase, an additional $50,000 from reserves for other acquisition costs, and $166,675 from CORA bond reserves to the TDC admin fund for personnel costs covering Sid and Quinn. A $35,000 transfer from contingency covered increased materials and services in the TDC admin fund. No public testimony was offered. The commission closed the hearing and adopted the resolution by roll call vote (7-0). - Special Report – Downtown Revitalization Community Identity Final Report: Sid and consultant Michelle Reeves presented the findings of Phase 1 of the downtown revitalization process. The report, based on surveys, workshops, and stakeholder meetings, uses a story framework to characterize downtown’s physical environment, community objectives, relationships, and environmental context. Key findings included that the downtown lacks a cohesive physical identity (e.g., conflicting road stories, excessive parking lots, poor connection from the park to downtown), residents want a place that feels active and welcoming, and the lake is a central but underutilized and controversial feature. Short-term actions suggested include lighting improvements, food cart pods, and temporary retail spaces. The report is intended to inform subsequent phases (design charrette with University of Oregon and a downtown urban design plan). Commissioners expressed appreciation for the work and noted alignment with other studies. No vote was taken; the report was received as information. Key Outcomes - Resolution 643-25 (authorizing purchase of Matthias property) adopted unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 644-25 (authorizing interfund loan from SWERD to CORA) adopted unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 645-25 (authorizing changes to FY 2025-2026 budget) adopted unanimously (7-0) after a public hearing with no testimony. - The Downtown Revitalization Community Identity Final Report was presented and received; no formal action was taken, but the commission acknowledged the milestone and next steps (design charrette in early 2026, urban design plan in summer 2026/winter 2027).