Public Meetings - West Linn, Oregon

The West Linn Planning Commission held a quasi-judicial public hearing on March 18, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM, to consider application CUP-25-03/DR-25-03/VAR-25-02 for a new drive-through car wash at 18850 Willamette Drive. The proposal included a conditional use permit, Class II design review, and a variance from minimum window transparency standards. The commission heard staff and applicant presentations, extensive public testimony, and deliberated before voting to leave the record open for additional written submissions. Consent Calendar - No items were presented or approved on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - David Robinson (West Linn resident) raised traffic safety concerns, arguing the applicant's traffic analysis was inadequate and failed to address left-turn conflicts and queue spillover onto Highway 43. - Jeannie Thompson (West Linn resident) questioned whether a third car wash benefits the city and noted proximity of existing car washes. - Shane Winder (Robinwood neighborhood resident) opposed the proposal, citing inconsistency with the Robinwood Neighborhood Plan and Vision 43, and argued the use would undermine pedestrian-friendly development. - Elizabeth Deets (speaking as vice president of Robinwood Neighborhood Association) submitted formal opposition, emphasizing environmental risks to the riparian corridor and the need for chemical disclosure and spill response plans. - Andrew Mulkey (attorney for Elizabeth Deets) argued that the proposal fails to provide an overall benefit to the city under CDC 60.070(A)(3) and contravenes comprehensive plan policies, including those in the Robinwood Neighborhood Plan. - Katie Mercer (Robinwood resident) detailed chemical hazards from Katie Car Wash products, citing safety data sheets indicating carcinogens and corrosives, and argued the car wash should not be sited on a protected water resource area. - Larry Holman (neighbor on Rose Way) described existing flooding and runoff on his property from Fern Creek, and expressed concerns about noise from vacuums operating 8 AM to 8 PM and potential chemical contamination. - Brent Huntsburg (Robinwood resident) presented video evidence of traffic queuing into Starbucks on Walling Way, arguing the car wash would exacerbate congestion and create a head-on conflict zone at the proposed exit. - Anthony Broccole (Robinwood Neighborhood Association president, speaking as individual) criticized the characterization of the neighborhood plan as irrelevant, questioned the need for a third car wash, and raised noise concerns from the previous Katie Car Wash location. - Roxana Koshron (Rukshana Koshravi) (former Katie Car Wash employee, Robinwood resident) testified about inaccuracies in the application, including spray patterns, noise levels, and the ability to modify blower settings; she questioned the sound study's validity and the adequacy of the variance request. - Eric Newgard (West Linn resident, property owner on Fern Creek) described the ecological value of Fern Creek and emphasized that car wash chemicals could wash into the creek via runoff from dripping cars. - Frank Jalili (West Linn resident) argued the conditional use fails the “overall benefit” criterion because there is no community need for another car wash. - Paul Kreitzberg (Robinwood resident) reiterated traffic, noise, and environmental concerns, and noted the inconsistency with the Robinwood Neighborhood Plan policies. - Daniel Mercer (licensed professional engineer, West Linn) testified that the site is within 100 feet of an open waterway, triggering Chapter 32 protections; he critiqued the stormwater filtration system as inadequate for hazardous chemicals, citing an SDS that prohibits product from reaching waterways. - Ed Schwartz (West Linn resident) argued that odors from the car wash would negatively impact neighboring residential areas, violating Robinwood Neighborhood Plan policies 3.5 and 3.8. - Kathy Fisher (West Linn resident, adjacent property) opposed due to chemical sensitivity and noted she would be directly affected by smells. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Darren Wise): Reviewed the proposal, applicable code chapters, and recommended 13 conditions of approval. Highlighted that the variance request from 60% window transparency on the front façade and 30% on the Walling Way façade was necessary due to building design; that the site has a piped water resource area but development is exempt per code; and that ODOT recommended upgrading the ADA ramp at Walling Way and Highway 43. - Applicant Presentation (Eric Lee, architect; supported by traffic engineer Mike Ard and attorney Wendy Kellington): Emphasized that the car wash would have less traffic than a fast-food restaurant (47% fewer peak-hour trips), meets all noise standards (DEQ 55 dB at sensitive receptors), uses a dual water management system (car wash process water to sanitary; stormwater filtered through new and existing systems), and that the building is more restrained than other car washes. They argued the Robinwood Neighborhood Plan is aspirational and not an applicable standard, and that denial based on need is not permissible. - Commission Questions: Commissioners asked about stormwater detention details (use of HDPE chambers vs. concrete), the existing stormwater vault and monitoring, noise mitigation at vacuums, the adequacy of traffic analysis (peak-hour queue calculations), and the variance for window transparency. The applicant’s team provided clarifications on filtration, acoustic enclosure design, and that vacuum noise is centralized inside the building. - Public Testimony: In addition to the comments above, several speakers challenged the traffic study (citing lack of bottleneck analysis), the noise study (alleging cherry-picked data), and environmental risks (spray from open bays, chemicals in stormwater). The former employee provided specific operational details. - Applicant Rebuttal: Wendy Kellington argued that the Robinwood plan does not apply as an approval standard; that noise and traffic studies met code; that the stormwater system is designed to meet all standards; and that the vacant McDonald’s building is a blight that the car wash would replace. Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Walvotney moved to leave the record open for written testimony and final arguments, with deadlines: written public testimony by March 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM; responses to written testimony (no new evidence) by April 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM; applicant final written argument by April 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM. The commission would reconvene for final deliberations on April 15, 2026 at 6:00 PM. - Second and Vote: The motion was seconded and carried unanimously (4-0). Commissioners present: Acting Chair Jones, Commissioner Watton, Commissioner Kachariski, Commissioner Walvotney. - Next Steps: The hearing is continued; the commission will deliberate and decide on April 15, 2026 based on the written record and arguments submitted.

The West Linn City Council met on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, with a 5:30 p.m. pre-meeting followed by the regular business meeting at 6:00 p.m. Councilor Leo Groner participated remotely but had audio difficulties and was unable to vote on the agenda approval and council priorities; all other votes were unanimous. The meeting included public comment on noise enforcement and development fees, adoption of 2026-2028 Council Priorities, three proclamations, a TriMet service-change presentation, consent agenda approvals, and adoption of an ordinance, a historic-preservation resolution, and a building-services intergovernmental agreement. Consent Calendar - Approved by a 5-0 vote the consent agenda (Agenda Bills 2026-03-10-01 through 2026-03-10-04): February 10, 2026 Council meeting minutes; Investment Policy Update Adoption; Temporary Easement for Abernethy Bridge Construction; and the Grant Agreement between West Linn and Oregon Water Resources Department for the I-205 Abernethy Bridge Water Line Replacement Project. - Pre-meeting staff discussion noted the temporary easement would extend an existing ODOT temporary easement for up to five years, with staff authorized to negotiate terms. The grant agreement will allow the city to request reimbursement for water-line drawdowns; staff reported that about $2 million in drawdowns had occurred against the $5 million grant. Public Comments & Testimony - Bill Hamilton, a West Linn resident, urged enforcement of City Code noise ordinance 5.487 against a neighbor's drum set, stating sound levels often reached 58-60 decibels and that police had told him the noise was not a code violation. He asked council to direct staff to review the enforcement decision. Council took no action but indicated staff would follow up. - Adam and Jennifer Brown, Portland residents who purchased a lot in West Linn, expressed opposition to the city's current fee structure, saying system development charges and permit fees would total about $90,000 before construction and about $200,000 when financed over a mortgage. They said West Linn has the highest permit and SDC costs in the region and that they were reconsidering building. They suggested a low-interest SDC loan program, fees scaled by house size or assessed value, and an owner-occupied fee tier with forgiveness tied to length of occupancy. Discussion Items - Council reports: Councilor Bryck reported on the Arts & Culture Commission and the Willamette Arts Corridor, with West Linn's first installation proposed at Hammerle Park. Councilor Bonnington reported on the new Police Chief, Oddis Rollins, and an Economic Development Committee Vision43 presentation. Council President Baumgardner reported on the council retreat, regional coalition meetings, and a Salem legislative visit. Mayor Bialostosky announced upcoming events, including Reimagine the River on March 18 and moderating Senator Rob Wagner's town hall. - Council Priorities: The council adopted the 2026-2028 Council Priorities on a 4-0 vote (Councilor Groner unable to vote because of audio issues). Mayor Bialostosky highlighted a new financial-planning priority and the Framing our Future engagement website. - Proclamations: Council President Baumgardner proclaimed March 2026 as Women's History Month; Mayor Bialostosky proclaimed March 15-21 as National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week; and Councilor Bryck proclaimed March 26 as Equal Pay Day. The spoken Equal Pay Day text referred to March 26, 2025, while the proclamation and meeting materials were dated 2026. - TriMet presentation: TriMet staff John Serra, JC Vannatta, and Tom Mills presented the agency's $300 million budget deficit and proposed service cuts. They reported about 1.2 million rides per week, roughly 65.8 million annual boardings, 35% transit-dependent riders, and a $700 million maintenance backlog. Proposed West Linn changes include eliminating Line 153, which averages 2 rides per vehicle hour at about $76 per ride, and reducing or eliminating the low-ridership hourly Line 76 extension. TriMet is funding a new SMART service from Wilsonville through West Linn to Oregon City and Clackamas Town Center, which will partially replace Line 76. Implementation is scheduled for August 23, 2026. The TriMet LIFT paratransit service boundary would shrink in West Linn/Stafford, affecting 11 client addresses and 162 trips in 2024; Clackamas County's Transportation Reaching People program was identified as an alternative. Council members asked TriMet to notify affected riders, expressed concern for LIFT users, and discussed partnership opportunities; Council President Baumgardner noted that 27% of West Linn residents are rent-burdened and linked transit access to affordable housing and school enrollment. - Ordinance 1771: City Attorney Kaylie Klein presented an ordinance opting into ORS 105.668 liability protection for trails and structures in public easements or unimproved rights-of-way. It is not recreational immunity for parks; it covers the city, abutting landowners, and nonprofits or volunteers involved in trail work. The council approved first reading 5-0 and then second reading and adoption 5-0. - Resolution 2026-02: Management Analyst Lynn Schroder presented the Robinwood Neighborhood Architectural Survey, conducted under a 2025 grant and finished in December 2025. The resolution makes the survey an informational resource only, creates no historic designations, and imposes no regulatory requirements. The survey identified 40 high-priority resources and six potential historic districts. The Historic Review Board recommended approval. The council adopted Resolution 2026-02 5-0. - BESA IGA: Building Official Alisha Bloomfield and Community Development Director Steve Koper presented the Building Evaluation Support Agreement, an intergovernmental agreement with the State of Oregon and participating jurisdictions to share building permitting, inspection, and building official services. The agreement is intended to reduce reliance on third-party consultants after the department operated with only two people for part of 2025. The council learned the department made 3,713 inspection trips during the year, a typical new home can have about 27 preloaded inspections, electrical inspections are handled by Clackamas County, and the city's liability is limited when permits are approved in good faith. Council approved the BESA IGA 5-0. City Manager Report - Deputy City Manager Elissa Preston reported no council meeting the following week because council members would attend the National League of Cities Conference in Washington, D.C.; the next regular meeting is April 7, 2026. She also announced Lucky the Leprechaun Hide & Seek through March 17, a police/Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue food drive for the West Linn Food Pantry March through May, sandbag availability at the Old Bolton Fire Station and Willamette Park due to heavy rain, and the launch of the city's Framing our Future website. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting agenda 4-0 (Councilor Groner unable to vote). - Adopted the 2026-2028 Council Priorities 4-0. - Approved the consent agenda 5-0. - Adopted Ordinance 1771 on first reading 5-0 and on second reading 5-0. - Adopted Resolution 2026-02 5-0. - Approved the Building Evaluation Support Agreement IGA 5-0. - Directed staff follow-up on Bill Hamilton's noise complaint; TriMet committed to outreach for affected riders, with service changes taking effect August 23, 2026.

The West Linn Planning Commission held a meeting on March 4, 2026, to deliberate and vote on a conditional use permit, design review, and water resource area permit for a new City of West Linn Operations Support Facility at 23800 and 23834 Salamo Road. The public hearing had been closed on February 18, 2026, with the record open for additional testimony and a final written argument from the applicant. During this meeting, the commission addressed a procedural challenge, debated site suitability, and voted 4-3 to approve the application. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Happigan (19500 View Drive) raised a point of order, arguing that the applicant's final written argument (page 5) contained new evidence—specifically, the claim that PGE deemed burying utility lines unfeasible due to steep topography. He requested an opportunity to respond. After discussion, the commission voted to strike that sentence from the record, as it constituted new evidence not previously submitted, and agreed not to consider it in deliberations. Discussion Items - Role of the Planning Commission: Commissioners debated the scope of their authority. City Attorney clarified that in a quasi-judicial hearing, the commission must decide whether the application meets the approval criteria in the Community Development Code, not whether the project is a good idea or the site is ideal. Concerns about site location or design must be grounded in specific criteria. - Site Suitability and Geotechnical Concerns: Commissioners Wolvotney and Deeds expressed concerns about landslide hazards, citing the site's location on a mapped landslide-prone area and the potential for slope failure during a major Cascadia subduction zone earthquake. They questioned the adequacy of the geotechnical report's mitigation measures, particularly for the sole access road. Commissioner Kachariski noted that the original slide was caused by human excavation, not natural factors, and that a licensed geotechnical engineer had provided a detailed report. Chair Schulte-Hillen and Commissioners Evans, Watton, and Kachariski stated they were satisfied that the geotechnical report and design met code requirements. - Emergency Access: Several commissioners discussed the lack of a secondary emergency egress. Commissioner Kachariski suggested exploring an easement via adjacent ODOT property to I-205. City Attorney advised that the code does not contain a criterion mandating a second access point, but the commission could include a non-binding recommendation. Commissioner Wolvotney argued that a single access point makes the facility vulnerable as an emergency operations center. - Other Conditions: Commissioner Evans proposed adding conditions for regular stormwater filter maintenance (every two years) and traffic signs. Commissioner Wolvotney noted that a 1200-Z permit from DEQ would likely require regular sampling, making a specific timeline unnecessary. The commission did not adopt these as formal conditions in the motion. - Commissioner Announcements: Commissioner Wolvotney raised concerns about Lot 7 at the Willow Ridge subdivision, where a previously rejected pedestrian trail due to steepness was now being developed for housing. The commission unanimously directed staff to provide information at a future meeting. Commissioner Evans announced this was his last meeting due to selling his house. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: Commissioner Evans moved to approve CUP-25-02/DR-25-02/WAP-25-01 as presented, directing staff to prepare a final decision order based on the record. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Watton. The vote was 4-3 in favor: Commissioners Watton, Evans, Kachariski, and Chair Schulte-Hillen voted "yes"; Commissioners Wolvotney, Deeds, and Jones voted "no". - Appeal Notice: Any appeal to the City Council must be filed within 14 days of the mailing of the final decision. - Staff Direction: The commission unanimously agreed to have staff provide information on the Willow Ridge Lot 7 approval at the next meeting. - Next Meeting: Staff noted that the March 18 public hearing will have a reduced quorum due to Commissioner Evans' departure and one commissioner's recusal, but confirmed availability.

The West Linn City Council held a retreat on February 27, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM to review 2026-2028 council priorities and discuss the proposed "Framing Our Future" financial strategic planning roadmap. The retreat included facilitated discussions, staff presentations, and a visioning exercise. The council reached consensus on an updated priority list and gave direction to proceed with a community engagement process aimed at aligning city services with resident values. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Mayor noted receiving written input from Jim Edwards emphasizing support for waterfront project visioning and cautioning against using Vancouver Waterfront as a model. Discussion Items - Council Priorities 2026-2028: The council reviewed a redlined draft of priorities. Key changes included: adding "Financial Strategic Planning" as the top priority; modifying "Transportation Safety and Funding" by de-emphasizing tolling language and adding a multimodal transportation bullet; replacing the "Indoor Recreation Community Center" priority with "Explore Enhanced Use of City-Owned Property for Recreational Purposes" (specifically the Parker Road property); maintaining "Clarify Community Advisory Group Work Programs" with amendments to also address neighborhood associations; continuing existing priorities for drinking water, West Linn Waterfront Vision, Vision 43, Environmental Protection, and Diversity/Equity/Inclusion/Belonging. New future agenda topics were identified: annexation of unincorporated properties, indigenous place naming/wayfinding, city identity branding, and a civics academy. - Framing Our Future Financial Strategic Planning Roadmap: Staff (City Manager, Finance Director, Police Chief, Community Relations Coordinator, and others) presented a four-phase community engagement plan: Phase 1 (March) – listening and general education; Phase 2 (April) – organizing priorities and identifying costs/funding; Phase 3 (May-June) – presenting draft priorities for community check-in; Phase 4 (July-August) – council decision-making and adoption of a financial strategic plan, with potential to refer a measure to the November 2026 ballot. Council discussed concerns about timeline, cost of the program, the risk of not reaching all residents, and the need to frame the conversation as proactive rather than crisis-driven. Council expressed general support but asked for additional clarity on costs and the alternative of inaction. - Visioning Exercise (Victory Garden): Led by facilitator Sarah, council and staff broke into groups to identify their strengths (e.g., willingness to engage anywhere, digital skills, empathy), networks (e.g., schools, businesses, sports groups, neighborhood associations, Rotary, Lions Club), and engagement tools (e.g., social media, business cards with QR codes, utility bill inserts). Staff presented draft communication materials including a project website, FAQ, opinion piece template, and toolkit for council members. Key Outcomes - Council Priorities: The council achieved consensus on the updated 2026-2028 priorities list, with financial strategic planning ranked first. Staff will finalize the document for adoption at a future business meeting. - Framing Our Future: Council gave direction to proceed with the community engagement process. The launch date is set for approximately one week, pending council review of the draft website and FAQs. Council members will meet individually with Community Relations Coordinator Danielle to refine their outreach commitments. - Commitments: Council members committed to specific 90-day actions: Mayor Baumgardner will speak at Lions Club; Councillor Bonington will utilize social media and possibly video content; Councillor Breich will post materials at Robinwood Station and local businesses; Councillor Groener plans to attend adult community center and walking groups; Councillor Bright committed to digital outreach. Staff will produce the "Our West Linn" (OWL) newsletter article and business cards with QR codes.

The Planning Commission convened at 6:02 PM on February 18, 2026, to continue a quasi-judicial hearing from February 4, 2026, regarding applications CUP-25-02, DR-25-02, and WAP-25-01. The proposal seeks approval to construct a new City Operations Support Facility on vacant parcels at 23800 and 23834 Salamo Road, within the residential R10 zone. The 45-million-dollar project would consolidate operations of the Public Works, Environmental Services, Parks and Recreation, and Water and Streets departments into a single complex, replacing an undersized 1937 facility on a two-acre site. The hearing included staff presentation, applicant clarification, public testimony, and rebuttal. Public Comments & Testimony - David Dodds (longtime resident, former Planning Commissioner) challenged the zoning of the southern portion of the site, noting that the city's official zoning map shows it as unzoned. He referenced prior city documents that anticipated a zone map amendment and argued that the commission should not approve the application until the zoning is properly determined. - Mr. Capigan (neighbor) argued that the revised staff report was not made available at least seven days before the hearing, as required by ORS 197.979 B, and that new conditions of approval introduced that evening warranted additional public review. He requested that the record be left open for another seven days. - William Relier (former City Council President) testified that the city council's 2021 purchase of the property was specifically for emergency staging and debris lay-down, not for a full operations facility. He also criticized the geotechnical analysis as insufficient for a high-risk landslide site, stating that the applicant had not met the burden of proof. Discussion Items - Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) : Staff clarified that a TIA is a submittal requirement, not an approval criterion, and that staff did not require one. The applicant voluntarily agreed to conduct a TIA as condition of approval 16. Staff argued that Salamo Road operates at Level of Service A and the site generates minimal trips (peak hour average of 7 exiting trips). - Noise Study : Similarly, a noise study is not required as an approval criterion. The applicant offered to conduct a voluntary noise study (condition 17) to address public concerns. Staff noted the existing facility, located in a residential area, has no history of DEQ noise violations. - Geotechnical Engineering & Slope Stability : The applicant's geotechnical engineer, Najib Kalas, confirmed that a historic landslide during I-205 construction (1960s) was man-made and has been stabilized. Over 18 borings, seismic testing, and lab analyses show the proposed buildings will rest on stable basalt bedrock. The access road fill will be reinforced with geogrid to increase stability. A final geotechnical report is conditioned prior to building permit issuance. - Zoning Uncertainty : Although the official zoning map shows the southern portion of the site as unzoned, staff interpreted Community Development Code Section 5.040 to mean that zoning boundaries extend to the centerline of I-205, thus the entire parcel is R10. Staff acknowledged the map's inaccuracy but maintained the property is correctly zoned. - Stormwater Management : Stormwater from impervious surfaces will be collected, filtered through proprietary cartridges, and detained before release to an on-site stream at or below existing flow rates. The project avoids direct impacts to the wetland and stream but will disturb 15,120 square feet of buffer area, with mitigation planting required at a 1:1 ratio. - Construction Parking : During the first four weeks, fewer than 10 contractor vehicles will stage in the Salamo Road acceleration lane. All subsequent parking will be on-site; no construction parking will occur on Green Street or Barrington Drive. Key Outcomes - The Commission voted 6-1 (Commissioner Evans opposed) to leave the written record open until February 25, 2026, at 5:00 PM; allow the applicant to submit final written argument by March 4, 2026; and continue the hearing to March 4, 2026, at 6:00 PM for deliberation only (no additional public testimony). - The Commission discussed the format of meeting materials (single large PDF vs. multiple smaller attachments) but took no formal action; staff will consider adjustments for future meetings.

The West Linn City Council met on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 6:00 PM for a regular business meeting. The agenda included a public comment on golf cart regulations, a presentation from SMART Transit, approval of a resolution to increase the Parks Maintenance Fee, and a community advisory group appointment. All items were addressed, with the council taking unanimous votes on consent and business items. Consent Calendar - Agenda Approval: The council voted 5-0 to approve the agenda as amended, adding item 4b (Community Advisory Group Appointment). - Meeting Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the January 13, 2026 council meeting (noting a scrivener's error in the minutes that referenced 2025; corrected during the meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Fearing (Willamette area resident, 15 years) spoke in favor of adopting an ordinance to allow golf carts and low-speed vehicles (LSVs) on certain city streets, particularly in the Willamette Historic District. He submitted a draft ordinance and noted that such vehicles have been used informally for years but were recently disallowed. He emphasized community benefits and provided examples from other Oregon cities. Council members expressed concerns about enforcement, safety, and potential misuse. No action was taken, but the mayor indicated the issue would be discussed further and summarized in the city newsletter. Discussion Items - Community Advisory Group Appointment: Mayor Bialostosky placed before council the removal of Alyssa Cruz from the Economic Development Committee due to non-attendance. The council voted 5-0 to approve the removal. - SMART Transit Presentation: Dwight Brashear (Transit Director) and Diane Kotler (Transit Operations Manager) presented an overview of South Metro Area Regional Transit (SMART), which is operated by the City of Wilsonville. Key points: - SMART operates nine free routes, funded by Wilsonville payroll tax, TriMet payroll tax, and state transportation funds. - New service (Route 10X) will begin in late April/early May 2026, connecting Wilsonville to West Linn (stop at 10th Street near McDonald's) and on to Oregon City and Clackamas Town Center. - A new transit-oriented development (TOD) facility with 121 affordable housing units (20 set aside for emergency housing) opened, with a customer service center coming in April. - SMART is the only Oregon-based transit agency allowed to operate on interstate shoulders (I-5 and soon I-205). - Council members expressed strong support for the service, noting its importance for equity and for replacing lost TriMet service. City Manager Williams offered to assist with communications and outreach. - Resolution 2026-01 – Parks Maintenance Fee Increase: Finance Director Lauren Breithaupt presented the staff report. The resolution updates the Master Fees and Charges document to: 1. Correct an error in Section 8.4 (total fee unchanged, breakdown corrected). 2. Increase the Parks Maintenance Fee by $5.20 per month per residence to fund the Parks Department's share (approx. $561,000/year) of the Operations Center construction. Discussion included: - The fee applies to single-family and multifamily units; multifamily units receive a slight discount to account for vacancy rates (approx. $1/month difference). - The city is funding 80% of the project from existing funds; this is the only increase anticipated for the project. - Council members acknowledged public concern about the increase and emphasized the need for clear communication about the project's necessity, value engineering (saved $4.2 million), and long-term benefits. - Mayor Bialostosky noted the current facility (purchased in 1930s) is inadequate for a city of 28,000 residents with 110 lane miles of road and extensive parks. - Council President Baumgardner mentioned that the project was scaled from three buildings to two to reduce costs. - The resolution passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes: Agenda approval, consent calendar, community advisory group removal, and Resolution 2026-01 all passed 5-0. - Next steps: The council retreat is scheduled for February 27, 2026. The February 17 work session is cancelled; the March 3 work session remains pending. Upcoming events include a Meet the Police Chief event (Feb 18) and Vision43 open house (Feb 13). The city will continue to work with SMART on route launch communications. Staff will develop messaging to explain the parks fee increase to residents.

On Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 6:01 p.m., the West Linn Planning Commission convened a quasi-judicial public hearing regarding application CUP-25-02/DR-25-02/WAP-25-01 for a proposed City of West Linn Operations Support Facility on two vacant parcels (23800 and 23834 Salamo Road). The hearing included a staff presentation, public testimony from a dozen residents and neighborhood representatives, a rebuttal by the applicant team, and a commission vote to continue the hearing to February 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. The decision to continue, carried 7-0, allows additional written testimony and further commission deliberation. Public Comments & Testimony - Rob Causey (neighbor across Salamo Road) described a long-standing failure of the city to maintain screening vegetation as required under a prior conditional use permit (CUP). He questioned the enforcement process and urged the commission to ensure future conditions are enforceable. - Terry Cummings (former planning commissioner and city councilor) argued the site is a historic landslide hazard area and that the city should conduct an independent comparative analysis of alternative sites. He urged denial, stating the project does not provide an overall benefit if it compromises emergency response. - Robert Jester (Barrington Heights Tanner Neighborhood Association president) expressed general support for the facility, noting it would improve fire suppression access and water supply for the hillside. He raised concerns about construction parking, traffic merging from the steep slope, and long-term traffic control needs. - Carrie Cummings cited the 1969 landslide that destroyed a city reservoir and three homes, arguing the site remains unstable and that the application fails criteria 60.070(2) and (3). - William Relyea (former city councilor and neighborhood association president) testified that in 2021 the city purchased the 33-acre property from ODOT for $390,000, with knowledge that the site was unstable and only suitable for temporary debris laydown. He stated ODOT passed on developing the land due to stability concerns. He urged the commission to consider site-specific constraints not addressed in the staff report. - Roberta Schwartz (Savannah Oaks Neighborhood Association) presented historical landslide maps (Dogami, West Linn Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan) showing the site in a “very high” landslide susceptibility zone. She argued that no federal or state agency accepted the property, implying known risks, and that the project would endanger workers and neighbors. - Ed Schwartz echoed his wife’s testimony, adding that a full traffic impact analysis (TIA) should be required because the trip generation study showed 256 average daily trips—above the city’s threshold. He contended the use exceeds incidental vehicle storage allowed under the CUP and that the application fails to meet Comprehensive Plan Goal 7 (hazard avoidance). - Michael Capkin criticized the lack of a noise study and traffic analysis, questioning the city’s rejection of a TIA based on marginal trip counts. He argued the site’s zoning (R-10) may not permit the proposed fleet maintenance uses and requested that the record be left open for additional written testimony. - Carrie Oakes, a West Linn resident, stated the project would pave over wetlands and a stream buffer, mitigating only half of the 15,120 sq ft permanent impact. She argued the application did not adequately demonstrate avoidance, as required by water resource criteria, and noted the single access road is vulnerable to landslides. - David Dodds encouraged the commission to continue the hearing to March 4 to allow more public input and to seek direct comment from ODOT regarding the sale. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Aaron Goodell presented the project: a 33‑acre site with five buildings totaling 40,000 sq ft, including warehouse, fleet maintenance, offices, and storage. The application requires a conditional use permit (CUP), water resource area permit (WAP), and design review (DR). Staff recommended approval with six conditions, including compliance with municipal noise standards and final stormwater and building permit reviews. - Applicant Team Rebuttal (Jeff Dunn, Sid Scott, Alex Simpson, Ajib Collas, Matt Bell): - Noise: Offered to conduct an acoustic analysis as a condition of approval. - Traffic: The trip generation study recorded 256 average daily trips; the city’s TIA threshold is 250. Traffic engineers concluded a full TIA was not warranted because the existing site already generates similar trips and Salamo Road operates at Level of Service A with no planned improvements needed. - Soils/Geotech: Ajib Collas explained the 1960s landslide was man‑made due to road construction, not a natural failure. The design of buildings and access road accounts for the known weak layer (Vantage horizon). The geotech report found no active slumping or sliding. - Wetlands: Alex Simpson confirmed that the Oregon Department of State Lands concurred with the wetland delineation. Project impacts are limited to 15,120 sq ft of buffer (not the wetland itself), with 7,560 sq ft of enhancement mitigation proposed. - Commission Questions: - Stormwater: Alex Simpson described a cartridge filter vault and underground detention system sized for 2‑, 5‑, 10‑, and 25‑year storm events, discharging at pre‑development rates. Maintenance expected every 3–5 years, manageable by public works staff. - Discrepancy on heritage trees: Commissioner Jones noted the arborist report did not identify Oregon white oaks as heritage trees or priority habitat. The applicant said they will provide clarification at the next hearing. - Zoning: Staff affirmed the property was designated R-10 after purchase; the use as a public support facility is conditionally permitted in that zone. Key Outcomes - Motion to Continue: Commissioner Dietz moved to continue the public hearing to February 18, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., and to leave the record open for written testimony until that time. The motion passed unanimously (7‑0). - Requests for Additional Studies: The commission indicated they may request a traffic impact analysis and a noise study as conditions of approval. The applicant offered a noise study as a friendly condition. - Next Steps: The hearing will resume on February 18; members of the public may submit additional written evidence before the meeting and testify orally at that hearing. The commission will deliberate and vote after hearing all remaining testimony and closing the record.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on February 3, 2026, addressing a range of topics including a proclamation for Black History Month, the 2025 Police Review and Recommend Committee annual report, water system development charges and rate studies, and continued discussion of the city's general fund and parks utility service fee. The meeting also included public comment on potential marijuana dispensaries and council reports on community engagement. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the agenda for the work session. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Gardner, a 22-year West Linn resident, expressed opposition to allowing marijuana dispensaries in the city, calling it a quality-of-life issue. He noted that dispensaries are not allowed in Wilsonville and are available in Oregon City, and argued that marginal revenue would not be material. He suggested that if the city moves forward, the issue should be placed on a ballot for voters to decide. Proclamations Black History Month Proclamation (February 2026) - Mayor Bielist read the proclamation designating February 2026 as Black History Month, recognizing the 100th anniversary of Dr. Carter G. Woodson's initial observance in 1926. The council encouraged community participation in Black History Month activities. Reports and Presentations Police Review and Recommend Committee Annual Report - Committee members Sarah Werbaff and Mary Carlson presented the 2025 annual report. The committee reviewed 11 complaints against police officers out of approximately 13,000 calls for service and 4,800 traffic stops. No complaints were deemed serious enough to warrant further investigation. The committee noted improvements in customer service following training (e.g., de-escalation training) and implemented process improvements, including a rotating point person and regular meetings. Staff from the police department and city administration expressed strong support for the committee's work and the value of community perspectives. - Council members praised the committee's dedication and suggested sharing the model with other cities via the League of Oregon Cities. Discussion Items Joint Meeting with Utility Advisory Board – Water SDCs and Water Rates - Water System Development Charges (SDCs): City Engineer Eric Layers presented a proposed reduction in water SDCs due to West Linn being largely built-out. The current charge per meter (5/8-inch) is $13,205; the maximum allowable fee under the new methodology is significantly lower (e.g., $2,644 per equivalent unit). The reduction is driven by limited growth and a small percentage of capacity-expanding projects in the master plan (12%). Staff recommended proceeding to an adoption hearing. Council requested additional information on how future densification (e.g., Vision 43, Tamwada Village) might affect the calculation. - Water Rates Discussion: Consultant Amanda presented a revenue requirement analysis showing that fully funding all capital projects from the water system master plan (total $73.5 million through 2035) would require a 25% rate increase in fiscal year 2027 and another 25% in 2028, followed by 5% increases. This assumes receipt of a $6.25 million grant; without it, the increases would be 10% higher. The city charter caps annual rate increases at 5% without voter approval. Council and UAB members discussed the need for communication with the public, potential revision of the charter's 5% cap, and equity considerations in rate design (e.g., the first seven CCF included in the base charge). No immediate action was taken; the discussion was for information. Continued Discussion – City General Fund and Parks Utility Service Fee - City Manager John Williams proposed a roadmap for community engagement on the city's financial needs, starting with a one-month listening session to gather resident expectations and priorities, followed by council synthesis in April. Council members expressed support for moving forward with the proposed $5.20/month increase to the parks utility service fee to fund the city's operations center project (estimated $45 million). Councilor Groner favored implementing the full $5.20 as soon as possible (effective March or April) rather than phasing it. Parks Director Megan Bingham clarified that additional general fund needs beyond the $5.20 are for maintaining existing assets, not new services. The council directed staff to bring back the fee increase for adoption at the next or March business meeting. The broader financial strategy will be discussed further at the upcoming council retreat. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously at 6:05 pm. - Black History Month Proclamation adopted for February 2026. - Police Review and Recommend Committee's 2025 report accepted with appreciation; staff to explore sharing the model with other cities. - Water SDCs: Council directed staff to bring back additional information on growth assumptions from Vision 43 and other redevelopment plans before proceeding to an adoption hearing. - Water Rates: No action taken; the discussion served as a baseline for future policy decisions. - Parks Utility Service Fee: Council reached consensus to approve a $5.20/month increase to fund the operations center, effective in March or April 2026. Staff will prepare an ordinance for adoption at a future meeting. - Financial Roadmap: Council agreed to use the city retreat to further develop a community engagement plan for addressing the city's overall financial needs.

The West Linn Planning Commission met on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in a hybrid format. The meeting included public comment on land use issues, approval of past meeting notes, election of Chair and Vice-Chair, and a discussion on a Metro 2040 grant letter of support. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved meeting notes from November 19, 2025, December 3, 2025, and December 17, 2025. Commissioner Dietz abstained from voting on the minutes, resulting in a 6–0–1 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Brigitte Howley (resident, 2985 Winkle Way) expressed concern that a previous Icon development on Deer Hill caused flooding on her property and surrounding homes. She stated that the city and developer offered no recourse unless she paid $75,000 for a geological study. She asked the commission to hold the new developer (for a proposed development on Deer Hill Lane) accountable for potential flooding impacts. Commissioners acknowledged the concern and noted the application has not yet been formally submitted. - Stephanie Brown (resident, Deer Hill Lane) reported that during a neighborhood meeting with the developer on January 13, residents learned that the proposed phase one development would have narrow streets (similar to her 26-foot wide street with no parking) and would tap into the existing stormwater detention pond, which neighbors believe is already at capacity. She requested city and commission involvement to ensure a workable plan. Commissioners advised her to submit written comments when the application is filed and noted that stormwater facilities must typically be sized for each development. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Vice-Chair: Commissioner Schulte-Hillen was nominated and elected Chair by a unanimous 7–0 vote. Commissioner Jones was nominated and elected Vice-Chair, also by a unanimous 7–0 vote. - Metro 2040 Grant Letter of Support: Staff requested a letter from the commission to support the city's grant application for implementing the waterfront vision (adopted by council). Commissioner Evans moved to approve the letter after clarifying that changes were made by city council to strengthen language around wetland development. The motion carried 5–2, with Commissioners Jones and Dietz voting no, citing a desire to see more details before committing. - Commissioner Announcements: Commissioner Walotney noted that Metro may curtail bus service on Rosemont due to funding and ridership challenges, which could affect parking considerations previously discussed. Key Outcomes - Approved meeting minutes (6–0–1). - Elected Chair Schulte-Hillen and Vice-Chair Jones (both unanimous). - Approved a letter of support for the Metro 2040 grant application (5–2). - The meeting adjourned at 6:43 p.m.