Planning Department items:

Knollwood Estates tree removal (21-013 TREE):  This request to remove a tree at Knollwood Estates was approved and the final order was issued on April 9^th.

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26^th.  These proposed code changes were heard by the PC on January 25^th, and by Council at the March 15^th City Council meeting and continued at the April 19^th meeting.  This has been continued on to the May 24^th City Council meeting.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-049 ADJ):  Appeal of the appeal of the garage setback adjustment request for the duplex on Creekside Loop (previous appeal to PC was File No. 21-001 AP, and previous staff decision was File No. 20-049 ADJ)  This item is currently scheduled to be heard at the May 17^th City Council meeting.

Leslie Pole Barn 37625 SE Kelso Road (21-005 VAR): This application for a variance to an accessory structure on a residential property has now been deemed incomplete. Staff is currently reviewing the application and putting together the staff report for the May 24^th PC meeting.

Leslie Property Line Adjustment (21-016 PLA):  This is an application for a simple property line adjustment.  Staff is currently reviewing the application and writing the final report.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Final edits and review are still in process.  Staff is currently trying to determine timing and best practices for presenting this assessment to Council.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Planning staff is currently engaging in several rounds of editing and proofreading in preparation for final presentation of this plan to the City Council. 

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff is currently finishing up an RFQ to hire a consultant and reviewing the online engagement platform already under contract with the City.

38105 Jonsrud Lane (21-009 FSH):  This request for landscaping and tree removal in the FSH is currently under review by staff.

Next Adventure Phase III Addition (21-006 DR/VAR):  This project has now been deemed complete and is currently under review by staff.

Bull Run Electric Building:  Framing of the building mostly completed.  Anticipating a summer 2021 completion date.

Cedar Creek Heights Subdivision (21-012 SUB TREE FSH): This application for a type II subdivision was originally known as “The Views Plan B”.  Staff has deemed the application complete and are currently reviewing it.

Ten Eyck Rim Subdivision (21-015 SUB/TREE):  This application for a 9 lot subdivision along Ten Eyck between Pleasant and Hood has been deemed incomplete. 

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  This application to upgrade the lighting at the drive-up ATM in the Safeway parking lot has been deemed incomplete by staff.  Waiting on additional information from applicant.

Chase Bank:  This applicant is requesting to install an ATM next to their location on 362nd.  The pre-app is currently being scheduled for late May.

Champion Collision:  This applicant is planning some upgrades to their current building.  The pre-app is currently being scheduled for late May.


Kelly’s Kudos:

This month I would like to say thanks to Jeff Aprati for helping successfully launch the new Municode website.  During my tenure in Sandy, Planning Division staff have always assumed the task of making updates to the Sandy Municipal Code (SMC) documents whenever modifications occur in Title 15 or Title 17.  These modifications to the SMC are time consuming, could lead to errors, and involve staff interpreting ordinances.  Additionally, the old process did not include any easy way to notify the development community or residents when modifications to the SMC occurred.  Mr. Aprati’s work on launching Municode is very appreciated by Development Services staff.

[note: The Economic Development Office would also like to extend our thanks to Mr. Aprati for assuming the responsibility of being the first point of contact for staff with regard to editing the new Municode site.  It has been very helpful to this office to be able to hand off that responsibility to our City Recorder, and he has performed admirably in this role.  Many thanks, Jeff.]

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the April Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of May 1^st, 2021:
  
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete! – structure passed final inspection on 5/5/21 pending the completion of the electrical work by subcontractor.  
  • Le Happy –Mt. View Construction has started construction of components of this structure; has already started building the support posts for this structure in his shop as he did with the Ria’s project.
  • Sandlandia – Currently out to bid — bid due date is 5/14. Bidders are Neilson Construction of Sandy, McCord Construction of Gresham and Darwin Buswell Construction of Eagle Creek.
  • Boring Brewing – Currently out to bid – bid due date is 5/26.  Bidders are Neilson Construction of Sandy, McCord Construction of Gresham and Columbia Cascade Construction of Boring.
  • No Place Saloon, Red Shed Public House – waiting on engineering (next due: Red Shed, week of 5/10.  NPS due before end of May)
  • Tollgate Inn – This is a unique project.  Project specifications by business owner called for opaque roof panels for natural light.  We are currently waiting on a design from a contractor that specializes in opaque roof panels for outdoor structures.  We should be receiving a design from this contractor some time in mid-May.
  • Beer Den – This project was cancelled by the business owner – reason unknown.

• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  The Development Services Director and City Manager are continuing their work to refine the scope of work to save costs and plan to meet with Hod Wells of PBS Environmental in this month.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  The general contractor working on the exterior of the building is still in the final stages of wrapping up this project.  All County Surveyors has completed the design work for the entry path, and this work has been forwarded to Mr. Fleischman along with a scope of work so that he may begin soliciting bids for this work.  He is also having his general contractor build him a new set of wooden stairs for the emergency exit on the west elevation of the building.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance – hiatus ending:  We have started up the AntFarm Downtown Maintenance crew again for 2021.  New Outdoor Programs Manager Max Krieger is going to get the crew started by weeding and cleaning the front of the Sandy Public Library.  Flower baskets should be installed on Wednesday, May 12^th.  As always, if Council members take notice of any specific areas in downtown Sandy that need maintenance attention, please send an email to the Economic Development Manager detailing the issue and we will get it on the schedule for maintenance.
• Smith Building:  The owners of this building have switched realtors; it is now being represented by Tom Giusto of Oregon First.  Mr. Paletti and Mr. Goldenberg are still receiving a fair amount of interest in the building, and the Economic Development Office has been receiving inquiries about this building regularly.  However, potential buyers seem to be seeing a disconnect between the current condition of the building and the asking price.  No offers are on the table at this time that we know of.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The April meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held virtually on Wednesday, April 7^th at 6:30 pm.  The meeting began as it always does with Ec Dev Office updates – this month the focus of the updates was on the status of the Covered Structures grant program and some new pandemic-related visitor data from Mt. Hood Territory.  The biggest takeaways from this new data set are as follows:

1. Perceptions about the safety of travel during the pandemic are improving
   1. 57.8% felt unsafe to travel on 1/1/21.
   1. 46.2% felt unsafe to travel on 2/14/21.
   1. This is rapidly trending downward.
2. Clackamas Co. citizens are starting to feel positive about marketing our area again.
3. American’s next leisure trip – most noted reasons:
   1. #1 response – Outdoor recreation (50.3%)
   1. #3 response – Connect with nature (45.5%)
   1.  We are well positioned to take advantage of post-pandemic travel

Following these updates, the committee was given a presentation by Shelley Denison about the need for economic development input in Sandy’s Comprehensive Plan, a request for the EDC to provide the conduit for this input and some examples of how other cities have incorporated economic development into their comprehensive plans.  We were finally joined by Joey Gambino of Rogue Fabrication at the end to discuss light manufacturing businesses – why they’re important for the community (living wage jobs, lower impact than you think) and how to think about recruiting more of these types of businesses in the future – before running out of time.  Mr. Gambino will be invited to the next meeting to continue our conversation.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of April. 

Q1 Vacant Platted and Tentative Lots Report:

Attached is an updated platted and tentative platted lots list through March 31, 2021. We issued 8 single family homes between January and March. We only have 28 buildable lots for single family homes in Sandy. We are currently reviewing several single family homes in Marshall Ridge and anticipate several homes being applied for in Shaylee Meadows in the very near future.

You will receive the next update in July 2021.

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26^th.  These proposed code changes were heard by Council at the March 15^th City Council meeting.  Discussion was continued until the April 19^th meeting.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-049 ADJ):  This appeal to the 20-049 ADJ decision regarding the adjustment of setbacks for a garage issued on December 30^th was heard at the March 29^th Planning Commission meeting.  The appeal was denied.  Final order was issued on March 31^st.  Appeal to City Council began on April 12^th.

37359 Olsen Street hardship permit:  This resident is requesting a hardship permit in order to put a mobile home on their property.  Pre-application meeting scheduled for April 27^th,

Leslie Pole Barn 37625 SE Kelso Road (21-005 VAR): This application for a variance to an accessory structure on a residential property was deemed incomplete. Staff is currently waiting on his updated application materials and hopes to bring this to Planning Commission in May.

Leslie Property Line Adjustment (21-016 PLA):  This application for a simple property line adjustment has been received and is currently under review by staff.

Marin’s Viewpoint Tree Variance (21-004 TREE/VAR):  This application for a tree variance was approved.  Final order issued on March 31^st.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Final edits and review are still in process.  Staff is currently trying to determine timing and best practices for presenting this assessment to Council.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  The entirety of Planning staff has started editing and proofreading this plan in preparation for final presentation. 

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff will be meeting in the coming weeks with Councilors and Planning Commissioners to get their high-level visions and priorities for the Comprehensive Plan update.  Staff is also developing an RFQ for a consultant and looking into potential grant opportunities.

Next Adventure Phase III Addition (21-006 DR/VAR):  This proposed project to upgrade the front building at Next Adventure was initially deemed incomplete by staff.  Staff has received missing materials from applicant and project is now deemed complete.  This project is currently under review.

Bull Run Electric Building:  This building is now under construction.  The foundation and concrete work have now been completed, and the framing of the building is well underway.  Anticipating a summer 2021 completion date.

New SFRs at 18745 Jacoby Rd (21-008 DR):  This application to build single family residences on two lots on Jacoby Road has been deemed incomplete.  Waiting on additional information from applicant.

15331 Bluff Road tree removal (21-011 TREE): This request to remove one tree from this residential property was approved by staff.  Final order issued April 2^nd.

Cedar Creek Heights Subdivision (21-012 SUB TREE FSH): This application for a type II subdivision was originally known as “The Views Plan B”.  Staff deemed the application incomplete and are currently waiting on additional information from the applicant.

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  This application to upgrade the lighting at the drive-up ATM in the Safeway parking lot has been deemed incomplete by staff.  Waiting on additional information from applicant.

16600 362^nd (20-053 TREE/VAR):  This application for tree removal from 16600 SE 362^nd Drive including a variance request for removal of healthy trees in the protected 30-foot tree preservation buffer (retroactive removal of three trees and variance request for the removal of six more healthy trees) was denied by staff.  Final order issued in early April.

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the April Ec Dev Committee meeting:
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is in process.  Support post bases have been installed and concrete is curing.  Structure to be constructed week of 4/19.
  • Le Happy – Bidding complete – winning bidder was Mt. View Construction ($71,239).  Contractor to start upon completion of Ria’s project.
  • Sandlandia – Engineering is complete.  Staff is reviewing some code issues to add to the scope of work for this project, but these are minor ADA improvements.  This project will move to the bidding phase in the following week.
  • Boring Brewing – Engineering is being completed now and will be available week of 4/19.
  • Waiting on engineering – No Place Saloon, Red Shed Public House
  • Additional work needed – Tollgate Inn, Beer Den

• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  The Development Services Director and City Manager are working on refining the scope to save costs and plan to meet with Hod Wells of PBS Environmental in May.
• Minor changes to Community Center: With the installation of the west metal door and the addition of vehicle charging infrastructure, the minor changes at the Community Center are now all complete.  Next up: Porte Cochere and ADA Upgrades project to start in May.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  This project is now complete.  This was a huge upgrade for one of the most visible buildings in Sandy, and the styling and color change for this building was badly needed.  Bonus points to KLM Construction of Sandy, who managed this project for the building owner – they were easy to work with and very responsive. 
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  The general contractor working on the exterior of the building is now in the final stages of wrapping up this project.  The City is requiring a new ADA-compatible entrance to the building now that the building owner has removed the prior entry, which was existing non-conforming.  All County Surveyors is in the process of surveying the site and creating a design for this purpose.  Also, the building owner is weighing whether to re-install the metal stairs on the west side of the building or having the general contractor build him a new set of wooden stairs that is more compatible with the building design – he seems to be leaning more towards the latter at this time.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance – hiatus ending:  The AntFarm Downtown Maintenance crew is getting ready to return from hiatus for the winter.  We typically re-engage with them when the flower baskets are installed in mid-May.  We have recently reached out to our flower basket provider and Nunpa to see if COVID has altered either of their capacities in any way – they are both ready to go at full capacity.  As always, if Council members take notice of any specific areas in downtown Sandy that need maintenance attention, please send an email to the Economic Development Manager detailing the issue and we will get it on the schedule for maintenance.
• Mtn Moka Building – stormwater and concrete:  At the conclusion of the building refresh project that was just completed, staff noticed a few code violations in the pedestrian right-of-way outside of the building.   The building owner will  be repairing one worn sidewalk panel on the north side of the building and re-routing a downspout to a new curb weephole.  He is also filling the 80’ x 2’ gravel strip on the east side of the building with concrete for a cleaner look.
  
  

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The March meeting of the Economic Development Committee was cancelled, primarily due to a combination of reopening activities for some of our members and meeting fatigue.  The April meeting of the Committee will take place on Wednesday, April 7^th at 6:30 pm.  [the April meeting was held as planned and will be updated in next month’s report.]

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of March. 

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26^th.  These proposed code changes were heard at the January 25^th PC meeting.  This item will be heard at the March 15^th City Council meeting.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-049 ADJ):  This appeal to the 20-049 ADJ decision regarding the adjustment of setbacks for a garage issued on December 30^th is scheduled to be heard at the March 29^th Planning Commission meeting.

Leslie Pole Barn 37625 SE Kelso Road (21-005): This application for an accessory structure on a residential property is currently under review by staff for completeness.

Marin’s Viewpoint Tree Variance (21-004 TREE/VAR):  This application for a tree variance is scheduled to be heard at the March 29^th PC meeting.

Rogue Fabrication zone change (20-041 ZC):  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way was recommended for approved by the Planning Commission at their meeting on January 25^th.  This will be heard by City Council at their meeting on March 15^th.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Final edits and review are being conducted by the department director.  Staff hopes to have this ready for Council review sometime in April.

Les Schwab Remodel (20-048 DR):  Final order was issued on February 24th.  SURA Board reviewed and enthusiastically approved a Façade grant proposal for this project at their meeting on March 8^th.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff will re-engage with this project in April upon completion of the Downtown Walkability Assessment.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff will be meeting in the coming weeks with Councilors and Planning Commissioners to get their high-level visions and priorities for the Comprehensive Plan update.  Staff is also developing an RFQ for a consultant and looking into potential grant opportunities.

The Views Planned Development (20-028):  City attorney is working on writing up the final order for this project – it will be ready for the Mayor to review in mid-March.

Next Adventure Phase III Addition (21-006 DR/VAR):  This proposed project to upgrade the front building at Next Adventure has been received.  Staff to begin completeness check shortly.

16600 362^nd (20-053 TREE/VAR):  This application for tree removal from 16600 SE 362^nd Drive including a variance request for removal of healthy trees in the protected 30-foot tree preservation buffer is currently under review.

Tickle Creek Apartments (20-052 DR/MOD):  Developers of this project, formerly called Phase II of the Double Creek Condos project, requested modification adjustments to site layout, amenities and building elevations.  Final order was issued by staff on February 10^th. 

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the 3/8 SURA Board meeting:
  • All projects reviewed by Board; Board decision to keep moving forward with program was unanimous.
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction will start on site around 3/20; should only take a couple of days to complete.
  • Le Happy – Scope of work being developed; nest step: put project out to bid.
  • Boring Brewing – Engineer discovered some issues with the site that need to be mitigated prior to building structure.  Engineering pending.
  • Waiting on engineering – No Place Saloon, Sandlandia, Red Shed Public House
  • Additional work needed – Paola’s, Tollgate Inn, Beer Den
• City Hall Repipe Project:  This project is now complete and has provided the City of Sandy with the following upgrades:
  • All potable water in City Hall is now flowing through brand new copper piping.
  • The City Hall water heater was replaced with a new, super high efficiency heater – “hot” water in City Hall is actually hot again.
  • The “knocking” sound coming from pressure build up in the old system has been mitigated.
  • Asbestos wrap around one pipe was identified and removed from the building.
  •  This project was completed on time and just slightly over budget (asbestos wrap was discovered after start of project – testing, removal and disposal was $2,200) – many thanks to Portland Mechanical Contractors for their professional and speedy work.
• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  Staff received a scope of work and engineering from PBS Environmental in the first week of March.  City administration will make a decision about next steps.
• Community Center Porte Cochere & ADA Upgrades project:  Staff is making some final edits to the documentation to send out for bid, and the Community Center Director is working on the scope of work for the project.  Should be ready by the end of March.
• Minor changes to Community Center:
  • Lighting:  Complete.
  • Garbage enclosures:  Complete. 
  • West entrance awning:  Complete.
  • West entrance – new metal door:  Completed March 11
  • Homeless lighting: Complete.

Kelly’s Kudos

I want to thank the folks at the Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) for their assistance on the House Bill 2001 considerations.  Sean Edging, Jennifer Donnelly, and Ethan Stuckmayer have been tremendous resources in helping write code, write findings for the ordinance, and interpreting state legislation.  They have also been more than willing to assist the Planning Commission and City Council in the form of presentations.  Emily Meharg and I are impressed with DLCD staff knowledge, patience, and interest in making Sandy’s municipal code comply with House Bill 2001.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  No visible progress has been made on this project since the last report.  Only lighting work remains.  Property owner asked via email in February when his final reimbursement check would arrive – the response to him was basically “As soon as the project is completed.”
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  Work continues on this project – steeple work is now completed; general contractor seems to be refocusing his efforts on completing siding and painting work.  City is assisting property owner with design work to replace entry flat work with an ADA accessible path to the front door; design work has been accepted by All County Surveyors and is in process.  Project appears to be about 80% complete.  
• TI project – Smoky Hearth:  This project (resealing of the concrete floors throughout the interior of the building) is now complete.  The owners have fulfilled the terms of the contract and have been reimbursed.
• Taco Time: This business has been closed since the February storm due to damage caused by snow pack on the roof. Water got into the ceiling and made quite a mess, but fortunately there was no structural damage to the building. Contractors have been repairing the damage, and a test of the kitchen’s fire suppression system was successful. No word on a reopening date yet, but this closure is temporary.
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Homeless encampment cleanup:  Code Enforcement and the Sandy PD are currently addressing an expanding homeless encampment in the natural area on the east side of lower Ruben Lane.  Ant Farm Youth Services has been retained to provide the clean up labor, and the property owner is paying the lion’s share of the cleanup costs (the only City financial contribution to this project is the cost of renting the 10 yard trash container and the dumping fees).
• AF Downtown Maintenance – hiatus:  This is a general reminder that the AntFarm Downtown Maintenance crew is currently on hiatus for the winter.  We typically re-engage with them when the flower baskets are installed in May unless specific items arise during that time.  We already have several medium sized projects lined up for them this spring already – if Council members take notice of any specific areas in downtown Sandy that need attention, please send an email to the Economic Development Manager detailing the issue and we will get it on the schedule for maintenance.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The February meeting of the Economic Development Committee was cancelled, primarily due to a combination of reopening activities for some of our members and meeting fatigue.  The April meeting of the Committee will take place on Wednesday, April 7^th at 6:30 pm.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of February. 

Building Division Report – Q1 2021:

The beginning of 2021 has been predictably unpredictable!   Despite the pandemic and uncertainties of the financial markets or the local and national politics, residential construction and the building industry in general, is still active.   The monthly report of Sandy’s permit activity are evidence:

• 29 active Residential building permits, plus 3 new permits. (Compare this to July 2020 when we had 63 active residential dwelling permits.)   
• 12 active commercial permits, plus 1 new permit.

Residential and commercial contractors say things have slowed due to the lack of affordable buildable lots, the unusually wet, winter weather, the record-high costs of building materials, and the shortages of manufactured products due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Along with the increase in COVID-19 cases, the number of unpermitted construction projects has also increased.  Several contractors have anonymously confided that they have been asked to work an increasing number of small remodel projects involving electrical, structural and mechanical and/or plumbing, but the owners were not wanting to obtain permits. Thankfully, Sandy has many honest and ethical contractors who insist on pulling permits whenever required by law to protect themselves and the owners from needless harm and liability.   Below are three examples that show the need for permits and inspections:

Recently, the Building Department was asked to conduct a walk-thru of two older, commercial buildings.  The first building had been remodeled and reconfigured on multiple occasions, with much of the work having not been permitted or approved.  The owner and prospective buyers wanted to know what the Building Codes will require before they could start a new business in the building. The Building Official was able to help answer all their code questions, outlined the priorities to obtain permits to provide accessibility and safety, and achieve their goals. 

The second site visit was in one of Sandy’s older commercial buildings, which has a large open showroom.  The visit revealed that 1/3 of the large structural floor had been replaced with new rough-sawn lumber and topped with 4 inches of concrete slab, in the recent past.  The buyer asked if Sandy had record of any inspections or permits for the work.  Unfortunately, this unpermitted work voided the insurance coverage and placed full liability on the owner.  The building and land had additional incumbrances which caused the buyer to withdraw his offer.    

The last example is of a complete remodel of a small, vacant house.  It involved creating a new floor plan, new bathroom, new kitchen and master bedroom.  The required permits were issued, and all the rough inspections approved.  After a long period of time, the Final inspection was requested.   The owner was now living in the house but didn’t know the smoke detectors in the upstairs hall and bedroom were not connected, nor had the electrical work been signed off.   It is now corrected and all approved.  The builder, the building inspector, and the owner are happy.

Respectfully submitted by
Terrence Gift, Building Official

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26^th.  These proposed code changes were heard at the the January 25^th PC meeting.  This item will be heard at the March 3^rd City Council meeting.

Community Center Porte Cochere & ADA Upgrades project (20-050 DR):  Review for this project is now complete.  Final order was issued on January 12^th.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-049 ADJ):  This request to adjust setbacks for a garage was issued on December 30^th and is scheduled to be heard at the March 29^th Planning Commission meeting.

Les Schwab Remodel (20-048 DR):  Staff review of this Type I design review is now complete and the final order is being written.

Rogue Fabrication zone change (20-041 ZC):  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way was recommended for approved by the Planning Commission at their meeting on January 25^th.  Staff is currently scheduling this request for a future Council meeting for final approval.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Secondary review by senior staff and the department director is now complete.  Staff is currently making final edits to this assessment and will have it ready for Council review soon.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  This project has been put on hold temporarily due to the current departmental workload.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff continues to review this plan by looking at comp plan updates in similarly sized Oregon cities and reviewing “best practices”.  Staff is also discussing potentially posting an RFQ for consultants to manage this process for us.

The Views Planned Development (20-028):  All materials for this project have now been uploaded to iCompass in preparation for the City Council hearing on February 16^th.

Sandy High School Field House (20-040 DR/VAR):  The final order for this proposal to construct a new indoor athletic field at Sandy High School was issued on February 2^nd.

16600 362^nd (20-053 TREE/VAR):  This request for the removal of healthy trees from the protected vegetation buffer of this property has been deemed incomplete.

Tickle Creek Apartments (20-052 DR/MOD):  Developers of this project, formerly called Phase II of the Double Creek Condos project, request modification adjustments to site layout, amenities and building elevations.  Request is currently under review by staff.. 

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  Here is where the program stands currently:
  • Review of all current projects to occur at the 3/1 Council/UR meeting.
  • Ria’s/SFR – Revised bid price: $69,820; permit complete, contract being created now.  This project will be ready to start construction week of 2/15.
  • La Bamba – Assisting owner with concepts for using this program to convert his front porch to more usable dining area – this is a unique build that will have a different trajectory than other projects.
  • In design/engineering phase: Boring Brewing, Le Happy
  • Application received: No Place Saloon (scheduling design meeting now)
  • Email describing program going out to additional qualifying businesses on 2/12 (Red Shed, Mtn Moka, Golden Key, Bunsenbrewer, Buddha Kat Winery)
• City Hall Repipe Project:  This project is now tentatively complete.  Initial walk through showed a couple of minor items that were missed; contractor is working on completing these items now.  Contractor performed admirably and Building Official has done a preliminary walk through and seems generally satisfied pending an official inspection.

• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  Staff met with the selected contractor (PBS Environmental and Engineering of Portland) on February 2^nd to discuss project scoping; references have been checked and were positive.  Staff is continuing to work with contractor to develop a scope of work and contract price.
• Community Center Porte Cochere & ADA Upgrades project:  Planning review for this project is now complete.  Staff will be developing a scope of work for this project and putting it out to bid shortly.
• Minor changes to Community Center:
  • Lighting:  Complete.
  • Garbage enclosures:  Complete. 
  • West entrance awning:  Complete.
  • West entrance – new metal door:  Door is currently on order – installation will occur at end of February barring manufacturing or shipping delays.
  • Homeless lighting: CS Director requested bright LED lighting with a hair trigger motion detector at both north landings to discourage homeless camping, which has been happening with increasing regularity at the Community Center.  Bull Run Electric met staff with on 2/9 to survey the site and prepare a quote.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  Only work remaining to be completed on this project is the mural lighting component.  This project is 95% complete.
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  Work continues on this project – general contractor seems to have completed building siding and is now working on paint and steeple siding. Paint is being done in fits and starts as weather permits – end result will be a new coat of white paint with a Sandy-Style accent color for the trim. City is assisting property owner with design work to replace entry flat work with an ADA accessible path to the front door.  Project appears to be about 75% complete.  
• TI project – Smoky Hearth:  Owners submitted a TI grant application for the resurfacing and resealing of the concrete floors throughout the interior of this restaurant.  Bids have been received and applicants are currently under contract.
• Three of the empty lots next to the Sandy Action Center were recently purchased by Shan Hill of Barlow Trail Vet Clinic. Mr. Hill hopes to build a new home for his veterinary clinic on the site as the business has outgrown its current location, and is also currently attempting to purchase the one remaining lot (the one that Joe’s 6-Pack used to occupy) from a different owner to maximize his build. He also purchased the lot with the derelict garage on it at the corner of Junker and Strauss as part of the overall project — they intend to pave this lot and use it for employee parking for the clinic.
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Homeless encampment cleanup:  AntFarm Youth Services cleaned up three homeless encampments on the Sorensen property behind the coin op car wash on Pioneer.  The crew also removed a large blackberry bramble behind the car wash, eliminating an eyesore and improving site visibility for law enforcement monitoring the area.
• AntFarm also continues to assist the Parks Department by removing damaged trees felled in our parks through regular maintenance processes or by storms. This wood is split into firewood and used in AntFarm’s firewood assistance program (formerly operated by Kiwanis)
• All other downtown maintenance issues will be addressed on a case-by-case basis throughout the winter, with non-critical items waiting until regular maintenance work resumes in the spring.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The February meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held on February 3^rd.  Following a brief update for the committee regarding various grant funded projects happening around town, members reported out on the current status and future plans for their respective businesses.  Committee discussion items included an update on the 362^nd extension project from City Manager Wheeler, and a review of the Covered Structures Grant program and the current status of that program, including a look at the design of the pilot project at Sandy Family Restaurant.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of January.  Looking forward to the Agile Management training course taught by Dr. Lazenby through Portland State University in late February.

Platted and Tentative Platted Lots Report:

The updated platted and tentative platted lots list through December 31, 2020 is shown above.  This spreadsheet will no longer include expired subdivisions.  We issued 17 single family homes between October and December and reviewed seven additional single family house permits that are ready for issuance in early January.  The subdivisions named Mt. View Ridge and Sandy Woods are almost entirely built and only a few vacant lots remain.  

Lennar has started to construct houses in Marshall Ridge, and we expect all remaining lots in that subdivision to be completed in 2021.  Once again, we are quickly running low on buildable lots for single family homes in Sandy.  While Shaylee Meadows will introduce an additional 100 lots sometime in 2021, based on historical trends that number of lots will be finished with new houses in less than two years from plat recording.

You will receive the next update in April 2021.

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26 and will be heard at the the January 25^th PC meeting.

Community Center Porte Cochere & ADA Upgrades project (20-050 DR):  This project is currently under review by Planning staff.

38471 Maple Street (20-046 ADJ):  The final order for this request for a reduction in side yard setbacks was issued on December 10^th.

38463 Maple Street (20-047 ADJ):  The final order for this request for a reduction in side yard setbacks was issued on December 10^th.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-049 ADJ):  The final order for this request to adjust setbacks for a garage was issued on December 30^th.

Rogue Fabrication zone change (20-041 ZC):  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way has now been deemed complete and is scheduled for a hearing at the PC meeting on January 25^th.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Staff has now completed its initial review of this assessment.  A secondary review is currently being undertaken by senior staff and the department director.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff is currently working on a comprehensive review of this plan.  Work is ongoing.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff is currently in the beginning stages of reviewing this plan by looking at comp plan updates in similarly sized Oregon cities and reviewing “best practices”.

Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB):  The City Council denied this comprehensive plan change, zone change, and subdivision on December 7, 2020.  The City issued the final order on December 29, 2020.

The Views Planned Development (20-028):  This project was heard by the Planning Commission at their November 23^rd meeting.  After a robust discussion, this project will be going in front of the City Council at their February 16^th meeting.

Sandy High School Field House (20-040 DR/VAR):  This proposal to construct a new indoor athletic field at 36525 Industrial Way has now been deemed complete and is scheduled for the January 25^th PC meeting.

16600 362^nd (20-053 TREE/VAR):  This request for the removal of a healthy tree from the protected vegetation buffer of this property has been received.  Staff is working on the completeness check now.

Tickle Creek Apartments (20-052 DR/MOD):  The paperwork for this project, formerly called Phase II of the Double Creek Condos project, has been received.  Staff is working on the completeness check now.

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  We have hit the ground running with this program – here’s where we stand currently:
  • Ria’s/SFR – Design/engineering work completed and approved; currently out to bid.
  • La Bamba – Assisting owner with concepts for using this program to convert his front porch to more usable dining area.  This is a unique project that will take some time to complete.
  • I have now spoken with Boring Brewing and Le Happy – both are interested in looking at City designs, and both are likely to move forward.
• Emergency Small Business Assistance grant program, Round 2:  All funds have now been distributed.  Every participating business that received a check and had very kind words for City Council for engaging in this effort, and likely saved a number of Sandy businesses from closing down.   
• City Hall Repipe Project:  We are now through the bidding stage for this project – Portland Mechanical Contractors (a division of JK Kelly) was the winning bidder and will begin working on this project in late January. 
• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  Staff will be reviewing the qualifications of three firms that responded to this RFQ in January.  Selected respondent will manage the process of disconnecting and/or rerouting of existing utility service lines and generally preparing the grounds for building demolition.
• Minor changes to Community Center:
  • Lighting:  Complete.  Hat tip to Joe Preston for trimming the trees around the existing parking lot fixtures to increase light levels for security – a noticeable improvement!
  • Garbage enclosures:  Complete.  City padlock added for security and to discourage dumping.  “No Dumping” signage on order.
  • West entrance awning:  Installation scheduled for Thursday, 1/14/21.  Contractor had delays first because of staff shortages due to illness, and then because Metallion Industries (metal roof manufacturer in Estacada) shut down for several weeks over the holidays.  Contractor will remove existing awning in one piece to see if it can be reused elsewhere by the Parks Department.
  • West entrance – new metal door:  Will schedule for installation on 1/14/21 upon completion of  the awning replacement (same contractor).
• Community Center Porte Cochere & ADA Upgrades project:  The design and engineering work for this project has been approved with conditions by staff.  Waiting on architect to incorporate conditions and receive prior to putting this project out to bid.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  Project work continues at this site as weather allows.  Masonry and fencing work on the garbage enclosure is currently in process.  Lighting will be final phase – all other work is now finished.  This project is about 85% complete.
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  As expected, this project has expanded due to rot and other damage to the building identified when the siding was removed.  With the amount of work added through a change order to mitigate this damage, the property owner has now surpassed the $100,000 mark in project costs for this project.  Therefore, he will be receiving the maximum reimbursement amount allowed by this program ($41,500) once the project is finished and passes inspection.  Project appears to be about 60-70% complete and progress is steady.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Homeless encampment cleanup:  Multiple homeless encampments have popped up again in the green space between the Pioneer Parking Lot (behind Two Brothers) and the new Grandma’s House location at 38888 Pioneer.  Currently contracting with AntFarm for camp removal, as well as for blackberry removal behind the coin-op car wash to decrease the chances of something similar happening in the future.
  

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The December meeting of the Economic Development Committee was cancelled due to the emergence of the Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures Program.  The development of this program has been the primary focus of the Economic Development Office since it was first suggested by the Mayor.  We have succeeded in developing and enacting the program in a matter of weeks, and currently have one project out to bid and another couple of projects in the planning stages.

The feedback received from committee members when this cancellation was announced was 100% positive and encouraging, as members recognized the importance of this grant program and the need to get projects started as soon as possible.  The Committee will reconvene in February.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of December. 

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26^th.  The PC hearing is scheduled for the January PC meeting.

Hood Street Daycare (20-039 DCA/ADJ):  The final order for this request to construct a new building for a daycare at 38422 Hood Street was issued on December 1^st.

Rogue Fabrication zone change (20-041 ZC):  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way has now been deemed complete and is currently under review.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff continues with re-evaluating what is left to complete with this project.  This has been temporarily put on hold due to staff attention required for the Bull Run Terrace and The Views projects.

Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB):  This project was heard at the City Council meeting on November 30^th and given a first reading.  Second reading for this project will occur at the next Council meeting on December 7^th.

18350 Ross Ave Accessory Structure Setback Adjustment (20-044 ADJ):  The final order for this project was issued on November 6^th.

Les Schwab façade design review (20-048): This project to upgrade the façade for the Sandy Les Schwab is currently under review.

The Views Planned Development (20-028):  This project went before the Planning Commission on November 23rd, at which point they granted a continuance.  PC will pick up their discussion on it at their next meeting on December 16^th.

Sandy High School Field House (20-040 DR/VAR):  This proposal to construct a new indoor athletic field at 36525 Industrial Way has now been deemed complete.  Staff is anticipating this project to be reviewed at the PC meeting in January.

38471 Maple Street (20-046 ADJ):  Request to reduce side yard setbacks is currently being reviewed by staff.

38463 Maple Street (20-047 ADJ):  Request to reduce side yard setbacks is currently being reviewed by staff. 

Kelly’s Kudos:

I would like to offer my sincere thanks to our two outgoing Sandy Planning Commissioners, John Logan and Todd Mobley.  Their service on the Planning Commission fulfilled an important role for the City of Sandy and I want to recognize their volunteer efforts.  Commissioner Logan has served since March 2015 and was active in numerous planning projects, including the UGB Expansion, numerous code changes, the first iteration of the Pleasant Street Master Plan and many land use applications.  Commissioner Mobley has served since January 2018 and was instrumental in helping solidify our first clear and objective code changes related to traffic analysis.  He was also involved in many land use applications and other code changes.  I want to wish Mr. Logan and Mr. Mobley all the best in their future endeavors.

Internal projects: 

• Emergency Small Business Assistance grant program, Round 2: 
  • Staff has completed review of the applications for this program and will be officially informing applicants of their status (and hopefully delivering checks) next week.
  • There were 33 applicants for this round of the program.  After review, 29 of the 33 applicants were deemed eligible grants, so every eligible applicant will be receiving a grant award. 
  • Any remaining funds other than the 1% set aside for program expenses will be split up equally between the 29 recipients and added to their $3,000 award.  Final awards should be right around $3,400.
  • Of the four applicants deemed ineligible:
    • One was a home business based outside of city limits, so doubly ineligible.
    • One was a business owner with two eligible businesses operating under the same federal business registration number (EIN) even though they properly have two separate Sandy business licenses (i.e. one business entity with two DBAs).  As these businesses are considered to be the same business by the federal government, we can only issue one award.  (The business owner fully understands and tells me that any award money received will be going 100% to keep her employees on the payroll)
    • Two had past due transit tax payments.
  • Special thanks to the review committee (Councilors Lee, Exner and Pietzold, Ms. Jones and Mr. McKnight of the City of Sandy Economic Development Committee) and our Finance Director for their work on this program and to the Sandy City Council for making these funds directly available to our local business community. 
• Staff is currently soliciting bids for the replacement of the plumbing system at City Hall.   Project will install new copper pipe for all potable water in the building and a new, energy efficient water heater.  Bids are due December 11.
• Staff is also soliciting responses to an RFQ posted in early November for a consulting firm to prepare the south building of the old Cedar Ridge Middle School for demolition.  Selected bidder will manage the process of disconnecting and/or rerouting of existing utility service lines and generally preparing the grounds for building demolition.
• New lighting for the front of the Community Center is now complete and properly highlighting our recently restored mural.  Courtesy of Bull Run Electric.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  This project is now mostly complete – the three largest components (siding, stonework, paint) have been completed and the two smaller remaining components (lighting, garbage enclosure refresh) are waiting on contractor availability. 
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  This project seems to be about halfway done.  Windows are installed, and contractor is in the midst of replacing the worn siding.  Structural repairs at building entrance seem to be mostly complete.
• 2020 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: The Economic Development department would like to congratulate the staff of the Sandy Public Library for pulling off a great ceremony under the most difficult of circumstances. Looking forward to watching this event grow under Library management in the coming years.
• Building update – Masonic Building:  The Masons are giving their building an external refresh.  New siding, trim and paint and general maintenance items.  They were offered a Façade grant and considered the offer but ultimately decided to proceed on their own.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AntFarm downtown maintenance crew:  Maintenance work in the C-1 district seems to be in the best condition it has been in some time.  Many thanks to Nunpa and the AntFarm crew for their assistance in 2020, including weeding our planter strips, keeping our flower baskets maintained (during the fires, no less!) and removing downed trees in Sandy’s parks.  Looking forward to working with the crew again in the spring.  And as always, if you notice any of our streetscape areas looking shoddy downtown, please send an email to Economic Development and inform us so we can get it taken care of.  A clean, well maintained downtown helps to encourage and promote new development!
• Holiday street tree lighting:  Installed and operating.  Two circuits outside of Mt. Hood Cleaners were discovered to be inoperable and were quickly repaired by the Parks Department.  Hat tip to Mr. Preston.
  
  

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The December meeting of the Economic Development reason was cancelled to give the membership time to celebrate the holidays (and a welcome break from yet another Zoom meeting, which all of our membership seems to have a few too many of right now).  The committee will reconvene in January 2021.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

There were no significant trainings or conferences attended by Economic Development staff in November.

Planning Department items:

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff held a PC work session regarding HB 2001 on October 26 and the PC hearing is scheduled for the January PC meeting.

Hood Street Daycare (20-039 DCA/ADJ):  Completeness check has been completed.  This request to construct a new day care facility at 38422 Hood Street is currently under review.

Tree removal at 38432 Maple Street (20-036 TREE):  This tree removal request at 38432 Maple Street and request to install a retaining wall and grade near retention trees has now been deemed complete and final order has been issued.

Sandy Woods II (20-034 ZC):  This zoning map update with FSH overlay for Sandy Woods II has been withdrawn by the applicant.

Rogue Fabrication zone change (20-041 ZC):  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way has been deemed incomplete.  Staff sent an incompleteness letter to applicant and are awaiting a few additional materials.

Vista Loop Lot Line Adjustment (20-031):  Staff received the requested updated plat map from the applicant.  Final order has been issued.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  Development Svcs intern Christina Winberry completed the analytic work for this project prior to departing the City.  Shelley Denison is reviewing her work and performing some final editing before bringing this to City Council.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff is now revisiting this project and re-evaluating what is left to complete as the overall workload in Planning seems to be diminishing.

Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB):  This project was recommended for approval by the Planning Commission at their October 26th meeting, and will be heard at the City Council meeting on November 30th.

18350 Ross Ave Accessory Structure Setback Adjustment (20-044 ADJ):  This project is currently under review.

Tree removal request at Alpine Village Apartments (20-045 TREE):  Final order for this tree removal request was issued on October 30^th.

OAOR Annexation (20-025):  Staff asked for a continuance for this project at the last Planning Commission meeting due to a couple of fairly serious code violations with Clackamas County.  Staff met with the applicant in mid-October – it was determined that the applicant needs to correct these code County violations prior to moving forward.  This project will be brought back before the PC once the outstanding issues have been corrected.  Staff anticipates that this will probably be in the 2^nd half of 2021.

The Views Planned Development (20-028):  This project will be heard by the Planning Commission at their November 23^rd meeting. 

Sandy High School Field House (20-040 DR/VAR): This proposal to construct new indoor batting cages at 36525 Industrial Way was deemed complete on November 12.  The proposal will include variations that necessitate a Planning Commission hearing.

16320 Bluff Road (20-037 DR):  The final order for this request to construct a new single family residence on Bluff Rd was issued on October 23^rd.

Building Department items:

FALL 2020 Building Department Report

The SPRING and SUMMER OF 2020 passed too quickly.   Despite the pandemic and uncertainties of politics and the unstable financial markets, residential construction and the building industry is still going strong.   The monthly reports produced by Noryne Robinson of Sandy’s permit activity are evidence.  

Drivers passing the new Space Age Fuel station see that Sandy is definitely growing.  The month of October saw more underground utility work and more foundations.  The contractors recently passed the rough framing, mechanical, plumbing and electrical inspections in the main building, installed weather protection, and have insulated the interior.  Enormous footings for the steel canopy over the fueling area were poured in September, but the underground fuel piping has been delayed due to backordered components.  

Anyone driving through our new residential developments on the north and south sides of Sandy can see that new home construction remains steady.   Sandy issued 11 permits for new single family homes in October alone.  Residential home sales have continued to expand as more people continue to leave the Portland area, and the mortgage rates continue to drop.  Home prices have continued to climb with the housing demand.  This has spurred more home remodeling and flipping of homes.  Consequently, this increase in home values has spawned numerous unpermitted remodeling projects by homeowners and unlicensed contractors.  Code enforcement is stretched and unable to prevent the current boom of illegal remodeling.  Neither are we able to prevent the growing number of secretive home conversions from single family homes into multi-dwelling residences and boarding houses.  The uniformed owners and occupants are not aware that permits and inspections help ensure minimum fire/life/safety measures, and ultimately save property and lives.  

The problem is growing, and much too large to adequately cover in this report, so it will have to wait until the next Building Department Report.

Respectfully submitted by
Terrence Gift, Building Official

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to thank all our City Council candidates for running a competitive campaign that really highlighted our shared interest in making Sandy the best place possible.  I want to congratulate Don, Kathleen, and Rich on their elections.  Furthermore, I want to thank Councilor Lee for being such a compassionate and amazing City Councilor.  Her commitment to Sandy on issues such as sustainability, affordable housing, childcare, social equality, and public health are very much appreciated. I wish Councilor Lee all the best! 

Internal projects: 

• Minor changes to Community Center:
  • Lighting: Complete
  • Garbage enclosures:  Complete
  • West entrance awning:  Design and construction are complete.  We have been waiting for the design work for the porte cochere to be completed prior to installation – we would prefer to match the stain color and type to that being proposed for the porte cochere for consistency.  Since the design work is taking a bit longer than anticipated, we are going to choose the stain color for the architect shortly so we can proceed with installation of this awning. 
  • West entrance – new metal door:  Reviewing potential replacement doors now.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Façade project – Mtn Moka Building:  Brad Picking has applied for a Façade program grant for a refresh of this building.  Scope of work for the project includes stone wrapping and a new look  for the overhand support posts at the suite entrances, new exterior lighting for the mural to be painted on the back side of the building, new Hardi siding for the physical therapy office, a refresh of the garbage enclosure area and a new 3-tone paint job for the entire building.  At the time of this writing, the siding, painting and stone work had already been completed.
• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  The little church on Pioneer Boulevard is getting a new look!  Building owner Alan Fleischman reached out to the Ec Dev Office in the spring and inquired about assistance.  He told us he was going to replace the siding and most of the windows in the building before giving it a new paint job, and we jumped at the chance to help out.  Some of the siding at the ground level of the building will change style, but the majority of it including the steeple will be replaced with the exact same style.  Buildings in that particular section of downtown have a specific historical exemption to Sandy Style rules that allows them to remain white, and Mr. Fleischman chose to take advantage of this exemption.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AntFarm downtown maintenance crew:  All October maintenance work is now completed.  [The two pics below are of the landscaping strip next to DQ on Proctor and the landscape strip across from Two Bros at the coin-op car wash – both strips were overrun with weeds and had become eyesores – you can see the “before” look on the first picture at the bottom where the property line is.]
  

Holiday street tree lighting:  Installation will be completed by November 16.  We accepted a slight (3%) increase in cost to cover their increased labor costs for this work.  Installation to occur literally any day now.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The November meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held virtually on November  4^th.  It began with a quick presentation in the Updates section highlighting the current work on two Façade Improvement projects going on downtown – the refresh projects going on at the Mountain Moka Building and the Old Church.  

Our invited guest took up the bulk of the meeting.  Andie Edmonds of NAI Cascade gave our committee a close up look at the Skipper property at the 362^nd/Bell St. extension and talked to us about general development concepts and how NAI Cascade and the property owner are viewing the development prospects of their property.   She concluded the meeting by asking our group to consider what the City and it’s residents would like to see built there (if anything specific) and how the City might direct that development by considering targeted incentives toward specific development concepts.  Although retail (including big box stores) would have the most interest in this space, she also let us know that the property owners are civic-minded folks and are open to suggestions.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

In October I attended the 2020 OEDA (the Oregon Economic Development Association) Conference from October 26-28 and Travel Oregon’s Outdoor Recreation Summit during the first half of October (Zoom meeting series).  Both events were virtual and focused most of their programming on economic recovery and ongoing management of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

For a city of 12,000 citizens, Sandy has really hit the mark here with the following actions:

• Sandy’s Emergency Small Business Assistance program providing badly needed financial relief to local business – for a city our size, this was quite an accomplishment.  Staff is looking forward to continuing this effort on behalf of Council with Round 2 of the ESBA coming in December.
• Streamlining our rules regarding allowing outdoor seating in off-street parking spaces and erecting temporary accessory structures for outdoor seating, making it easier for restaurants to accommodate the outdoor dining needed during this pandemic.

Eliminating off-street parking requirements in the C-1 district, eliminating a barrier to development in our downtown commercial district.

Planning items:

Above is the updated platted and tentative platted lots list through September 30, 2020. We issued 9 single family homes between July and September.  The six remaining lots in Sandy Woods have all been reviewed and will likely be issued in October.  The seven remaining lots in Mt. View Ridge are in various stages of review and will likely all be issued before the end of the year.  The 15 remaining lots in Marshall Ridge were recently purchased by Lennar who also bought the 100 lots in Shaylee Meadows.

Speaking of Shaylee Meadows, Gunderson Road is being installed and the land is currently being graded.  I would expect that land to be ready for house permits in spring of 2021. We also recently heard of revived interest in the nine lots at Jewelberry Ridge and the six lots at Mairin’s Viewpoint.  At this point, staff is unsure of the status for moving forward with the 52 tentative platted lots at Jacoby Heights and Jewelberry Meadows.

You will receive the next update in January 2021.

DCA Code Updates to Chapters 17.100, 17.84 and 17.10 (20-023 DCA):   These proposed code changes, primarily in relation to ADT standards, were approved at City Council’s September 21^st meeting and went into effect on September 21^st. 

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: Planning staff will be holding a work session regarding HB 2001 at the PC meeting on October 26^th.

Hood Street Daycare (20-039 DCA/ADJ): This request to construct a new building for a daycare facility at 38422 Hood Street has gone through the pre-app process.  Completeness check is pending.

Sandy Crest Planned Development (20-033): This application was withdrawn completely on September 18^th.  We may see a new application for a planned development at this location in the future.

16230 Bluff Road tree removal (20-035 TREE):  Tree removal request at 16320 Bluff Rd – this tree removal request is associated with demolishing and rebuilding a single-family house.  Final order was issued on September 11^th.

Tree removal at 38432 Maple Street (20-036 TREE):  This tree removal request at 38432 Maple Street and request to install a retaining wall and grade near retention trees has been deemed incomplete.

Sandy Woods II (20-034 ZC):  This zoning map update with FSH overlay for Sandy Woods II has been deemed incomplete.

Rogue Fabrication zone change:  This request to change zoning designation from I-1 to I-2 for Rogue Fabrication’s new facility at the corner of Champion Way and Industrial Way is in process.

Upcoming pre-apps:  Pre-apps are scheduled for the following future projects

• An accessory structure on Kelso Road
• Two proposed residential dwellings on Jacoby Road
  

Vista Loop Lot Line Adjustment (20-031):  Staff is waiting on an updated plat map from the applicant.  Once that is complete, the final order will be issued.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  This project remains on the back burner for a bit as staff works on Bull Run Terrace and The Views.  We will revisit this project when those larger projects are complete.

Design Review:

• Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB): Staff has now received updated application materials from the applicant and are working on producing an updated staff report.  This project will be heard by Planning Commission at their October 26^th meeting.  Shelley Denison will be creating an updated video summary of this project shortly.
• OAOR Annexation (20-025):  Staff asked for a continuance for this project at the last Planning Commission meeting due to a fairly serious code violation with Clackamas County.  Staff will be meeting with the applicant in mid-October to correct this issue.  This project will be brought back before the PC once that is complete at a date to be determined.
• The Views Planned Development (20-028):  Planning Commission review of this project has been rescheduled to the November 23^rd PC meeting.  Staff report in progress.
• 16320 Bluff Road (20-037 DR):  This request to construct a new single family residence on Bluff Rd is currently under review by staff.

Internal projects: 

• Minor changes to Community Center: The City of Sandy Urban Renewal Agency is looking to upgrade a couple of items at the Community Center
  • Lighting: Fixtures on order, work to be completed by next report.
  • Garbage enclosures:  Complete
  • West entrance awning:  Design for awning has been received and approved.  Contractor is currently building the awning in his shop.  Should be installed by next report.
  • West entrance – new metal door:  The Community Services Director asked me if Urban Renewal could replace the metal door and frame at the west entrance – it has never worked properly and is beginning to become an issue.  I have accepted a quote from the same company that is designing and building the permanent awning, and am awaiting their suggested replacement door.  New door will be as close to identical to the old door as possible – metal door with window and interior crash bar.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Rogue Fabrication – EZ project:  This Sandy business mentioned in last month’s report is slowly moving forward with a development project at the recently purchased Eastwinds site.  As this company is a light manufacturing company that produces tools and machinery for pipe bending, they qualify for 3 years of partial property tax abatement through the Enterprise Zone program offered by the State of Oregon and Clackamas County.  I have been working with the business owner and Cindy Moore from ClackCo Business and Economic Development to explain the program, and an application was sent to him on October 12.  This is the first Enterprise Zone project in the City of Sandy that I am aware of.
• Commercial vacancies:  I did not notice any new business closures in September.  We have lost about 10 businesses in the age of COVID-19 thus far; about half of them have been confirmed COVID casualties.  On the positive side, we have seen a few new businesses move into some of the vacant spaces – two commercial landlords have told me that all recent business vacancies in their buildings have already been filled.  A 2020 round of “musical businesses” (businesses moving within town to a) take advantage of better rental rates or b) upgrade their space) is now starting, with Impact Jiu-Jitsu moving into the space formerly occupied by Wolfpack Theater.  I anticipate several more moves like this between now and the end of the year.
• Expedited process for temporary outdoor seating covers:  Development Services has instituted a new streamlined process for temporary covers for outdoor seating areas in Sandy restaurants.  A simple, one page application with a quick staff-level review and a inspection by the fire marshal is all that is required for non-permanent structures to be erected for this purpose.  This new process has no fees and will be in place until later stage COVID restrictions governing indoor occupancy levels are lifted.  Letters and email notices were sent to all Sandy businesses (also applies to gyms) in the first week of October announcing the new procedure.  We have already had three Sandy businesses complete the  process entirely (Boring Brewing, Le Happy, Smoky Hearth).  Feedback from member Bill Schwartz (owner, Boring Brewing) at the October Ec Dev Committee meeting was extremely positive – easy to apply, City staff was responsive, and no fee required was very much appreciated. 

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AntFarm downtown maintenance crew: New work requested from the maintenance crew for the month of October includes:
  • Clean up SE corner of Meinig and Proctor (weeds) — COMPLETED
  • Weed the planter strip on Proctor adjacent to DQ
  • Major weeding of planter strip on SE corner of Pioneer and Bruns at car wash (remove blackberries, weed and trim back plants in strip)
  • Clean up small corner planter strip on south side of Proctor at Bruns (remove grass, put down weed matting and barkdust)
• Flower baskets:  The flower baskets were removed during the last week of September.  Our watering contractor took good notes relating to what worked and what didn’t in the baskets this year and will forward to our basket provider for next year.  Considering the wind and wildfire damage sustained, the baskets performed admirably.
• Holiday street tree lighting:  Coming soon – will be installed by the end of October.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The October meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held virtually on October 7^th.  It began with a presentation in the Updates section highlighting the new expedited process for installing outdoor seating cover structures at local restaurants, a review of current commercial construction projects in Sandy and updated local business closures.   Member discussion started with member COVID and wildfire updates (most were ok, Wippersnappers is really hurting), and then proceeded into a continuation of our current discussion about urban renewal spending priorities.  One point that members seemed to agree on is that we should be considering some sort of media marketing campaign to extoll the virtues of the City of Sandy. 

We concluded the meeting by giving our members a target area (space to be created by 362^nd extension) for future commercial development – we asked members to consider what specific kind of development might be prosperous there, and what kinds of new incentives the City should be considering to help drive this development  The discussion will continue on November 4th.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

No conferences or training in September due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but I will be attending the 2020 OEDA (the Oregon Economic Development Association) Conference on October 26-28 (full days) as well as Travel Oregon’s Outdoor Recreation Summit during the first half of October (Zoom meeting series).  Both events are virtual.

Planning items:

Safe Routes to School Program:  Following the February 2020 Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Action Plan, the Development Services Department applied for a SRTS grant in August for infrastructure improvements at Sandy Grade School and Cedar Ridge Middle School.  The total request is for $718,768, of which the grant would cover 60 percent ($431, 261) of the costs.  The grant request would improve safety and equity concerns by eliminating or reducing barriers to walking and biking to school.  The grant request was supported by the OTSD, State Representative Anna Williams, AntFarm Youth Services, Sandy Transit, and the Sandy Library.

DCA Code Updates to Chapters 17.100, 17.84 and 17.10 (20-023 DCA): These code updates relating to ADT standards were approved at their second hearing at the PC meeting on August 24^th.  City Council will vote on this at their September 21^st meeting.

DCA Code Changes – House Bill 2001: Planning Commission and planning staff will hold a work session regarding these changes on October 26^th.

Sandy Crest Planned Development (20-033): This application was deemed incomplete; applicant is now withdrawing application for this planned development and will be re-submitting a regular subdivision application at a future date.

16230 Bluff Road tree removal (20-035 TREE):  Request for a tree removal is associated with the demolition and rebuilding of this single-family house on Bluff Road.

Upcoming pre-apps:  Pre-apps are scheduled for the following future projects

• Bornstedt Village addition at 38330 Highway 211
• Rogue Fabrication: zone change (I-1 to I-2) at Champion Way lot
  

Vista Loop Lot Line Adjustment (20-031):  We are still working with the property owner to define some modifications to meet the SMC.  Staff is in support of this application.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff remains working on getting data organized and collecting feedback from the development team.  This project has been put on the back burner for a bit as staff processes some large development projects.

Design Review:

• Sandy Plaza Apartments (20-017 DR):  Final order for this 18 unit apartment complex project was issued on August 6^th.
• Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB): Staff has completed their review of submitted application materials from the applicant and finished the staff report.  This project was granted a continuance at the August 24^th Planning Commission meeting until the October PC meeting.
• OAOR Annexation (20-025):  Staff review of this proposed annexation continues – draft of staff report is in progress.  Planning Commission will hear this at their September 28^th meeting.
• The Views Planned Development (20-028):  Staff report for this large planned development is almost complete.  Planning Commission will hear this at their September 28^th meeting.

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to say congratulations to our Long Range Planning Intern, Christina Winberry, for accepting an employment offer with 3J Consulting in Beaverton. Christina is starting employment on the 21st of September with the title of Land Use Planner. Christina recently earned her Master of Urban and Regional Planning from Portland State University in June 2020. While with the City of Sandy we have enjoyed Christina’s commitment to assisting with long range planning efforts, including but not limited to the Downtown Walkability Assessment and the Safe Routes to School program. Christina, we wish you the best in all your future endeavors!

Building Department items:

Nothing newsworthy to report from the Building Department in August.

Internal projects: 

• Minor changes to Community Center: The City of Sandy Urban Renewal Agency is looking to upgrade a couple of items at the Community Center
  • Lighting: We are still waiting on a quote from Bull Run Electric to replace the light fixtures at the Community Center. Considering current events, this may take a while to complete. Stand by.
  • Garbage enclosures:  Sandy Fence will be creating this enclosure for us as soon as their schedule permits.
  • West entrance awning:  Currently waiting on design to review from Mountain View Construction.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Joe’s Donuts:  Upon permit review of the loading dock, there were a couple of items that needed to be remediated prior to approval.  There was no ADA landing pad installed for the exterior access stairs, and the handrails were 6” lower than required.  Our contractor has now corrected the hand rail problem by welding a 6” extension to the top of the handrails (see pic below).  We have another local concrete contractor lined up to install the landing pad, but he lives in Colton and is currently evacuated from his home/business.  We will revisit this issue after the fires subside.
  

• Commercial vacancies:  There have been few if any COVID related business closures in Sandy since we last reported.  I am not aware of any additional businesses that have closed their doors in August.
• Potential new light manufacturing business:  Development Services just completed a pre-app with a local business called Rogue Fabrication that has purchased the Eastwinds lot (SE corner of Champion and Industrial).  Business owner Jason Gambino intends to start building a new HQ at this site as the business has now outgrown the pole barn on his residential property.  This project is intended to be a three phase construction project, with three buildings being built over the next few years.  Ec Dev is scheduling a meeting with the business owner in the next few weeks to discuss applying for an Enterprise Zone incentive through ClackCo Business & Economic Development.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AntFarm downtown maintenance crew: Neal Hatley’s downtown maintenance crew has been temporarily sidelined.  Mr. Hatley’s father had a life-threatening health event several weeks ago, and Neal had to return to North Carolina to care for him.  He will not be returning to Oregon any time soon.  This one really hurts – Mr. Hatley has a gift for working with kids, and he will be sorely missed.  True to form, Nunpa already has another excellent Outdoor Programs Coordinator lined up – this man is a personal friend of Nunpa’s and has been a construction contracting work in his past, so we are hoping for a smooth fit once he gets settled in.
• Flower baskets:  The high winds we experienced in Sandy in early September dehydrated the downtown flower baskets pretty severely.  AntFarm was able to get them hydrated again right as the smoke settled in, so while some of them look pretty ratty, they are in much better shape than they would have been otherwise.  Baskets will be removed at the end of September.  Bonus info: Nunpa (and your Ec Dev Manager) made sure to get out and water the baskets during the thick of the fires; both felt it important to do what we could to maintain some color downtown during these difficult times to lift citizen spirits.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The September meeting of the Economic Development Committee was cancelled due to the beginning of the school year and the associated chaos surrounding this event due to COVID.   The following memo was circulated to members instead – the purpose of this memo was to give members some information about current development projects going on around the City, and to refresh the discussions we had in June and August about the prioritization of urban renewal spending in Sandy.  We will begin our discussion there in October.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

No conferences or training in August due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but I am starting to see activity again in this space.  I will be attending the 2020 OEDA (the Oregon Economic Development Association) Conference on October 26-28 (full days) as well as Travel Oregon’s Outdoor Recreation Summit from Sept 28 to Oct 17 (Zoom meeting series).  Both events are virtual, which should be the norm for the foreseeable future.

Planning items:

Clackamas County Health Clinic (20-014 DR/VAR/DEV/ADJ): Final order for this project was issued on July 14^th.

19030 Dublin ADU (20-030 ADU):  Final order for the construction of this attached accessory dwelling unit was issued on July 28^th.

DCA Code Updates to Chapters 17.100, 17.84 and 17.10 (20-023 DCA): These code updates relating to ADT standards will have their second hearing at the PC meeting on August 24^th.

DCA Code Changes – House Bill 2001: Staff has received this information.  Processing to begin shortly.

Sandy Crest Planned Development: Staff has received information with regard to this planned development on Jacoby Road.  Processing to begin shortly.

Salmonberry tree removal (20-026 TREE): Final order for this project was issued on July 17^th.

Upcoming pre-apps:  Pre-apps are scheduled for the following future projects

• CFCU ATM machine
• New daycare facility on Hood Street (Rick Minor)
• New Barlow Trail Vet Clinic building (this is for the Connelly properties next door to the Action Center)

Chapter 17.78 Annexation Code Amendments (20-010 DCA):  These code amendments went into effect on August 5^th.

DCA 5G Small Cell code adoption (20-012 DCA): Resolutions 2020-20, Resolution 2020-21 and Ordinance 2020-22 were approved at the City Council meeting on August 3^rd.

Vista Loop Lot Line Adjustment (20-031): This project for a property owner prepping lots for development is close to completion.  Final order is complete and being reviewed by the Development Services Director.  

Sandy Community Campus Replat (18-045 MP): Staff is still working on completing the final order for this project.

Pleasant Street Master Plan (18-022 CPA):  Staff is currently working on getting data organized and collecting feedback from the development team.  There are currently two staff members working on this project.

Design Review:

• Sandy Plaza Apartments (20-017 DR):  Review for this project for an 18 unit apartment complex on Meeker Street is complete.  Final order will be issued shortly.
• Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB): Staff has completed their review of submitted application materials from the applicant and finished the staff report. This project will go before the Planning Commission at their meeting on August 24th.
• Chinook tree removal (20-027 TREE): Final order for this project was issued on August 4^th.
• Eagle Park Improvements extension (20-029 EXT): Review is complete.  The request for an extension to complete the improvements at the Eagle Park project until July 29^th, 2025 was approved.
• OAOR Annexation (20-025):  Staff is currently reviewing this proposed annexation — scheduled to go before PC on September 28; if all goes well, City Council will see it at the November 2nd Council meeting.
• The View PD (20-028):  Staff has completed the review of this planned development (!) and has deemed the application complete.   Staff report pending.

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to thank Shelley Denison for working diligently on the 5G small cell code changes. She has quickly become the resident expert on small cell code and did a fantastic job presenting a complicated subject matter to the Planning Commission and the City Council. The adoption of these code changes, which become effective on September 2, will help protect the look and feel of Sandy’s neighborhoods. Thanks to Shelley for jumping in with both feet and accomplishing a long-standing department goal.

Building Department items:

Nothing newsworthy to report from the Building Department in July.

Internal projects: 

• Minor changes to Community Center: The City of Sandy Urban Renewal Agency is looking to upgrade a couple of items at the Community Center
  • Lighting: We are waiting on a quote from Bull Run Electric to replace the light fixtures outside of the west entrance to the cafeteria with a dark skies-compliant fixture and to replace the two fixtures on the front of the building with directional gooseneck fixtures to properly light the mural instead of the front landscaping.
  • Garbage enclosures:  SURA is looking to create a proper garbage and recycling enclosure on the site similar to the one constructed at City Hall.  We have not yet found an available contractor to perform this work due to the general shortage of available contractors due to COVID.
  • West entrance awning: The Community Services Director has requested assistance in replacing the fabric awning over this entrance with something more “Sandy Style” and permanent.  Currently speaking to Todd Speck at Mtn View Contracting about design and construction.
• More right-of-way work on Highway 26: Recently the City’s Code Enforcement officer issued orders to replace a badly damaged driveway approach and 50’ section of sidewalk at 37860 Hwy 26, a property across the highway from Les Schwab after an anonymous complaint.  This property is owned by Mt. Hood Cleaners.  Ec Dev has been working with Mr. Paluck per his request for assistance and with ODOT to get permits and paperwork completed properly – this process is almost complete.  Work should begin soon.

Economic Development items:

Econ Devl – Commercial Properties (vacancies, new businesses, etc.):

• Clackamas County Health, Housing and Human Services:  The old Oregon’s Wild Harvest HQ building across the parking lot from the Police Department has been demolished and removed.  The County will be re-designing the space and constructing a new clinic/office building here – construction likely to be completed sometime in early 2021.
  
• Commercial vacancies:  We are now starting to see a couple of COVID-related business closures here in town.
  • Lil’ Cubs Academy:  The owner contacted in early August to let me know that she was closing this business permanently.  After being closed for five months, she determined that there would be no way for her to make up the five months of rent she has been unable to pay.  The building owner is very sad to see her go.  This one really hurts, as it lowers the number of brick and mortar child care businesses in Sandy from 4 to 3.
  • Lori Ryland Art Gallery & Studio: This business closure also appears to be at least partially COVID-related.  Ms. Ryland lives in Portland and used this space to teach classes but has not been able to open since the shutdown began with no end in sight.  Hopefully she will return when the pandemic is over.
  • There have been 2 or 3 other closures of small businesses around town, but although I assume they are COVID-related, I haven’t talked to the owners yet to confirm this.  These are all single employee businesses.
  • There is a finance-related business in town (that wishes to remain nameless) that may be going virtual between now and the end of the year.  While this is definitely COVID-related, it is not a business closure.  This firm intends to keep operating at full capacity with staff working remotely from their homes even after the pandemic is over.
  • On a slightly more positive note, the space vacated by Jackson Hewitt next to Ria’s Bar on Proctor has a new tenant, according to the property owner – an unnamed medical services provider will occupy this space over the next several months.
• AEC:  The entire first floor of the AEC building is now available for lease.  The Braches are being very, very flexible with their space, allowing potential tenants to lease however much space they desire.  Listing on the Available Commercial Properties database is active.
• Bull Run Electric Building:  This yet-to-be-constructed light industrial building on Industrial Way is already considering tenants in their two new 4,000 SF tenant spaces, available in March 2021.  Listing is up on the Available Commercial Properties database.  No word yet from owner Kyle Ruthardt if there has been any interest expressed yet.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AntFarm downtown maintenance crew: Neal Hatley’s crew continues to work steadily to complete numerous small projects for us in the public rights-of-way.
  • Street tree trimming: Downtown crew trimmed 19 Trees in July (On July 7th and 9th) along the north side of Proctor, in front of the police station on down.  They also removed all suckers, trash, and debris from the tree boxes along the north side of Pioneer and along both sides of Proctor on July 17th. 
  • Sandy Public Library:  Grass, weeds and dead moss removed from around the two main planters and pedestrian walkways in front of the Library.
  • Homeless encampments:  Two small homeless encampments were cleaned up by the crew in early August – one behind Sandy Cinema and one off of Junker.
  • Firewood reclamation:  The AntFarm crew continues to pick up downed trees from our parks at no cost to the City, this one most recently from Meinig Park.  The Parks Department now cuts the trees into rounds for easy removal, and AntFarm picks up the rounds and transfers to their firewood lot for splitting and donation to those in need.  This system has been working very well — hat tip to Joe Preston and crew for making this possible.

• Jonsrud II:  The second stage of the refresh of Jonsrud Viewpoint is now complete!  The refurbished original telescope and the new color-blind abled telescope have been installed at the site (with appropriate COVID signage).  Tagging on the Clackamas County Heritage Trail signage has been removed by the Parks Department (way to go, Joe!).   The sticker collection (15 of ‘em) that had gathered over the years on the stop sign is also gone now.  It’s looking pretty nice over there now.  Kudos all around.
• Flower baskets:  A few baskets have been replaced due to damage or moved to better locations, but otherwise nothing to see here.  Baskets look healthy and are being watered regularly.  All is well.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

We held a virtual Ec Dev Committee meeting at our regularly scheduled date (first Wed of the month) on August 5^th  Unfortunately, only one business member was able to attend (many members were out of town for the weekend), but the discussion centered on urban renewal priorities and how the private sector sees them.   Kudos to Ernie Brache of AEC for representing the business community at this meeting and providing our elected official and staff-based committee members some excellent feedback on how the business sector views urban renewal and how we should consider using this dedicated funding in the future.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there will be no conferences or training opportunities for the foreseeable future.