Michael Carlson

This document outlines Baker City's strategic goals for 2026, categorized into short-term (1-2 years), mid-term (3-5 years), and long-term (5+ years) objectives. Key focus areas include resolving city infrastructure issues, enhancing public communication, strengthening disaster resilience, prioritizing economic development, and streamlining administrative processes. The plan also aims to improve the city's financial position, attract new businesses for skilled workers, enhance commercial corridors, and ensure sustainable infrastructure for future decades while providing community amenities and appropriate job opportunities.

The Housing Production Strategy for Baker City focuses on facilitating the development of equitable and affordable housing to address gaps in housing supply, especially for low- and moderate-income households. Key strategies involve assessing site constraints, increasing density and housing options, streamlining development requirements, promoting accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and analyzing the impact of short-term rentals. The plan also emphasizes incentivizing accessible design, exploring public-private partnerships, and leveraging federal funding to support housing initiatives.

The City Manager presented a report to the City Council on the history of ambulance service in Baker City and Baker County, the amendment status of the Baker County Ambulance Service Area Plan, contract negotiations between Baker City and Baker County, and staff preparations for the FY 2022-2023 budget as it relates to Ambulance Service. Key discussion points included the financial burden on Baker City taxpayers for ambulance services provided to Baker County, the increasing demand for ambulance services, and the potential need for additional staff. The City Manager recommended that Baker City no longer be the service provider for the Baker ASA, allowing Baker County to find a new provider. The report also discussed the implications of this decision, including the continued provision of ambulance services within Baker City limits.

The Historic District Design Review Committee Meeting was held on February 6, 2024, with members Carol Philips, Terry McQuisten, Ariel Reker, and Gail Duman present. The committee approved the minutes from the September 19, 2023 meeting and approved Option #1 of an awning replacement application at 2170 Main Street. Gail Duman was elected chairperson and Carol Phillips vice-chairperson. The next meeting is scheduled for February 20, 2024.

The Historic District Design Review Committee meeting was held on March 5, 2024, with members Carol Philips, Ariel Reker, and Gail Duman present. The committee approved the minutes from February 6, 2024, and unanimously approved an application for awning replacement at 1915 Washington Street. Discussion included updates on the Pythian Castle and plans for recruiting new HDDRC members, along with considerations for attending the 2024 Oregon Heritage Conference and future grant funding.