Development News for Astoria, Oregon

Astoria Amends Camping Code, Moves Forward with Homeless Liaison Services

The Astoria City Council held a public hearing and first reading on an ordinance to amend the Astoria Camping Code. The proposed changes aim to redirect the code towards a 'shelter-first' policy, making it explicit that if shelter resources are available, camping on public spaces will not be an option. The ordinance also includes provisions for case-by-case permits for those unable to comply with time/manner restrictions due to qualifying events and outlines penalties for non-compliance, potentially leading to legal trespass and arrest. The council discussed and voted to adopt amendments suggested by the Oregon Law Center and the city attorney, specifically to flatly change the fine amount to $35 for violations when shelter is available and to clarify that trespassed individuals can still access services, employment, and public meetings within a limited access zone. Following this, the council discussed the scope of work for a homeless liaison position, approving a motion to direct staff to publish a request for qualifications for a professional service contract. This role will focus on navigation services, coordinating with social services, and assisting individuals in complying with the camping code, but will not be responsible for enforcement.

Ocean View Cemetery Fees Updated: General Increase, Liner Fee Reduction

The Astoria City Council considered a resolution to update fees for Ocean View Cemetery. A 3% annual increase was recommended for most services, deviating from the previously planned 5% due to sufficient funds in the cemetery's irreducible fund for maintenance. Notably, the fees for casket liners were proposed to be reduced by 38% to align with market rates. The council approved the resolution to update the fee schedule.

Astoria City Council Debates Charter Amendments, Moves to Prepare Ballot Language

The Astoria City Council discussed potential amendments to the city charter, including expanding council size, updating appointment processes for boards and commissions, and clarifying language on quorum limits and roles of appointed officers. While initially planned to involve an ad hoc committee, council members decided to move forward with presenting proposed changes to voters in the upcoming November election due to time constraints and differing opinions on the necessity of an ad hoc committee for this specific set of amendments. The council motioned to have staff prepare ballot language for three separate measures concerning council size, board and committee appointments, and language cleanup.

Evergreen Fields Park Improvements Proposed; Grant Application Approved

The Astoria City Council considered a resolution to apply for a Local Government Grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to fund improvements at Evergreen Fields. The proposed project includes adding a play structure, renovating the existing restroom building, constructing a picnic shelter, resurfacing an asphalt path, improving turf between fields, and creating a new field. The total project cost is estimated at $84,000, with a $50,000 grant award and a $34,000 match from the parks operations budget and parks projects fund. The council approved authorizing staff to submit the grant application.