Maya Benham

The commission discussed various traffic safety concerns, including illegal U-turns, red-light running, and the installation of speed signs near the fairgrounds. Potential crosswalk locations were reviewed, and staff reports were provided by the police, public works, and planning departments. The commission also voted to nominate the Chief of Police for a Hometown Hero Award. Board members presented individual reports covering issues such as speeding, traffic studies from ODOT, infrastructure maintenance near gas stations, and parking concerns.

The Council discussed proposed changes to the city charter, specifically regarding Chapter 10 and the governance of Canby Utility. Key discussion points included the consolidation of water and power utility management, the authority to issue revenue bonds and incur debt for major infrastructure projects like the water treatment plant, and the potential removal of voter approval requirements for certain expenditures, while ensuring alignment with state law and maintaining public oversight mechanisms.

The commission discussed strategies to improve driver safety, including the potential use of social media campaigns to highlight the financial and legal consequences of reckless driving behaviors like illegal U-turns, running red lights, and texting. Members explored educational opportunities for youth and elderly drivers, such as collaborations with AAA, high school driver education programs, and assembly initiatives with local police and fire departments. Infrastructure projects were also reviewed, specifically the installation of a new striped crosswalk and push-button system at Third and Ivy, as well as considerations for a future crosswalk at Ivy and 18th. Additionally, the maintenance of roadway visibility and the ongoing schedule for line painting across the city were addressed.

The council held a special presentation to award the Hometown Hero title to Chief George Trow. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a public hearing regarding Resolution 1463, which concerns an update to the system development methodology and charges for stormwater, sanitary sewer, parks, and transportation infrastructure. Discussion ensued regarding implementation timelines, potential phase-in periods for park system development charges, and fairness considerations for the development community.

The meeting featured a presentation on applying code criteria for land use applications and the importance of establishing a solid record. Discussions centered on legal defensibility, identifying clear code criteria, and the use of the nexus and rough proportionality tests for mitigation measures. The Commission and staff discussed strategies to improve the quality of information provided for project reviews, particularly regarding traffic studies. Concerns were raised about the level of detail and transparency in traffic assessments, leading to a suggestion for a future work session with traffic consultants to better understand data modeling and analysis procedures.