La Grande public meetings in 2025

Community Landscape & Forestry Commission

The Community Landscape and Forestry Commission will meet to discuss tree plantings at the LGSD campus and the recruitment timeline for an Outreach Coordinator. The body will also review the Tree City Application and ODOT crosswalk construction.

• School Tree Plantings through Oregon Community Tree Foundation at LGSD campus
• Outreach Coordinator Recruitment Timeline
• Tree City Application/Growth Award
• ODOT cross walk construction
• Tree Removal Funding

The Community Landscape & Forestry Commission approved the meeting agenda with a unanimous vote. It also approved the November 2025 minutes unanimously. The remainder of the meeting consisted of informational updates on the Tree City award, ODOT crosswalk work, school campus surveys, and the outreach coordinator recruitment.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved November 2025 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The La Grande City Council will hold a work session to discuss budget science and strategic plans with City Manager John O'Brien. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Work session on budget science and strategic plan
• Discussion with City Manager John O'Brien
• Meeting at La Grande City Hall, 1000 Adams Avenue

Landmarks Commission

The La Grande Landmarks Commission will hold a public hearing to reconsider the historical appropriateness of the property at 1308 Adams Avenue. The applicant is Ken Johnson, who operates a karate school at that location. The meeting will also include routine items such as agenda approval, consent agenda minutes, public comments, and other commission business.

• Approve minutes of the October 9, 2025 meeting (consent agenda)
• Public hearing: Reconsideration of historical appropriateness – 1308 Adams Avenue (Applicant: Ken Johnson, karate school)
• Public comments from residents and virtual participants
• New business (no specific items listed)
• City planner and commission comments

Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission will review several ongoing projects, including the bike park, shade canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks, and the Splash Pad Development Committee. New business will include a discussion about a concessionaire or vendor. The meeting also includes routine items such as agenda and minutes approval, public comments, and commissioner comments.

• Bike Park (old business)
• Shade Canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks (old business)
• Splash Pad Development Committee (old business)
• Concessionaire / Vendor Discussion (new business)
• Public Comments

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the November 2025 minutes. Commissioners agreed to formalize the Optimist Club agreement and develop a citywide policy for park vendors not tied to renter reservations. Staff will circulate Portland Parks' vendor policy for review and discussion at the January meeting.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• November 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Optimist Club agreement to be formalized (no vote recorded)
• Policy to be developed for all non‑renter park vendors (no vote recorded)
• Staff to send Portland Parks vendor policy for January discussion (no vote recorded)

Arts Commission

The La Grande Arts Commission will meet on December 10, 2025. The commission will approve the agenda, approve minutes from the November meeting, and consider two old‑business items: Signal Box Wraps and Asphalt Art. No new business is scheduled. The meeting will be streamed on the Parks & Recreation Facebook page.

• Signal Box Wraps (old business item)
• Asphalt Art (old business item)
• Approval of minutes from November meeting
• Agenda approval

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It also unanimously approved the November 2025 minutes as amended. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The La Grande Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a subdivision permit (File 02‑SUB‑25) and a variance permit (File 01‑VAR‑25) submitted by Clint Troyer. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of the November 4, 2025 minutes, public comments, and commission remarks. No decisions are recorded in the agenda beyond the hearing.

• Public hearing: consideration of subdivision permit (File 02‑SUB‑25) by Clint Troyer
• Public hearing: consideration of variance permit (File 01‑VAR‑25) by Clint Troyer
• Consent agenda: approve minutes of the November 4, 2025 meeting

City Council

The City Council will discuss increasing refuse collection fees for Waste Pro and a first reading of an ordinance for street renaming. The body will also consider awarding a bid for sanitary sewer rehabilitation and reassigning funds for a Vac Con truck.

• First reading of Ordinance for Street Renaming
• Resolution to increase refuse collection fees for Waste Pro
• Reassigning project funds for a Vac Con truck purchase
• Awarding bid for Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will discuss granting the District Manager authority to accept offers and sell agency-owned property at the La Grande Business and Technology Park. The body will also consider approving loan forgiveness for the Community Merchants Small Business Assistance Loan.

• Resolution to authorize the District Manager to accept offers at or above listing prices for property at the La Grande Business and Technology Park
• Proposed loan forgiveness for the Community Merchants Small Business Assistance Loan

The Urban Renewal Agency approved the consent agenda, including the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes, with a 4‑0 vote. It then passed a blanket resolution authorizing the District Manager to accept full‑price offers and sell Agency‑owned lots in the La Grande Business and Technology Park, also by a 4‑0 vote. Finally, the Agency approved forgiveness of the remaining balance on the Community Merchants Small Business Assistance Loan, again with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda (including Oct 8, 2025 minutes) – vote 4-0
• Passed resolution authorizing District Manager to sell Business Park property – vote 4-0
• Approved forgiveness of Community Merchants small business loan balance – vote 4-0

Community Landscape & Forestry Commission

The Community Landscape and Forestry Commission will review progress on IRA and CGI grants. The body will also discuss the Greenwood Community Survey and outreach for the Island Ave. project.

• IRA Grant progress
• CGI Grant progress
• Greenwood Community Survey
• Island Ave. project outreach
• ODOT cross walk construction

The commission unanimously approved the amended agenda and the October 2025 minutes. No other substantive actions were voted on. The meeting was adjourned at 6:18 p.m., with the next regular meeting set for December 16, 2025.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The La Grande City Council held a work session to discuss the city’s strategic vision and goals using a SWOT analysis. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the session is for informal discussion and identifying information for future action. The meeting was chaired by Mayor Justin B. Rock and led by City Manager John O’Brien.

• Call to Order by Mayor Justin B. Rock
• Strategic Vision & Goals Discussion (SWOT) presented by City Manager John O’Brien

Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission will review several old‑business items, including the Bike Park, shade canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks, and the Morgan Lake revegetation plan. New business includes discussion of road markings and a pavilion/restroom at Candy Cane Park, and a postponed LWCF grant. Public comments and commissioner remarks will also be part of the meeting.

• Bike Park
• Shade Canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks
• Morgan Lake Revegetation Plan
• Candy Cane Park Road Markings and Pavilion/Restroom
• LWCF Grant Postponed

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission approved the meeting agenda as presented with a unanimous vote. They also approved the October 5, 2025 minutes unanimously. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 5 minutes (unanimous)

Arts Commission

The Arts Commission will meet to discuss old and new business regarding public art projects. The agenda includes reviews of signal box wraps and asphalt art.

• Discussion of Signal Box Wraps
• Discussion of Asphalt Art

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda as presented, with all members in favor. They also approved the October 2025 minutes as amended, again unanimously. No other actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved October 2025 minutes as amended (unanimous)

City Council

The La Grande City Council will vote on the Consent Agenda, which includes approval of the October 8, 2025 minutes and agreements for use of the Veterans’ Memorial Pool with Eastern Oregon University, Grande Ronde Hospital, La Grande High School Swim Team, Cove High School Swim Team, and the La Grande Swim Club. A public hearing will consider the second reading of an ordinance to rezone a property from Low Density Residential (R‑1) to Rural Residential (RR‑1). The Council will also consider a resolution to annex property at 1801 Russell Avenue and will accept the final plat for MBM Estates Phase 2.

• Approve Consent Agenda items: October 8, 2025 minutes; agreements for Veterans’ Memorial Pool use
• Public hearing – second reading of ordinance to rezone property from R‑1 to RR‑1
• Resolution to annex property at 1801 Russell Avenue (File #03-ANP-25)
• Accept final plat for MBM Estates Phase 2 (29 lots, 32 units, interior street dedication)
• Consider agreements with Eastern Oregon University and local swim teams for pool use

The La Grande City Council accepted the consent agenda, adopted a rezoning ordinance that removes Tax Lot 1803 from the request, and passed a resolution annexing the property at 1801 Russell Avenue and the adjacent north Pine Street right‑of‑way. All actions were voted on and approved during the regular session on November 5, 2025.

• Approved Consent Agenda (5-0-1) – Yes: Rock, Glabe, King, Miesner, Wheeler; Abstain: Dutto
• Adopted rezoning ordinance from R‑1 to RR‑1, removing Tax Lot 1803 (5-0-1) – Yes: Rock, Dutto, Glabe, Miesner, Wheeler; Abstain: King
• Approved annexation resolution for 1801 Russell Avenue and adjacent right‑of‑way (6-0) – Yes: Rock, Dutto, Glabe, King, Miesner, Wheeler

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a street renaming request. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting.

• Public hearing for street renaming from True Avenue to True Loop (File Number: 01-SUB-25), applicant True Construction

The Planning Commission approved its agenda and the consent agenda. It then approved a motion to forward the proposed renaming of True Avenue to True Loop to the City Council for consideration. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved consent agenda for Oct 14, 2025 meeting (all in favor)
• Forwarded True Avenue street renaming to City Council (unanimous)

Urban Renewal Agency

The work session on Oct. 20, 2025 provided an informal forum for staff and agency members to review the current Urban Renewal Plan and to discuss potential revisions to the Call for Projects Grant policy for the 2026 funding cycle. No formal actions or votes were taken; any decisions will be placed on a future regular‑session agenda. Participants were reminded that public comments are not accepted during the work session and that a training session is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2026 for deeper discussion of urban renewal funding and district closure.

• Review of the existing Urban Renewal Plan (adopted 1999, amended through 2013).
• Discussion of Call for Projects Grant policy and possible updates for the 2026 cycle.
• Clarification that the work session does not make decisions or record votes.
• Announcement of a Jan. 12, 2026 training session on urban renewal funding mechanisms.
• Reminder that public comments are directed to the regular session, not this work session.

Arts Commission

The La Grande Arts Commission will approve the agenda and the September 2025 minutes. It will review the council‑approved Strategic Plan and discuss Signal Box Wraps. New business includes consideration of the budget and a SWOT analysis. The meeting also includes a staff report and routine administrative items.

• Approve agenda
• Approve September 2025 minutes
• Review council‑approved Strategic Plan
• Discuss Signal Box Wraps
• Consider budget and SWOT analysis

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September 2025 minutes. No other actions were decided; the discussion focused on concert recaps, the strategic plan adoption by City Council, and signal box updates.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• September 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The La Grande Planning Commission will consider three development applications. A variance request from Scott Bailey will be reviewed. A conditional use permit for Nerd Mentality, Inc. will be considered. A subdivision and variance permit for True Construction will also be heard.

• Variance request – File 02-VAR-25 – Applicant: Scott Bailey
• Conditional use permit – File 02-CUP-25 – Applicant: Nerd Mentality, Inc.
• Subdivision and variance permit – Files 01-SUB-25 & 03-VAR-25 – Applicant: True Construction

Community Landscape & Forestry Commission

The Community Landscape & Forestry Commission will review progress on grants, discuss tree planting events, and consider funding for tree removal. The meeting includes approval of minutes and public comments.

• Approval of September 2025 minutes
• IRA Grant and CGI Grant progress updates
• LMS Tree Planting (Senior Service Day)
• Tree Removal Funding discussion
• GRH/LMS Parking pending business

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda as amended, with all members present voting yes. They also approved the September 5 minutes as presented, again unanimously. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved September 5 minutes as presented (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission will approve the agenda and September 2025 minutes, hear public comments, and review old‑business items including the bike park, pool maintenance closure, and shade canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks. It will also discuss new‑business proposals such as a revegetation plan for Morgan Lake, exercise stations at Riverside Park, a splash‑pad development committee, urban‑forestry projects, and a SWOT analysis.

• Bike Park (old business)
• Pool Maintenance Closure (old business)
• Shade Canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks (old business)
• Morgan Lake Revegetation Plan (new business)
• Exercise Stations at Riverside Park (new business)

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission approved the agenda as presented, with a unanimous vote. The commission also unanimously approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. No other formal actions or votes were recorded at this meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved September 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Landmarks Commission

The La Grande Landmarks Commission will meet on October 9, 2025. The commission will approve the minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting and accept public comments. A public hearing will be held to consider the historical appropriateness of a project submitted by Conklin Properties (File 02-HLA-25). No other specific actions are listed.

• Approve minutes of the July 10, 2025 Landmarks Commission meeting
• Public hearing on Historical Appropriateness – Conklin Properties (File 02-HLA-25)
• Public comments from residents

City Council

The La Grande City Council will consider routine approvals on the Consent Agenda, including several Special Session minutes and a revised fire department ambulance billing agreement. A public hearing will feature the first reading of an ordinance to rezone the Boquist property. New business includes accepting the final plat for MBM Estates Phase 2 and adopting the La Grande Arts Commission Strategic Master Plan.

• Approve Special Session Minutes – June 12 2025
• Approve Special Session Minutes – July 9 2025
• Approve Special Session Minutes – July 14 2025
• Approve Revised Agreement for Fire Department Ambulance Billing Services
• Ordinance – First Reading: Rezoning Property (Boquist)

The council unanimously accepted the amended consent agenda (6‑0). It approved the final plat for MBM Estates Subdivision Phase 2, authorizing its signature and recording (6‑0). The La Grande Arts Commission Strategic Master Plan was adopted with four votes in favor and two abstentions (4‑0‑2). The public hearing on a rezoning request was continued to November 5, 2025.

• Approved amended consent agenda (6-0)
• Approved final plat for MBM Estates Phase 2 (6-0)
• Adopted La Grande Arts Commission Strategic Master Plan (4-0-2)
• Continued rezoning public hearing to Nov 5, 2025 (no vote)

Urban Renewal Agency

The La Grande Urban Renewal Agency will first vote on the consent agenda, which includes approval of the September 3, 2025 regular session minutes. After public comments, the agency will move to new business and consider a proposal to amend the Liberty Theatre Agreement to extend the loan conversion period by three years.

• Approve Consent Agenda – includes September 3, 2025 regular session minutes
• Public Comments – opportunity for residents to address the agency
• Public Hearings – listed on agenda (no specific items noted)
• New Business – consider amending the Liberty Theatre Agreement to extend the loan agreement for three years

The Urban Renewal Agency approved the consent agenda minutes with a 6‑0 vote. It also approved a motion authorizing the District Manager to draft and sign a three‑year extension amendment to the Liberty Theatre loan agreement, also by a 6‑0 vote. No other business was taken.

• Approved consent agenda minutes (6-0)
• Authorized District Manager O’Brien to draft and sign three-year extension amendment to Liberty Theatre loan agreement (6-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission will review summer programs and a pool maintenance closure. The body will also discuss plans for additional park restrooms and shade canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks.

• Shade canopies at Benton and Candy Cane Parks
• Additional park restrooms plan and grant opportunity
• Bike Park old business
• Pool maintenance closure
• Introduction of City Manager John O’Brien

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 5 minutes. After discussion, members reached consensus to move forward with a plan that uses System Development Charges as matching funds for a Land & Water Conservation Funding grant focused on ADA‑accessible park restrooms. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approve agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approve May 5 minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Move forward with additional park restrooms plan using development charges for grant matching (consensus)

Arts Commission

The La Grande Arts Commission will discuss the city’s new strategic plan, including proposals for an outdoor performance venue, mural contracts, and public art spaces. Commissioners will also consider approval of a signal box wrap design. A recap of the recent summer concert will be presented, and the new City Manager will be introduced.

• Introduction of new City Manager John O’Brien
• Strategic Plan Review – outdoor performance venue, mural contracts, public art spaces, festivals
• Signal Box Wrap Design Approval
• Summer Concert Recap

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 2025 minutes as amended. Commissioners reached consensus to present the updated strategic plan to the City Council for approval and staff will place it on the Council agenda for October 8, 2025. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Consensus to add strategic plan to City Council agenda for Oct 8 2025

Community Landscape & Forestry Commission

The Community Landscape & Forestry Commission will meet on September 9, 2025. The agenda includes updates on IRA and CGI grant progress, discussion of commissioner recruitment, and pending items such as tree removal funding and GRH/LMS parking. New business covers planning a Fall Tree Planting Day. Staff reports from the Urban Forester and the Director will also be presented.

• IRA Grant progress update
• CGI Grant progress update
• Commissioner recruitment discussion
• Fall Tree Planting Day planning
• Tree Removal Funding discussion

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 2025 minutes. It decided to postpone filling the vacant commissioner seat until the term ends in December 2025 and to advertise the position with other renewals in January. Fall beautification award nominations were opened with a September 25 deadline, and a Fall Tree Planting Day was set for October 4.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed commissioner recruitment until term ends Dec 2025; will advertise with other renewals in Jan
• Opened fall beautification award nominations; submissions due Sep 25
• Scheduled Fall Tree Planting Day for Oct 4 (first Saturday in October)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a specific zoning request. The body will also consider the approval of minutes from the May 6, 2025 meeting.

• Public hearing for File Number: 01-ZON-25 to change zoning from Residential Low Density to Rural Residential for applicant Paul Swigert

Planning Commission

The La Grande Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a zoning change request submitted by Paul Swigert, seeking to reclassify a parcel from Residential Low Density to Rural Residential (File 01-ZON-25). The commission will also approve the minutes from its May 6, 2025 meeting and address any public comments. No other agenda items are listed.

• Public hearing on zone change from Residential Low Density to Rural Residential (File 01-ZON-25) – applicant Paul Swigert
• Approval of minutes from the May 6, 2025 Planning Commission meeting

City Council

The La Grande City Council will hold a regular session on September 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at La Grande City Hall. The meeting will include routine procedural items such as approving the previous meeting’s minutes and swearing in the City Manager. No substantive decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Approve Regular Session Minutes from August 6, 2025

The council voted 7‑0 to accept the consent agenda, which included the August 6, 2025 regular session minutes. Council members reached consensus to discuss City Manager performance expectations in an executive‑session at the October meeting. No other business was taken up.

• Approved consent agenda (including August 6, 2025 minutes) – vote 7-0
• Agreed to hold City Manager performance expectations discussion in executive session at the October 8, 2025 meeting

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will consider authorizing the sale of property at the La Grande Business and Technology Park and amending the Liberty Theatre Agreement. The body will also seek direction regarding an agreement with Town Square Limited Partnership/Market Place Family Foods.

• Resolution to accept offers and sell property at La Grande Business and Technology Park
• Amendment to the Liberty Theatre Agreement
• Agency direction regarding agreement with Town Square Limited Partnership/Market Place Family Foods

The Urban Renewal Agency approved a resolution authorizing District Manager John O’Brien to accept full‑price offers and sell Agency property in the La Grande Business and Technology Park, repealing Resolution 4820, Series 2022. The agency also approved a motion to draft an amendment to the Liberty Theatre loan agreement for consideration at the October 8, 2025 session. Additionally, the agency authorized the District Manager to terminate the agreement with Town Square Limited Partnership and reconvey the second deed of trust. All three actions were approved unanimously (7‑0).

• Approved resolution authorizing District Manager to accept offers and sell La Grande Business & Technology Park property (7‑0)
• Approved motion to draft amendment to Liberty Theatre loan agreement for October 8, 2025 session (7‑0)
• Approved motion to terminate agreement with Town Square Limited Partnership and reconvey second deed of trust (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda minutes for August 6, 2025 (7‑0)

City Council

The La Grande City Council will hold a work session to informally discuss the System Development Charge (SDC) methodology, which determines fees for new water and park infrastructure. No decisions will be made; this is an information-gathering session with staff and consultants.

• System Development Charge (SDC) methodology discussion with Public Works, Parks, and FCS Group consultants

City Council

The City Council will meet to decide on a subdivision plat and a resolution regarding the use of animals for weed abatement. The body will also consider a grant application for microenterprise assistance and an employment agreement for John O’Brien.

• Final Plat for True Subdivision; Phase 5, File # 01-SUB-24
• Resolution allowing sheep/goats for public weed abatement and fire risk reduction
• Community Development Block Grant application for Microenterprise Assistant
• Agreement between City and EOU for Pioneer Park Baseball and Softball Fields
• Expenditure of Motor Pool Funds for a new Fuel Distribution Management System

The council voted 5-0 to have La Grande serve as the lead applicant for the 2025‑2026 Microenterprise Assistance Community Development Block Grant and authorized Lisa Dawson, the City Manager and the Mayor to sign the necessary documents. The council also voted 5-0 to remove the True Subdivision Phase 5 final plat from the table, deferring that item. Additionally, the consent agenda—including minutes, a park fields agreement, and motor‑pool fund expenditures—was approved unanimously.

• Approved city as lead applicant for Microenterprise CDBG grant and authorized signatures (5-0)
• Removed True Subdivision Phase 5 final plat from the table (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (regular session minutes, park fields agreement, motor‑pool fund expenditure) (5-0)

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will meet to discuss the response to the closure of Market Place Family Foods. The body will also consider approving minutes from June 2025 sessions and hold an executive session regarding current or likely litigation.

• Response to Closure of Market Place Family Foods [Strope]
• Executive session to consult with counsel regarding litigation
• Approval of June 4, 2025 Regular Session Minutes
• Approval of June 30, 2025 Special Session Minutes

City Council

The City Council is holding a special session to review and potentially approve a revised offer letter for City Manager John O’Brien. The proposed terms differ from a previous conditional offer in salary step, bonuses, and allowances.

• Proposed starting salary change from Step 2 to Step 3 on the pay scale
• Removal of proposed six months of deferred compensation and $10,000 relocation allowance
• Proposed $15,000 signing bonus (reimbursable on a prorated basis)
• Net cost to the City in year one is $77 less than the previous conditional offer

The council approved the revised offer letter for John O'Brien as City Manager. The council also authorized Richard Meyers to finalize the employment agreement for later approval at the August 6 regular session. The motion was introduced by Miesner, seconded by Wheeler, and passed unanimously with a 6-0 vote. No other business was taken up.

• Approved revised offer letter for City Manager John O'Brien (vote 6-0)
• Authorized Richard Meyers to finalize employment agreement for City Manager (to be approved Aug 6)

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency is holding a work session to informally discuss specific projects and financial projections. No official decisions or votes will be taken during this meeting.

• Adams Streetscape and Jefferson Redevelopment project discussion
• Maximum indebtedness projection discussion

Landmarks Commission

The Landmarks Commission will hold a public hearing to determine the historical appropriateness of two proposed business signs for Valley Insurance. The body will also consider approving the minutes from its June 12, 2025, meeting.

• Public hearing for File Number 01-HLA-25: Valley Insurance signage at 1215 Adams Avenue
• Proposed 106” x 55.6” edge-lit halo sign with stainless-steel face
• Proposed 91.62” x 48” unlit sign with acrylic lettering
• Approval of June 12, 2025, meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss and potentially approve a preferred candidate and draft offer letter for the City Manager position. If approved, recruiter Richard Meyers will be authorized to negotiate an employment agreement.

• Approval of preferred candidate and offer letter for City Manager

City Council

The City Council is holding a special session to review candidates for the City Manager position. The body will decide whether to approve a preferred candidate and the terms of a draft offer letter or provide further guidance to GMP Consultants on the recruitment process.

• Panel member brief with GMP Consultants
• Executive session to consider employment of a public officer
• Selection of preferred candidate for City Manager position
• Review of terms for City Manager draft offer letter

City Council

The City Council is holding an executive session to conduct interviews for the City Manager position. No final decisions will be made during this session. The public will have an opportunity to comment on the employment of the new City Manager at a future public meeting.

• Interview #1 from 4:45 p.m. to 5:40 p.m.
• Interview #2 from 5:45 p.m. to 6:40 p.m.

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss new business including a subdivision plat and a historic preservation consultant. The body will also consider several consent agenda items related to fire department agreements and sidewalk projects.

• Final Plat for True Subdivision; Phase 5, File # 01-SUB-24
• Bid for Historic Preservation Consultant for La Grande Carnegie Library
• Bid for Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Project
• MOU between City and International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) Local 924
• Appointment of a citizen to the Landmarks Commission

The council voted 4-0 to select Brunzell Historical as the consultant to nominate the La Grande Carnegie Library to the National Register of Historic Places. It also voted 4-0 to table the Final Plat for True Subdivision Phase 5 until the August 6, 2025 meeting. Additionally, the council approved the appointment of Conor Wood to the Landmarks Advisory Commission, also by a 4-0 vote.

• Approved Brunzell Historical as historic preservation consultant (4-0)
• Tabled Final Plat for True Subdivision Phase 5 until Aug 6 2025 (4-0)
• Appointed Conor Wood to Landmarks Advisory Commission (4-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda items, including minutes and award bid (4-0)

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency and Urban Renewal Advisory Commission are meeting to review and decide on funding for projects submitted through the Call for Projects Program. The session includes staff reports on specific project applications and the presentation of project scoring.

• Funding application for Chill Wellness at 101 Fir Street
• Funding application for Hotel Kasbah at 10 Depot Street
• Funding application for Peak Lifestyle at 1118 Adams Avenue
• Funding application for Sac Annex at 105 Fir Street

The Urban Renewal Agency and Advisory Commission discussed four grant applications for the 2025‑2026 Call for Projects program. Staff presented project details and funding requests, and members asked questions about eligibility, project plans, and potential loan conversion. No motions, votes, or approvals were recorded during the session.

City Council

The City Council will meet in a closed executive session to consider the employment of a new City Manager. No final decisions will be made during this session.

• Executive session regarding City Manager employment

City Council

The City Council and Arts Advisory Commission will hold a work session to discuss a draft strategic plan for municipal arts support. This is an informal discussion to exchange ideas; no decisions will be made and no voting will occur.

• Review of goal to build an outdoor performance venue on city-owned land
• Proposal to encourage building owners to contract artists for murals
• Discussion on establishing dedicated spaces for public and rotating art
• Plan to promote annual arts-focused festivals or events downtown
• Review of goals to support unique art projects and wayfinding signage

City Council

The City Council is holding an executive session to interview four candidates for the City Manager position. No final decisions will be made during this session.

• Four candidate interviews
• Stakeholder Panel debrief
• Department Directors Panel debrief

City Council

The City Council is holding a special session to interview candidates and select a preferred candidate for the City Manager position. The Council will vote in open session to approve a preferred candidate and an offer letter.

• Approval of preferred candidate and offer letter for City Manager position
• Authorization for Richard Meyers to negotiate an employment agreement

Landmarks Commission

The commission approved the agenda and the minutes from the December 12, 2024 meeting. Commissioners elected Cassie Hibbert as chair and Tracey Hanshew as vice chair. They voted unanimously to recommend Brunzell Historical as the historic preservation consultant for the La Grande Carnegie Library nomination, to be forwarded to City Council.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec 12 2024 (unanimous)
• Elected Cassie Hibbert as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Tracey Hanshew as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Recommended Brunzell Historical as preservation consultant (unanimous)

Landmarks Commission

The Landmarks Commission will meet to elect its Chair and Vice Chair. The body will also discuss selecting a Historic Preservation Consultant to assist with the National Register of Historic Places nomination for the La Grande Carnegie.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Selection of a Historic Preservation Consultant for the La Grande Carnegie nomination

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the December 12, 2024 meeting. Commissioners elected Cassie Hibbert as Chair and Tracey Hanshew as Vice Chair. They unanimously recommended Brunzell Historical as the historic preservation consultant for the La Grande Carnegie Library National Register nomination.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Cassie Hibbert as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Tracey Hanshew as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Recommended Brunzell Historical as consultant (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss draft amendments to the Land Development Code. These changes aim to align city regulations with state housing statutes. No decisions or voting will occur during this session.

• Proposal to allow Single-Room Occupancy (SRO) buildings in all residential zones
• Proposed change to replace 'family' with 'household' to remove occupancy limits based on familial relationships
• Proposal to shift subdivision preliminary plat approvals from the Planning Commission to the Community Development Director
• Proposed updates to allow both attached and detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Proposed reduction of minimum lot size for manufactured dwelling parks to 1 acre

City Council

The Budget Committee is meeting for the sole purpose of approving the minutes from the City General, Enterprise, and Other Funds Budget Hearings held on May 12 and 13, 2025.

• Approval of City General, Enterprise and Other Funds Budget Hearing Minutes from May 12 and 13, 2025

The council approved the FY 2025‑2026 General Fund, Enterprise and Other Funds budgets and authorized tax levies, with an estimated $150,000 state revenue sharing. The council also adopted the ordinance amending the Comprehensive Plan to include the 2025 Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Analysis. Both actions passed with a 6‑0 vote. The consent agenda items, including minutes and tourism appointments, were also accepted unanimously.

• Accepted Consent Agenda (including minutes, intergovernmental agreement, tourism budget, and advisory appointment) – vote 6‑0
• Adopted Ordinance amending Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion – vote 6‑0
• Adopted FY 2025‑2026 General Fund, Enterprise and Other Funds budgets and levied taxes – vote 6‑0
• Adopted resolution to receive $150,000 state revenue sharing – vote 6‑0

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings to adopt the FY 2025-2026 budget, make appropriations, and levy taxes. The body will also consider a second reading of the Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Report.

• Resolutions for FY 2025-2026 budget, appropriations, and tax levies
• Ordinance for second reading: Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Report
• Annexation of property at 315 S 20th Street (File #01-ANP-25)
• Annexation of property at 309 S 20th Street (File #02-ANP-25)
• Awarding of bid for concrete repair projects

Urban Renewal Agency

The committee is meeting for the sole purpose of approving the minutes from the May 12, 2025, Urban Renewal District Budget Hearing. Following this action, the committee will adjourn to the City of La Grande Budget Committee regular session.

• Approval of Urban Renewal District Budget Hearing Minutes from May 12, 2025

The agency approved the March 5, 2025 regular session minutes with a unanimous 6‑0 vote. No public comments, hearings, or new business were presented. The meeting was then adjourned to an executive session.

• Approved March 5, 2025 regular session minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting to executive session (no vote recorded)

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will hold a public hearing to adopt the budget and make appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026. The body is also considering several intergovernmental and partnership agreements.

• Public hearing for Resolution adopting Budget and Appropriations for Fiscal Year 2025-2026
• Acceptance of FY 2025-2026 'Exhibit A' Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of La Grande totaling $437,938
• Proposed 3-year Memorandum of Agreement with La Grande Main Street Downtown increasing annual funding from $25,000 to $40,000
• Approval of Regular Session Minutes from April 2, 2025

City Council

The La Grande City Council will hold an executive session closed to the public to consider the employment of a new City Manager. No final decisions will be made during this session. The next regular session is scheduled for June 4, 2025.

• Executive session under ORS 192.660(2)(a) to discuss hiring a new City Manager
• Session closed to the public; media may be present with restrictions
• No final decisions will be made at this session

City Council

The Budget Committee will hold public hearings and deliberate on the proposed FY 2025-2026 budgets for the General Fund, Enterprise, and Other Funds. The committee is expected to vote on closing the hearings, imposing a General Fund property tax rate of 7.4392 per $1,000 of assessed value, and forwarding the approved budgets to the City Council for final adoption on June 4, 2025.

• Proposed General Fund property tax rate of 7.4392 per $1,000 of assessed value for FY 2025-2026
• Public hearings on proposed 2025-2026 budgets and State Revenue Sharing remain open until hearings close
• Motion to close the General Fund hearing and approve that budget as presented or amended
• Motion to approve Enterprise and Other Funds budgets as presented or amended
• Budgets to be forwarded to City Council for adoption at the June 4, 2025 regular session

City Council

The Budget Committee will hold public hearings and deliberate on the proposed 2025-2026 budgets for the General Fund, Enterprise Funds, and Other Funds. A required motion would close the General Fund hearing and approve a property tax rate of 7.4392 per $1,000 of assessed value. The committee will also review specific funds including Building Inspection, 9-1-1 Emergency, Water, Sewer, Streets, and Storm Utility. Final budgets are to be forwarded to the City Council for adoption on June 4, 2025.

• Proposed ad valorem property tax rate of $7.4392 per $1,000 assessed value for the General Fund
• Public hearings remain open for the 2025-2026 budgets and State Revenue Sharing
• Review of Building Inspection and 9-1-1 Emergency Funds
• Review of Public Works funds: Water, Sewer, Street & Road, Storm Utility, Motor Pool
• Approval motions for both General Fund and Enterprise/Other Funds budgets

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal District Budget Committee will hold a public hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2025-2026 budget, hear a budget message from the district manager, and consider a motion to certify $44,604,028 in increment value and approve the budget. The approved budget will be forwarded to the Urban Renewal Agency for adoption at its regular session on June 4, 2025.

• Public hearing on proposed Urban Renewal District budget for FY 2025-2026
• Budget message and PowerPoint presentation by Robert A. Strope, Urban Renewal District Manager/Budget Officer
• Motion to certify $44,604,028 in increment value for tax division and approve the budget as presented
• Election of committee chair

The committee voted to approve the Urban Renewal District budget for fiscal year 2025‑26 as presented and to certify a $44,604,028 increment value to the County. The motion passed with a 10‑0‑1 vote (yes: Bachman, Barber, Clements, Dutto, Glabe, King, Lillard, Miesner, Rock, Wheeler; abstained: Smith). Earlier, Mat Barber was unanimously elected chair of the committee.

• Mat Barber elected Chair of the Urban Renewal Budget Committee (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2025‑26 Urban Renewal District budget as presented
• Certified $44,604,028 increment value to the County
• Motion adopted with vote 10‑0‑1 (abstain: Toni Smith)
• No public comments were received

City Council

The Budget Committee is meeting to organize its leadership and begin reviewing proposed budgets for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The committee will hear budget reviews for the General Fund, Building Inspection, and 9-1-1 Emergency funds. Public testimony on the budgets and state revenue sharing will be accepted starting May 13, 2025.

• Election of Budget Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of General Fund budgets for Police, Fire/EMS, and Library
• Review of Building Inspection and Building Inspection Reserve Fund
• Review of 9-1-1 Emergency Fund
• Review of Water, Sewer, and Storm Utility funds

Budget Committee

The La Grande Budget Committee approved the agenda with no changes. Steve Clements was elected chair and Toni Smith was elected vice chair, both unanimously. Mayor Rock disclosed a potential conflict of interest but remained eligible to vote on the General Fund Budget. No vote on the proposed budget was recorded.

• Agenda approved (no additions or changes)
• Steve Clements elected Chair (unanimous)
• Toni Smith elected Vice Chair (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a first reading of an ordinance to adopt the Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Report. The body will also consider a city attorney services contract and an agreement with the Oregon Department of Transportation.

• Public hearing: Ordinance for Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Report
• Contract: City Attorney Services with Baum Smith LLC
• Intergovernmental Agreement: City and Oregon Department of Transportation

The council accepted the consent agenda as amended with a unanimous 7‑0 vote. It postponed the public hearing on the 2025 Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion report to June 4, 2025. The council also authorized the City Manager to extend the contract with Baum Smith LLC as City Attorney, approving the rate increase with a 7‑0 vote.

• Accepted consent agenda (regular session minutes and intergovernmental agreement) – vote 7-0
• Postponed public hearing on Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary Expansion to June 4, 2025 – no vote recorded
• Authorized City Manager to extend City Attorney contract with Baum Smith LLC at increased rates – vote 7-0

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a special session to consider a revision to a subdivision plat. The body will review a proposal to change a triplex lot into five separate lots, increasing the total subdivision from 12 to 16 lots.

• Public hearing for subdivision plat revision (File Number: 01-SUB-24) for applicant Anthony Magee (True Construction)

City Council

Council will discuss a proposal to partner with R3 Strategies to develop water and sewer infrastructure for the 148-lot Tesia Marie Estates subdivision, aimed at addressing La Grande's housing shortage. No formal action will be taken, but staff seeks council's agreement to proceed with feasibility work.

• Discussion of Eastside Housing Water and Sewer Infrastructure Project
• Proposal to work with R3 Strategies for Tesia Marie Estates (148 lots)
• Memo from R3 outlines services including readiness assessment, concept development, and funding strategy
• Previous R3 contribution of $560,000 to True Subdivision in La Grande
• Bill in Oregon Legislature could provide additional funds for R3 projects

City Council

The La Grande City Council and Urban Renewal Agency will hold a joint work session to discuss two annual reports: from La Grande Main Street Downtown (LGMSD) and the Union County Chamber Tourism Promotion. No decisions or votes will be taken. The LGMSD report highlights $400,000 in revitalization grants and a request to increase city funding from $25,000 to $40,000.

• LGMSD annual report presentation, including request to increase city contribution from $25,000 to $40,000
• $400,000 in Main Street Revitalization Grants administered for Bohnenkamp and Evermine buildings
• Facade grants totaling $38,414, supporting $92,093 in total project investment
• Union County Chamber Tourism Promotion annual report and tourism budget proposal
• LGMSD achieved National Accreditation through Main Street America in 2024

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two items: a conditional use permit for a specialty landscape business (Alpine Works Landscaping) and a recommendation to approve a Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary expansion. They will also consider approving the minutes from the February 11, 2025 meeting. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Public hearing on Conditional Use Permit (File 01-CUP-25) for a specialty landscape business by Sean Burton (Alpine Works Landscaping)
• Public hearing on proposed Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary expansion recommendation (File 01-CPA-25) for approval
• Consent agenda: approval of February 11, 2025 meeting minutes

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a motion to amend the draft decision order to add Goal 10 to the Comprehensive Plan Amendment and to forward the amendment to the City Council. The commission also unanimously approved an amendment to the conditional use permit decision order, adding ODOT comments and reducing the required parking to five standard spaces plus one ADA space. The agenda and consent agenda were approved as presented. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Agenda approved as presented
• Consent agenda approved unanimously
• Amended Draft Decision Order to include Goal 10 and forward Comprehensive Plan Amendment to City Council (unanimous)
• Amended Decision Order to add ODOT comments and reduce parking requirement to 5 standard + 1 ADA space (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a second reading for an ordinance updating the Transient Lodging Tax code. The body will also discuss parking and towing fee amendments and the allocation of funds for a new Public Works Collections Superintendent position.

• Second reading of Transient Lodging Tax City Code update
• Resolution to amend parking, towing, and parking permit fees
• Awarding of contracts for General and RV Towing Services
• Reallocating funds for a new Public Works Collections Superintendent position
• Intergovernmental Agreement with the County for Riveria School reservation management

The council approved the Consent Agenda, including the March 5, 2025 minutes and an intergovernmental agreement, with a 6‑0 vote. The council then adopted the Ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 34, Article II (Transient Room Tax) after a second reading, also by a 6‑0 vote. The ordinance updates collection rules for short‑term rental platforms, adds exemptions for state and federal employees, and does not change the tax rate.

• Approved Consent Agenda (minutes and intergovernmental agreement) – vote 6-0
• Adopted Ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 34, Article II (Transient Room Tax) – vote 6-0

Arts Commission

The La Grande Arts Commission voted unanimously to participate in the 2025 Union County Fair, allocating up to $150 for booth rental and supplies. The commission also discussed plans for the Arts for All event on April 26 and reviewed updates on the strategic plan and regional high school awards.

• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved February 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved participation in 2025 Union County Fair with up to $150 for booth rental and supplies (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session immediately following the Urban Renewal Agency regular session. The only agenda item is a discussion on expectations for the city manager search, facilitated by Senior Municipal Consultant Richard Meyers of GMP Consultants. No formal decisions or votes will occur; the session is for informal discussion only.

• City manager search expectations discussion with GMP Consultants consultant Richard Meyers

The La Grande City Council approved a resolution amending Veterans' Memorial Pool fees to allow promotional pricing and membership agreements with local businesses, without increasing base fees. The council also held a first reading of an ordinance updating the transient lodging tax to include online platforms, continuing the public hearing to April 2, 2025. The consent agenda, including sewer rehabilitation bid and city manager search agreement, was approved unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda including sewer rehabilitation bid and city manager search agreement (5-0)
• Approved resolution amending pool fees to allow promotions and partnerships (5-0)
• Continued transient lodging tax ordinance hearing to April 2, 2025

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to review a list of high-priority and desirable attributes for the next city manager, as recommended by department directors. The memo covers essential skills such as budgeting, urban renewal, and union negotiations, as well as desirable traits like communication and public safety commitment. Additionally, staff will recommend an informal tour and meeting with directors as part of the interview process for finalists.

• High-priority attributes include municipal budgeting, urban renewal understanding, HR and union negotiations, and high integrity
• Desirable attributes cover community development, economic development, communication, public safety support, and training
• Staff recommends finalists have an informal department tour and meeting with directors to assess character and fit

City Council

The La Grande City Council will hold a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance updating the transient lodging tax code, and consider new business on a resolution amending pool user fees. Under the consent agenda, the council will vote on awarding a bid for sanitary sewer rehabilitation and approving an agreement with GMP Consultants for a city manager search. The meeting also includes approval of February session minutes.

• First reading of ordinance updating transient lodging tax city code
• Awarding bid for sanitary sewer rehabilitation
• Approving agreement with GMP Consultants for city manager search
• Resolution approving amended pool user fees
• Approval of regular session minutes from February 5, 2025

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will consider appointing Tammy Gordon as a voting member of the Site Plan and Architectural Review Committee for the La Grande Business and Technology Park. The agency will also approve the minutes from its February 5, 2025 regular session.

• Consider appointing Tammy Gordon as a voting member of the Site Plan and Architectural Review Committee for the La Grande Business and Technology Park
• Approve regular session minutes from February 5, 2025

The Urban Renewal Agency unanimously approved the consent agenda and appointed property owner Tammy Gordon as a voting member of the Site Plan and Architectural Review Committee for the La Grande Business & Technology Park. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included only staff comments and a brief discussion about the Hampton Inn's opening.

• Approved consent agenda including February 5, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Appointed Tammy Gordon as voting member of Site Plan and Architectural Review Committee (5-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission unanimously approved directing staff to request $60,000 for reserve accounts and $82,500 for capital outlay in the upcoming fiscal year budget. The request includes funds for pool deck replacement, a new mower, and reserves for a future playground and pool air handler. The commission also discussed the Riverside Playground construction, noting a need for more volunteers and confirmed donations of fencing and lifts.

• Approved budget request of $60,000 for reserve accounts and $82,500 for capital outlay (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved January 2025 minutes as presented (unanimous)

Arts Commission

The La Grande Arts Commission selected student artwork for signal box wraps, tabled the strategic plan update until a later meeting, and decided not to request general fund funding for summer concerts but encouraged increasing the per-show budget to at least $200. The meeting was procedural with no formal votes on these items, as they were handled by consensus.

• Selected student art for signal box wraps by consensus
• Tabled strategic plan update until Evie is present
• Decided not to request general fund funding for summer concerts
• Encouraged increasing summer concert budget to at least $200 per show

Planning Commission

The La Grande Planning Commission will consider a code interpretation allowing conversion of commercial uses to residential at 1211 and 1215 Washington Avenue. The commission will also elect a chair and vice chair and vote on approval of minutes from the October 8, 2024, meeting.

• Interpretation of city code for conversion of commercial to residential at 1211 & 1215 Washington Avenue, applicant Lannce Colburn for Michael McQueen
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair for the commission
• Approval of minutes from the October 8, 2024, regular session

The Commission unanimously approved a request to interpret City Code so that Washington Avenue is not considered a 'street front' for the building at 1211 & 1215 Washington, allowing the applicant to convert the ground-floor commercial space to 100% residential without a conditional use permit or variance. The Commission also re-elected Liberty Avila as Chair and Dave Felley as Vice Chair, and approved the consent agenda with minor amendments.

• Approved interpretation that Washington Avenue is not a 'street front' for 1211 & 1215 Washington (unanimous)
• Re-elected Liberty Avila as Chair and Dave Felley as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda with minor amendments to October 8, 2024 minutes (4 in favor, 1 abstention)

Community Landscape & Forestry Commission

The commission approved a $363,434 IRA grant to fund a full-time outreach coordinator, tree canopy evaluation and planting in underserved neighborhoods, and tree maintenance. It also directed staff to add $7,000 to the Urban Forestry budget for a 3-year park tree pruning rotation. Steve Clements was elected chairperson; vice-chair nominations were tabled due to an absence.

• Approved $363,434 IRA grant for tree canopy work (unanimous)
• Directed staff to include $7,000 for 3-year park tree pruning rotation (unanimous)
• Elected Steve Clements as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Tabled vice-chair nominations due to member absence

City Council

The City Council is holding a work session to informally discuss topics and exchange ideas with staff. The primary focus of the meeting is the interview of professional search firms for a new City Manager. No official decisions or voting will occur during this session.

• Interviews of professional search firms for City Manager search

Urban Renewal Agency

The Urban Renewal Agency will consider adopting the retreat summary and City/District Manager's top priorities for fiscal year 2025-2026, discussed at the January 28, 2025 goal-setting retreat. The agency will also consider appointing a citizen to the Urban Renewal Advisory Commission. Consent agenda includes approving December 4, 2024 meeting minutes.

• Consider adopting retreat summary and City/District Manager's top priorities for FY 2025-2026
• Consider appointing a citizen to the Urban Renewal Advisory Commission
• Approve December 4, 2024 regular session minutes as consent agenda item

The Urban Renewal Agency unanimously adopted the City/District Manager's Top Priorities for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, as discussed at the January 28, 2025 retreat. The agency also unanimously appointed Josh Bachman to the Urban Renewal Advisory Commission for a three-year term expiring December 31, 2027. The consent agenda, including the December 4, 2024 minutes, was approved 6-0. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Adopted City/District Manager's Top Priorities for FY 2025-2026 (6-0)
• Appointed Josh Bachman to Urban Renewal Advisory Commission for 3-year term (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including December 4, 2024 minutes (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss increasing refuse collection fees for Waste Pro and authorizing a supplemental budget for the FY 24-25 Grants and Donations Fund. The body will also consider adopting priorities for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and appointing citizens to committees.

• Resolution to increase refuse collection fees for Waste Pro
• Supplemental budget and appropriation of funds for FY 24-25 Grants and Donations Fund
• Adoption of Retreat Summary and City/District Manager’s Top Priorities for FY 2025-2026
• Approval of citizens to various committees and commissions
• Interim City Manager designation for a temporary time frame

The City Council approved a 2.7% increase in refuse collection fees for Waste Pro, effective March 1, 2025, via Resolution 4868. They also approved a supplemental budget transfer of $116,775 within the Grants and Donations Fund to correct an accounting error, adopted the City/District Manager's top priorities for FY 2025-2026, and appointed citizens to committees. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved 2.7% refuse fee increase for Waste Pro (6-0)
• Approved supplemental budget transferring $116,775 to Interfund Transfers (6-0)
• Adopted City/District Manager's Top Priorities for FY 2025-2026 (6-0)
• Appointed Josh Bachman and Mat Barber to Budget Committee (6-0)
• Appointed Rod Muilenburg to Landmarks Advisory Commission (6-0)

Urban Renewal Agency

The City Council and Urban Renewal Agency are meeting for an annual retreat to establish goals and priorities for the 2025-2026 fiscal year budget. No formal decisions are made during the retreat; instead, the body provides direction to staff for adoption at the February 5, 2025, regular sessions.

• Proposed $1,275,000 total budget for Call for Projects, Traded Sector/Business Park, and Agency Initiated programs
• Discussion of increasing annual funding for La Grande Main Street Downtown from $25,000 to at least $40,000
• Report on Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary expansion efforts noting no willing landowners for expansion
• Mention of a $50,000 Business Oregon ROI Grant for a local Entrepreneur Ecosystem and potential shared commercial kitchen
• Review of priority industry sectors including Recreational Manufacturing, Timber, E-Commerce, and small-scale manufacturing

City Council

This is a work session, not a decision-making meeting. The council will exchange ideas with staff to establish goals and the city manager’s priorities for the 2025-26 budget. Discussions include five-year general fund projections showing a potential shortfall, a proposed urban renewal under-levy to redirect funds to the general fund, staffing transitions (fire chief, city manager, urban forester retirements), infrastructure projects (pool deck replacement at $90,000), and options for extending water/sewer lines to support east-side housing development.

• General fund projections show a worst-case ending cash shortfall of $1,127,765 by 2029, versus a surplus of $5,774,187 under a reduced-expenditure scenario.
• Council guidance sought on continuing the urban renewal under-levy (assumed $375,000 in projections; $574,008 retained in FY24-25) to offset general fund expenses.
• Key staff retirements: Fire Chief (replacement search underway), City Manager (retiring fall 2025, recruitment firm being selected), Urban Forester (retiring, overlap funding requested).
• Parks & Recreation plans a $90,000 pool deck replacement and a splash pad remodel as the next capital improvement priority.
• Housing discussion focuses on three options for the East Side Water and Sewer Infrastructure Project, with the city manager recommending the city pay 100% of extension costs in exchange for a developer commitment.

City Council

The City Council is holding a work session to discuss updates regarding Goal 14. This session is for informal discussion and information exchange; no official decisions or votes will be made.

• Discussion of Goal 14 Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion conclusions
• Review of expansion study areas and priorities
• Discussion of utility requirements and recommended areas
• Review of traffic study areas and impacts
• Presentation of community engagement data from June 2024

Landmarks Commission

The Landmarks Commission is holding a work session to informally discuss a SHPO certified local grant opportunity. No official decisions or votes will be taken during this meeting.

• Discussion of SHPO certified local grant opportunity

City Council

The City Council will hold a second reading and public hearing on an ordinance to annex 17 properties within the urban growth boundary. The council will also consider a resolution updating administrative fees and enforcement penalties. Other business includes approving the final plat for the True Subdivision, electing a Mayor Pro Tem, making committee assignments, and appointing citizens to commissions. The consent agenda includes ratifying an agreement with Prothman Company for a fire chief search and authorizing an audit corrective plan letter.

• Consider: Ordinances; Second Reading: Annexing 17 Properties, File Number 03-ANP-24
• Consider: Resolution; Updating Administrative Fees and Enforcement Penalties
• Consider: Approving Final Plat for True Subdivision, Phases 1-4; File # 01-SUB-24
• Consider: Ratifying Agreement with Prothman Company for Fire Chief Search
• Consider: Appeal of Landmarks Commission’s Decision; Appliances & More

The City Council voted 2-4 to deny the second reading and adoption of ordinances annexing 17 properties in four areas (File Number 03-ANP-24). The motion failed, meaning the annexation was not approved. The council also granted an appeal overturning the Landmarks Commission's decision regarding Appliances & More, allowing removal of historic transom windows based on a structural engineer's report.

• Denied annexation of 17 UGB properties, Areas 1-4 (2-4)
• Granted appeal, overturning Landmarks Commission decision for Appliances & More (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including Prothman Company fire chief search agreement (5-0)
• Elected Mary Ann Miesner as Mayor Pro Tem (6-0)
• Approved final plat for True Subdivision, Phases 1-4 (5-0-1)
• Adopted Resolution 4867 updating administrative fees and enforcement penalties (6-0)
• Appointed citizens to multiple committees and commissions (6-0 each)

City Council

The City Council and Urban Renewal Agency are holding a work session to discuss audits for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. No official decisions or votes will be taken during this session.

• City of La Grande Audit, FY 2023-2024
• Urban Renewal Agency Audit, FY 2023-2024