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City Commission Work Session - Media
Published: Jul 7, 2026
Oregon City Leads in WIFIA Funding Utilization for Water Infrastructure, Finds Successes at AWWA Conference
Commissioner Marl provided an update from the American Waterworks Association (AWWA) conference in Washington D.C. Key takeaways included sessions on wildfire protection and water loss control relevant to the region, water reduction and education strategies, and the AWWA's consideration of creating a separate membership category for elected officials to enhance communication with federal levels. A significant point of discussion was the Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA). Oregon City was noted as being ahead of many other municipalities in utilizing WIFIA, with completed and ongoing projects, while other cities reported significant challenges and roadblocks in accessing these funds due to extensive red tape. The need for public staff expertise in navigating these processes was highlighted.
Oregon City Debates Discretionary Review for Geologic Hazard Development Standards
The City Commission discussed the Oregon City Municipal Code 17.44, Geologic Hazards Code, focusing on the interpretation and potential revision of section L, which deals with review authority and feasibility determinations for development in geologically hazardous areas. Staff presented two interpretations: one where development is allowed if standards in sections A-K are met, and another allowing discretionary review authority to supersede standards if feasibility and safety findings are provided. The commission leaned towards the discretionary path, advocating for a Type 3 review process involving the Planning Commission and City Commission, with continued reliance on third-party geotechnical engineering consultants to ensure safety and equitable cost distribution, while emphasizing the need for clear criteria and avoiding excessive discretion.
Oregon City Explores Flavored Nicotine Ban, Weighs County vs. City Action
The City Commission discussed the potential for a flavored nicotine and tobacco product ban, exploring options for municipal action versus county-level regulation. Staff researched strategies, including engaging with Clackamas County Public Health and Washington County officials. Key concerns raised included the potential for litigation if Oregon City acts alone, with a preference for Clackamas County to lead due to their stronger position to avoid lawsuits. Data was presented showing higher flavored nicotine use among 11th graders in Clackamas County and Oregon City compared to other areas. The discussion also covered the number of tobacco shops per capita in Oregon City versus Lake Oswego, the effectiveness of zoning versus an outright ban, and the challenges of enforcement. The possibility of a collaborative approach with other Clackamas County cities was considered, along with the potential inclusion of synthetic nicotine products like 'Zen' in any ban.
Oregon City Outlines Plan for ADA Compliance in Public Right-of-Way
The City Commission discussed the development of an ADA Transition Plan for the city's right-of-way, which includes an evaluation of existing infrastructure like sidewalks and ramps, a prioritization of necessary upgrades based on ADA standards, and a proposed timeline for implementation. The plan acknowledges the significant number of non-compliant ramps (nearly 60% of those inspected) and estimates the need to replace approximately 1,800 ramps, projecting an $18 million cost. The commission was presented with the details of the plan, including its components, prioritization strategy, funding considerations, and the estimated timeline for completion, which extends over several years due to resource limitations. The plan is intended to bring the city into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Oregon City Addresses ADA Compliance with Right-of-Way Transition Plan
The City Commission received an update on the city's Right-of-Way ADA Transition Plan. This plan evaluates services, policies, and practices to prioritize and implement projects meeting current ADA standards, including a schedule, public participation component, and grievance process. The city has approximately 3,368 ADA ramps, with about half inspected, showing a nearly 60% failure rate, indicating a need to replace almost 1,800 ramps. The plan outlines a seven-year timeline for inspecting sidewalks, with ongoing implementation of improvements, particularly during Capital Improvement Projects (CIP). Funding sources and cost estimates ($10,000 per ramp, totaling an estimated $18 million for replacements) were discussed, with current spending around $100,000-$200,000 annually. The plan will be adopted by resolution, and subsequently integrated into a larger city-wide ADA transition plan.
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The Oregon City News archive
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