Public Meetings - West Linn, Oregon

The West Linn City Council met on Monday, August 4, 2025, for a special meeting that included a pre-meeting and a regular business meeting. Key topics included the approval of a resolution for on-call construction contracts, award of the 2025 road program contract, adoption of community advisory group work plans, an urban renewal presentation, discussion of the City Manager evaluation process, and updates on the Willamette Falls Trust funding. The meeting lasted approximately two hours. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved and seconded, passed unanimously. - Appointment to Transportation Advisory Board: Council approved the appointment of Mikhail Rosenberg to the Transportation Advisory Board (TAB) unanimously. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously, including the July 14, 2025, council meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Hallecky (West Linn resident): Apologized for her behavior at the previous council meeting, acknowledging she directed comments at the Mayor that were unwarranted. Pledged to do better. - Tom Meyer (President, West Linn Pickleball Club; Vice President, Parker Crest Neighborhood Association): Criticized City Manager John Williams’ handling of the covered pickleball structure project at Tanner Creek Park, alleging lack of communication, poor project management, and failure to include data analysis (decibel readings) in decisions to remove two courts. He also referenced a previous coverage of the issue in earlier submissions. Discussion Items - Willamette Falls Trust Funding (45 million state allocation): Council discussed a $45 million lottery bond allocation for the Willamette Falls Trust that was on a line-item veto list pending the Governor’s decision. Council President Baumgartner and Mayor Bielostowski reported engaging with the Governor’s office and tribes. Council reached consensus to support the funding. Mayor noted he had already sent a letter of support on behalf of the city and offered to share a draft op-ed. Staff clarified that a majority consensus permits a councilor to state the council’s position. - City Manager Annual Evaluation Process: Mayor presented a proposed timeline: public comment period August 5–31, self-evaluation by September 12, individual council evaluations due September 26, executive session and public meeting in October. Councilor Bonn discussed adding a separate evaluation of the state of the city to avoid conflating organizational issues with City Manager performance, and allowing the City Manager to provide feedback to council. Council agreed to the timeline and opened public comment (see above). - Urban Renewal Presentation (Urban Renewal 101): Elaine Howard, urban renewal consultant, presented an overview of tax increment financing, the West Linn Riverfront Tax Increment Finance Area (maximum indebtedness $76.1 million), projected revenue (first year increment received $129,000), and project priorities from the 2023 plan (e.g., Willamette Falls Drive improvements, Tandler Street Realignment, Riverfront Trail). She recommended banking funds initially and considering strategic land acquisition when opportunities arise, using examples from Lake Oswego, Tigard, and Coos Bay. Council discussed the possibility of land acquisition and the need to balance spending. Council also noted the ongoing Highway 43 Urban Renewal District feasibility study. - Resolution 2025-10 – Exemption from Formal Bid Process for On-Call Construction Contracts: Public Works Director Eric Lair presented the resolution to authorize up to three on-call construction contractors for emergency and specialized work (e.g., storm drain repairs, water line breaks) up to $100,000 per project without full formal bidding. A public hearing was held with no comments. Council discussed the need for quick contractor availability. The resolution passed unanimously. - 2025 Road Program Contract Award: Staff recommended awarding the contract to Eagle Elsner Inc. for $1,598,672 for repaving seven streets (Rosemont, Hidden Springs, Santa Anita, Hillside, College Hill, Lower Midhill, Woodhill Court). Seven bids were received; Eagle Elsner was the lowest responsive bidder, with a history of satisfactory work. The project includes 7,400 square yards of full-depth repair and 5,100 tons of asphalt. Council approved the contract unanimously. - Community Advisory Group (CAG) Work Plans: Assistant to the City Manager Dylan Digby presented work plans for seven groups (Arts and Culture Commission, Committee for Community Involvement, Library Advisory Board, Planning Commission, Parks and Recreation Board, Sustainability Advisory Board, Youth Advisory Council). Work plans align with council priorities for 2025–2027. Three groups’ plans (Transportation Advisory Board, Economic Development Committee, Utility Advisory Board) are still pending. Council approved the seven work plans unanimously, with discussion to schedule a joint meeting with the CCI to clarify roles regarding neighborhood associations. Parks and Library updates were provided by staff. - City Manager Report: John Williams highlighted summer events (Movies in the Park, Music in the Park, Classic Car Show), announced new Community Development Director Steve Coker starting August 5, and previewed the September meeting schedule, including a discussion on long-range budget needs. Council also discussed the possibility of moving future council meetings from Mondays to Tuesdays to accommodate Mayor’s law school schedule. Staff will provide information for a decision in September. Key Outcomes - Consensus on Willamette Falls Trust Funding: Council agreed to support the $45 million funding, authorizing the Mayor to convey the council’s position. - City Manager Evaluation Process Approved: Timeline and structure adopted; public comment period opens August 5. - Resolution 2025-10 Adopted: Unanimous vote to exempt on-call construction contracts from formal bid process, with up to $100,000 per project. - 2025 Road Program Contract Awarded: Eagle Elsner Inc. awarded $1,598,672 contract for repaving seven streets. Unanimous. - Seven Community Advisory Group Work Plans Approved: Unanimous approval for the 2025–2027 work plans; remaining three to be brought forward in September. - Future Meeting Schedule: Staff to prepare information on moving meetings to Tuesdays; council to decide in September.

The West Linn Planning Commission met at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in a hybrid format (in person at City Hall and remotely via Webex). All six commissioners were present: Chair Metlin, Vice Chair Will Botney, and Commissioners Jones, Evans, Watton, and Schulte Hillen. The agenda included two work sessions—proposed Community Development Code (CDC) clean-up amendments and the West Linn Waterfront Vision Plan—with public testimony taken on both. Consent Calendar - Meeting notes from June 18, 2025 were approved (5-0-1); Commissioner Jones abstained, stating she had not read them. - Meeting notes from May 21, 2025 were approved (4-0-2); Commissioners Jones (did not read them) and Evans (was not present at that meeting) abstained. Public Comments & Testimony — CDC Amendments - Russ Axelrod (former mayor, former planning commissioner, longtime resident) opposed removing the Planning Commission from Class II design review and permitting, calling the package—framed as 'clean-up amendments'—a profound and 'offensive' change that would centralize approval authority in the planning director with no public hearings. He noted that SB 1537 (2024) allows exemptions for cities not contributing to housing delays, citing Lake Oswego, North Bend, Milwaukie, Salem, Sandy, and Tualatin as cities that applied, and urged the commission to pursue an exemption. - Terrence Schumacher (Willamette area resident) opposed the changes, arguing they would eliminate an important level of public input and create a risk of conflict of interest by giving approval/denial authority to one person. He referenced a 35-acre parcel in the pond district owned by developer Robert Schultz (company name appears as both 'SGD2 Corporation' and 'SDG2 LLC' in the transcript), noting a preliminary PUD proposal was submitted in July 2024 and a right-of-way vacation request was later withdrawn after public opposition. - Nicole Jackson (resident) echoed prior testimony, strongly encouraged pursuing an exemption, and requested more transparency on the proposal to move street vacations to municipal code, given a recently withdrawn right-of-way vacation application. - The chair cautioned against discussing a specific property owner (Robert Schultz) because the property could come before the commission in the future, citing ex parte concerns. Discussion Items — CDC Amendments - Staff (Darren Weiss) announced that the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) had provided new information contrary to its earlier position on limited land use decisions, so topic 4 (which would have affected Planning Commission review of Class II design review and subdivisions) was pulled from the package while staff consults with the city attorney's office. - Topic 1 (minimum/maximum density calculations): proposed replacing 'acres gross/acres net' definitions with 'developable gross area/developable net area,' creating a measurement section (CDC 05.025) that subtracts Type 1 and 2 lands, parkland, public rights-of-way, private streets, and optionally heritage/significant trees, and updating references in the PUD (Ch. 24), design review (Ch. 55), and land division (Ch. 85) chapters. Staff cited Metro Urban Growth Management Functional Plan requirements (Title 1, Section 307120b). - Topic 2 (partition minimum density exemption): staff described a recent case in which an applicant argued that the existing exemption for land divisions of three lots or fewer applied regardless of parcel size. Using a five-acre R-7 example (24-lot maximum; 17-lot minimum at 70%), the code would be clarified so the minimum density applies unless the calculation yields three or fewer parcels. - Topic 3 (shape of newly created lots and parcels): proposed requiring rectilinear lots unless 'not practical' due to location along a street radius, existing natural features (e.g., creek drainages), or existing lot lines. - Commissioner Botney again raised the tree code, arguing minor wording fixes could be included in a future package without major study; staff responded that the tree code has not been prioritized by city council and will require a lengthy process when directed. Work Session — Waterfront Vision Plan - Staff presented the plan's roughly decade-long history: guiding principles from 2016, a COVID pause, consultant-led engagement and a draft plan (January 2024), and a final draft completed in June 2025. The working group found consensus to move the plan to council with five recommendations: consider affordable housing language, consider smart growth development concepts, recognize access as a critical component, consider stronger language for reuse of existing structures (Moore's Island), and provide additional time for feedback. Working group member Schultz objected, and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde took no position. - The plan covers three districts: City Hall (mixed use, trail network, physical and visual access to the river and falls), Cultural Heritage (Moore's Island, PGE facility, mill structures), and Ponds (balance of environmental restoration/protection with private property rights). Staff noted the medium-density residential designation north of Blue Heron Pond is the existing comprehensive plan designation, with no intent to make it denser, and both ponds are labeled 'remediation and potential rezoning needed.' - Staff confirmed the vision plan is not a zoning or code change and would be adopted by resolution; future zoning changes would go through separate community processes, and private property owners would still develop under current code. Public Comments & Testimony — Waterfront Vision Plan - Russ Axelrod called the later engagement phase a 'complete failure,' alleging that public comments—including his own—were filtered and not distributed to working group members, in violation of item 14 of the working group's own guidelines. He urged pausing the schedule to council and raised five concerns: clarifying coalition status for a national heritage area in the City Hall District; clarifying undefined Willamette Falls Trust project plans for Moore's Island; removing dense housing from the Ponds District (within the 100-year floodplain and West Linn's most significant remaining wetland) and cleaning up the settlement pond owned by Robert Schultz before planning decisions; a ban on casino operations; and other housekeeping items. He stated he supports dense housing in the waterfront 'but they need to be at the right location. And this is not the right location.' Regarding the settlement pond, he noted a DEQ remedial investigation was done about 10 years ago, but no feasibility study followed. - Terrence Schumacher criticized the community survey as using 'classic double barrel questions' that force one answer to two questions, and said the plan's three development options (pages 27-28 of the engagement summary) ignore the majority community preference—documented on page 15—for preserving the Ponds District as a natural area with trails and viewing platforms. He also raised the inactive toxic waste lagoon at the former Blue Heron site, unmaintained for 10 years, possible levee breaches by burrowing animals discovered in aerial surveys by Friends of Willamette Wetlands, and contamination risk to Bernard Creek and the Willamette River, urging a thorough cleanup study before development. He said his concerns are mainly the ponds and wetlands, and there is room for residential development in the industrial and historic districts. - Nicole Jackson argued the overwhelming majority comments for the Ponds District (preservation with minimal development) were relegated to Appendix A of the engagement summary, while medium-density development was proposed in critical natural resource areas including the floodplain. She cited comprehensive plan Goal 2, Section 7, Number 7, which requires medium-density residential lands to be 'areas that are not subject to development limitations, such as topography, flooding, or poor drainage,' and noted that adoption of the FEMA model floodplain code (deadline July 31, 2025) had not been addressed, having been canceled in March due to a lack of agenda items. Discussion Items — Waterfront Vision Plan (Commissioner Deliberation) - Commissioner Evans stated the city has done what council asked, noted the plan makes no zoning or code changes, and said the proper forum for community concerns about future development rules would be when zoning changes are proposed. - Commissioner Botney noted the survey showed roughly two-thirds of respondents favored trails and open space in the Ponds District, and that the critical testimony received aligns with that majority. He also cautioned that past concept plans (Highway 43 and Willamette Falls Drive) were treated as final designs beyond their 30% level, and raised concerns about the Willamette Falls Trust (including its $45 million legislative appropriation and tribal participation) and about the Ponds District map reading as an endorsement of development. - Commissioner Jones said there is a stark difference between disagreeing on data interpretation and questioning whether data was 'massaged,' and reiterated that full public comments should be shared and disclosed so community members feel heard. - Staff responded: FEMA floodplain code adoption was delayed because the federal administration changed in January 2025, reducing urgency; the code will come forward later in 2025 and largely mirrors existing Willamette River Greenway requirements. No comprehensive plan or zoning changes are proposed for existing residential designations (to avoid takings issues); targeted changes would focus on other districts, with possible added language on mixed-use development. Staff also said that after 10 years of engagement and five comments received on the final plan in a city of 27,000 people, they believe the community supports the plan. Key Outcomes - Meeting notes for May 21 and June 18, 2025 approved as noted above. - CDC topic 4 (limited land use decisions) was pulled from the amendment package; a public hearing on topics 1-3 is scheduled for August 6, 2025. Staff will circle back with the city attorney's office on DLCD's new information and return to the commission on topic 4 at a future date. - No formal action was taken on the Waterfront Vision Plan (work session only). Next steps: open houses July 24 and July 31, 2025; Planning Commission work session August 20, 2025 (Commissioner Botney noted he is unavailable, and an email availability poll was proposed); Planning Commission public hearing September 17, 2025 (adoption by resolution); council work sessions October 6 and October 20, 2025; council public hearing November 10, 2025. - Staff stated the FEMA model floodplain code changes will come forward later in 2025, with the previous July 31 deadline deprioritized due to the change in federal administration. - Staff announced a Metro town center adoption work session will also be scheduled for August 20, 2025.

The West Linn City Council met on Monday, July 14, 2025, with Mayor Rory Bialostosky presiding. The agenda included police commendations, public comment, a surplus property sale public hearing, utility right-of-way code revisions, and a transient lodging tax collection change. The council approved all action items unanimously, with multiple 5-0 votes. Awards & Commendations - Police Chief Peter Mahuna recognized School Resource Officer Jabral Johnson, one of 10 officers nationwide to receive the National Association of School Resource Officers' Award of Excellence for Region 9; the region includes Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Hawaii, and Alaska. - Chief Mahuna also recognized Evidence Technician Nicole Hedley and Detective Sergeant Todd Gradwahl for solving the 1978 homicide of 20-year-old Diana Kuhn. Hedley discovered previously untested physical evidence that was submitted to the Oregon State Police Crime Lab; DNA identified David Lawrence Atkinson as the suspect. Atkinson died in February 1989. The Clackamas County District Attorney's Office stated it believed Atkinson would have been indicted, tried, and convicted of sexual assault and aggravated murder. Public Comments & Testimony - Shannen Knight and Beau Genot, representing the Committee for Community Involvement (CCI), explained that their March 6 letter was intended to propose a marketing and outreach plan to grow Neighborhood Association membership, not to reshape Neighborhood Associations. They asked for direction so they could use remaining summer outreach opportunities; the council scheduled CCI's work plan discussion for August 4. - Kathie Halicki, President of the Willamette Neighborhood Association, expressed concern that expanding Planning Manager decisions and written-only testimony would reduce public input. She said some changes are state-mandated but argued Neighborhood Associations should be consulted. Councilor Bryck, who attended the June 18 Planning Commission meeting, said the city must follow state mandates but should review options and possible lobbying. - Dean Suhr asked the city to take a public position on IP 31, a 2026 ballot measure on voting before tolling; he also updated the council on the 9/11 event and Oppenlander property/school district bids, mentioning potential funding challenges. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda 5-0, including: June 16 and 23, 2025 meeting minutes; an intergovernmental agreement with the State of Oregon for Willamette Falls Drive, 16th Street to Ostman Road pedestrian/bike upgrades; Resolution 2025-09 extending the Comcast cable television franchise term while the Metropolitan Area Communications Commission completes the renewal process; and a letter of support for a Housing Planning Assistance Grant application. Business: Surplus Property Sale at 6123 Skyline Drive - Public Works Director Erich Lais explained that the city purchased 6123 Skyline Drive in 2015 for the Bolton Water Reservoir project, declared it surplus in 2018, listed it on June 6, 2025 for $670,000, and set a June 10, 2025 offer deadline. Three offers were received. - Realtor Elizabeth Henderson stated the winning offer from The Portlock Company, LLC was $826,350, using a $21,000 escalation clause and no seller-paid commission request. - Icon Construction representatives Harlan Borow and Darren Gusdorf asked the council to rebid the property with transparent rules or place Icon in a backup position. They recounted Icon's earlier unsuccessful 2018-2019 purchase attempt and said Portlock's offer was only $350 above Icon's. - Staff and the realtor recommended accepting Portlock's offer, noting the public process had been fair and reopening it would expose all offer strategies. - Council approved the sale to The Portlock Company, LLC with Icon as backup, 5-0, and authorized the City Manager to execute the transaction documents. Business: Utility Licenses and Use of Right-of-Way - Management Analyst Stephanie Hastings presented Ordinance 1759, replacing Chapter 10, with two options. Option 1 was the original version; Option 2 added an exemption from right-of-way usage fees for wireless providers that do not own facilities in the right-of-way. Staff recommended Option 2 as lower risk. - Staff and special counsel Nancy Werner stated the fees are not taxes, were publicly noticed in March and discussed at an April work session, and are imposed on providers, not residents; providers might choose to pass costs through. - Public commenters representing Verizon, AT&T, and the Technology Association of Oregon each supported Option 2 and expressed concerns about legal exposure under Option 1. - The council voted 5-0 to repeal existing Chapter 10 and replace it with Ordinance 1759, Option 2, on first reading; then voted 5-0 to adopt the ordinance on second reading. - The council also adopted Resolution 2025-07, updating the Master Fees and Charges, 5-0. The fee schedule retains existing gross revenue fee percentages for operators, including communications at 7% and electric and gas at 5%, while adding a $50 annual provider registration, a $250 five-year utility license, small-cell permit fees, and minimum fees for operators with no revenue. Business: Transient Lodging Tax Collection - Finance Director Lauren Breithaupt said the change allows the Oregon Department of Revenue to collect transient lodging taxes for the city. The code currently requires monthly collection, but the state collects quarterly, so the ordinance changes the collection period from monthly to quarterly. - The agenda listed this item as Ordinance 1764, but the motion and minutes refer to Ordinance 1765; the source documents are inconsistent on the ordinance number. - The council voted 5-0 on first reading and then 5-0 on second reading to adopt the ordinance. City Manager Report & Next Steps - Acting City Manager Elissa Preston thanked Parks and Recreation, Public Works, and Police for the Old Time Fair. Music in the Park begins July 24 and runs for five Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. - The July 21 council meeting was canceled after Council agreed; the next regular meeting is August 4. Staff plan to add an urban renewal discussion with Urban Renewal Specialist Elaine Howard to the August 4 agenda. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda 5-0, moving the police awards ahead of public comment. - Approved the consent agenda 5-0. - Approved the 6123 Skyline Drive sale to Portlock with Icon as backup, 5-0. - Adopted Ordinance 1759, Option 2, and Resolution 2025-07, 5-0, updating utility right-of-way licenses and fees. - Adopted the transient lodging tax collection ordinance, 5-0, despite the 1764/1765 numbering discrepancy in the record. - Set CCI work plan discussion and urban renewal discussion for August 4, and canceled the July 21 meeting.

The West Linn City Council held a work session on Monday, July 7, 2025, to discuss long-range city budget needs and opportunities. The meeting began at 1:00 p.m. with the approval of the agenda, followed by council reports, proclamations, and a detailed presentation and discussion on staffing, capital projects, and potential revenue measures. No formal decisions were made; the council directed staff to return with additional information on community engagement and polling options. Proclamations - Disability Pride Month: Council President Baumgartner read a proclamation recognizing July 2025 as Disability Pride Month, emphasizing inclusion, accessibility, and the celebration of the disability community. - Parks and Recreation Month: Councilor Bonnington read the proclamation, and Parks staff highlighted July activities including the Old Time Fair, outdoor movies, and the Adult Community Center dog show. Councilor Bright noted positive observations of day camp programming. - Willamette Summer Market Week: Mayor Bielostowski proclaimed August 3–9, 2025, as National Farmers Market Week, honoring the Wednesday market in Willamette and its role in local food access. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilor Bright reported progress on Vision 43 and shared observations from a mixed-use development in Missoula, Montana. He also promoted a community walk-and-talk cleanup event on Saturday. - Councilor Bonnington mentioned the McLean House historic plaque unveiling and filming the public works facility to explain the need for a new one. - Councilor Gardner attended the Lamprey Festival and reported on the first Community Advisory Group report form. - Councilor Groner described a Willamette River cruise, visits to Lake Oswego recreation pools, and the Lamprey Festival. - Mayor Bielostowski highlighted constituent meetups and cross-departmental collaboration on the Old Time Fair. Discussion Items: Long-Range City Budget Needs and Opportunities City Manager John Williams presented four key pieces from the budget committee discussions: 1. Unmet Staffing Needs (approx. $3 million/year): Proposed positions across police, parks, planning, code enforcement, communications, and library. Chief Mahuna prioritized a Community Service Officer (CSO), a traffic officer, then three additional officers, and a captain. He cited that one CSO wrote 285 reports in 2024, and one traffic officer wrote 916 citations/warnings—more than the rest of the department combined. Response times for priority calls increased from 6:32 to 8:48 minutes. He noted West Linn has 29 sworn officers for 27,500 people, the smallest per capita in the metro area. 2. Capital Projects (approx. $3–3.5 million): Mostly deferred maintenance, including playground replacements, facility master plan, Adult Community Center generator, ADA improvements, non-motorized boat launch, and a potential bookmobile/emergency operations center hybrid. 3. General Fund Stabilization: Recommended $1.25 million/year beyond normal savings to address a forecasted shortfall larger than usual. 4. Revenue Options: Example of a five-year local option levy at $0.50 per $1,000 assessed value would generate about $2.3 million/year (average cost less than $400/year per household). Councilors expressed support for continuing the conversation. Councilor Bonnington framed the discussion as “community enhancement” rather than a failure. Councilor Groner displayed a slide summarizing total needs ($6.44 million/year) and suggested taking the list to the budget committee and then to the community for prioritization. Councilor Bright proposed using a working group of neighborhood representatives. Councilor Baumgartner noted the need to clarify which positions are new vs. reinstated. The council discussed polling options, including statistically valid surveys and simple online two-question surveys. City Manager Report City Manager Williams highlighted new art in the council chamber by Kayla Brant. He outlined upcoming meetings: July 14 (police recognition, surplus property, right-of-way code), July 21 (state of the district from West Linn-Wilsonville School District), and August 4 (city manager evaluation, road program contract, community advisory group work plans). He also promoted the Old Time Fair and the Adult Community Center dog show. Key Outcomes - The council approved the meeting agenda unanimously (roll call: all yes). - No decisions were made on budget items. The council directed staff to bring back more information on community engagement methods, polling costs, and potential additional needs from the community. - Staff will work with the mayor to schedule a follow-up discussion in August or early September 2025, with more refined options for revenue and prioritization. - Councilors were asked to submit any additional unmet needs or project ideas to staff for inclusion in the list.

The West Linn City Council met on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 6:15 PM in a hybrid format. The primary focus was the adoption of the FY 2026-2027 biennial budget, along with several related resolutions, fee updates, a supplemental budget, fund consolidations, and community grant allocations. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Council also heard reports from advisory groups and discussed long-term budget challenges, including a projected $9 million deficit by FY 2029. Consent Calendar - Early Renewal of AXON Body Worn Camera Contract: Approved unanimously. Mayor Bialostosky expressed gratitude to the Police Department and city staff, noting the program has been a "big success" for the community. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comment during the public comment period or during any of the public hearings (state revenue sharing, state shared revenues, budget adoption, supplemental budget). Discussion Items - Resolution 2025-03 – State Revenue Sharing: Finance Director Breithaupt presented the annual declaration to receive state revenue sharing funds. The city estimates receiving $320,000 in FY 2026 and $320,000 in FY 2027, budgeted for general fund operations. A public hearing was held with no comments. Council adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-04 – Certification for State Shared Revenues: This resolution certifies the city provides four or more municipal services (police, streets, sewer, storm, planning, water) to receive state shared revenues from cigarette, liquor, 911, and highway gas taxes. The projected gas tax is about $2.2 million per year based on League of Oregon Cities projections. Councilor Groner inquired about marijuana tax revenue; Director Breithaupt noted a prohibition in city code and that even without dispensaries, a per-capita portion could be collected if allowed. Mayor Bialostosky emphasized the importance of the 50/30/20 split for transportation funding. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-05 – Master Fees and Charges Update: Annual update effective July 1, 2025. Key changes: System Development Charges increasing 2.78% (CPI-based); utility billing fees (water, sewer, surface, streets, parks) increasing 5% (per charter cap); administrative fees, business licenses, and sidewalk cafes increasing 5%; park rental fees up about $5. Council discussed the impact of the 5% cap on water/sewer/storm rates, with Councilor Bryck noting the Utility Advisory Board feels constrained. Council President Baumgardner expressed hope for revenue diversification to support affordable housing. Councilor Bonnington noted that fee increases reflect actual costs, not profit. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-06 – Adoption of FY 2026-2027 Biennial Budget and Capital Improvement Plan: The total budget is $194,078,000. The permanent property tax rate remains $2.12 per $1,000 assessed value; bonded debt levy is $1,851,000 for FY 25/26 and $1,862,000 for FY 26/27. Changes from the proposed budget (approved by the Budget Committee) include: $70,000 for West Linn Chamber of Commerce ($35,000 each year), $60,000 increase for Main Street grants (offset by decreasing contingency by $60,000), and across-the-board reductions of $10,000 each from City Manager, Planning, IT, and HR budgets. Staff explained these cuts come from professional/technical services, software subscriptions, training, and delaying some contracts (e.g., Highway 43 implementation). Councilor Bonnington expressed concern about cutting from already strained departments rather than using contingency. Mayor Bialostosky noted the $9 million projected deficit for FY 2029 and stressed the need for proactive planning. Council adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-07 – Supplemental Budget for 2024-2025 Biennium: Adjusts the current budget to account for: Council stipend increase ($100,000 due to voter-approved stipend), facilities cost increases ($161,000 for utilities/repairs), non-departmental debt service increase ($611,000 for subscription-based IT agreements), increased legal costs related to Oppenlander property litigation ($400,000), and library salary/benefit increase ($20,000). Offsetting reductions in City Manager, Economic Development, and contingency. A scrivener's error in the resolution title (incorrectly stating 2022-23 instead of 2024-25) was noted and corrected. Adopted unanimously. - Resolution 2025-08 – Abolishing Special Revenue Funds: Abolishes the Parks and Recreation, Public Safety, Library, and Planning funds, consolidating their balances into the General Fund in accordance with ORS 294.353. Director Breithaupt explained that these funds were not restricted to specific purposes and created budgeting complexity. The consolidation has already been reflected in the adopted budget; the resolution authorizes the transfer after year-end audit. Adopted unanimously. - Community Grants for FY 2026: $25,000 is available annually. This year, 24 requests totaling over $85,000 were received. The Budget Committee recommended allocations using established criteria (direct benefit to West Linn residents, no funding for advertising/promotion, no neighborhood associations, no fundraising events, no political advocacy). Councilor Groner requested a more objective scoring system (e.g., points per population served) for future cycles. Council President Baumgardner asked about follow-up communication with organizations that did not receive funding, suggesting possible partnerships (e.g., St. Vincent de Paul gift cards could coordinate with the food pantry). Staff noted some applications did not meet criteria (religious organization, gift card policy). Council adopted the Budget Committee recommendations unanimously. Key Outcomes - All resolutions (2025-03 through 2025-08) and the consent agenda were approved unanimously (5-0). - FY 2026-2027 Biennial Budget adopted at $194,078,000 with a permanent tax rate of $2.12/$1,000 and bonded debt levies of $1.851M (FY 25/26) and $1.862M (FY 26/27). - Master Fees and Charges updated effective July 1, 2025, with increases of 2.78% (SDCs), 5% (utilities, administrative fees, business licenses), and small park rental increases. - Supplemental budget approved for the current biennium, adjusting appropriations to cover increased costs in council stipends, facilities, debt service, legal fees, and library salaries. - Four special revenue funds abolished and consolidated into the General Fund. - Community grant allocations approved as recommended by the Budget Committee; future discussion on improving the scoring process was scheduled. - Forecasted $9 million general fund deficit in FY 2029 acknowledged; council committed to proactive meetings with staff and community to address structural budget issues. - Next meeting: July 7, 2025 work session on long-range budget needs and opportunities.

The West Linn Redevelopment Agency (the Agency) met on June 23, 2025, to adopt its biennial budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal period. The meeting followed a previous public hearing held before the Budget Committee on May 27, 2025, which had already approved the budget for Agency adoption. No members of the public provided testimony or submitted comments. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment was offered during the meeting or the public hearing portion. Discussion Items - Agenda Approval: Council President Mary Baumgardner moved to approve the agenda; Councilor Leo Groner seconded. The motion carried unanimously (5-0). - Public Hearing on Resolution URA-2025-01: Mayor Rory Bialostosky opened and closed the public hearing after confirming no speakers had signed up. Finance Director Lauren Breithaupt clarified that the Budget Committee had held a separate public hearing on May 27, 2025, and had approved the budget prior to this meeting. - Resolution URA-2025-01 Adoption: Council President Baumgardner moved to adopt the resolution, which adopts the West Linn Redevelopment Agency budget for the biennium commencing July 1, 2025 (2026-2027 biennium), makes appropriations, levies ad valorem taxes, and classifies the levy under Section 11b, Article XI of the Oregon Constitution. Councilor Groner seconded. Councilor Carol Bryck noted this is the Agency’s first biennial budget and expressed appreciation that it aligns with the City’s budget. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). Key Outcomes - Adoption of Resolution URA-2025-01 (unanimous, 5-0). - Future Planning: Mayor Bialostosky indicated he intends to convene another Agency meeting soon to discuss the Urban Renewal Agency’s capabilities and allowable uses of funds. He mentioned coordinating with City Manager John Williams to bring consultant Elaine Howard, an urban renewal expert, to a future work session to help the Agency understand available tools and plan for the future.

The West Linn Planning Commission met on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in a hybrid format. The meeting featured a work session on proposed Community Development Code (CDC) cleanup amendments and a briefing on the West Linn Waterfront Project. No public comments were made on non-agenda items. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:17 PM. Discussion Items Work Session: Proposed CDC Clean-Up Amendments - Staff (Mr. Weiss) presented four amendment topics aimed at increasing clarity and objectivity in the code, and compliance with recent state legislation (ORS 197.015 and 197.195, amended by Senate Bill 1537). - Topic 1: Minimum and Maximum Density Calculations – Proposed new definitions for developable gross and net area, a new measurements section in Chapter 5, and a step-by-step calculation process. This does not change existing density standards but codifies them to reduce ambiguity. - Topic 2: Partition Minimum Density Exemption – Clarifies that the exemption for land divisions of three lots or less applies after the minimum density calculation. Staff cited recent conflicts with developers interpreting the current language to allow very large lots (e.g., a 5-acre property divided into three 1.5-acre lots) without meeting the 70% minimum density requirement of the Metro urban growth management functional plan. - Topic 3: Shape of Newly Created Lots – Proposes requiring rectilinear lot lines unless impractical (due to existing lines, street curves, or natural features). A proposed section limits changes in direction to 10% and defines a segmented lot/parcel line. Staff noted two recent applications with irregular lots that prompted this amendment. - Topic 4: Limited Land Use Decisions – Brought forward per city attorney recommendation to comply with new state law (SB 1537). The law now mandates that certain land use decisions (tentative subdivision plans, design review of permitted uses, etc.) be decided by staff with a 14-day comment period and 100-foot written notice, eliminating quasi-judicial public hearings before the Planning Commission. - Commissioners expressed significant concern about the loss of public participation. Commissioner Gary stated, “the community should be really concerned… this pretty much wipes out public comment on most things.” Commissioner Evans proposed that appeals of staff decisions might better go to the Planning Commission rather than directly to City Council, to preserve a body with land use expertise. Staff noted that the current appeal path is to City Council, and that changing it would need council consideration. - Staff acknowledged several edits needed (e.g., removing subdivision authority from Planning Commission in the code, clarifying Historic Review Board’s role). A revised package will be brought to the July 16 meeting. Briefing: West Linn Waterfront Project - Staff (Teresa) provided an update on the Waterfront Vision Plan, which began in 2016 with community engagement. The project is divided into three districts: Historic City Hall, Cultural Heritage, and Pond. A consultant team developed a draft vision plan in January 2024, refined through public events, surveys, stakeholder interviews, and a council-appointed working group. An online survey from December 18, 2024 to January 31, 2025 gathered feedback on the plan. - The final draft vision plan will be presented at a working group meeting on July 10, followed by two open houses (July 24 at the Adult Community Center, July 31 at the Library Community Room). The plan is scheduled for a Planning Commission work session in August, a public hearing in September for a recommendation to City Council, and council adoption in November. Adoption would be by resolution (not a legislative land use action), setting the vision for future zoning and code changes. - Commissioner Whatney raised concerns about tribal involvement and a pending lawsuit by tribes against PGE regarding control of the Willamette Falls. Staff responded that the vision plan is high-level; detailed tribal consultation and environmental review will occur in later phases when zoning and project-specific proposals emerge. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The work session on CDC amendments is a preliminary review; staff will return with a revised code amendment package on July 16. A public hearing is tentatively scheduled for August 6. - The Waterfront Project update was informational; the next formal planning commission action will be a work session on August 20, followed by a public hearing in September. - Staff announced a celebration of the McLean House listing on the National Register of Historic Places on June 28 at 11:00 AM. - The July 2 meeting was cancelled; additional meeting added on July 9 for Vision 43 design standards.

The West Linn City Council met on Monday, June 16, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to approximately 8:20 p.m. in Council Chambers and virtually. The Council unanimously adopted three parking-related ordinances amending Municipal Code Chapter 6, approved a $98,000 preconstruction services contract with Skanska USA Buildings, Inc. for the new Operations Complex, received a sustainability consultant work update, and presented the Lifesaving Award to Officer Charles Lincoln. No public comments were offered during the public comment period. Consent Calendar - The Council voted 5-0 to approve the meeting agenda, moving the Lifesaving Award from item 6 to item 3 so police officers could return to available call status. - The Consent Agenda, including the May 12, 2025 Council meeting minutes, was approved 5-0. Awards & Proclamations - Police Chief Peter Mahuna presented Officer Charles Lincoln with the West Linn Police Department Lifesaving Award. On April 4, 2025, at 11:19 p.m., Lincoln and Officer Crosby responded to a welfare check, located an unconscious male, administered one dose of Narcan, and revived him. - Councilor Leo Groner read the LGBTQ+ Pride Month Proclamation, declaring Pride Month in West Linn for June 2025. Mayor and Council Reports - Councilor Bryck, Council President Baumgardner, and Mayor Bialostosky attended the American Water Works Association conference in Denver as South Fork Water Board representatives; South Fork Water Board provides all clean drinking water for West Linn and Oregon City. - Baumgardner reported on a Yakima Nation treaty celebration and her work as a Willamette Falls Trust Board member, noting the trust and the Willamette Falls & Landings Heritage Area Coalition await potential funding to advance public access to the falls. - Councilor Bonnington attended League of Oregon Cities Mastering Media training and reported on Parks and Recreation Advisory Board discussion of park usage tracking technology and upcoming events such as the Old Time Fair. - The Council appointed Christi Lanz to the Economic Development Committee and Lynne Chicoine to the Utility Advisory Board by a 5-0 vote, with Council President Baumgardner praising the quality of community volunteers. Discussion Items - Parking Ordinances 1760, 1761, and 1762: Police Chief Mahuna said many of the changes were requested by community members. Ordinance 1760 prohibits parking, stopping, or standing along any curb painted red or yellow by the city, with no sign required; Mahuna confirmed the city maintains a schedule of painted curbs and repaints them every few years. Ordinance 1761 restricts portable storage containers (such as pods and dumpsters) on residential streets to no more than 72 hours without a permit, with education before enforcement. Ordinance 1762 clarifies that parking violation fines are set in the Master Fees and Charges document; previously, unclassified violations were treated as Class B violations at $265 per day, which Mahuna called inappropriate for high school students parking in the parking district. Council President Baumgardner expressed concern that the current system produces daily citations of students and suggested partnering with the school district to solve the problem. Mahuna noted the Community Service Officer works the parking district every school day, the Student Resource Officer covers the rules during orientation, and information is sent to parents annually. A resident email about parking near mailboxes was discussed; Councilor Bryck suggested painted curbs near mailboxes where curbs exist, and staff added the topic to a future discussion agenda. - Operations Complex CMGC Contract: Public Works Director Erich Lais presented the Construction Manager/General Contractor contract for the new Operations Complex on Salamo Road, replacing the outdated Public Works operations center on Norfolk Street. Fourteen contractors responded to the RFP, six were shortlisted, and Skanska USA Buildings, Inc. was selected as the top candidate. The $98,000 contract covers preconstruction services only; the total project estimate is $25-35 million against a firm budget of $35 million. Staff explained that the American Institute of Architects (AIA) contract template contains to-be-determined items that will be filled in when the guaranteed maximum price (GMP) amendment returns to Council. No construction will move forward until Council approves the GMP. The land use application is expected within a week, and a Neighborhood Association meeting held last week had low turnout, according to staff. - Sustainability Consultant Work Update: Grace Thirkill of Parametrix presented results of a nine-month engagement with the Sustainability Advisory Board (SAB). The team reviewed 71 existing sustainability strategies and recommended eight priority strategies: five city-focused (green fleet purchasing policy, sustainability features in the new Operations building, LED lighting upgrades in city facilities, HVAC and solar/renewable funding opportunities, and establishing ongoing sustainability funding) and three community-wide (EV charging partnerships with local businesses and developers, waste reduction through sharing and repurposing, and a repair services directory). Ten strategies with strong existing progress were also highlighted. Discussion covered the twice-yearly repair fairs at Robinwood Station coordinated with Clackamas County, light pollution and lighting color, EV charging incentives for private landowners, and greenhouse gas emissions tracking. Mayor Bialostosky directed staff to schedule a future work session with the SAB. City Manager Report - City Manager Williams said budget adoption is scheduled for the next Council meeting, including a public hearing on revenue sharing, the Master Fees and Charges, and community grants. A July 7 work session will discuss the city's long-range needs and funding. Juneteenth falls Thursday and City Hall will be closed; related events include a June 26 presentation by Trisha Brand on Opal Lee and the early days of Juneteenth, and the Pollinator Celebration at Mary S. Young Park. Special Counsel Chad Jacobs reported that the legislative session is nearing adjournment, with significant votes expected on funding for the Willamette Falls Locks, Willamette Falls Trust, and the transportation investment package. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 1760 (painted curb parking prohibition): first and second readings approved 5-0; ordinance adopted. - Ordinance 1761 (portable storage containers): first and second readings approved 5-0; ordinance adopted. - Ordinance 1762 (parking violation fines): first and second readings approved 5-0; ordinance adopted. - CMGC preconstruction contract with Skanska USA Buildings, Inc. for $98,000: approved. The official minutes record the vote as 4-0, but the transcript roll call appears to show all five members voting yes; this discrepancy is noted rather than resolved. - Staff will return to Council with a GMP amendment for approval before any construction begins on the Operations Complex; the next public update is expected after the land use application is submitted within approximately one week.

The meeting began with approval of the agenda, removing the Budget Committee item (completed May 29). No public comments were heard. The council received proclamations, a presentation from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue (TVF&R), an update on the Waterfront Vision Plan, and a City Manager report on upcoming meetings and budget discussions. Proclamations - National Gun Violence Awareness Day (June 6, 2025): Councilor Groner read the proclamation, noting that every day more than 120 Americans are killed by gun violence, with over 18,000 gun homicides annually; Americans are 26 times more likely to die by gun homicide than people in other high-income countries; Oregon averages 600 gun deaths per year, costing the state $8.1 billion (of which $89.1 million is paid by taxpayers). Carla Pemberton, a volunteer with Moms Demand Action, spoke in support, urging awareness and prevention, noting nearly 48,000 firearm deaths and 85,000 wounded annually. - National Pollinator Week (June 16–22, 2025): Mayor read the proclamation, recognizing pollinator species' role in food supply and ecosystems; West Linn is a Bee City USA. Tara Lincoln, Recreation Supervisor, invited the community to a celebration Friday, June 20 (4–7 p.m.) at Mary S. Young Park, featuring flower giveaways, plant sales, crafts, and educational booths. - Juneteenth (June 19, 2025): Council President Baumgartner read the proclamation, noting the delay of emancipation news to June 19, 1865, and encouraging recognition and education. All proclamations were adopted by acclamation. TVF&R State of the District Deputy Chief Patrick Vale presented: 2024 saw a record 1.9 million acres burned in Oregon, with 88 task forces deployed. In 2025, TVF&R sent 14 firefighters and one battalion chief to Southern California. Within West Linn city limits, approximately 1,800 incidents occurred in 2024 (excluding mutual aid). EMS calls dominate; call volume peaks on Thursdays. An aging population drives 911 usage. TVF&R has introduced advanced practice community paramedics and an Advanced Resource Medic program (with nurse practitioner). A local option levy approved May 2024 (5-year, 24 cents per $1,000 increase) will fund 36 additional firefighters/paramedics; total tax rate will rise from $2.10 to $2.34 per $1,000. A 2021 bond is funding station rebuilds (Station 35, Station 20, new Station 22, training center). Council President Baumgartner raised concerns about skilled nursing facility calls and advocated for state-level fixes. Waterfront Update Planning Manager Darren Wise presented: The updated Waterfront Vision Plan is based on years of engagement (2016–2025). An online survey (Dec 18–Jan 31) showed strong support (double agree vs. disagree) across three districts (Historic City Hall, Cultural Heritage, Pond). Final public engagement will occur summer 2025 (open houses July 24 and 31, working group final meeting July 10, farmer's market booths). Planning commission public hearing set for September 17; city council adoption target November 10. Zoning and design standards will follow in an implementation phase. Councilor Groner noted more resistance in the Pond district due to environmental complexity. Council President Baumgartner emphasized environmental stewardship and potential indigenous heritage responsibilities. Staff will contact DEQ about settling pond conditions. City Manager Report City Manager Williams outlined upcoming meetings: June 16 – special meeting for a life-saving award, sustainability update, award of operations complex construction contract, and parking ordinance adoption; June 23 – budget approvals (grants, fees, tax rate). He flagged future general fund deficits (projected shortfall in four years) and suggested a council work session to discuss the city's financial future. Council agreed to schedule this for July 7 (work session), potentially involving the budget committee later. Mayor Bielostowski noted he will start law school in fall 2025, prompting a future discussion on changing meeting days from Monday to another weekday. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda as amended (removing Budget Committee item). - Issued three proclamations (Gun Violence Awareness, Pollinator Week, Juneteenth). - Received TVF&R state of the district; no formal action. - Noted progress on Waterfront Vision Plan with public hearings ahead. - Directed staff to schedule a work session on the city's financial future for July 7, 2025. - Acknowledged potential meeting schedule change to be discussed at a later date.