Chelsea Clark

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussions included receiving a letter from the Salem Utilities Department, mayoral updates on new business openings such as an events center and retail establishments, and progress on mandated EPA wastewater treatment plant projects. Departmental officials provided reports, noting no formal issues for the Law Director, Auditor, Safety Service Director, or Utilities Director. The Parks Director reported on securing a nature works grant to rebuild pavilions in Centennial Park, with demolition starting soon, and commissioning a chainsaw sculpture for a tree stump at Waterworth Memorial Park. The Rules and Ordinances Committee reported on passing resolutions to establish required cybersecurity practices for political subdivisions and to create a formal Information Technology department. The committee also addressed and confirmed that the existing ambulance ordinance covers the safety committee's concern, and reviewed amendments to the housing ordinance, formally separating the Housing Board of Appeals and the Board of Health. Council also addressed resolutions commending former council members for their dedicated service and discussed the recent mayoral veto of a housing ordinance.

The regular Salem City Council meeting commenced after an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Key discussions included updates from the Mayor regarding the appointment of Barb Stamp to the board of health and congratulatory remarks for a former council president on the birth of their child. The Service Director provided updates on infrastructure projects, including ODOT grant approvals for a bridge replacement on Pennsylvania Avenue (estimated completion FY 2029) and progress on the South Lincoln Overpass Project (estimated completion 2030). The Parks Director reported receiving a Nature Works grant for Centennial Park pavilion renovations and a matching grant for a water slide purchase. The success of the recent Trail of Treats event, which saw a large vendor turnout and over one thousand attendees, was noted, along with the completion of four new murals at Waterworth Memorial Park. The Parks Department requested approval for the purchase of two new Ferris lawnmowers, estimated at $35,498, due to the unreliability of current equipment, citing expected increased maintenance demands from planned America 250 events. The Finance Committee met to discuss the 2026 budget. Two ordinances were introduced: Ordinance 251118-67 was tabled as it needed committee review, and Resolution 251118-68, authorizing an agreement with Tetra Tech for environmental consultation services, was moved forward for immediate passage.

The Salem City Council meeting included discussions on a cooperative economic development agreement, monitoring income tax splits, and a major line replacement project on Jennings Avenue by Columbia Gas. The council also addressed the Christmas parade, the lighting of the tree, and decorations at the Plaza. Additionally, a day of service grant was awarded for building a fence along the nature trail at Waterworth Memorial Park, and an Eagle Scout project to build owl nesting boxes with live camera feeds was announced. The meeting involved tabling ordinances related to wage scales and budgets due to last-minute paperwork and the need for legal review, as well as addressing appropriations and reductions.

The Salem City Council convened for a regular meeting, addressing various topics including the resignation of a council member, recognition of election participants, and discussion of a mayoral appointment to the Salem Health Board. The council also reviewed the city budget, focusing on revenue projections and expense management for 2026. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding a bond for Shepherd of the Valley, including updates on the project's progress and the financial implications of the bond issuance. The council also approved an event application for the Christmas parade.

The Salem City Council meeting included discussions on financial matters such as Shepherd of the Valley's bond issue, which aims to support a project providing senior housing and increased tax revenue. The council also considered applying for grants to repair the Centennial Pool and evaluate city sidewalks for future repairs. Additionally, they discussed a railway overpass project on South Lincoln to improve safety and reduce traffic delays caused by frequent train crossings, which are critical for local businesses and emergency services.