A Message from the Director of Development Services:

Building Division:

I am sure everyone is wondering how development in Sandy is evolving due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent stock market collapse in the United States.  So far there has not been any noticeable difference in building permit activity; however, I believe that is mainly because a number of projects were already financed prior to the recent downturn in the economy.

Below is the March end Building Permit Activity Report that includes new dwelling (37 single family homes and townhouses issued through March), residential additions and accessory development requiring permits (9 issued through March), and commercial/industrial permits (22 issued through March).  In March alone we issued 11 permits for new single-family homes.

We also have 7 additional house permits that have been reviewed by all internal departments and will be issued in the next two weeks.  In addition, there are another 6 houses that are beginning the review process.  This means that at least 13 house permits will be ready for issuance in April and May.  Development Services staff just finished reviewing the building changes to the Eagle Park buildings (i.e. where Wippersnappers and Platt electric are located) on 362nd Drive and parking lot changes at the USFS site.  Staff is also busy with the review of the Space Age gas station at the intersection of Orient Drive and Highway 26.

Planning Division:

Land use applications are definitely in a 1st quarter slump, although we have 10 land use applications from late 2019 and early 2020 that we are working on.  Also, a few developers have recently stated they are moving forward with their land use applications, independent of the economy, as they have already paid for engineering, surveying, and architectural fees.  Several of these land use applications will be heard in April hearings including the following:

• Bailey Meadows appeal – April 6th (City Council)
• McCormick comprehensive plan map and zoning map change – April 20th (City Council)
• Trillium Machine building expansion – April 27th (Planning Commission)
• Sandy Vault building modifications – April 27th (Planning Commission)

During this anticipated downturn in the economy the Planning Division is working on draft code modifications that will be brought forth in 2020, including changes to the following:

• Parking and Access (April)
• Annexation Criteria (June)
• 5G Small Cell (summer)
• Sandy Style (summer)
• Sign Code (spring or summer)
• Urban Forestry (TBD)
• Accessory Development (TBD)

While I am anticipating a downturn in land use applications, we have plenty of long-range planning objectives, including the Pleasant Street Master Plan and the Walkability Assessment, to work on.

—

Kelly O’Neill Jr.
Development Services Director

1^st Quarter Platted and Tentative Platted Lots Report:

The above graphic shows the updated platted and tentative platted lots list through March 31, 2020.  Bailey Meadows is included because it has tentative plat approval but is currently in an appeals process.  You will receive the next update in July 2020.

Planning items:

Bailey Meadows Appeal (20-009 AP):  City Council will hear the appeal to the Bailey Meadows subdivision on April 6^th.

Sandy Community Campus replat (18-045 MP):  Staff is currently compiling the final order for this project.

5G Small Cell code adoption (20-012 DCA): Staff is currently researching other cities’ approaches to including small cell units in their development codes and plans to bring the results before the PC at a June meeting.

Bull Run Terrace (19-050 CPA/ZC/SUB): Staff is currently compiling the staff report for this project. It is scheduled for the May 27^th PC meeting and the June 15th Council meeting. The applicant has agreed to extend the 120-day clock.

Dutch Bros:  Construction continues at the site next to 7-Eleven.  Kiosk construction is largely complete, undergrounding of Mattress World’s electrical supply is being scheduled by the contractors, and we are negotiating the undergrounding of a telecom pedestal in the pedestrian right-of-way owned by Frontier.

Design Review:

• McCormick Drive re-zone (19-037 CPA/ZC): This request to re-zone a lot from C-2 to R-2 has been rescheduled from the cancelled March 16^th Council meeting to the April 20^th Council meeting.  Planning Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval with conditions.
• Trillium Machine (19-017 DR/VAR/DEV/TREE): This application is for a new building behind their existing building has been rescheduled to the April 27^th PC meeting.
• Sandy Vault Storage (19-046 MOD/VAR/DEV): This application has been scheduled for the April 27^th PC meeting – please see entry from last month for additional details.
• Clackamas County Health Clinic (20-006 DR/VAR/DEV/ADJ): A request to construct a new building for a Clackamas County health clinic is currently under review.
• 15119 Sunflower Ave Tree Removal (20-011 TREE):  request to remove a required retention tree from Sandy Bluff Annex 5 subdivision
• Chapter 17.78 Annexation Code Amendments (20-010 DCA): Staff initiated updates to the annexation code to include clearer annexation criteria

Kelly’s Kudos:

The COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent impacts it has caused our business community have been devastating.  In a time that businesses needed assistance more than ever, David Snider brought his well-known charm and enthusiasm to the rescue. David put his own health in harm’s way in visiting most food and beverage owners in Sandy to find out their hours of operation for delivery and take out, and to lend a sympathetic ear.  Each and every day this pandemic brings forth new obstacles, but each and every day David is out there continuing to assist with the needs of the local business community.  David Snider truly epitomizes the meaning of ‘community’!


Economic Development/Urban Renewal

Internal projects: 

• COVID-19:  It is no surprise to anyone that our business community is reeling from the closure of restaurant dining rooms and non-essential retail as a result of this epidemic.  Restaurants and retailers are doing what they can to survive right now while waiting for federal and state assistance to arrive.  Here’s what we’ve done so far to help:
  • I have created a business assistance page on the City’s website containing as much relevant information relating to business assistance as I can fit on it.  I am updating this page updated daily. (https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/BusinessRelief–COVID-19) 
  • Jeff Aprati has created and is providing daily updates for a similar page for residents. (https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/CommunityResourcesDuringCOVID-19)
  • I have also created a page (with Jeff’s assistance) called “Information on Accessing Essential Services in Sandy” that lists all current information relating to urgent care, pharmacies, grocery stores, banks, and a list of restaurants that are serving take out and how to get a hold of them.  This is updated whenever we have new information to add. (https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/EssentialServicesInformation)
  • I have been trying to speak with business owners (especially restaurants) to offer them support, point them towards resources and get a feel for how they are surviving this.  Some are faring better than others, but all seem to understand the situation pretty well and are keeping in good spirits thus far.  Many have noticed that city staff and elected officials are patronizing them more than usual right now and it is appreciated.  Keep it up!
  • The few business owners I have spoken to about the emergency business assistance grant program that Council is currently discussing have been very encouraging.  I have been told that any amount of assistance that we can provide would be helpful, especially in the form of grants.   Considering the confusion surrounding some of the federal assistance available out there right now, this could be the shot of liquidity that can make the difference in keeping some doors open in the long run.
  • We have communicated to the restaurant community specifically that we are not going to enforce temporary sign code for the duration of this epidemic so these businesses can communicate to people that they are still operating in whatever way they think will be effective (within reason, of course). 
  • I am trying to learn as much as I can about the various forms of federal assistance, such as the Paycheck Protection Program, that are available right now so I can advocate for and assist local businesses if needed.
• City Hall:
  • The City of Sandy received $28,800 through the Community Development Block Grant program to install a power-assisted ADA entry system at the entrances to City Hall.
  • New signage for the three entrances of City Hall have arrived at the Ops Center.  These will be installed the week of April 6^th by Parks staff.

• Sandy Community Center:  After reviewing the reports completed by Axis Design Group and HHPR Engineering concerning the porte cochere (the structure over the primary entrance) we are still assessing the results but leaning towards having the structure demolished and rebuilding it correctly.  The existing damage to the structure (specifically to some of the primary support beams) combined with its overall design deficiencies would require some expensive scaffolding and temporary support structures to repair and wouldn’t solve some of the identified engineering deficiencies anyway.  Rebuilding the structure would also allow us to incorporate more robust supports, add some Sandy-style elements like a stone wrapping at the base, and give us more options for ADA improvements to the site overall.

Economic Development items:

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

• Thrive at 25:  This Chamber of Commerce-initiated event at SHS is an exercise in personal finance for freshmen – it asks them to choose a future profession, calculates the average monthly salary for a 25 year old in that profession, and then asks these freshmen to “pay their bills” for the month at different tables around the main gymnasium manned by local professionals in the community to see how much money they would have left at the end of the month.  It is a very eye opening  and educational experience for 15-year-old kids and has been a big hit for the last 5 years that SHS has been hosting it.  On March 5^th, City Recorder Jeff Aprati helped Ec Dev Manager Dave Snider operate the “Taxes” table and dash the dreams of our youth.
• Cleanup on Highway 26:  We passed a request last week to the Code Enforcement office to ask the grocery stores to pick up close to a dozen shopping carts left at different SAM stops along Highway 26.  Special thanks to Officer Kevin Moody for taking the initiative to pick all of these carts up in his old CE van and return them to their homes rather than burden the grocery stores with this task so our grocery workers could continue to focus on their primary jobs during this pandemic.  Well done, Officer Moody.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• New signage for Mountain Moka Building:  The signage that was taken out by a semi during a snowstorm last year was replaced this week.

• Street tree trimming: Neal Hatley of AntFarm Youth Services and his crew have started trimming the street trees on Proctor Blvd – a project that will keep a couple of youth employed over the spring and summer and get a project done for the City that we have been meaning to get to for years.  They will start with Proctor and Pioneer, then move on to Pleasant Street and the cross streets downtown.  (If you happen to see Neal and his crew out trimming trees, introduce yourself – he is a delightful young man from North Carolina who has the perfect skill set for this position and a very bright future at AntFarm).  Once the downtown trees are trimmed, we are also considering leaving the street tree lights that we put up for the winter up permanently once they are installed again – this would eliminate the cost of having them put up and taken down every year, and many downtown businesses have told me they would prefer this to be a permanent thing anyway because they think it looks nice.  The LED lights strings use so little electricity that there is no downside to this.
• Action Center exterior lighting upgrade:  SCAC still waiting on quote from Bull Run – this has been interrupted by the pandemic.
• SCC parking lot fencing replacement:  Now complete.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The March meeting revisited the retail market study concept – given a choice between Marketek (consumer-driven approach, author of past 2 studies) and ECONorthwest (never used in Sandy but good reputation, data-driven approach, slightly cheaper), the committee preferred the latter pretty overwhelmingly.  We transitioned from there into a basic discussion of urban renewal – why it exists, what it’s used for, how it is funded, etc. – and posed the question of how future UR spending should look to the members.  The meeting ended before any committee direction could be consolidated, but we will open the April meeting with a continuation of this discussion.  UPDATE: This project has been temporarily put on hold for the duration of the pandemic, as there is likely to be substantial change to the local business environment as a result of this event.  ECONorthwest and I will discuss changes to the scope of this project later in April.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the April committee meeting was cancelled.  The committee chair and I will decide about whether or not to convene the May meeting in mid-April.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

Nothing in March.

Planning items:

Bailey Meadows Appeal (20-009 AP):  City Council will hear the appeal to the Bailey Meadows subdivision on March 16, 2020.

Mairin’s Viewpoint (19-047 EXT): The Planning Commission extended the Mairin’s Viewpoint tentative plat approval to February 24, 2021.This is a 6-lot subdivision to the north of Green Mountain Street and west of Bluff Road.

Dutch Bros:  Construction is in full swing at the site next to 7-Eleven.  Kiosk is being constructed, and the electrical supply to the Mattress World building has been under-grounded.  The Urban Renewal Agency is paying for the electrical under-grounding (cost TBD) and will contribute $30K through Urban Renewal toward a required stormwater main and some of the streetscape improvements.

Grandma’s House: City staff is working diligently to help this daycare provider move from its current location by the Sandy Cinema to its expanded location on Pioneer Blvd. Staff is working with the provider, the Clackamas County ESD, and other agencies to help to the fullest extent possible.

City Townhomes:  The construction of this development across the street from the Sandy Post Office is almost complete.

Design Review:

• Proposed code changes to SMC (19-043 DCA): City Council will hear the recommended parking and access code changes to Chapter 17.98 of the Sandy Municipal Code on April 6, 2020.
• McCormick Drive re-zone (19-037 CPA/ZC): This request to re-zone a lot from C-2 to R-2 will be heard at the March 16^th City Council meeting.  Planning Commission forwarded a recommendation of approval with conditions.
• Trillium Machine (19-017 DR/VAR/DEV/TREE): This application is for a new building behind their existing building in I-2 zone – this application is currently under review and is anticipated to be on the agenda for the March 30 PC meeting.
• Sandy Vault Storage (19-046 MOD/VAR/DEV): This application is anticipated to be on the March 30 PC agenda – please see entry from last month for additional details.

Kelly’s Kudos:

Kelly’s Kudos: I want to send my thanks to the Planning Commissioners for their diligence and patience with the Bailey Meadows subdivision decision. The Planning Commission participated in three meetings regarding Bailey Meadows and read hundreds of pages of material. Making land use decisions is not always an easy task and is typically a pretty thankless position. As a citizen of Sandy, I am proud of our volunteers on the Planning Commission and their committed effort on making Sandy a great place for everyone to live, work, and play.

Internal projects: 

• City Hall: Blinds are installed, tinting has been replaced in both vestibules with a lighter, less reflective tint to more closely adhere to City code, and tint installed on Planning Director’s primary window.  Internal aesthetic and electrical modifications to City Hall are now complete.  Next City Hall agenda item –> attempt #2 to replace City Hall plumbing.
• Sandy Community Center:  
  • Axis Design Group and HHPR Engineering have completed an assessment of the porte cochere (the structure over the primary entrance) – there is weather-related damage to the structure due to deficiencies in its original design and construction that will require some structural beams to be replaced.  Axis also provided a code check on the entrance to the building and recommendations to bring the building into code compliance, with particular focus on ADA accessibility.
  • Matt Degner of Public Works and Development Services are assisting Tanya in acquiring and installing a grease trap at this location for the first time ever.  This will be paid for using Urban Renewal dollars.

Economic Development items:

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

• Le Happy:  Soft open dates of March 6 & 7 for selected audiences.  Opening date scheduled for March 8.  City of Sandy staff has been invited by the owners to be one of the group of participants in the soft open.

• Sandy Marketplace:  Planter project complete – all four planters at the mall have now been upgraded.  Representatives from Albanese Cormier (property owner) will be visiting Sandy Marketplace sometime during the spring of 2020 – I am looking forward to thanking them for participating in the Façade program personally and discussing future improvements at the site.
• Derelict buildings: The two derelict residences behind the Red Boot Branding Building at the corner of Strauss and Junker were demolished in early February.  The commercial building on site is preparing for a local childcare business to occupy it in the next few months.

Econ Devl – Downtown Maintenance Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Action Center exterior lighting upgrade:  SCAC administration now has a proper scope of work from Urban Renewal to approach lighting contractors with.  Waiting on response.
• SCC parking lot fencing replacement:  Waiting on the two gates to be installed prior to paying the contractor and closing out the job – project otherwise complete.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

The February meeting of the Economic Development Committee was well attended.  After a brief review of resource materials, the committee discussed the need for a new retail market report by briefly reviewing the last report, discussing the advantages a 2020 report would provide and requesting a comparison of quotes received from two industry leaders for a 2020 report.  There was broad support for a new report after they heard from committee member Hans Wipper (Wippersnappers) and how he used data from the 2015 report to research his business idea and present that data to a bank as justification for a loan.  The other agenda item was about the Parks & Rec district being proposed – there were differing opinions in the room on this one, but the majority expressed opposition to spending on the pool because they didn’t see how aquatic center activity translated into activity involving other businesses in the downtown area.

The March meeting revisited the retail market study concept – given a choice between Marketek (consumer-driven approach, author of past 2 studies) and ECONorthwest (never used in Sandy but good reputation, data-driven approach, slightly cheaper), the committee preferred the latter pretty overwhelmingly.  We transitioned from there into a basic discussion of urban renewal – why it exists, what it’s used for, how it is funded, etc. – and posed the question of how future UR spending should look to the members.  The meeting ended before any committee direction could be consolidated, but we will open the April meeting with a continuation of this discussion.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory 2020 Winter FAM Tour (Feb 4^th): Clackamas County Tourism hosted their second familiarization tour on the mountain on 2/4.  These tours are primarily for tourism-industry workers and professionals to give them a hands-on experience with the tourism destinations they inform visitors about.

The tour started at the Bigfoot Center on US26, where they were met with complimentary Joe’s Donuts and Mountain Moka coffee courtesy of the City of Sandy Ec Dev office.  The tour then went straight to Timberline Lodge, then back to SkiBowl on the Mount Hood Express, a quick visit to the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum, lunch at the ZigZag Inn and a short walking tour of Wildwood Rec Site.  The tour ended here in Sandy at Bunsenbrewer. 

Planning items:

Forest Service Site remodel (19-035 DR/ADJ US): Final order on this parking lot remodel/expansion was issued on January 28, 2020 – this project is approved to begin construction.

Tickle Creek Village (19-038 DR/TREE/FSH):  Final order on this proposed construction of 67 condos at the NE corner of Ruben and Dubarko was issued on January 28, 2020 – this project is approved to begin construction.

Bull Run Electric Building (19-036 DR): Final order for this project was issued on February 5, 2020 – this project is approved to begin construction.

Idelman Park (Hood St) Tree Removal (20-004 TREE): approval to cut 1 dead Doug Fir tree down to a snag – issued February 3, 2020

Mairin’s Viewpoint (19-047 EXT): Planning Commission will hear a proposal to extend the plat approval for the Mairin’s Viewpoint subdivision. This is a 6-lot subdivision to the north of Green Mountain Street and west of Bluff Road.

Design Review:

• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR): Planning Commission is reconvening on February 11, 2020 to deliberate amongst themselves and staff to make a decision on the Bailey Meadows subdivision. This subdivision is located to the south of Melissa Avenue and north of Highway 211.
• Proposed code changes to SMC (19-043 DCA): Planning Commission will hear parking and access code amendments (Chapter 17.98 of the Sandy Municipal Code) being proposed by staff at their February 24, 2020 meeting. Staff has scheduled these amendments to be heard by City Council on April 6, 2020.
• McCormick Drive re-zone (19-037 CPA/ZC): This request to re-zone a lot from C-2 to R-2 is currently under review and will be on the agenda for the February 24 PC meeting.
• Trillium Machine (19-017 DR/VAR/DEV/TREE): This application is for a new building behind their existing building in I-2 zone – this application is currently under review and is anticipated to be on the agenda for the March 30 PC meeting.
• Sandy Vault Storage (19-046 MOD/VAR/DEV): Applicant has submitted modifications to the previously approved storage units (File No. 18-047 DR/VAR/ADJ). The requested modifications include additional metal siding, reduced window percentages, and reductions to frontage features. The applicant is also proposing to add additional new structures (i.e. modular units) to the site; however, that request would be processed as a separate design review and the applicant opted to not provide the additional information and fees that would be needed to process that request with this application. The proposed modular units do not meet the requirements of Chapter 17.90. The applicant did not request variances or deviations to Chapter 17.90 for the modular units so staff cannot evaluate these structures as part of 19-046 MOD/VAR/DEV.  This application is anticipated to be on the March 30 PC agenda. 
• Proposed UGB expansion (20-002 UGB): Planning Commission will hear a UGB expansion proposal on February 11, 2020 that will include area for the extension of Gunderson Road and parkland to serve Bailey Meadows and the Nicolas Glen subdivision.

Kelly’s Kudos:

This month I would like to recognize Emily Meharg for her excellent work and amazing ability to pick up the slack in a huge way. During one of the hottest booms in the last 30 years we were faced with an absence in the Planning Division for almost four months. During this time Emily was tasked with several large planning projects, many pre-app meetings, and a constant barrage of questions from the public. She did a phenomenal job with everything big and small, and helped me keep my sanity. Thank you, Emily!

Internal projects: 

• City Hall: Blinds for the upper picture windows on the south and east surfaces of the building have been installed – Sandy Décor was able to perfectly match the blinds installed in the conference room several years ago.  They were also able to finish the touch-up trim painting on the east wall.  We are scheduling the installation of tinting on the Development Services Director’s primary office window (a unique situation here requires tinting) before closing this project and moving on to taking another crack at replacing the building’s aging plumbing system.
• Shade structures at Bornstedt Park: Sandy-based Mountain View Contracting has completed the construction of two shade structures (see below) at Bornstedt Park.  To recap, past Parks Board members reminded staff that the Bornstedt Park Master Plan originally called for shade structures, so we surveyed Sandy citizens to see if the demand for this amenity was still active.  Survey results came back 90% in favor, as lack of shelter from the weather was causing park patrons to leave these parks prematurely.  Mountain View Contracting was able to match the style of the entry arch to Meinig Park (also their project) almost exactly and really did a nice job with these structures.  Funding for this project was 95% Parks SDCs and 5% general fund money. 

Economic Development items:

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

• Old Chariteas (future Le Happy) site:  There have been a few minor setbacks with this future restaurant as some sub-standard work by a rogue contractor is corrected.  The owners seem confident, however, that their opening date is weeks away and not months.  Watch this space.
• Sandy Marketplace:  Remainder of project (upgrade of the remaining three planters to match test planter) will be completed by the next department report.
• Derelict buildings: The two derelict residences behind the Red Boot Branding Building at the corner of Strauss and Junker were demolished on Feb 10^th and 11^th.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• After a citizen complaint about the exterior lighting at the Action Center came into our Code Enforcement office, Officer Moody referred Action Ctr management to the Ec Dev office for assistance.  Since all of their current exterior lighting is not compliant with our dark skies ordinance (and likely not outdoor fixtures anyway), I have offered a Façade grant to them to help pay for full cutoff lighting installed by a licensed contractor – the grant will reimburse them for 80% of the cost of fixtures and installation.  They are looking for compliant fixtures now…
• SCC parking lot fencing replacement:  The backstop is gone!  New 5’ black powder coated fencing installed around the parking lot on Pleasant Street and Smith Avenue.  Currently waiting on a new man gate for Pleasant Street and a new rolling gate on Smith Avenue to arrive and be installed.

Econ Devl – Economic Development Committee:

January 8^th was the inaugural meeting of the City of Sandy Economic Development Committee in Council Chambers after several months of planning by Committee Chair Pietzold, Mayor Pulliam, Councilor Exner, the City Manager’s office and the Economic Development office.  Meetings will be held in Council Chambers on the first Wednesday of every month (the first Wed of January 2020 was New Year’s Day, so we moved to the 2^nd Wed).  This committee currently includes the three City Council members mentioned earlier, the Chamber Director and management/ownership from 9 companies local to Sandy (Everfresh Fruit, AEC, Wippersnappers, Suburban, CCB, Boring Brewing, Johnson RV, Mount Hood Athletic Club and John L. Scott).

The inaugural meeting was really just a meet-n-greet and an opportunity for members to share their vision for the committee.  Next month’s meeting will include the distribution of a resource binder for members, discussion about a proposal for a new retail market survey and a policy discussion about the proposed Parks & Rec District being considered for the November 2020 ballot.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

Oregon Community Solar Program (February 5, 1:00 -2:00 PM, Clackamas County Red Soils Campus): Community solar is an emerging model that allows for individuals and businesses who are unable or unwilling to install solar on their property to connect with an offsite solar source. This program allows for PGE customers to subscribe to a portion of the project and jointly share the benefits by receiving bill credits on their monthly electric bill for their portion of solar generation.  Subscribers are required to participate for a minimum of 10 years, and most subscribers should see a discount on their bill of about 5% (20% for low-income subscribers, and 10% of subscribers must be low-income).  Oregon Shines is the project administrator for this program, which is still under development but getting close to launch – for more information: https://www.oregoncsp.org/p/Subscribers/

Metro Population and Employment Forecasts (February 5^th, 3:00 – 4:30 PM, Clackamas County Red Soils Campus): Clackamas County is currently working with Metro to do population and employment forecasting for 2020-2045, which is critical for planning regarding roads, transit, and water, wastewater & stormwater capacities for residential neighborhoods.  They would like to work with the small cities outside of the Metro boundaries (Sandy, Estacada, Molalla, Canby, the Villages) because these have impacts in Metro territory and vice versa, and because while Metro may not be responsible for planning in these areas, Clackamas County still is.  This meeting was to explain the process for that partnership, which is essentially to look at Metro’s data and add any suggestions on how to get a more accurate result from our perspective if necessary.  It will require our planning staff to look at semi-sensitive data from Metro, so some confidentiality protocols are necessary.

Vacant Platted, Tentative Platted & Expired Lots Report – 4th Quarter 2019 

Attached is an updated platted and tentative platted lots list through December 31, 2019. 

Coming into winter we issued only 5 new house permits from October through December. Our department has reviewed 5 house permits that are ready for issuance, and we have about 30 additional houses in the review process. Marshall Ridge was recently platted which added 37 buildable lots and in November we tentatively approved Jewelberry Meadows which is a 20-lot subdivision.

You will receive the next update in April 2020.

Planning items:

Trillium Machine (19-017 DR/VAR/DEV/TREE): Development Services has recently received new information from the applicant and is currently reviewing for completeness for the third time.

Forest Service Site remodel (19-035 DR/ADJ US): Deemed complete and currently under review.

Tickle Creek Village (19-038 DR/TREE/FSH):  Proposed condos at the NE corner of Ruben and Dubarko – deemed complete and currently under review.

Bull Run Electric Building (19-036 DR): Deemed complete and currently under review.

Sandy Vault Storage (19-046 DR/MOD): Modifications to previously approved storage unit project has been deemed incomplete – awaiting additional information from applicant.

Design Review:

• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  The December 15^th Planning Commission hearing on this subject has been continued to January 23^rd – the City continues to work with the developer on pending issues.
• Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR):  Development Services Director issued final order to applicant per Planning Commission decision.
• Sandy Health Clinic (19-032 ZC): Zoning change approved and in process.  Clackamas County working directly with Ec Dev office regarding Façade and streetscape reimbursement.

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to let Rebecca Casey know how much she has inspired me as an employee and friend.  Your year+ long health battle was an amazing example of willpower, strength, and perseverance.  You are a true warrior!  It is exciting to see you back at work and once again being a full-fledged member of the Development Services family.  Welcome back and thank you for showing everyone what a fighting spirit truly means.

Internal projects: 

• City Hall: City Manager’s office requested looking into blinds instead of installing tinting on south and east facing picture windows.  After researching, Sandy Décor can provide blinds matching CH conference room for about the same price, so we will go this route instead.  Windows have been measured and blinds are currently on order; installation should be scheduled for some time in February.

Economic Development items:

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

• Old Chariteas (future Le Happy) site:  We are getting very close to setting an opening date for Le Happy Creperie & Bar – while both TI projects are still in process, they should both be completed in January pending any unforeseen circumstances.

• Paola’s Pizza Barn:  Axis Design has completed the design work for the restaurant, and a scope of work is being drafted for the project.  Design work and scope will be forwarded to the restaurant owner when complete along with supplemental materials sometime in mid-January.
• Sandy Marketplace:  More minor improvements are being made here through the City of Sandy Façade Improvement program.  We approached them about restyling three of the square planters out in the sidewalk area in front of the suites to give them public seating on all four sides and to add capstone along the top for the seating, removing the dated wooden seating (and associated maintenance costs) currently installed and increasing the aesthetic value.  Pictured below is the completed first planter, the other two will be completed sometime in February – if you stop by Bi-Mart or Grocery Outlet sometime soon, compare this refurbished planter to one they haven’t started yet.  The difference is remarkable.  (We are thinking about adding this same capstone surface to the planters outside of the Sandy Public Library when we upgrade them in the spring, hopefully using the same contractor)

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• SCC parking lot fencing replacement:  Now that the base of this fencing has been repaired satisfactorily, we are looking to replace the actual fencing with new, black powder coated fencing at a uniform height (i.e. removing the backstop).  Sandy Fence will install beginning on January 16.  Watch for it.

Economic Development Committee (January 8 – inaugural meeting):

• The first Economic Development Committee meeting was held from 6:30 – 8:00 PM on 1/8/20 in Council Chambers. Committee members in attendance included Mayor Pulliam, Counselors Pietzold and Exner, City Manager Jordan Wheeler, Chamber Director Khrys Jones, and business leaders Kurt McKnight (Everfresh Fruit), Cathy Stuchlik (CCB), Bill Schwartz (Boring Brewing), Hans Wipper (Wippersnappers), Ernie Brache (AEC), Brandon Johnson (Johnson RV), and Jason Shuler (John L. Scott). Discussions at this first meeting of the committee were extremely positive. Future meetings will be held on the first Wednesday of the month.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• Google DMO Content Training (December 5, 8-12:30 PM): Workshop hosted by our friends at Clackamas County Tourism focusing on Google destination marketing organizations and how to capture the ownership of our city’s “infrastructure” on the Google platform.
• Grow Clackamas! Business Appreciation Engagement Event (December 18^th, 4-6 PM): First annual business appreciation event hosted by Clackamas County Business and Economic Development.  CCB&ED asked us to invite and highlight a company that has “grown with your community” over the years for recognition and a county sponsored award.  My invitation went to AEC Inc., as Ernie Brache started his company in his Sandy garage 30 years ago and is now one of the largest private employers within city limits and has been instrumental to the development and growth of SandyNet.  The event also highlighted the promotion of cross laminated timber companies in the region by putting the spotlight on the breaking of ground at Clackamas County’s newest CLT factory – Sauter Timber in Estacada.  As AEC is getting involved in the CLT industry, it was delightful to introduce Mr. Sauter to Ernie at this event in the hopes that their two businesses might collaborate in the future.

Fall 2019 Building Department Report:

Sandy builders have been blessed with favorable weather, yet they have had enough rain to keep the ground pliable for excavation.  The rain also helped keep the typical late summer dust to a minimum and allowed more residential projects to get started than anticipated.  As of the end of November, Sandy’s Building Department had 83 Active Residential Dwelling Permits.  The total construction value of all residential and commercial permits this year so far has exceeded $28M.

The most significant change to happen to the Sandy Building Department is our converting to the E-permitting software controlled by the State of Oregon.  The whole transition started nearly a year ago but went live October 28^th, 2019.   This change to E-Permitting has increased processing time for permit applications approximately 4 to 5 times as long.  The software change combined with recent SDC increases and has created a backlog of permit applications.   There are over 25 house plans that are currently waiting to be processed and reviewed.   

CURRENT COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

Going into December, Sandy has two highly visible projects that are both within days of being completed:  The first one is the new TRACTOR SUPPLY STORE located at the west end of town.   The shiny new supply store has been operating under a Temporary Occupancy Permit since the start of October.  They completed the storage shed after Thanksgiving weekend but are still waiting for pole lights and a few other exterior items before they can obtain final completion.  MCDONALD’S is the other noticeable project that has seen a lot of attention.   The building received a total make-over and is noticeably better than the original.  (Note the new wall sign in the Play Area: “I’m Lovin’ It”.)

          Other active and visible commercial projects include: the extensive SAFEWAY remodel is nearing completion – which was primarily interior but included relocating the recycling machines to the SE corner of the exterior; and the new LE HAPPY restaurant on Proctor scheduled to open in January 2020.  (It is located in the house formerly occupied by Chariteas). 

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Building Department,
Terrence Gift, Building Official

Planning items:

Safeway Recycling Room (19-040 DR): This exterior addition to the building of a recycling center was approved and final order issued on November 14.

Trillium Machine (19-017): Development Services has recently received new information from the applicant and will analyze for completeness soon.

Forest Service Site remodel (19-035 DR/ADJ US): This parking lot remodel/expansion at the USFS Building has now been deemed complete, but staff has yet to begin analysis.

Mt. Hood Senior Living (19-027 CUP): Applicant has proposed a conditional use to allow a senior living facility on this Scenic Street site.  Final order was approved and issued on November 25.

Tickle Creek Village (19-038 DR/TREE/FSH):  Proposed condos at the NE corner of Ruben and Dubarko – this application has now been deemed complete, but staff analysis has yet to begin.

Bull Run Electric Building (19-036 DR): Received additional materials from applicant; going through secondary completeness check at this time.

Design Review:

• Sandy Vault Storage (19-046 DR/MOD): Modifications to previously approved storage unit project is currently undergoing a completeness check.
• Cashatt Duplex (19-028 DR/CUP): The Planning Commission denied the conditional use permit for the Cashatt duplex at the Planning Commission meeting on November 19. Mr. Cashatt has appealed the Planning Commission decision. The appeal will be heard by City Council on December 16th.
• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  The Planning Commission is meeting on December 17th to hold a public hearing regarding the 100-lot Bailey Meadows subdivision.  This hearing will allow the public to testify with regard to the proposal. The applicant is now proposing a UGB extension to accommodate a street connection from the south end of the proposed subdivision to Highway 211.
• Jewelberry Meadows (19-018 SUB): On November 15th staff approved a 20-lot subdivision to the east of Jewelberry Avenue. The applicant will need to complete construction plans and other details from the approval prior to constructing the subdivision.
• Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR):  On December 3, 2019 the Planning Commission heard the appeal from the applicant of Space Age gas station. The decision removed numerous conditions that staff had imposed based on code requirements. Staff is now working on a final order. 
• Sandy Health Clinic (19-032 ZC): A hearing for the re-zoning of the old Oregon Wild Harvest property from C-2 to C-1 in preparation for this new Clackamas County Health clinic is on the agenda for the November 16^th City Council meeting.

Kelly’s Kudos:

CONTENT FOR THIS SECTION IS PENDING

Internal projects: 

• City Hall: Drywall work has been completed.  Day one of painting is completed, and Day 2 of painting will take place on 12/13 and should be completed on that date.  We are awaiting quotes to tint the picture windows on the south side of the building now as well as on replacement of our ancient security/smoke alarm system.  After the tinting has been installed, we will be essentially complete with the upstairs of the building and will start focusing our efforts on taking another run at replacing the plumbing in the building, probably in February 2020.
• Mystery pole @ 362^nd and Hwy 26:  Finally removed by PGE on December 12

Economic Development items:

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

Old Chariteas (future Le Happy) site:  Façade grant project to repair the front railing and paint the trim on the building has been completed.  TI grant #1 (hood and installation) is complete but waiting for electrical work before being finaled.  TI grant #2 (bar & bathroom) is currently in-process.

• Paola’s Pizza Barn:  In the spirit of getting things moving forward, we have committed to completing and paying for the necessary design work for this building as a “business-friendly” measure.  We recently reached out to Axis Design Group of Gresham, and they have agreed to perform the needed design work for us.  Initial meeting on 11/18.
• Sandy Marketplace:  I have convinced the ownership group of this complex to take advantage of our Façade grant program by pitching them a small, cheap upgrade project with high visibility.  We are going to work with a Portland stonework specialist to rehab the three square planters in the plaza spaces over there – he will power wash, add blocks to make the sides a uniform height, and replace the top with

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Restoration of SCC fence base:  Restoration work is now completed on the brick work at the base of the cyclone fence surrounding the pool parking lot.  We are currently executing a change order so the red coating applied to this brickwork extends to the wall visible from the parking lot side.  Current fence to be removed and replaced with uniform black, powder coated 5-foot fencing by Sandy Fence.  Man gate and rolling gate will also be replaced. 

• Derelict buildings – Smith Building:  We have a preliminary report issued to us by Peter Meijer Architect detailing the building surface repairs and potential costs – staff will evaluate and discuss preliminary findings with city manager before proceeding with any action on this item pending Council instruction.  PMA is still working on finalizing this report, which should be completed sometime in January.
• Sandy Marketplace:  Discussions with complex manager have led to Albanese Cormier making the following minor improvements:
  • All of the burned-out lights in their monument sign for the complex have been replaced.
  • The HVAC truck that had been sitting in their parking lot for years (note the accumulation of moss in the picture below) has been removed – they had a contract with the owner of that business to allow him to park that vehicle in their parking lot near Hwy 26 for a monthly fee.  I informed them that this was a violation of the Sandy Municipal Code and that the truck would have to be removed.  They were unaware of this, but understood our reasoning and complied immediately.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• City of Sandy Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony (December 6, 6-8 PM): Fantastic event, phenomenal turnout considering the rain.  Special thanks to Mayor Pulliam for performing his official tree lighting duties flawlessly, to Sandy Public Works Crew for dragging the tree down to Centennial Plaza, to Sandy Transit for another year of trolley rides, a secondary Santa (see pic below) and for helping to tear down afterwards on the fly, Sandy resident Jim Allison for playing Santa again for us this year, our local Girls Scout and Boy Scout troops for generally helping out, and to Alec Chase and the SHS Choir for singing Christmas carols for us in the rain.  Also, if you happen to come across them this holiday season,please thank the following organizations for providing treats again this year: AntFarm Café, Busy Bee Catering in Welches, Mountain Moka and the Tollgate Inn Bakery.

Planning items:

Tree code (19-020 DCA): Staff revisions still being drafted.

Safeway Recycling Room (19-040 DR): Safeway is building an addition to their recycling room.  Application has been received.  Completeness check in progress.

Starbucks food truck at Safeway:  Staff retroactively approved the Starbucks food truck at Safeway as a temporary use.  We let Safeway know that in the future they cannot use a food truck with a motor and should apply for a temporary use permit prior to using the temporary kitchen. 

Trillium Machine (19-017): Development Services has recently received new information from the applicant and will analyze for completeness soon.

Forest Service Site remodel (19-035 DR/ADJ US): This parking lot remodel/expansion at the USFS Building has been deemed incomplete.  Waiting on applicant to provide complete information.

Mt. Hood Senior Living (19-027 CUP): Applicant has proposed a conditional use to allow a senior living facility on this Scenic Street site.  This item is on the agenda for the November 19^th PC meeting.

Tickle Creek Village (19-038 DR/TREE/FSH):  Proposed condos at the NE corner of Ruben and Dubarko – we have received additional information from applicant; second completeness check in process.

Bull Run Electric Building (19-036 DR): This application has been deemed incomplete.

Bluff Road Tree Removal (19-039 FSH/TREE):  Removal of 2 trees from the steep slope FSH area approved with conditions; Final Order issued October 15

Design Review:

• Cashatt Duplex (19-028 DR/CUP): Conditional use permit for a duplex within a C-1 zoned property (located on Pleasant St.) is currently on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting on November 19.
• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  The applicant for this 100-lot subdivision by Ponder Lane is considering a UGB expansion for the extension of Gunderson Road and will likely be submitting an updated proposal; PC hearing postponed pending decision on this by applicant.
• Jewelberry Meadows (19-018 SUB): Staff review process is nearing completion — a decision is expected soon.
• Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR):  Received updated traffic analysis from applicant and related comments from transportation agencies; Final Order issued October 22; DECISION IS BEING APPEALED to Planning Commission
• Sandy Health Clinic (19-032 ZC): An application to re-zone the old Oregon Wild Harvest property from C-2 to C-1 in preparation for this new Clackamas County Health clinic is on the agenda for the November 19^th PC meeting.

Kelly’s Kudos:

I want to express my sincere gratitude to Noryne Robinson, Permit Technician II, for the ePermitting software conversion. Noryne did the heavy lifting on the conversion and was essential for the successful launch. She participated in countless emails, phone calls and other correspondence with the State. Noryne even worked overtime to make sure everything went as smoothly as possible for staff, contractors, and the public.  Job well done, Noryne 🙂

Internal projects: 

• New street trees: To go along with the new electrical infrastructure currently being installed on Proctor Blvd, the City required PGE to put in street trees on the south side of Proctor as a condition.  Note the new trees between Scales Avenue and the VFW.

• ePermitting: – Building Division staff successfully launched the State of Oregon ePermitting software program on October 28th. This new software allows for online application submissions and inspection requests. The software replaces the legacy system created by Scott Lazenby in the 1990s. While the new software has come with some headaches it also delivers some benefits for staff and public users.
• Joe’s Donuts undergrounding:  This project, after almost 1 calendar year, is now complete.  The utility pole on the corner of Pioneer and 211 was removed on 11/12.
• City Hall: Now that the electrical work is complete, we move to the next phase of the interior rehabilitation of Sandy City Hall.  Drywall work to clean up and cover the electrical and plumbing work we have completed has been scheduled – the work will be overseen by Full Throttle Construction out of Boring and should be completed before the end of November.
• Downtown transit shelters: The Urban Renewal Agency paid for Mtn View Contracting to put a couple coats of darker stain on the transit shelters at Centennial Plaza and in front of Walgreens during the first full week of November to replace the weathering clear coat.  The CP shelter particularly blends much better with the surrounding buildings now.

Economic Development items:

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

• Old Chariteas (future Le Happy) site:  Owners have applied for both TI and Façade grants.  TI work in progress.  Getting bids for Façade work.  More to come soon…

• Paola’s Pizza Barn:  In the spirit of getting things moving forward, we have committed to completing and paying for the necessary design work for this building as a “business-friendly” measure.  We recently reached out to Axis Design Group of Gresham, and they have agreed to perform the needed design work for us.  Initial meeting on 11/18.
• Sandy Marketplace:  I have convinced the ownership group of this complex to take advantage of our Façade grant program by pitching them a small, cheap upgrade project with high visibility.  We are going to work with a Portland stone work specialist to rehab the three square planters in the plaza spaces over there – he will power wash, add blocks to make the sides a uniform height, and replace the top with

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• More downtown cleanup via AntFarm:  Had the AntFarm crew clean up the remnants of the ground stump at Proctor and Meinig and dig out and dispose of a dead bush at Plaid Pantry.
• Restoration of SCC fence base:  Restoration work is currently in process on the brick work at the base of the cyclone fence surrounding the pool parking lot.  Current fence to be removed and replaced with uniform black, powder coated 5-foot fencing.  Man gate and rolling gate will also be replaced. 

• Mural restoration: Neilson Construction has completed the clean-up work the mounting site (power wash, paint, replace the mounting boards with some new pressure treated studs).  Look for this mural to be replaced sometime after the New Year.
• Derelict buildings – Smith Building:  The architect we are working with to produce the surface report (Peter Meijer) has completed a site visit and has begun working on the report.  We expect to receive it sometime before the end of the year and will evaluate next steps with the property owner at that time.
• City of Sandy Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony – Friday, December 6^th, 6-8 PM:  the most wonderful time of the year is closer than you think…

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• Mount Hood Community College CTE Tours (October 18): Took another group of SHS students to a half-day tour of the Career & Technical Education programs at MHCC.  Looked at the Automotive Technology, Cybersecurity and Networking, Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Integrated Media, Mechatronics and Integrated Metals (Welding) programs during our walking tour of campus. 
• Clackamas County FAM Tour – Lake Oswego:  Another in Clackamas County Tourism’s series of familiarization tours for ec dev and tourism professionals focusing on the Lake Oswego area.  These tours show all of the tourism draws for a particular area and connect local government folks with area tourism professionals to promote better regional awareness of all of the tourism draws in the County.  [it was during a Sandy/Villages/Gov’y ClackCo FAM tour a few years ago was when we discovered through one of our favorite local tour bus operators that her industry was avoiding Jonsrud because the narrow lanes caused bus drivers to get stuck there – this prompted CC Tourism to help us with funding the “curb shaving” project through the CPP grant program, which motivated the 2^nd round of upgrades at Jonsrud that are currently being completed]
• OEDA OCED training course – Real Estate Reuse and Development (Salem – Oct 27): Penultimate training class to receiving OCED certification from Oregon Ec Dev Association.  Last class will be in 2020.
• OEDA Annual Fall Conference (Salem – Oct 28, 29):  This is the big annual conference for the Oregon Economic Development Association – held in Salem this year, so no overnight expenses for this one.  Another opportunity to confab with my peers throughout the state and to discuss issues of concern to economic developers in Oregon like workforce housing, workforce development, etc.

Planning items:

Bloom Annexation (Case No. 18-026 ANN) City Council approval of request effective as of 9/30/19 via City of Sandy Ordinance 2019-16.  

Tree code (19-020 DCA): Staff revisions still being drafted.

Sign code:  Staff is almost complete with code review and will be available to meet with Councilor Pietzold and Mayor Pulliam shortly for a status review.

Trillium Machine (19-017): Deemed incomplete on 8/20/19.

Marshall Ridge (17-006):  The model home for this subdivision is currently being constructed (see below)

Forest Service Site remodel (19-035 DR/ADJ US): This parking lot remodel/expansion at the USFS Building has been deemed incomplete.

FSH overlay map update (19-021 ZC):  Update to zoning map to include FSH overlay on 2 recently annexed properties on Jacoby Road

Mt. Hood Senior Living (19-027 CUP): Applicant has proposed a conditional use to allow a senior living facility on this Scenic Street site.

Bloom Annexation (Case No. 18-026 ANN): City Council approved Ord. 2019-16 approving the proposed annexation.  Effective as of September 30.

Tickle Creek Village (19-038 DR/TREE/FSH):  Proposed condos at the NE corner of Ruben and Dubarko – this is currently undergoing a completeness review.

Mountain View Ridge (16-039): This subdivision is currently under construction (see below)

Vacant Platted, Tentative Platted & Expired Lots Report – 3rd Quarter 2019

We issued 30 new house permits from July through September. City Center Townhomes was recently platted and all six lots have house permits that were already issued, so the subdivision moved from tentative platted to off the list altogether. We issued a model home permit in Marshall Ridge, but the subdivision is still not platted so that is the reason the number of lots was reduced by one.

You will receive the next update in January 2019.

Design Review:

• Cashatt Duplex (19-028 DR/CUP): Conditional use permit for a duplex within a C-1 zoned property (located on Pleasant St.), deemed complete 9/6/19, on the agenda for the Planning Commission meeting on November 19.
• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  The applicant for this 100-lot subdivision by Ponder Lane is considering a UGB expansion for the extension of Gunderson Road and will likely be submitting an updated proposal; PC hearing postponed
• Jewelberry Meadows (19-018 SUB): This 20-lot subdivision was deemed complete on 9/17.  Staff review is in process.
• Bull Run Electric Building (19-036 DR): Applicant proposed new multi-use, multi-tenant industrial building located on the north side of Industrial Way, east of 362nd Drive.
• Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR):  Received updated traffic analysis from applicant and related comments from transportation agencies; final order almost finished
• Sandy Health Clinic: (19-032 ZC) Rezone of 39831 HWY 26 (old Oregon’s Wild Harvest Building) from C-2 to C-1, deemed complete 9/18/19, on the agenda for the November 19 Planning Commission meeting.

Kelly’s Kudos:

• This month I want to say congratulations to James Cramer for accepting his new position with the City of Battle Ground, but even more importantly I want to say thank you for the last two years. Your time with the City of Sandy was fruitful in regards to land use planning, code interpretation, parks planning, sign permitting, and helping customers. Your ability to help residents troubleshoot questions and concerns was second to none. We wish you the best of luck in all future endeavors.
  
  

Internal projects: 

• Joe’s Donuts undergrounding:  We are reaching the completion of the project to remove the antiquated power pole supplying Joe’s Donuts by undergrounding power to this building.  PGE’s contractors (Kuenzi) were working on Sept 25^th to complete the technical work of re-routing the power to Joe’s (see below); as of this writing, there is a new temporary pole still serving the building – working to find out why.
  

• The second round of electrical work at City Hall is now complete.  Thanks to Bull Run Electric for completing the work quickly and quietly during our regular business hours.
• Picture window blinds have been removed on the south and west walls of the building by the Parks Department team.  Next steps: contract with a drywaller/finisher to repair all of the drywall cuts in the building and get all of the interior painting cleaned up.

Economic Development items:

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

• New restaurant at Chariteas site: We have completed the bid process for the interior modifications and selected the winning bidders.  Construction should start any day now.  The business owner very recently called to discuss starting a Façade Improvement project to paint the building and install a concrete pad in the “back yard” for future outdoor seating.
• Tractor Supply Company:  is now open!  There are some odds and ends for them to complete in the coming months (landscaping items, streetscape items, adding box windows, etc.), but these are bonded so these items will be completed shortly.

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Cleanup on Pioneer Blvd: Complete.  Bonus points to Todd Sparks (owner of the Boring Brewing/Mad Dogz Building and Sparky’s Pizza) for providing free pizza to the AntFarm weeding crew out of the goodness of his heart.
• Rip City Rally:  Huge success.  Turnout at the Farmer’s Market was increased by a great deal because of this “rally” at the event, and the activities the Blazer’s organization had for the kids at this event was nothing short of fantastic.  The event was a great opportunity for our elected officials and some of our City departments to chat with constituents and show off some of the ways our City government works for them.  Shopper’s Trolley seemed to be a crowd favorite…
  
• Mtn. Moka Building: 
  • Oregon Tree Care removed the large tree on the SE corner of Proctor and Meinig in late September; wood was cut into manageable pieces and collected by the AntFarm for their firewood program on the same day the tree was removed.  Much better visibility at this intersection now, and one less maintenance headache for Mr. Picking – everybody wins.  Stump grinding to follow…

• The disintegrating wheel stop bars made of old railroad ties along the Meinig Avenue side of the parking lot of Mr. Picking’s property were also replaced with concrete wheel stops from Michael’s Precast Concrete on 9/11.  Wheel stops paid for by Sandy Urban Renewal Agency; installation done by KLM Construction at Mr. Picking’s cost.  Minor but highly visible aesthetic improvement at the intersection of two state highways.
• Mural restoration: With the restoration of both of the large downtown murals now completed, our Arts Commission volunteers have turned their attention to the the logging mural on the front of City Hall.  For ease of restoration, this mural was removed by Parks Department staff and is currently being restored over at the Bunker Building.  We are contracting with Neilson Construction to clean up the mounting site, paint and replace the mounting boards with some new pressure treated studs.  Look for this mural to be replaced sometime after the New Year.
• Derelict buildings – Smith Building:  Dao Architecture referred us to Peter Meijer Architect in Portland to produce the report we seek detailing the appropriate steps to take to halt degradation of the building surface and suggesting an appropriate method to restore surface paint.  Mr. Meijer is a specialist in historic building restoration and will be conducting a site visit to get started collecting data for the report on 18 October. Both property owners have been notified.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• Oregon Main Street Conference (October 2-4, Tillamook, OR): Emily Meharg and I spent two days at this conference learning about what the Main Street organizations have been doing around Oregon over the last year and rubbing elbows with downtown organizations of all stripes. We also took a walking tour and got an upfront look at a massive $30 million downtown restructuring project where the City of Tillamook actually CREATED a couplet like ours out of a downtown full of two-way streets. The project included changing traffic patterns, all new streetscape infrastructure, large scale electrical undergrounding, the closing of a inter-couplet street to create an outdoor pedestrian space, and the addition of a new northbound access off of Highway 6 to Highway 101.

Planning items:

Tree code (19-020 DCA): Staff is still in process of drafting major revisions to our tree code – the revisions are extensive enough that we will likely “repeal and replace” the entire code section. Staff is working on the revisions now.

Sign code: Staff shall complete an initial meeting with City Council representatives to update findings for a future formal workshop with all of Council.  Staff is almost complete with code review and will be available to meet with Councilor Pietzold and Mayor Pulliam shortly.

Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR): Waiting for comments from the transportation related agencies before drafting final order.

Scenic Street (19-027 CUP): Staff has deemed this application incomplete.

Bloom Annexation (Case No. 18-026 ANN): City Council approved Ord. 2019-16 approving the proposed annexation. 

Design Review:

• Tractor Supply Company shed addition: (19-022 DR) Final order issued August 15.
• Cashatt Duplex (19-028 DR/CUP): Applied for a conditional use permit to have a duplex within a C-1 zoned property (located on Pleasant St.)
• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  We are waiting on the applicants for this proposed 100 lot subdivision by Ponder Lane to send hard copies so we can send them out for agency review and neighbor notice.
• Dutch Bros (18-057 DR/CUP): A Final Order was completed 7/22/19.  This site is clear to begin developing.
• Fun Time RV (18-030 DR): Planning commission approved the Conditional Use for outside display and storage of merchandise for the entire site and Special variance to eliminate the required building at the 8/26/19 meeting. 
• Trillium Machine: (19-017) Deemed incomplete on 8/20/19.  Applicant has recently reached out with miscellaneous questions.
• US Metal Works (19-026 MOD):  Approved site plan modifications, issued Final Order  8/21/19. 
• Jewelberry Meadows (19-018 SUB): Submitted 7/5/19, deemed incomplete 7/26/19 and resubmitted 8/2/19.  Currently under review.

Kelly’s Kudos: This is a new section of the Development Services Department Report reserved for our director to identify when staff goes above and beyond the call of duty

For August of 2019, I would like to recognize Terre Gift for his extraordinary work solving a safety issue identified by a resident in the Champion Village subdivision. Terre’s quick actions resolved a fall hazard next to a sidewalk on Champion Way that is used for school children walking to their bus stop.  Thanks to Terre for working with the developer to  satisfy an immediate safety concern on the same day it was identified.

Internal projects: 

• City Hall Remodel: This project, at long last, is 100% completed.  Many thanks to Columbia Cascade Inc of Boring for getting everything completed, including all the last-minute changes.  Total cost of the project including all change orders and the replacement of the stonework on the exterior columns: $176,275
• We are currently going through a second round of electrical work at City Hall.  We are removing as many of the Lazenby-era outlet strips as we can and replacing those with standard inset outlets, replacing the older grey outlets and switches with newer white ones for consistency and adding a few extra outlets where needed.  Bull Run Electric is doing the work.
• Once the electrical work at City Hall is completed (2^nd week of September), we will remove all of the old blinds on the south and west sides of the building, and then contract with a drywaller/finisher to repair all of the drywall cuts in the building and get all of the interior painting cleaned up.

Economic Development items:

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

• New restaurant at Chariteas site: We are in the bidding stage of two different Tenant Improvement grants at this site – one for the purchase and installation of a kitchen hood, and one for an interior remodel to add a bar, additional ADA restroom and to upgrade and relocated the grease interceptor.  More to come soon!
• Tractor Supply Company:  Work continues at this site as the company prepares for an targeted September 27^th grand opening date.  There is a representative from the corporate office on site now conducting interviews to hire staff for the store.
• Oregon’s Wild Harvest building:  This building has been purchased by our friends at Clackamas County Health, Housing & Human Services and will be used as expansion space for existing services here in Sandy.  After a zone change, the office section of the building will be removed, parking will be expanded, and the interior will undergo an extensive remodel prior to reopening.  The new owners are also looking for off-site parking for staff to help alleviate the restricted parking on-site.
  
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Cleanup on Pioneer Blvd: In process.
• Rip City Rally:  The Portland Trailblazers are hosting an event in downtown Sandy on the corner of Scales and Proctor as part of a statewide marketing campaign.  They have asked to make this as much of a “community event” as possible by setting up near the Farmer’s Market and making space available for local non-profit oriented organizations to set up booths and distribute information.  More on the Rally in next month’s report.
• Changes coming to Mtn. Moka Building:  We have made arrangements with Brad Picking to take care of a few aesthetic changes to this building at the City’s expense in preparation for a potential paint job in the near future:
  • Oregon Tree Care will remove the large tree on the SE corner of Proctor and Meinig on 9/12 – this tree is growing into the electrical infrastructure above it, and is far, far too large for the space it’s currently growing in.  Wood to be donated to AntFarm’s firewood program.  Mr. Picking has stated that he will replace with something more fitting to that space later.
  • The disintegrating wheel stop bars made of old railroad ties along the Meinig Avenue side of the parking lot will be replaced by concrete wheel stops from Michael’s Precast Concrete on 9/11.  Wheel stops paid for by City of Sandy; installation to be done by KLM Construction at Mr. Picking’s cost.

• Mural restoration: Both of the downtown murals undergoing restoration work are now complete.  The Ace Hardware mural looks noticeably brighter – special thanks to Arts Commissioners Becky Hawley and Pamela Smithstead for completing the work by volunteering their labor and time and by reaching out to Ace Hardware, who donated the paint for this project (a significant expense).  The restoration work on the mural attached to the back of the Mountain Moka Building was completed by the original artist, Lee Lauritzen, and his son Craig under an existing maintenance agreement.

• Derelict buildings – residential: 
  
  
  • Pendergrass: The small garage directly behind Meadowlark Ski was removed by Konell Construction in late August, and the fruit tree that was there was removed by AntFarm Youth Services and donated to their firewood program with the property owner’s blessings at about the same time.  This property is now on the commercial market for sale.  The other small garage was brought up to current code by local contractor Jonah Nail and has passed final inspection.  This concludes our derelict buildings process with the Pendergrass family, as represented by Ms. Paula Sorenson, the family matriarch.  Ms. Sorenson picked up her reimbursement check for the demolished garage here at City Hall on Friday, September 6^th.

• Derelict buildings – commercial:
  • Smith Building: We have requested a report from Dao Architecture in Portland detailing the appropriate steps to take to halt degradation of the building surface and suggesting an appropriate method to restore surface paint.  Dao has some current deadlines they have to meet before they can get started on this project – we are currently waiting on them to have enough time available in their schedule to do a site visit.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• Nothing in August

Planning items:

Tree code (19-020 DCA): Staff is in the process of drafting major revisions to our tree code – the revisions are extensive enough that we will likely “repeal and replace” the entire code section.

Sign code: Staff (Associate Planner James Cramer and Economic Manager David Snider) shall complete an initial meeting with City Council representative to update findings for a future formal workshop with all of Council.

Eagle Park improvements (19-009 DR):  Façade improvements issued June 19^th

Space Age Fueling Station (19-012 DR): Undergoing second review for completeness.

Scenic Street (19-027 CUP): Staff had a pre-app in late May for a new senior residence/memory care facility at the old Mt. Hood Hospice site n Scenic Street.

Mt. Hood Cigar (19-008 DR): Application for the smoking shed in their parking lot has been deemed incomplete.

Bloom Annexation (18-026 ANN): At the 7/22/19 Planning Commission meeting it was voted to pass the request to City Council with the recommendation for approval with four (4) conditions. 

Design Review:

• Tractor Supply Company shed addition: (19-022 DR) applied for a design review for a shed on the site of the primary use however no plans were submitted.  Staff intends to deem the application incomplete should plans not be submitted within 30 days of receiving the initial application (6/27/19).
• Bailey Meadows Subdivision (19-023 SUB/VAR):  This proposed 100 lot subdivision by Ponder Lane has been deemed incomplete.
• McDonald’s (19-015 VAR): Variance for parapet height approved and issued June 18.
• Dutch Bros (18-057 DR/CUP): Design Review, Conditional Use and Variances (3) was approved at the 6/24/19 Planning Commission meeting and a Final Order was completed 7/22/19.
• Stowaway Mini Storage (18-048 DR): approved at the 7/22/19 Planning Commission meeting and a Final Order should be completed the week of 8/5/19.
• PGE Redevelopment (19-002): This is tentatively scheduled for the 8/26/19 Planning Commission meeting – however, the applicant expressed interest in postponing to a later date.
• Fun Time RV (18-030 DR): On the agenda for the 8/26/19 Planning Commission meeting. 
• Trillium Machine: (19-017) Deemed incomplete on 8/20/19.   
• US Metal Works (19-026 MOD): Requested a modification to the approved site plan to increase parking and decrease the SF of Building C.
• Jewelberry Meadows (19-018 SUB): This is a proposed 20 lot subdivision west of Sandy Bluff 5 and Jewelberry Ave. was submitted 7/5/19, deemed incomplete 7/26/19 and resubmitted 8/2/19.

Internal projects: 

City Hall Remodel: City Hall is currently undergoing a series of exterior improvements to the building – current status is as follows:

• This project is basically completed.  Remaining work is comprised of a small amount of trim painting, replacing the blinds in the conference room, painting a couple of windowsills and completing the trim work around Karey’s window.  All of this should be completed before our next department report.
• Our first round of bidding for the replacement of the plumbing in City Hall resulted in zero qualified bids out of four contractors stating interest.  We are going to go out for a second round of bids shortly and will engage a minimum of five larger contractors from around the greater Portland metro area.

Economic Development items:

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

• New restaurant at the Chariteas site:  I have been working for several months now with a local couple that has recently purchased this building and is interest in developing it into a full-service restaurant.  They currently own a successful crepe restaurant in NW Portland and would like to turn this site into their second location.  The concept is to serve crepes, both sweet and savory, along with a strong beer, wine and cocktail list to create a good “date-night” place for the community.  I have gotten them started with a max TI grant project to add a hood, grease trap, bar and second bathroom on the interior, and also plan to simultaneously do a façade project with them to paint the building, repair the gutters and the front railings and possibly improve ADA access a bit.
• Ascent Physical Therapy: This new business has moved into the north end of Mr. Picking’s building across the street from City Hall.  This is a standard physical therapy office.
  
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Cleanup on Pioneer Blvd: We have contracted again with the AntFarm crew to engage in a second round of clean-up items downtown.  Round Two will include weeding in the landscaping areas around Mad Dogz Hobbies and Sandlandia, and the removal of a dead spruce bush at Dairy Queen.

• Mural restoration: Two of Sandy’s downtown murals are undergoing restoration at the moment.  The mural at Ace Hardware is being restored by volunteers from the Sandy Arts Commission – special thanks to Commissioners Becky Hawley and Pamela Smithstead for taking the initiative to get this mural cleaned up.  The mural on the back of the Mountain Moka Building is being restored by the original artist, Lee Lauritzen, and his son Craig.
• Mountain Days:
  • Music Fair and Feast:  The Sandy Area Chamber of Commerce had a pretty good turnout this year at MF&F and improved on last year’s fundraising totals.  A few issues with a local food vendor, but otherwise problem free.
  • Fun Center:  Nunpa reports that the carnival vendors were amazing this year – there were no security issues reported, the site was meticulously cleaned after the event and they even made a $500 donation to AFYS.  Excellent work all around.

• Derelict buildings – residential: 
  
  
  • Pendergrass: The small garage directly behind Meadowlark Ski will be removed prior to our next department report.  Konell has pulled the demo permit and should get started literally any day now.  The tree on this lot will also be removed by AntFarm Youth Services as a courtesy to the City and the landowner.
  • Lamb: Mr. Doughman has drafted a contract committing Mr. Lamb to the demolition of these three structures in return for City reimbursement of 50% of demolition costs of his two structures in the C-1 zone.  We forwarded this contract as well as a complete scope of work for the project to Mr. Lamb on July 25^th.  Mr. Lamb has not returned the contract with his signature as of this writing and has not responded to an inquiry sent to him and Ms. Glenn on August 5^th.  A second attempt to contact him will be made on August 7^th.

• Derelict buildings – Smith Building:  This project is currently stalled, but the building owners are engaged with our elected officials at the moment and looking at all options.  We have informed the building owners that the City of Sandy will engage with a surface restoration expert at our own cost to determine next steps here – we have requested a report from Dao Architecture in Portland detailing the appropriate steps to take to halt degradation of the building surface and suggesting an appropriate method to restore surface paint.  We are aware that this report’s findings may suggest solutions that place an undue financial burden on the building owners, and staff may adjust our approach with them as appropriate.  This should take about a month, as Dao has some current deadlines they have to meet before they can get started on this project.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• Nothing in July

Planning items:

Ballot Measure 3-540:Staff is still working with Firwood Design to confirm the legal descriptions associated with the annexed parcels after receiving comments from the Department of Revenue. 

Sign code: A future work session with Council and Staff shall take place (autumn potentially) regarding proposed updates to the existing sign code regulations. Staff has met several times to discuss existing and additional recommendations and will pass the recommendations to City attorney prior to scheduling a work session. 

Eagle Park improvements (19-009 DR):  Review on this project should be issued in mid-June.

Scenic Street (old Mt. Hood Hospice site): Staff had a pre-app in late May for a new senior residence/memory care facility.

Bloom Annexation (18-026 ANN): Scheduled for the 7/22/19 Planning Commission meeting. Once Planning Commission renders their recommendation the case will be scheduled to be heard by City Council.  

Sandy Community Campus (SCC) replat:  City Manager in communication with OTSD to determine location of fence and proposed land entitlements. OTSD is considering a renovation to the existing Sandy Grade School campus which may affect the desired placement of the fencing.  

Platted Lots through Q2:

Attached is an updated platted and tentative platted lots list through June 30, 2019.  Two new subdivisions were recently platted, Sandy Woods and Mt. View Ridge, which added 81 available lots for single family homes. We issued a model home permit in Sandy Woods prior to June 30th and since then have issued numerous other permits in those two subdivisions. Now that we have more lots available for development, we are getting a number of house permits submitted. Marshall Ridge (37 lots) and City Center Townhomes (6 lots) should be platted in the next few months.

You will receive the next update in October 2019.

Design Review:

• Tractor Supply Company shed addition: (19-022 DR) applied for a design review for a shed on the site of the primary use however no plans were submitted.  Staff intends to deem the application incomplete should plans not be submitted within 30 days of receiving the initial application (6/27/19).
• Dutch Bros: (18-057 DR/CUP) Design Review, Conditional Use and Variances (3) was approved at the 6/24/19 Planning Commission meeting. Staff is in the process of completing a Final Order and predicts it will be complete the week of July 15-19th.
• Stowaway Mini Storage (18-048 DR): At the 6/10 PC meeting, this was continued to the July 22 PC meeting.
• PGE Redevelopment (19-002): This was deemed complete on 6/4 and tentatively scheduled for the August 26 PC meeting. 
• Fun Time RV (18-030 DR): (18-030 DR) was continued at the 5/28/19 Planning Commission meeting to August 26, 2019. Staff has since met with the applicant and their representative to discuss the proposal.
• Bird Property Annexation (18-034 ANN): Scheduled for the July 15^th Council meeting.
• Trillium Machine: (19-017) proposes to build a second structure on their site located at 36535 INDUSTRIAL WAY. The application was deemed incomplete on June 20, 2019.   

Internal projects: 

City Hall Remodel: City Hall is currently undergoing a series of exterior improvements to the building – current status is as follows:

• This project is mostly completed.  Only clean up work remains at this point.
  • Paint has been completed – note that the metal railings at the front of City Hall were painted in the trim color as well.
  • City Recorder’s window will be completed on Saturday, July 27.  This should be the final work needed to complete this project.
  • The window on the west wall of the downstairs data room has been removed and replaced with lap siding.  This was done to improve security to the data room.
• Concrete skim coat for the entry to City Hall is now complete.
• We are now waiting on bids to replace the plumbing in the building.   Bids for this phase shall be due in late July.  This should be the final City Hall urban renewal project for 2019.

Economic Development items:

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

• AntFarm Youth Services:  There has been talk lately of AFYS starting to think about additional space.  They are aware that the Leathers lot that currently houses their Outdoor Programs is likely to develop before too much longer, and would also like to move their current offices out of the café space to allow that entity to grow as well.  Nunpa has expressed some interest, if any space ultimately becomes available, in looking at space at the Sandy Community Campus – he would be interested in a long-term lease for some office space at the very least.  The first floor of the Bunker Building would work, as would any new space that might get built in the future.  He would like the City of Sandy to keep him in mind as we think about developing this space in the near future.
  
  

Econ Devl – Internal Projects:

Downtown maintenance:

• Although the blue recycle bins are accumulating some trash, they are also being used for their intended purpose as well.  AntFarm is emptying the bins regularly
• Cleanup on Proctor Blvd: the AntFarm crew is completed with the first downtown cleanup project we have engaged them in.  We had them weed and cleanup about a half dozen planter strip and sidewalk sections including some pretty bad ones at Brady’s Brats & Burgers, the Chariteas Building and the Clackamas County offices.  Also had them remove sod in a couple of overgrown planter strips and replace with barkdust.

• Derelict buildings – residential: 
  • One of the Pendergrass properties (the small garage directly behind Meadowlark Ski) has been approved for demolition.  Konell Construction has already pulled the demolition permit, so look for this structure to be gone within the next week or two.
  • After the recent discussion with Council, we seem to be back on track with the Lamb demolitions.  Jordan was able to get in touch with Mr. Lamb directly, and he agreed to comply with the City-led demolition process.  The scope of work for the demolition is complete – we are waiting for Mr. Doughman to draft a letter committing him to this process for him to sign before we move forward with the bid process. 

• Derelict buildings – Smith Building:  This project has stalled out because of a deteriorating relationship between the two building owners.  We are reluctant to get in the middle of this growing dispute, and we note that most of the “nuisance issues” at the building have been corrected.  The cost of properly prepping and painting the building is going to be extremely high for the owners as the building is registered as historic and the paint is almost certainly lead-based.  Considering the condition of the building and the fact that it is probably not able to be occupied in its current condition, staff is reassessing our path here.

Econ Devl – Conferences/training:

• June 5: Building in Oregon – an OEDA certification class (Cottage Grove, OR)
• June 7: OEDA Summer Conference (Cottage Grove, OR)