Miranda Brence

The commission discussed partnerships with the local school district for tree planting, the introduction of a new outreach coordinator, and the status of the street tree pruning RFP, which was awarded to the lowest qualified bidder. The meeting included a recap of the Greenwood Neighborhood tree meeting, planning for upcoming pruning parties, and preparations for Arbor Day, including a grant-funded school field day. Budgetary discussions centered on a high-risk tree fund and the need for further research before implementation. Additionally, the staff reported receiving the Tree City USA Growth Award and provided updates on park projects and fall tree planting initiatives.

The commission discussed accessibility improvements for public restrooms and reviewed the final design and fundraising efforts for the Splash Pad Development Committee. Key policy discussions included the amendment of the concessionaire/vendor requirements and fee structure. The commission explored potential collaborations with the Arts Commission regarding public art placements in parks. Additionally, the commission reviewed the budget, including proposals for material and service allocations, reserve funds for pool and playground infrastructure, and the addition of a new parks utility employee. Staff reports covered the status of aquatics and recreation programs, dam breach mitigation efforts, and park improvement projects.

The meeting addressed several initiatives, including plans for signal box wraps, the potential for asphalt art, and the development of a strategic plan focused on displaying local artists' work in downtown businesses. Discussion points included managing public art sales, drafting addendums for the Public Art Policy regarding murals, and coordinating with the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission on art placement. Additionally, the commission discussed budget concerns regarding dedicated art funds and plans to solicit bids for upcoming signal box wrap locations for the 2026-27 budget cycle.

The key discussion topics for this session included the approval of consent agenda items, such as the OLCC Liquor License Application for Puff N Stuff. A public hearing was opened regarding the first reading of an Ordinance to amend the Land Development Code to maintain conformance with Oregon State land use laws, involving changes to definitions, variance processes, and site plan submission requirements. New business addressed accepting the final plat for True Addition, adopting a Tiered Allocation Framework for City's Opioid Settlement Funds, and planning for a Gas Tax Ballot Referral for the 2026 General Election. The City Manager's six-month employment evaluation was also considered and successfully completed. Discussions with Union County representatives covered opioid settlement fund usage and updates on local programs like Friends of the Children and fairgrounds construction. Staff comments included updates on the splash pad design selection and repair status of ball fields. The meeting concluded with the Council adjourning to Executive Session to conduct labor negotiations.

The work session served as a discussion forum focused on substance abuse and homelessness, noting these societal issues are interconnected with the mental health crisis, placing pressure on law enforcement, dispatch services, hospitals, and behavioral health providers. Key statistics for the city of Lrand in 2025 included 462 mental health related calls (a 12% decrease from 2024, though January 2026 showed 69 calls) and 149 suicide related calls. There were 41 overdose calls reported in 2025, with methamphetamine being the prevalent drug. Discussions highlighted state-level barriers, such as treatment being largely voluntary, high criteria for involuntary commitment, and limited mental health bed space statewide. Operational impacts on the police department included significant time spent on crisis mitigation and resource strain limiting proactive policing. Alternative enforcement approaches and barriers to drug investigations, such as limited staffing and funding, were addressed. Attendees from various agencies stressed the lack of local resources for stabilization, medical detox (closest being 45 minutes away), and sober living homes, resulting in individuals frequently ending up in the hospital or jail, which is not equipped for treatment.