Ashland, Oregon Development News
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Grants Pass City Council Workshop - June 29, 2026
Published: Jun 29, 2026
City Council Receives Informational Briefing on Water and Sewer Utility Rates
City staff presented an informational overview of the city's utility rates for water and sewer, explaining the methodology behind rate studies and current rate structures. The last major utility rate update was in 2016, with subsequent refinements in 2018. The presentation detailed the rationale for inverse block rates in water usage to encourage conservation and manage costs, and explained why sewer rates are tied to winter average water consumption to ensure equitable cost distribution. It also covered the water treatment plant replacement fee, rate relief programs for struggling customers, and mentioned that parks irrigation is a significant water consumer. No council action was required, but staff indicated a willingness to evaluate rate changes if directed by the council.
City Council Reviews Washington Midland Redevelopment Plan, Considers Three Development Concepts
The City Council workshop discussed the Washington Midland Redevelopment Opportunity Plan, receiving an update on the progress of the nine-month planning process. This plan aims to create a mixed-use hub for housing and employment. Three preliminary concepts were presented: the Midland Market District (focused on employment and commercial development), Franklin Marketplace (balanced housing and commercial), and Washington Midland Common (housing-focused). Community feedback indicated a preference for the balanced approach (Franklin Marketplace), with strong support for a grocery store and walkable infrastructure. The plan will be integrated into the city's comprehensive development plan to guide future development, zoning, and attract private investors. The project is funded through the URA at a contract not to exceed $150,000. Further steps include refining concepts based on council feedback, conducting traffic studies, and outreach to developers.
Council Debates Workshop Timing, Discusses Future Procedures, and Information Access
During the workshop, council members discussed their procedures, including the timing of workshops. A motion to move workshops from 11:45 AM to 3:00 PM on Mondays failed in a 5-4 vote. Council members expressed differing views on the necessity of changing the time, with some citing work conflicts and others emphasizing the importance of established schedules and full council attendance. Mayor highlighted the need for efficient workshops and staying on topic, indicating future discussions on workshop structure. Additionally, a council member requested the printout of a 30-page document related to the Washington Midland Redevelopment Plan for easier review. Victoria requested that information on local nonprofits be added to the back of the agenda, but city staff stated that such information is publicly available at the state level and outside the city's jurisdiction. Kathleen requested staff engage with downtown building owners regarding vacant storefronts, which staff agreed to explore within code limitations and potential legal considerations.
Green Waste Transfer Station Rate Extended Six Months for Further Study Amidst Declining Usage
The City Council voted to extend the temporary rate increase for green waste at the Redwood Transfer Station for an additional six months, until January 1st, for further study. This decision comes as usage of the green waste service has dramatically decreased, with only 80 customers utilizing it in the past five months compared to 570 in the previous year's comparable period. The current rate, which is subsidized by garbage hauling revenue, costs more than it generates. Extending the temporary rate allows for continued data collection, especially through the fall leaf collection season, to better understand usage patterns and determine appropriate permanent rates. A motion to have the subcommittee or committee review the issue before a final recommendation was also supported.
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The Ashland News archive
Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission - July 8, 2026
Jackson County Board of Commissioners - July 1, 2026
Rogue Valley Transportation District Board of Directors - June 24, 2026
Jackson County Board of Commissioners - June 24, 2026
Grants Pass City Council - June 17, 2026
Jackson County Land Use Hearing - June 17, 2026
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