3^rd Quarter Report 2021 – available lots in subdivisions

Attached is an updated platted and tentative platted lots list through September 30, 2021. We issued 15 single family homes between July and September. Jewelberry Meadows (20 lots) and Jewelberry Ridge (9 lots) are both installing utilities and street improvements. With the approval of Cedar Creek Heights (89 lots) and Ten Eyck Rim (9 lots) we will see additional subdivision construction for those two subdivisions in the near future.  

Planning staff is currently reviewing the subdivisions known as Deer Meadows (formerly Bull Run Terrace), Sandy Woods Phase II, and The Bornstedt Views. You will receive the next update in January 2022.

Planning Department items:

The Pad Townhomes (21-046 DR):  This application for a 10-unit townhouse development on Meinig Avenue has now been deemed complete.  This Type III application will be heard at the November 22^nd PC meeting.

Bornstedt Views Subdivision (21-021 SUB/TREE):  Staff review is complete for the application for this 42 lot subdivision between Bornstedt Rd and Averill Parkway south of Cascadia Village.  The Planning Commission has scheduled this project to be heard at their regular meeting on October 25^th.

39480 Kimberly tree removal (21-054 TREE):  This request to remove trees at a residence on Kimberly Street has been deemed incomplete.  Staff is currently waiting on additional materials from applicant.Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  This project has been approved with conditions.  Final order was issued on September 22^nd.Deer Meadows Subdivision (21-014 SUB/TREE):  On September 27, 2021 the PC held a public hearing on the Deer Meadows Subdivision application, and decided to create an open record period prior to deliberating on the subdivision request at a special meeting scheduled for November 8^th.  The first open record period will close on Monday, October 11 at 4 pm. During this period, anyone can submit additional written information for the PC to consider. The second open record period will close on Monday, October 18^th at 4 pm.  During the second open record period, parties may only submit information that rebuts or responds to information that was submitted during the first open record period. The third open record period will close on Monday, October 25 at 4 pm. This period is reserved solely for the applicant to submit their final written argument.

Sandy Woods Phase 2 (21-037 SUB/VAR/TREE):  This application for a 43 lot subdivision south of Kelso Road is currently under review.  This project will be reviewed by the Planning Commission in November.

Rogue Fabrication design review (21-039 DR):  This project is currently on hold at the applicant’s request (not yet ready to proceed).

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff is still negotiating the budget and scope of work with 3J and anticipating a kickoff meeting in October, after which work will begin on an existing conditions assessment.  This will be the jumping off point for determining the direction of the comp plan.  Staff will also be working with 3J to finalize our public engagement strategy to ensure ongoing engagement throughout the life of the project.  The consultant team will introduce themselves at the October 4th Planning Commission meeting.

OTSD tree removal (21-042 TREE):  This request by the Oregon Trail School District to remove trees at Cedar Ridge Middle School has been deemed incomplete.

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to thank Shelley Denison for her hard work on applying for two grants related to the Comprehensive Plan.  The two grants are the Transportation Growth Management (TGM) grant, which is authorized by ODOT and DLCD, and the DLCD Technical Assistance grant.  The most recent TGM grant was awarded to the City of Sandy for the Transportation System Plan (TSP) work that is currently underway.  The most recent DLCD Technical Assistance grant was awarded to Sandy in the 1990s.  Shelley asked for $50,000 in grant funding for each grant. We have been advised by DLCD that there is not much likelihood in being awarded both grants, but we were encouraged to apply for both.  Great work Shelley!

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the June Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of the beginning of July 2021:
  
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete!
  • Le Happy – Construction is complete!
  • Sandlandia – Construction is complete!
  • Boring Brewing – Construction is complete! 
  • No Place Saloon – Construction is in process.
  • Tollgate Inn – This project is proving more difficult than we thought – one of the specifications that the applicant prefers for this structure (opaque roof) is only available through patio cover specialists, who are extremely busy right now.  We may have to re-evaluate this project and go for a more traditional design with electric lighting.

• Covered Structures Round 2:  Staff awaits the opening of the application period for the second round of this project on October 11^th.  There have been advertisements for this program placed on the City website’s news feed and the City’s official Facebook page.  A targeted letter was sent (via USPS to 12 businesses, hand delivered to 3) to qualifying business owners on October 5^th explaining the application process.
• Special Service Contract Program (SSCP):  Applications were reviewed and approved by a Council subcommittee on September 29^th.  2021-2023 will be the last biennial grant period for the SSCP grant – Council requested to change this program to an annual grant period at their meeting on September 20th.

Economic Development items:

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

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

• Tenant Improvement project – Red Shed Public House:  This project to install a commercial kitchen hood and fire suppression system is now complete.
• Les Schwab:  This project is finally underway.  Contractors are currently prepping to add the stone wrapping to the base of the building.  Stay tuned
• Façade project – Fun Time RV fencing:  Contractors are still pushing dirt on this project.  Fence construction will likely be one of the last elements of this project to be constructed, so stay tuned. 

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance: 
  • Neal Hatley is back:  AntFarm’s old Outdoor Programs Manager is back in Sandy and getting AntFarm’s outdoor work crews back on a proper schedule.  City staff is very happy about this – Mr. Hatley is quite good at what he does and has a great relationship with many City departments.
  • 4^th and final tranche of downtown maintenance projects is now complete.  This work included:  planter strip on the N side of the Shell Station (dig out, weed matting, fill with bark dust); weeding at the corner of Pioneer and Scales (old abandoned La Bamba building) and the planter strip full of weeds outside of Barlow Trail Vet Clinic (dig out down 2”, fill with red pumice to match adjacent strips)
• Flower baskets:  Baskets were removed by our contractor on 10/1.  The baskets did exceptionally well this season for a number of reasons: Our basket contractor really outdid herself this year, AntFarm has found a solid staffer to do the watering, fertilizer and petunia worm insecticide were applied properly, and it was a hot summer to boot.  [We got hit by the petunia worm late this year, which is why most of the baskets were without flowers at the end, and will adjust our insecticide application accordingly.]  The next couple of weeks will see planters refreshed with winter plantings and lights installed on the street trees downtown in preparation for the holiday season.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

There was no meeting of the EDAB in September.  The next scheduled meeting is on October 6^th, and will feature Community Attributes, Inc giving a presentation about the economic development strategic plans they conducted for the communities of McMinnville and Astoria.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

On September 17^th, Emily Meharg and I went to Astoria to take part in an OEDA-sponsored walking tour of the urban renewal district and current projects in their downtown.  The creation of a civic space honoring the long history of Asian-Americans in that community, the rehabilitation of a historic downtown theater in partnership with the non-profit owner, and a discussion about the use of urban renewal funds to help Ft. George Brewery purchase and rehab the property and buildings that they currently occupy in downtown Astoria. 

Planning Department items:

The Pad Townhomes (21-046 DR):  This application for a 10-unit townhouse development on Meinig Avenue was deemed incomplete in August.  Staff recently received updated application materials and are again evaluating for completeness.  This Type III application will be heard at the November 22^nd PC meeting.

Repeal of SMC Chapter 17.64 Planned Development (21-034 DCA):  At the City Council meeting on September 7^th, Council voted to repeal this chapter of the SMC.  This action went into effect on September 15^th.

37685 Olson St. Annexation (21-027): This Type IV application for an “island annexation” of a residential property will be on the agenda at the September 20^th City Council meeting.  It received a unanimous recommendation of approval from the Planning Commission. 

Bornstedt Views Subdivision (21-021 SUB/TREE):  The application for this 42 lot subdivision between Bornstedt Rd and Averill Parkway south of Cascadia Village was deemed complete on August 17^th and is currently under review by staff.  The Planning Commission has scheduled this project to be heard at their meeting on October 25^th.

39555 Stefenee Court (21-031 DR):  This request to build a new single family residence was approved with conditions.  Final order issued September 8^th.

39480 Kimberly tree removal (21-054 TREE):  This request to remove trees at a residence on Kimberly Street has been received and is currently undergoing a completeness check.

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  This project has now passed a completeness check and is currently under review by staff.

Deer Meadows Subdivision (21-014 SUB/TREE):  This application for a 32-lot subdivision at 40808 and 41010 Highway 26 was filed on March 31, 2021.  The applicant previously proposed a development at the site that was denied by the City Council (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB/SAP/TREE – Bull Run Terrace). This application is substantively different from that prior proposal.  The applicant is not proposing a Comprehensive Plan amendment or Zone Change. The applicant does not propose to expand Deer Pointe Park or connect Dubarko Road to Highway 26.  The Planning Commission is scheduled to hear the proposal at their meeting on September 27.

Fred Meyer EV Charger Station (21-038 DR): Staff approved another EV charger station in the Fred Meyer parking lot.  This charging station is located between the two existing charging stations and will add capacity for an additional four vehicles.

Sandy Woods Phase 2 (21-037 SUB/VAR/TREE):  This application for a 43 lot subdivision south of Kelso Road has been deemed complete on September 9^th and is currently under review.  This project will be reviewed by the Planning Commission in November.

Rogue Fabrication design review (21-039 DR):  This project is currently on hold at the applicant’s request (not yet ready to proceed).

Bull Run Electric Building:  As interior work is finished up, the building owner is preparing spaces for lease and anticipating a November 1^st completion/occupation date for the leasable spaces.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff is currently negotiating the budget and scope of work with 3J and anticipating a kickoff meeting in November, after which work will begin on an existing conditions assessment.  This will be the jumping off point for determining the direction of the comp plan.  Staff will also be working with 3J to finalize our public engagement strategy to ensure ongoing engagement throughout the life of the project.  

City of Sandy Parks Master Plan (21-035):  The Parks Master Plan will be on the agenda for the September 20^th City Council meeting with a unanimous recommendation from the Planning Commission.  Staff would like to thank our consultant (ESA), the Parks and Trails Advisory Board, and all other stakeholders involved.  

OTSD tree removal (21-042 TREE):  This request by the Oregon Trail School District to remove trees at Cedar Ridge Middle School has been deemed incomplete.

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the June Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of the beginning of July 2021:
  
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete!
  • Le Happy – Construction is complete!
  • Sandlandia – Construction is complete and currently being reviewed by our Building Official. 
  • Boring Brewing – Construction is complete. 
  • No Place Saloon – Construction to start any day now.
  • Tollgate Inn – Scheduling new contractors for bids now.
    
• Covered Structures Round 2 was approved at the last September 6^th City Council meeting, pending a new program for businesses outside of the Urban Renewal Zone.  New program will be delivered at the September 20^th City Council meeting.

Economic Development items:

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

• Tenant Improvement project – Red Shed Public House:  This TI grant project to add a hood and fire suppression system to the kitchen at this restaurant is essentially complete except for the roof screening, which is in progress.  The equipment and venting ductwork has been tentatively approved by the Building Official; we are waiting for the required equipment screening to be in place before reimbursing the applicant and closing this file.  Screening is being provided by Mtn. View Contracting and should be complete no later than 9/22.
• Old Church on Pioneer:  The final portion of the revamping of the old church on Pioneer (a new ADA entry) will be getting underway shortly.  The building owner would like to ask the Urban Renewal Board for additional grant funding to add an ADA entry for the downstairs unit of this building — this would be in addition to the $41,500 he received for a façade grant for the body of the building, and an additional $10,000 in public infrastructure grant funding he will has received for the new ADA entryway.  Staff will be presenting this request to the UR Board at their next meeting, as this request does not neatly fit into any of our existing grant programs.
• Façade project – Fun Time RV fencing:  This project finally seems to have started, although it is moving along very, very slowly.  When complete, there will be fencing running along the length of the lot on Proctor that will feature stone wrapped bases on the fence posts, which is a Sandy Style element.
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance:  The third batch of small projects has been completed by AntFarm.  This batch of small projects included: cleaning out all of the borders, mowing back the blackberries and bark dusting at the coin-op car wash; trimming back the out-of-control rose bush in the Library parking lot, and a complete dig-out and bark dust application for the planter strip on the Proctor side of Dairy Queen.  We also asked AntFarm to weed around the Farmer’s Market lot, particularly the corners of the lot where the weeds were getting particularly bad. 

This will probably be the last batch of downtown maintenance cleanup items to be completed in 2021, although if any Councilors have any specific areas of concern in the C-1 zone, the Ec Dev Mgr would be happy to address them.

• Flower baskets:  Baskets will be removed at the end of September.  NOTE: After having an end-or-season discussion with our flower basket watering contractor, I have been advised that they will need to raise their rates for this service in 2022.  This is absolutely justified – AFYS has been providing this service at below market rates since they replaced Ruthie as our contractor several years ago, and they have performed exceptionally well for the City.  Expect a rate increase in the 15-20 percent range in 2022.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

There was no meeting of the EDAB in September.  The next scheduled meeting is on October 6^th, and will feature Community Attributes, Inc giving a presentation about the economic development strategic plans they conducted for the communities of McMinnville and Astoria.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

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

Planning Department items:

The Pad Townhomes (21-046 DR):  This application for a 10-unit townhouse development on Meinig Avenue is currently being reviewed by planning staff for completeness.

Repeal of SMC Chapter 17.64 Planned Development (21-034 DCA):  At the July 26^th Planning Commission meeting, this item was recommended to be forwarded on to City Council for final approval.  City Council will review and make a decision at their regular meeting on August 16^th.

37685 Olson St. Annexation (21-027): A type IV application for an “island annexation” of this residential property has been deemed complete.  This application is scheduled to be heard at the Planning Commission meeting in August. 

38487 Maple Street (21-028 TREE):  Final order for this request to remove a retention tree in the Marshall Ridge subdivision was issued on July 15^th.

Bornstedt Views Subdivision (21-021 SUB/TREE):  The application for this 42 lot subdivision between Bornstedt Rd and Averill Parkway south of Cascadia Village was deemed incomplete in June – still waiting on additional materials from applicant.

39555 Stefenee Court (21-031 DR):  This request to build a new single family residence has now been deemed complete; completeness letter sent to applicant on July 16^th.

39221 Pleasant St (21-026 MP):  Final order for this minor replat in downtown Sandy was issued on July 13^th.

Sandy Woods Phase 2 (21-037 SUB/VAR/TREE):  This application for a 43 lot subdivision south of Kelso Road has been deemed complete and is currently under review.

Fred Meyer EV charger station (21-038 DR):  Final order for this application for additional charging stations in the Fred Meyer parking lot was issued on August 10^th.

Rogue Fabrication design review (21-039 DR):  This project is currently on hold at the applicant’s request (not yet ready to proceed).

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff is still receiving submissions for the RFQ posted earlier. (Proposal submittal deadline was 8/6; selection date is 8/18).  Staff is currently preparing scoring criteria for application review next week.  Staff is also putting the finishing touches on the public engagement strategy for this plan and working with the Youth Advisory committee chair to make sure that children and teens are included in the project.

City of Sandy Parks Master Plan (21-035):  The Parks Master Plan will go before Planning Commission this month and City Council next month for final adoption.  Staff would like to thank our consultant (ESA), the Parks and Trails Advisory Board, and all other stakeholders involved.  The Development Services Director is currently working with our attorneys to make sure our development code appropriately references the Parks plan.

Bull Run Electric Building:  Exterior shell of building complete.  Working on finishing interior spaces and anticipating a September 1^st completion/occupation date for the leasable spaces.

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  Still waiting on additional information from applicant after application was deemed incomplete by staff in April.

Kelly’s Kudos:

Prior to her retirement, I want to thank Noryne Robinson for her dedication to the City of Sandy. She has worked for the City of Sandy since May 2007 and is retiring on September 3, 2021. Over the last 14+ years she has been a reliable and hardworking member of the Development Services Department team. She will be dearly missed by everyone in City Hall, but we wish her the best in all of her post-work adventures. Thank you Noryne!

Internal projects: 

• Community Center Porte Cochere project (20-002 FAC):  The bid period for this project is now closed.  We received bids from three qualified contractors – bid results below.  Staff is now preparing to place this information before the UR Board for final approval to proceed.

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the June Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of the beginning of July 2021:
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete!
  • Le Happy – Construction is complete!
  • Sandlandia – Construction is about 80% complete.  Remaining items include completion of trench drain, install stone wrap, install gutters, install table bases.  Estimated project completion by end of August.
  • Boring Brewing – Construction is 98% complete.  Remaining items (extend downspout to ground drain; touch up stain) to be completed week of 8/9/21.  Note: This covered structures project has inspired the building owner to complete other maintenance issues with this building – McCord Construction will complete the painting of the building for Mr. Sparks via a Façade grant that another contractor abandoned, as well as replace several sections of damaged siding and the south door and trim (Boring Brewing’s front door!).  Special thanks to Donivon McCord for stepping up to the plate on this one.
  • Red Shed Public House – Construction is complete!  Waiting on contractor info for heaters before closing project.
  • No Place Saloon – Contractor selected (Neilson Construction); construction to start in 2 weeks.
  • Tollgate Inn – Scheduling new contractors for bids now.

Economic Development items:

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

• Tenant Improvement project – Red Shed Public House:  This TI grant project is to add a hood and fire suppression system to the kitchen at this restaurant.  The restaurant currently does all of its cooking on outdoor grills, but the current owner does not see this as a sustainable practice going forward.  Project was originally estimated to be complete in August, but business owner has had multiple projects going on at once which lead to delays, and there was some question about the gas line contractor being able to complete this job per the scope of work.  Applicant is contracting with the covered structure project contractor to do the parts (screening) that the gas line contractor is unable/unwilling to do.  This project should still be completed by the end of August.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance:  The second batch of small projects (multiple cleanups of landscaping strips on Proctor/Pioneer Boulevards in the couplet (Big Apple, Brady’s Brats & Burgers, small strips around the transit center), general weeding around Joe’s Donuts) has been completed by AntFarm.  The crew has also completed removing base suckers from all of the downtown street trees in the couplet at our request.  Moving on to the third batch of small projects, which will include: cleaning out all of the borders and mowing back the blackberries at the coin-op car wash; trimming back the out-of-control rose bush in the Library parking lot, and more planter strip refreshes on Proctor and Pioneer.
• Flower baskets:  Additional application of insecticide for petunia worms was applied at the end of July.  Watering crew has been amazingly consistent this year, and these might be the best looking baskets we have ever had.  All is well here.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The August meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held in person for the first time in a year on August 4^th at 6:30 PM.  The meeting was held at the SandyNet offices, as Council Chambers was actually triple-booked due to all of our boards and committees starting back up with in-person meetings. 

After a general check in with committee members, we proceeded with our typical review of development projects throughout Sandy, including a brief update on the current state of the Covered Structures program.  This was followed by a general discussion regarding Council’s request to pursue an economic development  strategic plan, and what that plan would entail.  We then engaged in a brief SWOT analysis for Sandy as an example of what is typical with the development of this kind of strategic plan – we made it through community “strengths” and “weaknesses” before the expiration of time for the evening.

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6^th at 6:30 PM.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

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

2^nd Quarter Report 2021 – available lots in subdivisions

Attached is an updated platted and tentative platted lots list through June 30, 2021.  We issued 16 single family homes between April and June.  With substantial completion occurring at Shaylee Meadows the number of house permits issued will increase this fiscal year.  We issued 8 house permits for Shaylee Meadows in June and are currently reviewing 6 additional house permits.  Lennar plans to submit 2 new house permits each week for review. 

Jewelberry Meadows (20 lots) and Jewelberry Ridge (9 lots) are both completing tree removal and grading work.  With the approval of Cedar Creek Heights (89 lots) and Ten Eyck Rim (9 lots), we will see additional subdivision construction for those two subdivisions soon.  Jacoby Heights (32 lots) has expired and therefore was removed from the report.  Planning staff is also reviewing the subdivisions known as Deer Meadows (formerly Bull Run Terrace), Sandy Woods Phase II, and The Bornstedt Views.  Deer Meadows was deemed complete and will be reviewed at the September 27, 2021 Planning Commission meeting.  Sandy Woods Phase II and The Bornstedt Views are both being reviewed for completeness.

You will receive the next update in October 2021.

Planning Department items:

Space Age fueling station (19-012 DR):   This station now has a certificate of occupancy and is fully operational.

Repeal of SMC Chapter 17.64 Planned Development (21-034 DCA):  This action has been scheduled for a July 26^th Planning Commission meeting.

Olson St. Hardship Permit (21-020): This type III application is for a permit for a hardship trailer at a residence on Olson Street.  This application is scheduled to be heard at the Planning Commission meeting on July 26^th.  Staff is currently finishing up the staff report and slides for that meeting.

37685 Olson St. Annexation (21-027): This type IV application for a property owner looking to annex his property into the city has been deemed complete.  This application is scheduled to be heard at the Planning Commission meeting in August. 

38487 Maple Street (21-028 TREE):  This request to remove a retention tree in the Marshall Ridge subdivision has been deemed complete and is currently under review.

Bornstedt Views Subdivision (21-021 SUB/TREE):  The application for this 42 lot subdivision between Bornstedt Rd and Averill Parkway south of Cascadia Village has been deemed incomplete – waiting on additional materials from applicant.

39555 Stefenee Court (21-031 DR):  This request to build a new single family residence has been deemed incomplete; currently waiting on additional information from applicant.

39221 Pleasant St (21-026 MP):  This minor replat in downtown Sandy has now been deemed complete by staff and is currently under review.

Sandy Woods Phase 2 (21-037 SUB/VAR/TREE):  This application for a 43 lot subdivision south of Kelso Road is currently being checked for completeness.

Fred Meyer EV charger station (21-038 DR):  This application for additional charging stations in the Fred Meyer parking lot is currently being checked for completeness.

Rogue Fabrication design review (21-039 DR):  Staff just received this application from the applicant recently and is currently reviewing it for completeness.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  A decision was made recently to incorporate this assessment into the Transportation System Plan.  Look for the DWA to be included in the TSP that comes before PC/Council later in the year.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff has completed the RFQ and posted it on the City’s website and a few industry publications.  Plan also sent directly to a couple of specialty firms.  Proposal deadline is August 6^th; contractor selection deadline is August 18^th.

City of Sandy Parks Master Plan Adoption:  ESA is in the process of making final edits to the plan prior to staff running this master plan through the land use application process.

Bull Run Electric Building:  Exterior shell of building mostly complete.  Working on utilities and interior spaces and anticipating an August 1^st completion/occupation date for the leasable spaces.

Ten Eyck Rim Subdivision (21-015 SUB/TREE):  The final order for this application for a 9 lot subdivision along Ten Eyck between Pleasant and Hood was issued on June 15^th.

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  Still waiting on additional information from applicant after application was deemed incomplete by staff in April.

Kelly’s Kudos:

Nothing this month.

Internal projects: 

• Community Center Porte Cochere project (20-002 FAC):  The architectural and engineering work for this project is now complete, and the bid period is officially open.  An Invitation to Bid is currently posted for this project on the City’s website – there will be an optional pre-bid conference at the construction site on July 14^th to answer any questions about the project, and the bid closing date/time is 2:00 PM on July 28^th.  We are hoping to see construction start in August and be completed by the end of 2021.

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the June Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of the beginning of July 2021:
  
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete! Structure is currently being used by applicant.
  • Le Happy – Construction is complete! Structure is currently being used by applicant. Bonus note: Le Happy will now offer live music under the covered structure every Thursday afternoon! [See completed space above] Come hang out under the disco ball!
  • Sandlandia – Bid won by Neilson Construction of Fairview.  Construction currently in progress.
  • Boring Brewing – Bid won by McCord Construction of Gresham.  Construction currently in progress – see roof being constructed at their shop below.
  • Red Shed Public House – Bid won by Mtn View Contracting Company.  Construction to start week of 7/12.
  • No Place Saloon – Out to bid.
  • Tollgate Inn – Applicant decided that he was not happy with the results from Patio Cover People and wants to go in a different direction.  Applicant forwarded additional contractor contact info he would like me to look into…

Economic Development items:

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

• Tenant Improvement project – Red Shed Public House:  This TI grant project is to add a hood and fire suppression system to the kitchen at this restaurant.  The restaurant currently does all of its cooking on outdoor grills, but the current owner does not see this as a sustainable practice going forward.  Project estimated to be complete in August.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance:  The second batch of small projects went to new Outdoor Programs Manager Max Krieger in June.  Projects included multiple cleanups of landscaping strips on Proctor and Pioneer Boulevards in the couplet (Big Apple, Brady’s Brats & Burgers, small strips around the transit center), and some general weeding around Joe’s Donuts.  We have also secured a commitment from AntFarm Youth Services to dig out all landscaping strips adjacent to their Outdoor Building and replace with weed matting and bark dust before the end of the year.
• Flower baskets:  Watering staff has stabilized – baskets/planters are being watered every evening and fertilized regularly.  First application of insecticide for petunia worms has been applied.  Baskets look fantastic.  All is well here.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The June meeting of the Economic Development Committee was held virtually on June 2^nd at 6:30 PM.  After completing a general check-in with committee members, we launched immediately into a presentation by Sandy business owner Joey Gambino regarding the zone change he recently completed for Rogue Fabrication, and how the City might look at making slight adjustments to its code to help ease the development path for light manufacturers like him.   The staff liaison then provided a presentation about economic development strategic plans: what they are, why they are important, and a couple of examples of communities that have completed one recently (Beaverton, Ashland), before finishing the meeting with a current Covered Structures program status update.

The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, August 4^th at 6:30 PM.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

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

Planning Department items:

Olson St. Hardship Permit (21-020): This type III application is for a permit for a hardship trailer at a residence on Olson Street.  This application is scheduled to be heard at the Planning Commission meeting on July 26^th.  Staff is currently working on the staff report and slides for that meeting.

37685 Olson St. Annexation (21-027): This type IV application is for a property owner looking to annex his property into the city. This application is scheduled to be heard at the Planning Commission meeting in August. 

38487 Maple Street (21-028 TREE):  This request to remove a retention tree in the Marshall Ridge subdivision is currently being checked for completion.

The Bornstedt Views Subdivision (21-021 SUB/TREE):  The application for this 42 lot subdivision between Bornstedt Rd and Averill Parkway south of Cascadia Village has been deemed incomplete – waiting on additional materials from applicant.

39555 Stefenee Court (21-031 DR):  This request to build a new single family residence is currently being checked for completion.

39221 Pleasant St (21-026 MP):  This minor replat in downtown Sandy has been deemed incomplete by staff – waiting on additional materials from applicant.

20-032 DCA code changes associated with House Bill 2001 related to duplexes and ADUs: New code becomes effective on June 16^th.

Creekside Loop duplex garage (20-018 AP):  Second 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) – Staff and PC decision upheld by Council; final order issued May 19^th.

Leslie Pole Barn 37625 SE Kelso Road (21-005 VAR): The final order for this application for a variance to an accessory structure on a residential property has now been issued by staff.

Leslie Property Line Adjustment (21-016 PLA):  The final order for this application for a simple property line adjustment has been submitted by staff.

Downtown Walkability Assessment:  This plan has been put on the back burner for now as Development Services staff focuses on the RFQ for the new comprehensive plan.

City of Sandy Comprehensive Plan Update:  Staff will have the consultant RFQ completed by June 17^th.  Staff is also currently working on developing the online public engagement web page piece of this project.

City of Sandy Parks Master Plan Adoption:  Staff will be taking this master plan to the Planning Commission meeting in August.  The consultant of record did a great job summarizing this plan at the recent Council/Commission joint work session.

38105 Jonsrud Lane (21-009 FSH):  The final order for this request for landscaping and tree removal in the FSH was issued on May 11^th.

Next Adventure Phase III Addition (21-006 DR/VAR):  The final order for this project was issued on May 11^th.

Bull Run Electric Building:  Framing of the building completed – currently working on siding, roofing and utility installation.  Anticipating an August 1^st completion/occupation date for the leasable spaces.

Cedar Creek Heights Subdivision (21-012 SUB TREE FSH): This application for an 89-lot, type II subdivision near Vista Loop Drive was originally known as “The Views Plan B”.  Staff is currently finishing up the final order and expects to have it back to the applicant prior to June 17^th.

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

Wells Fargo lighting upgrades (21-007 DR):  Still waiting on additional information from applicant after application was deemed incomplete by staff in April.

Chase Bank:  This applicant is requesting to install an ATM next to the Verizon store on Bluff Road.  The pre-app is currently being scheduled for June. 

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

Kelly’s Kudos:This month I want to highlight a growing problem in Sandy and thank Terre Gift for his patience and dedication in dealing with this matter.  It is unfortunately becoming more common to find people living in buildings that are not approved for overnight occupancy.  In the last few months, we have identified at least one instance of someone illegally living in a commercial space in downtown Sandy and several cases of people living in crawl spaces and sheds.  These areas are not constructed for sleeping, do not contain proper egress/ingress and are potential fire traps for overnight occupants.  In addition, people that choose to live in such unsafe environments are also putting other people at risk by cooking on devices outside a kitchen and using bootlegged wiring.  

Terre has been patiently working with these people to move them into safer environments and educate them on the safety concerns related to living in such environments.  Terre’s approach in this matter allows people to make decisions and choices prior to jumping straight to code enforcement.  Unfortunately, some people are choosing not to move from such unsafe environments, in which case abatement is required. 

Internal projects: 

• Permanent Outdoor Covered Structures grant program:  This program was given a status review at the June Ec Dev Committee meeting – here is the status of the program as of June 8^th, 2021:
  
  
  • Ria’s/SFR – Construction is complete! Structure is currently being used by applicant.
  • Le Happy – Currently being built by Mtn View Contracting Company.  Estimated completion date: June 15^th.

• • Sandlandia – Bid won by Neilson Construction.  Estimated completion date: sometime in August 2021.
  • Boring Brewing – Bid won by McCord Construction of Gresham.  Estimated completion date: n/a.
  • Red Shed Public House – Currently out to bid – bid due date: June 18^th, 3:00 PM.  Bidders are Neilson Construction, Full Throttle Construction and Mtn View Contracting Company.
  • No Place Saloon – Waiting on engineering; should come in literally any day now.
  • Tollgate Inn – Received a design and quote from the contractor on June
  • Beer Den – This project was cancelled by the business owner – reason unknown.

• Cedar Ridge Demo RFQ:  The Development Services Director and City Manager met with Hod Wells of PBS Environmental in May.  Next step: City Manager and PBS Environmental to present scope of work to the Council Subcommittee on the Community Campus for feedback and direction.

Economic Development items:

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

• Façade project – Old Church on Pioneer Blvd:  Standing by on this project – waiting for applicant to pay primary project contractor so I can release the remainder of the Façade grant funds to applicant.  98% of primary project complete.  Applicant has also received one bid for the entry work thus far, but it is difficult to find concrete contractors right now.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• AF Downtown Maintenance:  The first batch of small projects went to new Outdoor Programs Manager Max Krieger in May.  Projects included weeding and general cleaning of the front façade and pedestrian path of the Sandy Public Library and Try My Thai Restaurant, and the removal of a homeless encampment on the Sorenson property behind the coin-op car wash.  Projects in June will include multiple cleanups of landscaping strips on Proctor and Pioneer Boulevards in the couplet, and some general weeding around Joe’s Donuts.  We have also secured a commitment from AntFarm Youth Services to dig out all landscaping strips adjacent to their Outdoor Building and replace with weed matting and bark dust before the end of the year.
• Flower baskets:  Flower baskets and street planters were installed during the penultimate week of May by Cedarglen Floral and are being watered and fertilized again by the AntFarm Youth Services watering crew.  Pesticide for the petunia worm will be added in the first week of July as per usual.  Cedarglen did a particularly good job with the baskets this year, so kudos to our friends out on Sunshine Valley Road!

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The May meeting of the Economic Development Committee, which was scheduled to occur virtually on Wednesday, May 5^th at 6:30 pm, was cancelled by the Chair.  This was primarily because the Chair was at out of town at a conference and unavailable to host the meeting.  The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, June 2^nd at 6:30 PM.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training: There were no conferences or training opportunities for Economic Development in the month of May.

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.