Development News for Klamath Falls, Oregon

Historic 500 Clamoth Avenue Building Proposals Reviewed by City Council

The City Council discussed proposals for the acquisition or lease of a historic building located at 500 Clamoth Avenue. The city issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) and received one submission from the Southern Oregon Education Service District (SOESD). SOESD proposed to either purchase the property for $450,000 with a 20% down payment or lease it for $3,500 per month over a 15-year term with a 1% annual escalation. SOESD intends to use the building as a regional hub for educational services, professional development, community meetings, and family engagement events, anticipating approximately 19 personnel on site. They also expressed support for continued city council use of the chambers and committed to preserving the building's historic character and public accessibility. Staff recommended accepting SOESD's proposal and authorizing the city manager to negotiate a finalized agreement.

Sunbird Kitchen LLC Liquor License Approved for Watershed Row Development

The City Council considered a liquor license recommendation for Sunbird Kitchen LLC, a new establishment within the Watershed Row development. The establishment plans to operate as a bakery cafe and a bar, with the bakery open from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM and the bar from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The council received no negative feedback from neighboring property owners after issuing notices. The project involves the renovation of a historic building in downtown Clamoth Falls, which will also house other retail and food vendors, and potentially a climbing gym.

City Council Approves Acceptance of Federal Safe Streets for All Grant

The City Council authorized the Public Works Director to accept a Safe Streets for All (SS4A) grant from the Federal Highway Administration. This grant, awarded approximately two years after the initial request, will fund improvements at intersections with high crash and injury rates: Main at 3rd, Main at 5th, Pine at 11th, 6th and East Main, and Chestnut and Avalon. The design and construction phases will commence following council approval. The city will be reimbursed fully for the project costs through county grant funding, although the initial expenditure will come from the water CIP.