Public Meetings - West Linn, Oregon

The West Linn City Council held a regular business meeting on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, starting at 6:00 PM and adjourning at approximately 8:35 PM. The meeting included proclamations, an audit presentation, approval of consent agenda, a public hearing on a right-of-way vacation ordinance, discussion of a parks maintenance fee increase, approval of an intergovernmental agreement with Oregon City for senior services, and designation of a heritage tree. Mayor Rory Bialostosky presided with all five council members present (Councilor Carol Bryck attended virtually). Consent Calendar - Agenda Bill 2026-01-13-01: Approved meeting minutes for the December 9, 2025 City Council meeting. The motion carried 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Cary and Teri Cummings (former councilor) addressed the council regarding a lien placed on their home due to a judgment from a 2022 public records lawsuit. Teri Cummings stated that the judgment was against him as a named city councilor, not personally, and that the city had not acted to resolve the lien, which prevented refinancing. He requested the city pay the fees and release executive session records. Mayor Bialostosky responded that he would waive the fees and work to clear the lien. (Note: Teri Cummings expressed frustration that the city had not taken action despite previous contact.) Discussion Items - Election of Council President: Councilor Carol Bryck nominated Mary Baumgardner, who was elected unanimously (5-0) to serve as Council President for 2026. - Community Advisory Group Appointments: Appointed Clinton Springer (Library Advisory Board) and Samantha Thoreson and Amy Schauer (Sustainability Advisory Board). Mayor noted vacancies on other boards and requested advertising. Motion carried 5-0. - Council Liaison Appointments: Approved changes: Library Advisory Board to Council President Baumgardner; Transportation Advisory Board to Councilor Leo Groner; Arts & Culture Commission to Councilor Carol Bryck. Others retained current assignments. Motion carried 5-0. - Reports from Community Advisory Groups: Mayor reported on Youth Advisory Board meeting about pedestrian safety projects. Councilor Groner reported Arts & Culture Advisory Board discussed holiday market, a coordinated art project along Highway 43, and need for a mural policy. Councilor Bonnington noted Economic Development Committee completed SWOT analysis and discussed revenue sources; Parks & Recreation Advisory Board discussed the proposed parks maintenance fee. Councilor Bryck noted Utility Advisory Board meeting canceled due to lack of quorum. Council President Baumgardner reported attending Clackamas County Business Alliance Legislative Summit and Metro 50-Year Visioning Summit. - Proclamations: (a) Healthcare for All – read by Councilor Groner; (b) Martin Luther King Jr. Day – read by Council President Baumgardner, declaring January 19, 2026 as MLK Day in West Linn. - Audit Committee Presentation: Finance Director Lauren Breithaupt and Tonya Moffit (Merina & Co.) presented the June 30, 2025 audited financial statements, receiving a clean, unmodified opinion (highest level). The city also received the GFOA Award for Excellence for the prior year. No findings in the Oregon Minimum Standards Report. Merina & Co. is concluding government audit work; the city will transition to Aldrich CPAs next year. Council accepted the audit. - Ordinance 1769 – Vacation of Right-of-Way, Easement, and Real Property: Honors Attorney Kristen James explained the ordinance clarifies that vacation of public rights-of-way are policy decisions, not land use decisions, making them appealable to circuit court rather than LUBA. The ordinance follows state law (ORS Chapter 271) and aligns with practices of neighboring cities. The council held first and second readings; the ordinance was adopted unanimously (5-0). - Resolution 2026-01 – Parks Maintenance Fee Increase: City Manager John Williams introduced the proposal for a two-phase increase: $5.00/month effective January 1, 2026 (to align fees with 100% of maintenance costs, currently covering only 83%) and $5.20/month effective July 1, 2026 (to fund the Parks Department's share of the Operations Center debt service, approximately $561,000 annually). Library Director Doug Erickson and Community Relations Coordinator Danielle Choi presented a communication strategy ("Funding Our Future") emphasizing transparency and multi-tiered information. Council discussion revealed differing views on timing. Councilor Bonnington emphasized transparency and public understanding. Councilor Groner requested comparison with neighboring cities. Councilor Bryck noted urgency for alignment with the Full Faith and Credit Obligation. Mayor Bialostosky requested draft communications and phasing options, and suggested scheduling a work session the following week with a vote in February. Council President Baumgardner expressed concern about affordability and rent-burdened residents, and stressed the need to cover costs. The item was continued to a future work session. - Pioneer Center Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA): Parks and Recreation Director Megan Big John and Cecily Rose (Pioneer Center Manager) presented the agreement with Oregon City for adult community services, which has been in place since 2008. Services include Meals on Wheels (6,100 meals to West Linn residents in the past year), transportation, case management, and social/recreational programs. West Linn’s annual contribution is currently $41,000, up from $38,000 in 2008. The IGA is proposed as a five-year renewable agreement with annual CPI adjustments. Council unanimously approved the IGA (5-0). Mayor Bialostosky encouraged council members to volunteer for Meals on Wheels. - Heritage Tree Nomination – McLean Park: Director Big John presented the nomination of a Giant Sequoia tree (estimated 80-90 years old, over 100 feet tall, circumference 27 feet, scored 450 out of 750 points). The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board unanimously recommended designation on November 13, 2025. The tree is believed to have been planted in 1940 by Dr. McLean's son. Council unanimously approved the nomination (5-0), with a celebration planned for Arbor Month in April. Key Outcomes - Mary Baumgardner elected Council President for 2026. - Community Advisory Group appointments approved: Clinton Springer (Library), Samantha Thoreson and Amy Schauer (Sustainability). - Council liaison appointments updated: Transportation to Groner, Library to Baumgardner, Arts & Culture to Bryck. - Proclamations issued for Healthcare for All and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. - Audit accepted with clean opinion; transition to new auditor Aldrich CPAs. - Ordinance 1769 adopted (5-0) establishing vacation of right-of-way as a policy decision appealable to circuit court. - Resolution 2026-01 (parks maintenance fee) postponed for further discussion; a work session scheduled for the week of January 20 or early February, with a target vote in February 2026. Staff to provide communication drafts, phasing options, historical fee information, staffing data, comparison with neighboring cities, and deferred maintenance analysis. - Pioneer Center IGA approved (5-0) for a five-year term with annual CPI adjustments. - Heritage Tree nomination approved for the Giant Sequoia at McLean Park. - Next council work session (January 20) will include discussion of West Linn’s marijuana prohibition and the parks maintenance fee. February 3 work session moved to 6:00 PM to include Utility Advisory Board water rates discussion and Police Review and Recommend Committee annual report. February 10 business meeting will include SMART transit presentation on I-205 service. Council retreat scheduled for February 13 or 27 to discuss financial strategic plan. City Manager Report - Upcoming meetings and events: School Resource Officer at the library on a grading day; new art display by Marlana Stoddard-Hayes in council chambers. City Manager to attend Willamette Neighborhood Association meeting.

The West Linn Planning Commission met on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in a hybrid format. The meeting included a quasi-judicial public hearing for a temporary use permit, a work session on the commission’s annual report, staff and commissioner announcements, and a recognition of outgoing Chair Metlen. The commission unanimously approved the temporary use permit. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak during the public comment period for land use items not on the agenda, nor for the public hearing. Discussion Items - Public Hearing (MISC-25-04): The applicant, Pulti Homes, requested a one-year temporary use permit with a one-year extension to operate a sales office for new home construction at 17324 Hillside Drive (Lot 20 of the Upper Midhill Estates subdivision). The sales office would be located in the converted garage of a future home, with parking on Lot 19 and the driveway. Staff recommended approval, noting that the proposal complied with the relevant codes (CDC Chapters 14, 35, 99) and that all previous subdivision conditions had been met, as the plat was recorded. Commissioner Wallbotney raised a concern about ensuring that past conditions (e.g., intersection improvements on Highway 43) had been carried through, but staff confirmed that all conditions were satisfied before plat recording. Applicant Rosvan presented the site plan and explained that no structural changes were planned. No public testimony was given. The hearing was closed. - Work Session – Planning Commission Annual Report: Staff presented an updated draft of the 2025 annual report, incorporating edits from the December 3 meeting. Commissioners had no further edits, and staff will send the final report to the City Council. - Staff Announcements: Staff noted that the January 7, 2026, meeting is proposed to be cancelled due to lack of items. Commissioner Schulte Hillen was reappointed by council; Elizabeth Dietz was appointed to fill the vacant seat. Chair Metlen’s term was ending, and a new chair and vice chair will be elected at the January 21 meeting. Two conditional use permits are expected in February or March 2026. - Chair Metlen Appreciation: Staff presented a certificate of appreciation from the mayor and highlighted Chair Metlen’s nearly 10 years of service, including involvement in approximately 180 meetings, 60 quasi-judicial hearings, and major projects such as Vision 43 and HB 2001 code amendments. Chair Metlen thanked the commission and staff for their collaborative work. Key Outcomes - Approval of MISC-25-04 (Temporary Use Permit): Commissioner Wallbotney moved to approve the application as presented in the December 17, 2025, staff report and direct staff to prepare a final decision based on the findings. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (7-0). The permit is valid for one year with a one-year extension, expiring December 2027. Appeal rights: 14 days from signing of final decision. - Annual Report Finalized: The commission approved the draft annual report as presented; staff will submit it to the City Council by year-end. - Next Meeting: The January 7, 2026, meeting is proposed to be cancelled; the next scheduled meeting is January 21, 2026, which will include elections for chair and vice chair.

The West Linn City Council met in a hybrid business meeting on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 22500 Salamo Road, following a 5:30 p.m. pre-meeting. Council approved two land-use ordinances and an annexation, authorized up to $45 million in full faith and credit obligations for a centralized operations center, and directed staff to prepare cost estimates and ballot options for a smaller park at the Oppenlander property. All votes were 5-0, with Mayor Rory Bialostosky and Councilors Mary Baumgardner, Kevin Bonnington, Carol Bryck, and Leo Groner present. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilors reported on the Clackamas County Chair's monthly mayor's meeting (houseless measure and storm response), a Planning Commission update on the Vision 43 plan, the Willamette Falls Locks Authority and legislative funding efforts, Economic Development Committee SWOT analysis work, and the community tree lighting. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0 the consent agenda containing the November 18, 2025 City Council meeting minutes and the amendment to the City Attorney contract. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered during the general public comment period, and no members of the public testified at either public hearing. - During the annexation hearing, applicant and future property owner Rob Mathews and engineer/applicant Jeff Bennet-Dawson presented, thanking staff and clarifying their tentative development plans; they stated the maximum was about 20-22 townhome units or 6 single-family homes. Ordinance 1766 – Bolton and Willamette Town Center Boundaries - The Council held a legislative public hearing on text amendments to Comprehensive Plan Chapter 2 that adopt the Bolton and Willamette Town Center boundaries, as required by Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 660 Division 12 and Metro Urban Growth Management Functional Plan Title 6. - Principal Planner Darren Wyss presented the staff report; the Planning Commission had recommended the amendments, including two small additions to the Bolton boundary. - Council adopted Ordinance 1766 on first and second reading by 5-0 votes. Annexation – Ordinances 1767 and 1768 - The Council accepted the annexation petition for tax lot 21E25CC00300, approximately 1.3 acres (about 59,000 square feet) adjacent to 3945 South Parker Road; the petition included annexation to the Tri-City Service District and withdrawal from the Clackamas County Enhanced Law Enforcement District. - Associate Planner Aaron Gudelj explained the two-step process. The property is vacant, has no current address, and its street frontage would be on Roxbury Drive after a county lot line adjustment. - Staff stated the maximum theoretical density under R-7 could be about 36 units; the applicant said their tentative layouts show up to 20-22 townhome units or up to 6 single-family homes, and their voluntary traffic study contemplated development impacts. - Ordinance 1767 establishing R-7 zoning and Ordinance 1768 approving the annexation and removing the property from special districts were each adopted on first and second reading by 5-0 votes. Resolution 2025-18 – Centralized Operations Center Financing - City Manager John Williams and Finance Director Lauren Breithaupt presented Resolution 2025-18, authorizing up to $45,000,000 in full faith and credit obligations to finance the development, construction, and equipping of a centralized operations center, replacing the outdated facility on Norfolk Road. - Breithaupt explained the FFCO is repaid from existing city revenue streams such as utility rates and general funds, not a new property tax; the annual payback is approximately $962,000 from the streets fund and $561,000 from each of the sewer, storm, water, and parks funds over 25 years. A reimbursement clause allows recovery of design costs already paid. - Mayor Bialostosky noted the city's property tax rate was frozen at $2.12 per thousand in the 1990s, that a general fund deficit would require cuts, and that modest fee increases, including a possible $5 parks fee increase to be discussed in January, are needed to avoid deferring projects. - Council adopted Resolution 2025-18 unanimously, 5-0. Oppenlander Park Opportunity Update - Staff reviewed a community survey with more than 1,000 responses; the grove of trees was the highest-ranked amenity, just shy of 60% of respondents supported moving forward even with a cost to taxpayers, and more than 400 free-response comments were received. Staff noted the survey was non-scientific. - ICON Development representative Harlan discussed two main park concepts: a smaller front neighborhood park (presented as approximately 1.2 acres along Rosemont Road) and a larger rear park (approximately 3 acres with ballfields). Staff expressed reservations because no acquisition or operations funding is identified and parkland adds long-term maintenance costs. - Councilors generally supported the smaller front park, citing preservation of mature trees, lower maintenance costs, and less traffic and parking impact than ballfields. Several Councilors said any bond measure should be combined with other city priorities such as pedestrian safety, Parker Road improvements, and facility or maintenance needs. - Staff explained a May 2026 ballot would require completed ballot materials by mid-February, while a November 2026 ballot would have an August deadline. Council consensus was that May would be premature. - Council adopted a motion, 5-0, directing staff to work with ICON to develop cost estimates and a timeframe for the approximately 1.5-acre front park and to prepare options for a ballot measure as soon as November 2026. Note: the staff presentation described the front park as approximately 1.2 acres, while the motion described it as approximately 1.5 acres. Community Advisory Group Appointments - Council approved, 5-0, the Mayor's appointments: Arts & Culture Commission – Sheridan Corrie and Lauren Beeney; Committee for Community Involvement – Lance Weinard, Anders Young, and Susanne Greengard; Economic Development Committee – Russell Williams, Lance Weinard, and Sherie Wahlgren; Library Advisory Board – Rachael Hyde; Planning Commission – Kathryn Schulte-Hillen and Elizabeth Dietz; Police Review & Recommend – Jack Snook, Steve Kramer, Michael Harper, and Tim Dooley (alternate); Sustainability Advisory Board – Mike Carlson. - Additional library and sustainability board applicant review was deferred to January 2026; Council liaison appointments were also deferred to the January meeting, with Councilors asked to email the Mayor about any desired changes. City Manager Report - John Williams reported that the Council held 60 meetings in 2025. The next scheduled business meeting is January 13, 2026, with a possible January 6 work session. He described storm response work across the city, including a tree down on Willamette Falls Drive, and noted the holiday parade was scheduled for Saturday evening. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved 5-0 with community advisory appointments moved to the end of the meeting. - Adopted Ordinances 1766, 1767, and 1768 on first and second readings, all 5-0. - Adopted Resolution 2025-18, 5-0, authorizing up to $45,000,000 in FFCO financing for the centralized operations center. - Directed staff, 5-0, to develop Oppenlander front-park cost estimates and prepare November 2026 ballot options. - Approved community advisory group appointments, 5-0; deferred liaison assignments and some board applications to January 2026.

The West Linn Planning Commission held a regular meeting on December 3, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers and virtually. The agenda included briefings on the Vision43 project and Senate Bill 1537 (2024), a work session on the Planning Commission Annual Report, and staff announcements. No public comments were submitted. Briefings and Discussion Items Vision43 Project Update - Timeline Extension: The project, originally expected to conclude in October 2025, has been extended through July 2026. Staff noted a contract extension with consulting firm MIG through December 2026 for safekeeping. - Budget Amendment: An additional $19,850 was approved from existing budgeted funds to cover extended consultant costs and to produce simplified 3D-style renderings showing maximum build-out under current and proposed code. - Phased Rezoning Approach: To address community concerns, rezoning of focus areas will occur in two phases: - Phase 1 (before adoption): Focus on existing commercially zoned properties adjacent to Highway 43, plus a few residential properties already operating as commercial. - Phase 2 (after adoption, possibly 1–2 years): Residential properties within the focus areas, allowing time for individual outreach and discussion. - Commissioner Watton expressed support for the phased approach, calling it “smart.” - Strategic Pivot: Instead of discussing individual policy questions, staff will bring draft code language directly to the commission and council for work sessions. Draft code is being written based on prior community feedback. - Next Steps: Community open houses in mid-January and mid-February 2026; Planning Commission work sessions in February; public hearing in April; council recommendations and decision by late June/early July 2026. - Other Topics in Draft Code: Drive-through limitations, thresholds for requiring new code on remodels, height limits near residential zones, massing to avoid canyon effects, pedestrian access priorities, and flexibility to encourage desired development. Senate Bill 1537 (2024) Implementation - Limited Land Use Decisions (Sections 44–47): The bill added replats, property line adjustments, and alterations of non-conforming uses as limited land use decisions. State guidance initially required new procedures but later changed to allow cities to retain their existing quasi-judicial processes. Staff determined no exemption or code amendments are needed. - Mandatory Adjustments (Sections 37–43): The city must allow certain adjustments (e.g., reduced setbacks, increased heights) if a project achieves 17 dwelling units per acre. Staff analyzed that West Linn has few properties that can meet that density and that the city is not eligible for an exemption because current code does not allow all listed adjustments. - No commission questions were raised on this briefing. Work Session: Planning Commission Annual Report - Staff provided a draft annual report for 2025, including accomplishments and council work plan items. - Commissioners discussed challenges and priorities: - Public Engagement: Commissioners emphasized the need to encourage more community participation in regular meetings, not just on hot-button issues. Suggestions included using social media (e.g., Nextdoor, Reddit) and engaging high school students via civics programs. Caution was noted about avoiding ex parte contact on quasi-judicial matters. - Affordable Housing: Commissioner Watton asked about progress; staff reported that the Housing Production Strategy is moving to implementation with grant funds, focusing on rezoning and code updates to support affordable and workforce housing. A working group will be formed, and the commission may be asked for a volunteer. - Joint Meetings: Commissioner Wolvotney suggested a joint meeting with the Historic Review Board and better communication with the Community Engagement Initiative (CCI). - Staff will update the report with these items and bring it back for finalization at the December 17 meeting. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; all agenda items were briefings or work sessions. - The Vision43 project timeline and budget were extended; the phased rezoning approach was endorsed by commissioners. - No code changes are required for SB1537 limited land use decisions; the mandatory adjustments section will not be exempted. - The annual report will be revised and finalized at the next meeting. - Staff announced that Chris Myers, the Vision43 project lead, is leaving the city; the project will transition to Darren. The next meeting on December 17 will include a quasi-judicial hearing and a celebration for Chair Metlin’s 10 years of service.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on December 2, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. The meeting covered a proclamation for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and Impaired Driving Prevention Month, a financial plan for the new Operations Center, and a presentation on severely rent-burdened housing. Council members also provided reports and discussed scheduling future topics. Proclamations - Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day: Council President Baumgartner read the proclamation, noting the attack on December 7, 1941, and honoring those who served. She shared a personal connection: her husband's aunt, Alice Baumgartner, was killed at Pearl Harbor. - Impaired Driving Prevention Month: A proclamation declaring December 2025 as Impaired Driving Prevention Month, urging responsible decisions and recognizing law enforcement, was read and adopted. Operations Center Financial Plan - Summary: City staff presented the final funding mix for the $40–45 million Operations Center project. The council previously approved a full faith and credit obligation (FFCO) on November 18, 2025. The key question was how to allocate the annual debt service—approximately $560,000 from the general fund and nearly $1 million from the streets fund. - Options discussed: - Using existing revenues, but the general fund faces future deficits. - A bond measure, but timing would miss the dry weather construction season unless pursued in May or November 2026. - Utility fee increases: A $5/month fee (about $60/year) on utility bills could cover the general fund's share, and a separate increase could bring the parks maintenance fee to cover 100% of costs (currently falling $500,000/year short). Councilor Growner noted his typical $41.93/month for parks and street fees would rise to $47.10—a reasonable amount for a 70-year-old facility replacement. - Council positions: - Councilor Bright advocated for first raising the parks maintenance fee to its intended level (effective January 1) and then addressing the operations center share, suggesting phasing both increases together for clarity. - Councilor Bonington emphasized the need for community education about the project and the relatively modest increase compared to other cities (e.g., Wilsonville's 28% annual sewer increases). - Council President Baumgartner supported incremental increases to avoid large shocks. - Councilor Groner expressed support for the fee increases, calling the current facility an "urban slum." - Next steps: Staff will bring a resolution in January 2026 for a vote on the fee increases, with community outreach beforehand (e.g., newsletter, project webpage, photo gallery of the existing facility). The FFCO vote is scheduled for December 9, 2025. Severely Rent Burdened Housing - Presentation: Community Development Director Steve Coper presented data from Oregon Housing and Community Services: 34% of renter households in West Linn are severely rent-burdened (paying over 50% of income on rent), and nearly 75% are cost-burdened (over 30%). This is an increase from 31% in 2022. - Causes: Limited rental stock, high construction costs, and limited buildable land. The Housing Production Strategy (May 2025) identifies a need for 1,055 housing units over 20 years, with over 300 units needed for low- and extremely-low-income households. - Barriers: High infrastructure costs, lack of zoned land, and limited funding for regulated affordable housing. Tax exemptions and subsidies are essential for affordable projects. - Council discussion: - Councilor Bonington suggested exploring a rental registration fee (similar to Portland's) to generate revenue for affordable housing. - Councilor Growner asked about engaging Habitat for Humanity; Coper noted land availability and subsidies are key. - Council President Baumgartner asked how a new market-rate complex (e.g., on Tanler) would affect the burden; Coper said any new supply helps, but the theory is debated. - Action: Council will schedule a future work session in 2026 to prioritize which Housing Production Strategy actions to pursue, using grant funds ($125,000 awarded out of $200,000 requested). City Manager Report - Upcoming meetings: December 9, 2025 evening meeting with FFCO vote, annexation, and Metro town center item. The December 16 work session may be canceled. - Other items: - Tree lighting event on Friday, December 5 at 6:00 p.m. - Winter weather policy update (sand, hill closures, warming centers) with public communication. - Metro update: possible regional measures on housing/homelessness, transportation, and sports facilities. - Library events: Vintage book sale Dec. 5-6; speed puzzling competition Dec. 13. - Dance/social at Adult Community Center for individuals with disabilities. Key Outcomes - Operations Center Funding: Council directed staff to prepare a resolution for January 2026 to increase the parks maintenance fee (to cover 100% of costs) and potentially the street maintenance fee to fund the operations center debt service. Community outreach will precede the vote. The FFCO authorization vote is set for December 9, 2025. - Housing Directions: Council will schedule a future work session to prioritize Housing Production Strategy actions using the state grant. - Scheduling: Council President Baumgartner requested a future discussion on flock cameras/surveillance; Councilor Bonington requested a discussion on the city's dispensary prohibition. Both will be scheduled by the city manager.

The West Linn Planning Commission held a public hearing on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to consider a Conditional Use Permit (CUP-25-01) and Class II Design Review (DR-25-01) for a food cart pod with a dining structure and taproom at 1553 11th Street. The commission voted 5-1 to approve the application with modified conditions of approval. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved meeting notes from August 20, September 17, and October 15, 2025, with one abstention (Commissioner Jones). Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Halleck (Willamette Neighborhood Association President): Expressed concerns about lack of parking, delivery access, traffic congestion, fire/police response times, noise affecting nearby schools, and proximity to alcohol service near children. She urged delay or denial until concerns are addressed. - Bo Juneau (West Linn resident): Opposed the project due to no parking provided, calling it short-sighted and an affront to neighbors' concerns about parking and the roundabout. - Lance Finneyfrock (West Linn resident, lives in Willamette): Noted existing parking spillover from other food cart pod, narrow streets without sidewalks, school zone safety, and potential increased traffic and drunk driving risks. Supported local business but called for more planning. - Janessa Olson (1553 10th Street): Described dangerous traffic around school, speeding on residential streets, and near-misses with children. Opposed the project due to safety and parking issues, especially with alcohol service near schools. - Paul Rhyme (11th Street resident): Raised concerns about school pickup congestion, pedestrian and bike safety, school playground being used for overflow parking, competition with existing restaurants, noise from beer garden, rodent attraction, and parking encroaching onto 11th Street and neighboring blocks. - Ian Brown: Stated primary concern was noise from outdoor seating and extended hours (up to 10 p.m. weekends). Requested a condition limiting hours of operation to mitigate noise. Discussion Items - Staff (Darren Wise, Principal Planner) presented the two-phase proposal: Phase 1 – eight food carts, a 768-square-foot dining/restroom structure, and outdoor seating; Phase 2 – conversion of existing commercial space into a taproom. The site is zoned Willamette Neighborhood Mixed-Use Transitional, and the use requires a conditional use permit. Staff recommended six conditions of approval, including widening the service drive to 24 feet, installing a post-and-cable barrier to separate pedestrians from vehicles, closing the west driveway, and improving landscaping and refuse enclosure. - Applicant (Jessica Iselin, architect; David Lawrence, property owner) described the project as a low-impact, neighborhood gathering place. They requested modifications to three conditions: (1) replacing the cable fence barrier with a curb and movable planters to allow event flexibility; (2) not widening the 18-foot-8-inch driveway to 24 feet, citing minimal traffic and symmetry; (3) keeping the west driveway open for food cart and grease-trap access, with removable bollards or planters to allow occasional use. - Commissioners asked clarifying questions about parking allocation, the sign permit being deferred, and the relationship between the existing pool/spa business and the new uses. Commissioner Jones cited the 2016 Transportation System Plan’s pedestrian priority designations. Commissioner Schulte Hillen asked about overlap with school hours; Commissioner Evans argued parking requirements had been eliminated and that the applicant should not be held responsible for pre-existing area congestion. - Public testimony overwhelmingly raised safety, parking, noise, and school proximity concerns. Several speakers urged denial or delay. Key Outcomes - Motion (Commissioner Evans): Approve CUP-25-01/DR-25-01 subject to staff conditions 1, 2, 5, and 6, and modify condition 3 (service drive barrier) to require a mutually agreeable solution (removable bollards, signage, or planters) in place of the cable fence, and exclude condition 4 (driveway widening). Motion seconded and carried 5-1 (Vice Chair Wolvotney opposed). - Next Steps: Staff will prepare a final decision order based on the motion and findings. The decision may be appealed to the City Council within 14 days of mailing of the final decision.

The West Linn City Council met on November 18, 2025, and took significant actions including the adoption of the West Linn Waterfront Vision Plan (Resolution 2025-13) with amendments responding to community concerns, ratification of three Clackamas County Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) collective bargaining agreements (Resolutions 2025-15, 2025-16, and 2025-17), and approval of a $45 million design option (Option 2) for the new Operations Complex with authorization to begin financing. The council also approved the City Manager and City Attorney merit increases and goals, and handled routine consent agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approved the October 14, 2025 meeting minutes, the Audit Services Contract (from a competitive procurement), and Council Rules Changes (minor procedural updates including meeting days to Tuesdays and court claim notice procedures). All passed unanimously 5‑0. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Morse (resident): Expressed concern about tree removal on a hillside near his home without neighbor notification, citing landslide susceptibility. Asked why the city no longer notifies adjacent property owners and whether state landslide maps are reviewed for tree removal permits. - Ray Inabnitt (resident): Criticized city works project supervision, citing closed permitting counters, misinformation from staff, unsafe road conditions (unimproved street, no speed limit signs on Upper Midhill), and lack of oversight on contractor work. Requested a speed limit sign and better management. - Waterfront Vision Plan Public Hearing: - Jim Edwards (Willamette Falls Heritage Association): Stated support for adoption of the vision plan as written and as amended by council. - Terence Shumaker (resident, Friends of Allyn Wetlands): Urged removal of the "Potential Development Area" label from the map near the wetlands south of 5th Avenue, citing community petitions and planning commission recommendations. Later acknowledged council’s proposed amendment. - Written comments from former mayor Russ Axelrod were submitted but not read aloud. Discussion Items - Waterfront Vision Plan (Resolution 2025-13): Consultants presented the plan's three districts (Historic City Hall, Cultural Heritage, Pond) and engagement history. A key issue was the Pond District map showing a yellow "Potential Development Area" adjacent to wetlands. Mayor proposed a compromise: add a text box reading "natural resource preservation and rehabilitation" and remove the yellow shading, reverting to base green layer. Council agreed after debate—Councilor Bryck favored map change, Councilor Groner objected to altering zoning‑based colors, but consensus emerged to do both. The plan was adopted as amended. Council members underscored historic significance, tribal partnership, and community engagement over ten years. - CCPOA Collective Bargaining Agreements (Resolutions 2025-15, 2025-16, 2025-17): HR Manager Kelsey Card reported on negotiations (June to October 2025) for two union units (rank‑and‑file, sergeants) and a management benefit adjustment. Key terms: - Three‑year contracts (FY2026‑2028). - Cost‑of‑living: FY26 – 3%; FY27‑28 – 2%–4% tied to CPI (Western Cities B & C index). - Instead of a trust‑funded medical retirement (like Clackamas County), the city will offer longevity incentives with HRA/Veba contributions increasing with years of service. - Legal defense plan increased from $6.50 to $8 per member. - Sergeants: 0.5% base salary increase (in lieu of deferred compensation increase) to address compression. - Field Training Officer pay changed from 18.72% to flat 12% premium. - Combined cost approximately $19,188 under budget over three years. - Council praised the cooperative negotiation process (no mediation) and the positive police department culture. All three resolutions passed unanimously. - Operations Complex Design and Budget Approval: Staff and consultants presented two design options. The recommended Option 2 (budget $45 million) stacks the administration building atop the fleet maintenance building, reducing site development and retaining most program. Trade‑offs include fewer covered parking bays and slightly less square footage. Council discussed financing scenarios: annual debt service of $3.2 million, with 30% cost share to streets and distribution among utility and park funds. Approval authorizes staff to proceed with design and land‑use work; the formal Full Faith and Credit financing resolution will come to council on December 9, 2025. The current Operations Center (built in the 1950s) is outdated and non‑functional. Council emphasized the necessity of the project for winter weather operations and emergency response. Motion passed unanimously 5‑0. Key Outcomes - Adopted Resolution 2025-13 (West Linn Waterfront Vision Plan) as amended with a text box on natural resource preservation/rehabilitation and removal of yellow shading from the Pond District map near wetlands. Unanimous 5‑0. - Adopted Resolutions 2025-15 (rank‑and‑file CCPOA contract) , 2025-16 (sergeants contract) , and 2025-17 (benefits addition for police management and confidential staff). All unanimous 5‑0. - Approved Operations Complex design Option 2 ($45 million) and authorized the City Finance Director to secure Full Faith and Credit funding (formal resolution to follow December 9). Unanimous 5‑0. - Approved City Manager goals and merit increase of 3% ($236,306.72) retroactive to September 16, 2025. Unanimous 5‑0. - Approved City Attorney goals and merit increase of 3% ($236,199.60) retroactive to September 16, 2025 (note: minutes state September 16; the transcript stated September 9 – minutes govern). Unanimous 5‑0. - City Manager report: Outlined six themes from the previous day’s financial strategic planning workshop: maintain critical infrastructure, sustain existing services, expand select services (e.g., traffic safety officers), remain opportunistic for community amenities, implement vision plans, and acknowledge residents’ rising costs with transparent phasing and communication.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on Monday, November 17, 2025, from approximately 8:30 am to 11:00 am, to continue discussions on the city's budget needs and opportunities. The meeting focused on establishing shared financial priorities and evaluating revenue options for eight identified priority areas. Council President Baumgartner was excused. Facilitator Sarah Wilson led the discussion, with contributions from City Manager John Williams, Finance Director Lauren Burke, Deputy City Manager Alyssa Preston, and other department heads. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved unanimously by roll call (Councilors Groner, Bonnington, Bright, and Mayor Belcastro). No public comments were received. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak, either in person or online. Discussion Items - Parks Acquisition: Discussed potential acquisition of the Oppenlander property, development of the Parker Road site (including a possible music-in-the-park venue with food carts), and other park improvements (e.g., non-motorized boat launch at Willamette Park, Bolton fire station). Estimated cost of $10 million as a placeholder. Council expressed support for parks as popular but noted need for additional scoping, community engagement, and polling on voter willingness to pay. Councilor Groner emphasized urgency on Oppenlander due to timing; Councilor Bright highlighted transit access concerns. Councilor Bonnington suggested this could be a longer-term goal. - Waterfront Area Projects: Encompassed implementation of the waterfront vision plan, potential pedestrian/bike bridge connecting to Tumwater, and property acquisition opportunities. Longer-term priority with undefined scope. Council noted city owns little waterfront property and that the urban renewal district (TIF) could be a funding source. Councilor Bonnington emphasized the importance of acquiring property when available. - City Operations Center: A top priority due to essential nature and construction timeline. Current budget of $35 million; staff-recommended level of $45 million. Council discussed funding options: full faith and credit (FFCO) bond, general obligation bond, or utility fee. Councilor Bonnington proposed fully funding via bond; Councilor Bright worried about voter support given lack of visibility. City Manager Williams noted the project needs to start summer 2025, making a May 2026 bond ballot unlikely. Consensus emerged to move forward with FFCO for the operations center and explore fee replacement for the general fund component (approximately $560,000 annually). Councilor Groner supported fee approach over a bond campaign. - Drinking Water Line: Five-year unfunded capital need of $13 million per water system plan; current CIP has $8 million, leaving a $5 million gap. Council discussed charter limitation (5% annual rate increase) as a barrier. Councilors Bright and Groner supported a charter amendment to remove the cap, but acknowledged need for voter approval. This priority was seen as longer-term, with risks of emergency repairs if deferred. - Bike and Pedestrian Safety: Dedicated ongoing funding source requested (e.g., $1 million per year) for projects like sidewalks, crossings, and flashing crosswalks. Councilor Groner noted frequent community requests. Councilor Bonington felt this was lower priority compared to others. Councilor Bright suggested potential Metro grants and use of TIF funds. Council discussed a fee model (e.g., Milwaukee's $7.11/month for single-family homes) or inclusion in a bond package. Readiness: projects are identified, but a proposal and community engagement strategy needed. - Parks and City Facilities: City lacks a long-term facilities maintenance and replacement plan. Council supported funding a master plan first (estimated $29,000 for a quote). Annual maintenance currently $853,000; CIP only $120,000. Councilor Bonnington emphasized caring for existing assets. Longer-term priority pending plan completion. - General Fund Stabilization and Staffing: Five-year budget forecast shows a $9 million general fund deficit, with fiscal cliff in FY 2029 (negative fund balance). Council discussed two main categories: stabilizing existing service levels and adding staffing. Specific positions identified: parks (natural areas manager, ranger, building maintenance, rec coordinator), police (additional patrol officers, CSO, SRO, traffic officer, captain), and other (communications, planner, code enforcement, outreach librarian). Total staffing costs estimated at $4.6 million annually. Council discussed funding via a renewing operating levy (every five years) or utility fees. Councilor Bright raised concern about cumulative fee impact (e.g., $42-43/month for all staffing). Councilor Bonington proposed a comprehensive outreach and education campaign before polling. Captain Rollins described overtime crisis (500+ hours in next five weeks). Council leaned toward an operating levy for staffing, not before November 2026. Key Outcomes - Prioritization Exercise: Council ranked the eight priorities. The top two were: 1) Operations Center replacement, and 2) Stabilization of existing staffing. Other priorities were considered longer-term or requiring further definition. - Operations Center: Consensus to proceed with full faith and credit (FFCO) financing and develop a fee replacement plan for the general fund component. Council directed staff to bring forward a fee proposal (likely utility fee) as soon as possible to improve bond rating and fund the general fund portion. - No May 2026 Ballot: Council agreed not to pursue any ballot measure in May 2026 due to insufficient time for education and scoping. A small bond for parks/pedestrian safety and a renewing operating levy for staffing are potential future ballot measures, with the levy targeted for November 2026 or later. - Next Steps: Staff will synthesize feedback, incorporate Council President Baumgartner's input, and develop a detailed timeline and work plan. Future work sessions will address specific tools (fees, bonds, levies) and community engagement strategies. Council will also consider a charter amendment regarding water rate caps.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, from approximately 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The meeting included proclamations for Native American Heritage Month, Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025), and Veterans Day (November 11, 2025), as well as reports from council members on community engagement activities. The main discussions focused on the adoption of Metro Town Center boundaries and a major update on the Operations Complex project, including design options and financing. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Metro Town Center Boundaries: Darren Williams and staff presented the proposed adoption of boundaries for the Bolton and Willamette Town Centers, required by state climate-friendly rules by December 31, 2025. The planning commission recommended minor additions to the Bolton boundary to align with the Vision 43 focus area and include the mill parking lot. Council discussed the purpose of town centers (eligibility for regional investments and lower mobility standards) and the difficulty of major boundary amendments. Consensus was reached to move the adoption ordinance to a public hearing on December 9, 2025, with interest in future conversations about expanding boundaries. - Operations Complex Update: The project team (Scott Edwards Architecture, Skanska, staff) presented three value-engineered design scenarios based on an initial 100% design estimate of $53.7 million total (including soft costs). The scenarios were: - Scenario 1 (light cut): $50.2 million total, shrinking the three buildings but retaining most program. - Scenario 2 (medium cut): $45 million total, stacking the admin building atop the fleet maintenance building, reducing to two buildings with about 90% of program. - Scenario 3 (deep cut): $41 million total, eliminating the second storage building entirely. Staff recommended Scenario 2 (45 million). Council expressed concerns about noise, fumes, and site stability (slope history), but team assured engineering solutions. Council rejected Scenario 3 as it would undermine the project's goals. Discussion centered on the trade-offs between Scenario 1 and 2 (a $5 million difference) and the need for a facility lasting 50–100 years. The proposed financing plan assumed a 25-year debt service, distributing costs equitably among funds (streets, storm, sewer, water, parks) with a recommended 30% cost share for streets. This would require delaying some capital projects (e.g., water pipe replacement, stormwater improvements). Council requested additional financial analysis on revenue options (e.g., a specific fee) and impacts to funds before making a final design decision. Key Outcomes - Council unanimously directed staff to schedule the Metro Town Center boundary ordinance for a public hearing on December 9, 2025. - For the Operations Complex, Council eliminated Scenario 3 and requested more detailed financial information comparing Scenario 1 (original design) and Scenario 2 (staff recommendation), including alternative funding mechanisms (e.g., a dedicated fee) and the implications for the city's five-year capital improvement plan. Staff will present options at the November 18, 2025 special meeting. - Council also expressed interest in public engagement (e.g., a poll) to gauge community willingness to support additional funding for the project.