Ashly Pearce

The council meeting addressed multiple items including discussions on public comment placement, an ordinance regarding noxious odors, and the appointment of a new member to the Tree Board. A significant portion of the meeting involved public comments and council discussion regarding a controversial social media post by the Mayor, with motions proposed concerning inclusivity and the Mayor's resignation, though most failed. The Council also reviewed development code amendments, discussed housing production strategies with the Planning Commission, and adopted several resolutions regarding staffing grants, state revenue receipt, and the fiscal year 2023-2024 budget. Additionally, the Council approved a collective bargaining agreement with the police department.

The council meeting covered a wide range of topics, including the recognition of Baker High School state champions and the presentation of the Brig and Eagle Citizen Award. Presentations were given on the 911 Dispatch Center operations, including a five-year project plan for radio equipment upgrades, and an update on the Veteran's Department. The council discussed city goals, reviewed and accepted new council rules, and conducted a first reading of Ordinance 3390 regarding the state fire code. Additionally, the meeting included an extensive discussion on the 2023-2024 fee schedule and the city's budgetary shortfalls, resulting in the approval of a $10 public safety fee. The meeting concluded with a vote of confidence in the City Manager and a series of leadership changes, including the removal of the current Mayor and the appointment of a new Mayor and Acting Mayor.

This Housing Production Strategy (HPS) for Baker City outlines a comprehensive set of tools, actions, and policies designed to address current and future housing needs within the city. The plan prioritizes equitable and actionable strategies to encourage housing production across four main categories: land supply, comprehensive plan policy and development code, incentives, and funding sources and programs. The overarching goal is to enhance housing affordability, expand housing choices, and support vulnerable populations by streamlining development, offering financial assistance, and fostering public-private partnerships.

The meeting agenda includes a staff report on a proposed development code amendment to allow residential caretaker units in the General Commercial zone. Additional action items involve a variance application for a free-standing sign at Love's, as well as conditional use permit and variance applications for the Baker School District 5J sports facility. The agenda also includes a director's report.

The City Council meeting included the adoption of Resolution 3939 regarding Housing Production Strategies, which was added to the agenda during the session. The Council also held an executive session to discuss the hiring of a Pro Tem City Manager, subsequently voting and appointing Jon France to the position with a specified compensation package and a term limit of no longer than six months, contingent upon a criminal history check.