Chris Longinetti

The City Council considered an amendment to the Hood River Municipal Code regarding System Development Charge (SDC) exemptions. The amendment clarifies that affordable housing projects, whether funded by state, private, or federal sources, are eligible for SDC exemptions. This includes housing with rental rates or purchase prices affordable for people earning no more than 120% of the area median income level. The council aimed to remove the restriction limiting SDC exemptions to federally funded low-income housing projects.

The report discusses the financial activities and position of the Urban Renewal Agency of the City of Hood River. Key highlights include property taxes earned, debt associated with the new Westside Urban Renewal District, and the Waterfront District's pledge to repay debt for the DEQ Storm Pipe Relocation Project. The Columbia Cascade Plan no longer collects tax increment, while the Waterfront Plan focuses on stormwater line replacement. The Heights District is working on securing a jurisdictional transfer for the Heights Streetscape Plan, and the new Westside District will begin operation.

The Safe Routes to School Plan focuses on enhancing the safety and accessibility for students walking and biking to May Street Elementary School and Hood River Middle School. Key areas of focus include infrastructure improvements such as crosswalk enhancements, sidewalk construction, and bike lane installations, as well as the implementation of education and encouragement programs. The plan aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and promote physical activity and community engagement, with a particular emphasis on equity and serving transportation-disadvantaged populations.

The ordinance discusses the annexation of approximately 10.99 acres of contiguous territory located within the City's Urban Growth Boundary. It also covers the withdrawal of portions from the service territories of Westside Rural Fire Protection District and Ice Fountain Water District. The decision to annex the territory is expressly conditioned upon the applicant executing a contractually binding agreement, setting forth the applicant's commitment to comply with and otherwise fulfill 16 conditions of approval.

The transportation system plan focuses on enhancing mobility and accessibility for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and motor vehicles. Key areas of focus include improving pedestrian facilities in the downtown area, adding bicycle facilities to primary travel routes, and addressing traffic congestion at key intersections. The plan also emphasizes the importance of transit systems and transportation demand management strategies to reduce reliance on single-occupancy vehicles. Additionaly, it will address the need for ADA-compliant curb ramps and bicycle parking.