Rob Charles

The primary discussion item was the design review application for Fire Station 41 (SPRV25-1003). The applicants presented the key design elements, and following thorough discussion and review against the Design Review Checklist, the Committee agreed to forward a recommendation of approval to the Director, stating the application was generally consistent with the principles of the Design Review Manual.

The meeting included a proclamation designating March 2026 as Women's History Month. Key actions included the confirmation and appointment process for the Mayor's Form of Government Citizen Committee, with a directive for the committee to report back in May 2026. The Council unanimously approved the SunCal Development Agreement and Master Plan (Resolution No. 26-002). The agenda also covered financial matters, including EMS write-off billings for December 2025 and January 2026, and an amendment to a Professional Services Agreement with WSP USA, Inc. for Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Subarea Plan support. A significant portion of the meeting involved consideration and action on a formal complaint against Council Member Svilarich, culminating in the Council unanimously issuing a reprimand to Council Member Svilarich. An update was provided regarding a grant from the Department of Ecology, and a Professional Services Agreement Task Order for NPDES Support Outfall and Sediment Study was deferred for discussion at a future workshop.

The workshop session included informational presentations to the Council regarding the debrief of the 2025 Hometown Holidays and a preview of 2026 Parks & Recreation Special Events, followed by the City of Camas 2025 Financial Performance Presentation. Miscellaneous updates were provided concerning Crown Park and the upcoming Women in Public Safety Event. A Professional Services Agreement for the Lake Road Safety Project was noted for placement on a future Consent Agenda. Public comments addressed streets, Crown Park, the Fire Department, and the Cemetery.

The Design Review Committee meeting focused exclusively on Item 1: Fire Station 41 (SPRV25-1003). This major design review application seeks approval for the construction of a new two-story, 23,280 square foot fire station building on the property zoned Downtown Commercial (DC). Key discussion points detailed compliance with the Camas Municipal Code and the Downtown Design Manual regarding site planning, circulation and connections, landscaping, irrigation, street trees, hardscape elements (including furnishings, lighting), screening standards for service areas, and architectural standards such as facade glazing ratios and rain protection coverage. The applicant provided detailed responses to multiple sections of the Downtown Design Manual to demonstrate how the proposed facility, which will replace a vacant building, will enhance the public realm with a public plaza and appropriate civic detailing.

The meeting commenced with public comments addressing the form of government, an item on the consent agenda, and fluoride. The Consent Agenda was approved with the removal of item three, which involved a payment to HDR Engineering for a task order related to the Camas NPDES Support Outfall and Sediment Study; this item will be revisited in the next regular meeting. Mayor announcements included noting an upcoming retirement. The Council appointed Council Member Senescu to the Washington State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC). A public hearing was held concerning the SunCal Development Agreement and Master Plan, following which the Council directed the City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance for future consideration. Final agenda items included public comments on the removed consent item and council members expressing condolences and noting upcoming community events.