Sarah Crofts

The meeting agenda includes discussions regarding an update for Coolidge McClaine Park, an Urban Forester budget update and review of projects for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, a review of the Marion County Juvenile Alternative Youth Programs, and a discussion concerning water sources.

The council meeting addressed several operational and developmental items, including a quarterly financial update and a presentation on e-scooter and e-bike safety regulations. The Council discussed a Memorandum of Understanding for the Plaza Park visitor center and entryway design options for the Main Street and Water Street intersection. A public hearing was held regarding the adoption of the Silverton 2050 Comprehensive Plan. Furthermore, the Council authorized franchise agreement extensions for Wavedivision VII and Lightspeed Systems, LLC, approved findings to proceed with a formal request for proposals for the Main Street and Plaza Park reconstruction, and authorized the construction of the Pettit Trail Project. Finally, the Council approved the purchase of two electric vehicle trolleys and awarded the 2026 Community Grants.

The committee continued its review and discussion of the 2024-2025 fiscal year budget, covering various funds including Parks, Affordable Housing, Sewer, Water, Debt Service, and several capital improvement reserve funds. Specific budgetary adjustments were proposed and discussed for the Parks, Sewer, Water, and WWTP Digester Capital Project funds. The committee also discussed the history and status of PERS bonds, the extension of the Building Capital Improvement Reserve Fund, and the funding sources and timelines for the Water Treatment Plant project. Ultimately, the committee moved to accept the reviewed changes and formally approved the city budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, including the tax levy.

The committee continued its review and discussion of the budget for fiscal year 2025-2026, including specific allocations for the Street and Storm Water Funds for the Westfield Improvement Project. Detailed reviews were conducted on the Water Fund, including potential assessments for the Silver Creek reservoir, as well as the Water Fund debt programs. Additionally, the committee received overviews of the Debt Service Fund, Building Capital Improvement Reserve Fund, General Operating Reserve Fund, and various capital project funds including the Main Street Improvement, Edison Water Tank, and Downtown Plaza Park projects. The meeting concluded with the committee voting to approve the City of Silverton budget for fiscal year 2025-2026, including the proposed property tax levies and pool operating levy.

The meeting included an overview and training on Oregon Land Use Proceedings provided by the City Attorney. Consultants presented updates on the Comprehensive Plan, including the Buildable Land Inventory and Economic Opportunity Analysis. Additionally, the results of a Community Engagement project were shared, and the City Manager presented the newly adopted City Council goals for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.