City of Urich

The meeting initiated with a roll call and a call for public comment. Unfinished business was noted as having none. The primary new business involved discussing the Planning Commission's review of the Economic Development Committee's design code recommendation template. Discussion focused on incorporating local needs, securing technical assistance grants (possibly from DLCD), leveraging local partnerships, and establishing clear criteria for design standards, particularly concerning historic preservation overlays for the central business district. Alternative approaches, such as slow, incremental steps versus immediate grant applications, were debated. There was also a presentation detailing another city's restrictive approach to its downtown design code, which sparked discussion on avoiding overly prescriptive regulations that might deter business investment, focusing instead on respecting historic aspects while allowing for individual character. The subsequent steps involve having a contact refine the design code template based on feedback before referral to the City Council as a code change ordinance. A separate discussion covered potential grant funding from Safe Routes to School or similar organizations for community improvements, though the funding mechanism (upfront cost vs. reimbursement) was noted as a consideration.

The meeting included a public comment segment where a resident addressed concerns regarding the proposed timeline for compliance with the lighting ordinance, suggesting six months is sufficient rather than a year, particularly noting exceptions for gas stations. Key new business involved a detailed review of the lighting ordinance updates, specifically addressing consistency between existing parking lot lighting standards (Section 1052) and proposed standards (Section 1066E5), leading to a consensus to ensure consistency in quantitative measurements for parking lot lighting. Discussions also covered lighting for signs within the Central Business District (CBD) and public lighting requirements for new subdivisions. A new Planning Commissioner was sworn into office.

The meeting included the oath of office for Mary Gardner, followed by introductions of the planning commission members. Public comments were heard regarding property concerns on South Olive Street and the absence of sidewalks on a new home. Discussions also addressed potential ordinances for abandoned homes and unkempt properties, as well as the downtown association's involvement in beautification efforts. An update on the TGM grant application was provided, detailing its purpose to update the transportation system plan.

The meeting of the Water Advisory Committee included discussions regarding a log jam to improve water capture from the impound, potentially adding the project to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and exploring funding options such as SDC funds, grants, and developer contributions. The committee also discussed the benefits of the log jam for regulatory compliance with ODFW, as well as the possibility of a gate to manage sediment deposits. Additional topics included the potential for gray water systems in new developments and updates on operational costs to produce water.

The meeting of the Water Advisory Committee included discussions regarding a report from 2018, which highlighted concerns about water shortages and the impact of growth on the city's water source. Dale from the City of Hillsboro was introduced to share insights and recommendations, particularly on establishing a tie line with Hillsboro. Key points of discussion included whether the water source would be for emergency or regular use, the process for approval by the JWC, and the potential need for a letter outlining the request for water. The committee also touched on potential connection locations, the need for a pumping system due to elevation differences, and the timeline for approvals and engineering studies.