Independence, OR
Recent Independence City Council topics include budget & taxes, planning & zoning, roads & infrastructure, housing, resolutions & ordinances, development projects.
Topics found in recent meetings
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IndependenceOR averageUS Census ACS
Typical home value $430,520 +2.2% yr/yr · +19.7% 5-yr
Home-value trend 2000–2026 (Zillow ZHVI)
👤 Members & officials (27)
Members seen in recent official meeting records — names and roles as published.
Who’s on the City Council
- Evan Sorce — Councilmember
- Dawn Roden — Councilmember
- Bill Boisvert — Councilmember
- Shannon Corr — Councilmember
- Marilyn Morton — Councilmember
Who’s on the Historic Preservation Commission
- Anne Devane — Commissioner
- Catherine Underwood-Bush — Commissioner
- Kevin Kryger — Commissioner
- Liz Boisvert — Commissioner
- Miranda Garrison — Commissioner
- Willis Homann — Commissioner
Who’s on the Library Board
- Bill Boisvert
- Bradley Karkanen
- Diana Lindskog
- Kevin Hamlin
- Margie Johnson
- Nathan Christensen
- Patrick Bodily
- Tristin Thomas
- Vickie McCubbin
Who’s on the Planning Commission
- Alex Paraskevas — Commissioner
- John Southgate — Commissioner
- Jose Oliveros — Commissioner
- Patrick Fugeman — Commissioner
- Rebecca Jay — Commissioner
- Sally Coen — Commissioner
Who’s on the Urban Renewal Agency
- Evan Sorce — Councilmember
Upcoming
📅 Subscribe to Independence meetings — new meetings appear in your calendar automatically
Wed Sep 9, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Mon Sep 14, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Sep 14, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Thu Sep 17, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Tue Sep 22, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Sep 28, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Sep 28, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Oct 5, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Oct 12, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Oct 14, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Oct 15, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Oct 26, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Oct 26, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Oct 27, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Nov 2, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Nov 9, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Nov 11, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Nov 19, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Nov 23, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Nov 23, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Nov 24, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Dec 7, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Dec 9, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Mon Dec 14, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Thu Dec 17, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Tue Dec 22, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Dec 28, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Dec 28, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Jan 4, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Jan 11, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Jan 13, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Jan 21, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Jan 25, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Jan 25, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Jan 26, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Feb 1, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Feb 8, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Feb 10, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Feb 18, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Feb 22, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Feb 22, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Feb 23, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Mar 1, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Mar 8, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Mar 10, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Mar 18, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Mar 22, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Mar 22, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Mar 23, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Apr 5, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Apr 12, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Apr 14, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Apr 15, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Apr 26, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Apr 26, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Apr 27, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon May 3, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon May 10, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed May 12, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu May 20, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon May 24, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon May 24, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue May 25, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Jun 7, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Jun 9, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Mon Jun 14, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Thu Jun 17, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Tue Jun 22, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Jun 28, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Jun 28, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Jul 5, 2027 · 19:00
Planning Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Jul 12, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Jul 14, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Jul 15, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Jul 26, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Jul 26, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Tue Jul 27, 2027 · 18:30
City Council
City Hall - Council Chambers
Mon Aug 9, 2027 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
City Hall - Council Chambers
Wed Aug 11, 2027 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Meeting Room
Thu Aug 19, 2027 · 18:00
Parks Board
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Aug 23, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Aug 23, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Mon Sep 27, 2027 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Public Library
Recent meetings
Tue Aug 25, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to hear grants, urban renewal, finance updates
This is a work session with no public comment or decisions. The council will receive reports on grants, an explanation of how urban renewal areas work, and a finance update.
- Grants Report presented by Irvine
- Presentation on how a URA (Urban Renewal Area) works
- Finance Update by Carey
grantsurban-renewalfinancecity-councilwork-session
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Work Session Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, August 25, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1.
Call to Order
2.
Roll Call
3.
Reports/Presentations
3.1.
Grants Report (Irvine)
3.2.
Understanding Urban Renewal: How a URA Works (Irvine)
3.3.
Finance Update (Carey)
4.
Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The City Council will hold this work session in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube channel
at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83474893242?pwd=7WvrQBnyquOK9hAj0wpHXH3BOaeRrh.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
834 7489 3242 and Passcode: 340184
Please Note: Public comments are not accepted during work sessions. Any written public
comments received will be included in the agenda packet for the next regular meeting. Written
comments may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
CouncilComments@ci.independence.or.us.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meetin …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Aug 24, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Library Board August meeting canceled
The August 24, 2026 meeting of the Independence Library Board has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2026. No business items are on the agenda.
- Meeting canceled
librarymeeting-canceled
Independence Public Library
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Canceled
Library Board
Monday, August 24, 2026 @ 5:00 PM
1.
Meeting Canceled
The August 24, 2026 meeting of the Independence Library Board has been canceled.
The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2026.
Thu Aug 20, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Parks Board to hear park closure update, meet new public works director
The Independence Parks Board will hold its regular meeting, including approval of minutes from February 19, 2026, and an introduction of Public Works Director Dustin Lueckenotte. The main substantive item is an update on park closures under New Business. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no other decisions or discussions listed.
- Park Closure Update (New Business)
- Introduction of Public Works Director Dustin Lueckenotte
- Approval of minutes from 02/19/2026 regular meeting
parkspublic-worksmeeting-minutespark-closure
Event Center-Heritage Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Parks Board
Thursday, August 20, 2026 @ 6:00 PM
Event Center-Heritage Room
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1.
Call to Order
2.
Roll Call
3.
Minutes
3.1.
Regular Meeting 02/19/2026
4.
Visitors/Public Comment
5.
Reports/Presentations
5.1.
Introduction: Public Works Director Dustin Lueckenotte
6.
Unfinished Business
7.
New Business
7.1.
Park Closure Update
8.
Other Discussion/Information Items
9.
Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Parks Board will hold this meeting in-person in the Event Center at City Hall, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St
●
For Zoom login
visit: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87524692965?pwd=0wrMUBaqeD9be6QewLzk6zTE1CGbGr.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID: 875
2469 2965 and Passcode: 690577.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
Wed Aug 12, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Advisory Board to discuss referendum process and board duties
The Museum Advisory Board will hold a regular meeting with items including a tribute to Marilyn Morton, approval of prior minutes, and staff reports. New business includes a discussion on the referendum process and board responsibilities. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.
- Tribute to Marilyn Morton
- Discussion on Referendum Process
- Board Responsibilities Discussion
- HMS Update
museumadvisory-boardpublic-meetingreferendumboard-responsibilities
Museum Meeting Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Museum Advisory Board
Wednesday, August 12, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Museum Meeting Room
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Tribute to Marilyn Morton
4. Minutes
4.1. Regular Meeting 06/10/2026
5. Visitors/Public Comment
6. Staff Report
7. HMS Update
8. Unfinished Business
9. New Business
9.1. Discussion on Referendum Process
9.2. Board Responsibilities Discussion
10. Other Discussion/Information Items
11. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Museum Advisory Board will hold this meeting in-person at the Heritage Museum, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone.
● To attend in person, the Museum address is 281 2nd Street, Independence, OR 97351.
● For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89653601771?pwd=mSmlAJDFa0rgBKUa7p6Ipi5aSVlO5g.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
857 8301 9029 and Passcode: 461616
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
Tue Aug 11, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to hold public hearing on proposed closure of Independence Library (West)
The Independence City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed closure of the City of Independence Library (West), followed by an executive session on real property negotiations and potential action. The council will also consider a proclamation honoring the late Councilor Marilyn Morton and hear a presentation from the Independence Downtown Association.
- Public hearing on proposed closure of City of Independence Library (West)
- Executive session on real property negotiations (ORS 192.660(2)(e))
- Potential action from executive session on real estate negotiation (West)
- Proclamation honoring life, service, and legacy of Councilor Marilyn Morton
- Presentation by Cindy Wilson, Independence Downtown Association President
librarypublic-hearingreal-estateproclamationdowntown
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Regular Meeting Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 07/14/2026
3.2. Work Session 07/28/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
5.1. Mayor
5.2. Council Liaison Reports
5.2.1. Library Board: Councilor Boisvert
5.2.2. Continuum of Care: Councilor Martin-Willis
5.3. City Manager
5.4. Presentation: Cindy Wilson, Independence Downtown Association President
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. A Proclamation of the City Council of the City of Independence Honoring the
Life, Service, and Legacy of Councilor Marilyn Morton (Mayor Schwarzler)
7.2. Public Hearing: Regarding the proposed closure of the City of Independence
Library (West)
7.3. Executive Session, 3rd Floor Conference Room Pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(e)
to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to
negotiate real property transactions.
7.4. Potential Action from Executive Session: Real Estate Negotiation (West)
8. Council Announcements
9. General Information
9.1. Management Team Notes
9.1.1. 07/16/2026
9.1.2. 07/30/2026
9.2. Miscellaneous Correspondence. Any communications received after publication
of the agenda packet, but before 3:00 pm the date of the meeting, will be
provided to Council at the meeting and will become a p …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Aug 10, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
Commission to discuss application review process
The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a regular meeting with routine items including approval of previous minutes and public comment. The main item is a discussion of the application review process under new business. No votes or decisions are scheduled.
- Discussion of application review process
historic-preservationcommission-meetingprocedural
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Historic Preservation Commission
Monday, August 10, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 07/13/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Staff Reports/Presentations - Other
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Discussion - Application Review Process
8. Other Discussion/Information Items
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Historic Preservation Commission will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall Council
Chambers, via video conference (Zoom) or by phone.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86193105640?pwd=6TSvHQNqoSNuVpOmSa7TkZXLqGRvyG.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID: 861
9310 5640 and Passcode: 220230
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
PlanningComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY: 800-
735-2900.
Tue Aug 4, 2026 · 17:00
Community Services & Parks Sustainability Committee
Event Center-Heritage Room
Mon Aug 3, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
Planning Commission to hold hearing on park and open space requirements
The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding park and open space dedication requirements. The body will also discuss potential changes to building height requirements and recent legislation.
- Public hearing: Park and Open Space Dedication Requirements
- Discussion: Potential changes to building height requirements
- Discussion: Recent legislation
zoningparksbuilding-codesland-use
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Planning Commission
Monday, August 3, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 06/15/2026
3.2. Walking Tour 07/06/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Public Hearing: Park and Open Space Dedication Requirements
7.2. Discussion: Potential Changes to Building Height Requirements
7.3. Discussion: Recent Legislation
8. Other Discussion/Information Items
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Planning Commission will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via
video conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube
channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83546322322?pwd=cSIAbnaH5dCkbWKeJZ1brWyQRIESg0.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
835 4632 2322 and Passcode: 186023
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
PlanningComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for oth …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Thu Jul 30, 2026 · 14:00
General
City holds retirement event for Jeff Kennedy
This agenda is purely ceremonial: the City is hosting a retirement event for Jeff Kennedy. No decisions will be made, though a quorum of the City Council may be present.
retirementcity-employees
Event Center
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Special Event
Event Center, City Hall
Thursday, July 30, 2026 @ 2:00 PM
1. Join Us in Celebrating Jeff Kennedy's Retirement
The City will hold a retirement event for Jeff Kennedy on Thursday, July 30, 2026, from
2:00-4:00 pm in the Event Center at City Hall. The Mayor and some City Councilors
may attend, and a quorum may be present, but no decisions will be made.
Tue Jul 28, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Council to receive update on potential closure of library, museum, and parks
The City Council is holding a work session to receive a report regarding the potential closure of the library, museum, and parks. No public comments are accepted during this session.
- Update on potential closure of library, museum, and parks
librarymuseumparkspublic-services
✓ Decided: Council plans for possible closure of library, museum, parks
The City Council held a work session to review a draft contingency plan for closing the library, Heritage Museum, and parks if a referendum on the Community Services and Parks fee qualifies for the ballot. No closure decisions were made; the session focused on statutory, operational, and financial requirements. Council requested additional cost and timeline information and continued public communication.
- Reviewed draft operational closure checklist for library, museum, and parks (no vote)
- Discussed statutory process for library closure under Oregon law
- Requested additional information on costs of keeping parks open for scheduled activities
- Requested additional financial information and clarification on closure timelines
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Work Session Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, July 28, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Reports/Presentations
3.1. Update on Potential Closure of Library, Museum, and Parks
4. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The City Council will hold this work session in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube channel
at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83037470429?pwd=COaKflURL2EZVuRGWR4mJwJrVofFSG.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID: 830
3747 0429 and Passcode: 343167
Please Note: Public comments are not accepted during work sessions. Any written public
comments received will be included in the agenda packet for the next regular meeting. Written
comments may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
CouncilComments@ci.independence.or.us.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
City Council Meeting
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
1.
Call to Order. Mayor Schwarzler called the work session to order at 6:30 PM.
2.
Roll Call. Mayor Schwarzler present.
Present:
Councilor Dawn Roden
Councilor Bill Boisvert
Councilor/Council President Kathy Martin-Willis
Councilor Shannon Corr
Absent:
Councilor Evan Sorce, excused
City Staff
Present:
Kenna West, City Manager
Myra Russell, City Recorder
Juventino Banuelos, Police Chief
Patrick Bodily, Library Director
Amy Christensen, Museum Director
3.
Reports/Presentations.
3.1.
Update on Potential Closure of Library, Museum, and Parks.
The Mayor recognized the passing of City Councilor Marilyn Morton and
honored her nearly 25 years of dedicated service to the City of Independence.
The Mayor highlighted her leadership, volunteerism, commitment to preserving
local history, and lasting impact on the community, then invited those present to
observe a moment of silence in her memory.
Overview
City Manager West presented a draft operational closure checklist to prepare for
the possibility that the referendum on the Community Services and Parks fee
qualifies for the ballot. The work session focused on contingency planning rather
than a decision to close facilities. CM West explained that planning must begin
in advance due to legal, contractual, personnel, and operational requirements.
Library Closure
CM West and Library Director Bodily explained that cl …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Jul 27, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Library Board meeting canceled for July 27, 2026
The Independence Library Board meeting scheduled for July 27, 2026, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is set for September 28, 2026.
- Meeting canceled
- Next meeting scheduled for September 28, 2026
librarycanceledmeeting-schedule
Independence Public Library
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Library Board
Monday, July 27, 2026 @ 5:00 PM
Canceled
1. Meeting Canceled
The July 27, 2026 meeting of the Independence Library Board has been canceled. The
next regular meeting is scheduled for September 28, 2026.
Thu Jul 16, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
Independence Parks Board meeting canceled for July 16, 2026
The Parks Board meeting scheduled for July 16, 2026, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 20, 2026.
parksprocedural
Event Center-Heritage Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Canceled
Parks Board
Thursday, July 16, 2026 @ 6:00 PM
1. Meeting Canceled
The Parks Board Meeting scheduled for July 16, 2026 has been canceled. The next
regular meeting is August 20, 2026.
Tue Jul 14, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Public hearings on housing code overhaul and CDBG grant; Mendi's Pizza liquor license change
The Independence City Council will hold two public hearings: one on proposed revisions to the Development Code (Ordinance 1638) based on the Housing Production Strategy, and another on Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. The council will also consider a liquor license ownership change for Mendi's Pizza, review third-quarter financials, and make board and commission appointments. An executive session is scheduled for real property negotiations, with potential action afterward.
- Public hearing on CDBG Grant Funding (Irvine)
- Public hearing on Ordinance 1638 – revisions to the Independence Development Code to implement Housing Production Strategy recommendations
- Liquor license application, change of ownership for Mendi's Pizza (Gilbert)
- Q3 Financials (Carey)
- Executive session for real property negotiations, with potential action (West)
housingzoningpublic-hearingliquor-licensefinancialsappointmentsreal-estate
✓ Decided: Council adopts housing code revisions to expand housing options
The City Council adopted Ordinance 1638, which revises the Independence Development Code to implement recommendations from the Housing Production Strategy, including allowing a wider variety of housing types and reducing minimum lot sizes. The Council also approved a liquor license ownership change for Mendi's Pizza, held a public hearing on a CDBG grant partnership with Habitat for Humanity, and directed the city manager to proceed with real estate sale negotiations after an executive session.
- Adopted Ordinance 1638 to revise the Development Code for housing production (5-0)
- Approved liquor license ownership change for Mendi's Pizza (5-0)
- Directed city manager to proceed with real estate sale negotiations (5-0)
- Approved minutes of the 06/23/2026 regular meeting (5-0)
- Appointed Lorraine Sorenson and Nathan Christensen to the Library Board
- Appointed Patrick Fugeman to the Ad Hoc Community Services and Parks Sustainability Committee
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Regular Meeting Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, July 14, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 06/23/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
5.1. Center Street Bridge Project Update (ODOT)
5.2. Mayor
5.3. Council Liaison Reports
5.3.1. Councilor Sorce: MINET Board
5.3.2. Councilor Roden: Parks Board
5.4. City Manager
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Public Hearing: CDBG Grant Funding (Irvine)
7.2. Liquor License Application, Change of Ownership: Mendi's Pizza (Gilbert)
7.3. Public Hearing: Proposed Ordinance 1638, an Ordinance to Adopt a Set of
Revisions to the Independence Development Code to Implement
Recommendations from the Housing Production Strategy (Evander)
7.4. Q3 Financials (Carey)
7.5. Q3 Board, Commission, Committee Appointments (West)
7.6. Executive Session, 3rd Floor Conference Room Pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(e)
to conduct deliberations with persons designated by the governing body to
negotiate real property transactions.
7.7. Potential Action from Executive Session: Real Estate Negotiation (West)
8. Council Announcements
9. General Information
9.1. Management Team Notes
9.1.1. 06/24/2026
9.2. Miscellaneous Correspondence. Any communications received after publication
of the agenda packet, but before 3:00 pm the date of the meeti …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
City Council Meeting
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
1.
Call to Order. Mayor Schwarzler called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.
2.
Roll Call. Mayor Schwarzler present.
Present:
Councilor Evan Sorce
Councilor Dawn Roden
Councilor/Council President Kathy Martin-Willis
Councilor Marilyn Morton
Councilor Shannon Corr
Absent:
Councilor Bill Boisvert, Excused
City Staff
Present:
Kenna West, City Manager
Myra Russell, City Recorder
Amanda Carey, Finance Director
Fred Evander, City Planner
Shawn Irvine, Assistant City Manager
Juventino Banuelos, Police Chief
Dustin Lueckenotte, Public Works Director
3.
Minutes.
3.1.
Regular Meeting 06/23/2026.
Action:
Councilor/Council President Martin-Willis moved to approve minutes as
submitted; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None
Roll call vote. Motion 5-0-0
Ayes: Evan Sorce, Dawn Roden, Kathy Martin-Willis, Marilyn
Morton, Shannon Corr
Nays: None
Abstentions: None
4.
Visitors/Public Comment.
1. Terri Croft, Independence, OR: Did not wish to speak but wanted to
acknowledge her supports of the library, parks and museum.
2. Karin Johnson, Independence, OR: Speaking on behalf of the Friends of
Community Parks, thanked the City for its support in helping make the inaugural
Independence Days celebration led by the new group a success. She noted that
a full report, including attendance numbers and community feedback, will be
presented to the Council at an August me …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
to approve minutes as submitted; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None Roll call vote. Motion 5-0-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
that the background investigation found no issues that would preclude licensure, and Council briefly discussed the application's off-premises sales designation and the new owners' plans to largely…
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
ordinance to adopt a set of revisions to the Independence Development Code to implement recommendations from the Housing Production Strategy, in full as the text is contained in the Council packet…
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance 1638 for the second time by title only.; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion:None. Roll call vote. Motion 5-0-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance 1638.; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 5-0-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
that the council direct the city manager to proceed in negotiations for the sale; Councilor Roden seconded. Discussion: None Roll call vote. Motion 5-0-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Mon Jul 13, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
Historic Preservation Commission to hold training on project review
The Independence Historic Preservation Commission will discuss and receive training about project review procedures within the Independence Historic District. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from previous meetings and opportunities for public comment.
- Training on project review in the Independence Historic District
historic-preservationtrainingproject-review
✓ Decided: Historic Preservation Commission receives training on new state land use laws
The commission held a training session on recent state land use law changes affecting project review in the Independence Historic District, including increased permit complexity, reduced public input, and mandatory adjustments for housing projects. No substantive decisions were made; the commission only approved the previous meeting minutes and adjourned.
- Approved minutes for 03/26/2026 and 04/23/2026 (6-0)
- Adjourned meeting (6-0)
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Historic Preservation Commission
Monday, July 13, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 03/26/2026
3.2. Regular Meeting 04-23-2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Staff Reports/Presentations - Other
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Training about project review in the Independence Historic District
8. Other Discussion/Information Items
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Historic Preservation Commission will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall Council
Chambers, via video conference (Zoom) or by phone.
●
To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89288325955?pwd=3XFIA0WXyOjS2DmX7vNpBDbvXQVzda.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID: 892
8832 5955 and Passcode: 641448
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
PlanningComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900 …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
Historic Preservation Commission Meeting
Monday, July 13, 2026
1.
Call to Order. Chair Flores called the meeting to order at 5:32 pm.
2.
Roll Call.
Present:
Commissioner Miranda Garrison
Commissioner Willis Homann
Commissioner/Chair Jennifer Flores
Commissioner Anne Devane
Commissioner Catherine Underwood-Bush
Commissioner Kevin Kryger
Absent:
Commissioner Liz Boisvert, Excused
City Staff
Present:
Fred Evander, City Planner
Myra Russell, City Recorder
3.
Minutes. Action:
Commissioner Garrison moved to to approve the minutes as presented.; Commissioner
Homann seconded. Discussion: None.
Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
Ayes: Miranda Garrison, Willis Homann, Jennifer Flores, Anne Devane,
Catherine Underwood-Bush, Kevin Kryger
Nays: None
Abstentions: None
3.1.
Regular Meeting 03/26/2026.
3.2.
Regular Meeting 04-23-2026.
4.
Visitors/Public Comment. None.
5.
Staff Reports/Presentations - Other. None.
6.
Unfinished Business. None.
7.
New Business.
7.1.
Training about project review in the Independence Historic District.
The training focused on recent changes in state land use laws and their impact
on project review in the historic district. Planner Evander explained how new
state legislation has increased the complexity of permit processing, reduced
public input, and introduced mandatory adjustments that allow developers to
modify development codes for housing projects. He discussed …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
to approve the minutes as presented.; Commissioner Homann seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Miranda Garrison yea · Willis Homann yea · Jennifer Flores yea · Anne Devane yea · Catherine Underwood-Bush yea · Kevin Kryger yea
[context] Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Miranda Garrison yea · Willis Homann yea · Jennifer Flores yea · Anne Devane yea · Catherine Underwood-Bush yea · Kevin Kryger yea
Thu Jul 9, 2026 · 14:00
General
Retirement celebration for city employee Gerald Fisher
This is a special event to celebrate the retirement of Gerald Fisher. No official decisions will be made, though a quorum of the City Council may be present.
- Retirement event for Gerald Fisher on July 9, 2026, from 2:00-4:00 pm in Council Chambers
retirementcity-employeesspecial-event
City Hall, Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Special Event
Thursday, July 9, 2026 @ 2:00 PM
Council Chambers, City Hall
Join Us in Celebrating Gerald Fisher's Retirement
The City will hold a retirement event for Gerald Fisher on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from
2:00-4:00 pm in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The Mayor and some City
Councilors may attend, and a quorum may be present, but no decisions will be made.
Wed Jul 8, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Advisory Board meeting canceled for July 8, 2026
The Museum Advisory Board meeting scheduled for July 8, 2026, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 12, 2026.
museumboard-meeting
Museum Meeting Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Museum Advisory Board
Wednesday, July 8, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
1. Meeting Canceled
The Museum Advisory Board Meeting scheduled for July 8, 2026 has been canceled.
The next regular meeting is August 12, 2026.
Mon Jul 6, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
Planning Commission walking tour of Edwards Addition; no decisions
The Planning Commission will hold a walking tour of the Edwards Addition neighborhood. Although a quorum may be present, no formal decisions or votes will occur during the tour. The public is invited to attend.
- Walking tour of Edwards Addition at Village Green (Gwinn Street E and Edwards Road S, Monmouth, OR)
planning-commissionwalking-touredwards-additioncommunity-engagement
✓ Decided: Planning Commission tours Edwards Addition neighborhood in Monmouth
The Planning Commission held a walking tour of the Edwards Addition neighborhood in Monmouth, led by developer Eric Olsen, with no formal decisions made. Commissioners viewed various housing types and New Traditional Neighborhood Design principles. The meeting was procedural and informational only.
- No formal decisions made; walking tour was informational only
Village Green in Edwards Addition , Monmouth
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Planning Commission
Monday, July 6, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Village Green in Edwards Addition
(at Gwinn Street E and Edwards Road S)
Monmouth, Oregon 97361
1. Planning Commission Walking Tour
The Planning Commission will meet at the Village Green in Edwards Addition (at Gwinn
Street E and Edwards Road S, Monmouth, OR) for a walking tour of Edwards Edition.
Although a quorum may be present, no decisions will be made. The public is invited to
attend.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
Monday, July 6, 2026
1.
Planning Commission Walking Tour. Planner Fred Evander and City Recorder Myra
Russell met with Planning Commissioners Jose Oliveros, Alex Parakevas, John
Southgate, Patrick Fugeman, and Sally Coen for a walking tour of the Edwards Addition
neighborhood in Monmouth. Commissioners Corby Chappell and Becky Jay were
excused. The group was joined by Monmouth City Planner Carter Craig and Edwards
Addition developer Eric Olsen.
Mr. Olsen provided an overview of the history, planning, and development of Edwards
Addition before leading the group on a walking tour of the neighborhood.
Commissioners viewed a variety of housing types, including single-family homes,
cottage clusters, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and townhomes.
The tour also highlighted the neighborhood's New Traditional Neighborhood Design
(TND) principles, including homes oriented toward the street with front porches, rear-
loaded and alley-access garages, pocket parks and shared open spaces, community
garden areas, walkable streets with interconnected sidewalks, and an integrated mix of
housing types throughout the neighborhood.
The walking tour ended around 8:15 pm.
Wed Jun 24, 2026 · 16:30
City Council
City Council to participate in Independence Walking Tour
The City Council is attending a walking tour titled 'Independence Walking Tour: Post-War Years'. The agenda states that no deliberations will occur and no decisions will be made during this event.
- Walking tour starting at Main St. & C St
community-eventhistorycity-council
Main St. & C. St.
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Special Event
City Council
Wednesday, June 24, 2026 @ 4:30 PM
1. Independence Walking Tour: Post-War Years
The City is hosting a walking tour in Independence starting at 4:30 pm at the corner of
Main St. & C St on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. City Council members,
Board/Commission Members, and community members are invited to attend. City
Council and Board/Commission members may attend, and a quorum may be present,
but no deliberations will occur, or decisions will be made.
Tue Jun 23, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
City Council to consider renaming Madrona Street E. to I Street
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding the renaming of Madrona Street E. and CDBG grant funding. The body will also consider budget adjustments, a supplemental budget, and updates to service fee ordinances.
- Proposed Ordinance #1640: Renaming Madrona Street E. to I Street
- Proposed Ordinance #1639: Adopting IMC Chapter 2, Article VIII (Service Fees)
- Proposed Resolution #26-1655: Budget Adjustment
- Proposed Resolution #26-1658: Supplemental Budget
- Public Hearing: CDBG Grant Funding
streetsbudgetfeesgrantsreal-estate
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Regular Meeting Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 06/09/2026
3.2. Work Session Minutes 06/09/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
5.1. Mayor
5.2. City Manager
6. Unfinished Business
6.1. 2nd Reading: Proposed Ordinance # 1639, An Ordinance Adopting
Independence Municipal Code (IMC) Chapter 2, Administration, Article VIII,
Service Fees; and Amending IMC 34-400, Utility Service Biling (West)
7. New Business
7.1. Proposed Resolution # 26-1657: A Resolution Classifying Certain Fees and
Charges as Not Subject to the Limitations of Article XI, Section 11b of the
Oregon Constitution (Measure 5) (West)
7.2. Public Hearing: To Consider renaming “Madrona Street E.” in Independence to
“I Street” (Evander)
7.3. Proposed Ordinance # 1640: To Consider renaming “Madrona Street E.” in
Independence to “I Street” (Evander)
7.4. Executive Session, 3rd Floor Conference Room
Pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(e) to conduct deliberations with persons
designated by the governing body to negotiate real property transactions.
7.5. Potential Action from Executive Session: Real Estate Negotiation (West)
7.6. Public Hearing: CDBG Grant Funding (Irvine)
7.7. Proposed Resolution # 26-1655: Budget Adjustment (Carey)
7.8. Public Hearing: Proposed Resolu …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Tue Jun 23, 2026 · 18:45
Urban Renewal Agency
Urban Renewal Agency to consider budget adjustment
The Urban Renewal Agency will meet to discuss new business. The primary item for consideration is a proposed budget adjustment.
- Proposed Resolution 2026-02: Budget Adjustment
budgeturban-renewal
City Hall, Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Urban Renewal Agency
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 @ 6:45 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
* Immediately following the City Council meeting *
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 06/09/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Unfinished Business
6. New Business
6.1. Proposed Resolution 2026-02: Budget Adjustment
7. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Urban Renewal Agency will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via
video conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube
channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
● To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
● For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82444430869?pwd=5LC9tvPe3AUbvllyqknzzIbqOLxxVm.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
824 4443 0869 and Passcode: 722455
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed
to CouncilComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900 …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Mon Jun 22, 2026 · 17:00
Library Board
Independence Library Board to discuss budget and board vacancies
The Library Board will meet to review the director's report and discuss the budget. The board will also address trustee resources and current board vacancies.
- Budget discussion
- Board vacancies
- Trustee resources
- Friends of the Library report
- Advocacy and Promotions report
librarybudgetboard-governance
Independence Public Library
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Library Board
Monday, June 22, 2026 @ 5:00 PM
Independence Public Library
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 05/18/2026
4. Director Report
5. Committee Reports
5.1. Friends of the Library
5.2. Advocacy and Promotions
6. Board Business
6.1. Budget Discussion
6.2. Trustee Resources
7. Unfinished Business
7.1. Board Vacancies
8. New Business
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Library Board will hold this meeting in-person in the Library meeting room, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone.
● To attend in person, the Library at 175 Monmouth St.
● For Zoom login visit:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87970758042?pwd=8Ly3vbvmdlmQB5qeinaA6LeI2erFUH.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar
ID: 879 7075 8042 and Passcode: 017770
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
Thu Jun 18, 2026 · 18:00
Parks Board
June 18, 2026 Parks Board meeting canceled
The Parks Board meeting scheduled for June 18, 2026 has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2026.
parksmeeting-cancellation
Event Center-Heritage Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Canceled
Parks Board
Thursday, June 18, 2026 @ 6:00 PM
1. Meeting Canceled
The Parks Board Meeting scheduled for June 18, 2026 has been canceled. The Storm
Water Master Plan Open House #2 will be held that night instead. The next regular
meeting is July 16, 2026.
Wed Jun 17, 2026 · 18:00
Traffic Safety Commission
Traffic commission to review data, incidents, and school zone enforcement
The Traffic Safety Commission will review a staff report on traffic data from February to May 2026, as well as vehicular incidents by month for the same period. They will also discuss working with local agencies on focused enforcement in school zones. The meeting includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.
- Staff report on traffic data from February 7 to May 31, 2026
- Vehicular incidents by month: February–May 2026
- Discussion of focused enforcement with local agencies in school zones
traffic-safetytraffic-dataschool-zonesenforcementpublic-safety
City Hall - Ash Creek Meeting Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Traffic Safety Commission
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 @ 6:00 PM
Civic Center - Ash Creek Meeting Room
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 02/18/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Staff Reports/Presentations
5.1. Traffic Data: February 7 to May 31, 2026
5.2. Vehicular Incidents by month: February-May 2026
5.3. Work with local agencies on focused enforcement in the school zones
6. Action/Discussion Items
7. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Traffic Safety Commission will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall, Ash Creek Meeting
Room, via video conference (Zoom) or by phone.
● To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
● For Zoom login visit:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89262753130?pwd=JNAeQmOyOB6HDlQhMaeOKEjFFKrn1S.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
892 6275 3130 and Passcode: 700752
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
Mon Jun 15, 2026 · 19:00
Planning Commission
Planning Commission to discuss housing code changes and a street renaming request
The Independence Planning Commission will meet to review minutes, discuss unfinished business, and hold a public hearing on housing development code changes. The agenda also includes an extension request for a subdivision project and a request to rename a street.
- Public Hearing: Housing Development Code Changes
- Extension Request for SUB 2024-01 (940 S. 7th Street)
- Street Naming Request: Rename Madrona Street E. in Southwest Crossing Subdivision
- Discussion: Park and Open Space Dedication Requirements
- Review of Regular Meeting Minutes (05/04/2026)
planninghousingzoningpublic-hearingstreet-namingsubdivision
✓ Decided: Planning Commission recommends housing code changes to City Council
The Independence Planning Commission voted 6-0 to forward a recommendation of approval for LA 2026-03, a development code amendment expanding housing options, to the City Council. The commission also approved a land use extension for the Habitat for Humanity project at 940 S. 7th Street and recommended renaming Madrona Street E to I Street. No public testimony was received on the housing code changes.
- Approved minutes from 5/4/2026 meeting (6-0)
- Approved extension of SUB 2024-01 for Habitat for Humanity project at 940 S. 7th Street (6-0)
- Forwarded recommendation of approval for LA 2026-03 housing code amendments to City Council (6-0)
- Recommended renaming Madrona Street E to I Street in Southwest Crossing Subdivision (6-0)
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Amended 6/09/2026
Planning Commission
Monday, June 15, 2026 @ 7:00 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 05/04/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Extension Request for SUB 2024-01 (940 S. 7th Street)
7.2. Public Hearing - More Housing, Same (Great) Neighborhood Development
Code Changes
7.3. Street Naming Request: Rename Madrona Street E. in Southwest Crossing
Subdivision
7.4. Discussion: Park and Open Space Dedication Requirements
8. Other Discussion/Information Items
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Planning Commission will hold this meeting in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via
video conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube
channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
● To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
● For Zoom login visit:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82242492103?pwd=W5cC1nSbtEmiwXFfZTkwSqb5S2MrJ8.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar
ID: 822 4249 2103 and Passcode: 294721
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
PlanningComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is acc …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
Monday, June 15, 2026
1.
Call to Order. Commissioner Paraskevas called the meeting to order at 7.00 pm.
2.
Roll Call.
Present:
Commissioner Patrick Fugeman
Commissioner Jose Oliveros
Commissioner Rebecca Jay
Commissioner Sally Coen
Commissioner Alex Paraskevas
Commissioner John Southgate
Absent:
Chair Chappell, Excused
City Staff
Present:
Fred Evander, City Planner
Myra Russell, City Recorder
3.
Minutes.
3.1.
Regular Meeting 05/04/2026.
Action:
Commissioner Jay moved to approve the minutes from the 5/4/2026 meeting;
Commissioner Fugeman seconded. Discussion: None.
Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
Ayes: Patrick Fugeman, Jose Oliveros, Rebecca Jay, Sally Coen,
Alex Paraskevas, John Southgate
Nays: None
Abstentions: None
4.
Visitors/Public Comment. None.
5.
Reports/Presentations. None.
6.
Unfinished Business. None.
7.
New Business.
7.1.
Extension Request for SUB 2024-01 (940 S. 7th Street).
Planner Evander introduced the agenda item. This is a request for an extension
for the Habitat for Humanity project at 940 South 7th Street, with a
representative explaining that previous federal funding sources had fallen
through due to changes in administration, but they are now pursuing a $750,000
Community Development Block Grant. They hope to start building by June
2027. Councilors commented that they appreciate that this project is still
moving forward.
Action:
Co …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
to approve the minutes from the 5/4/2026 meeting; Commissioner Fugeman seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Patrick Fugeman yea · Jose Oliveros yea · Rebecca Jay yea · Sally Coen yea · Alex Paraskevas yea · John Southgate yea
to approve the extension of the land use approval granted under SUB 2024-01, with the conditions and findings articulated within the Notice of Decision for the project.; Commissioner Jay seconded…
6 yea
Patrick Fugeman yea · Jose Oliveros yea · Rebecca Jay yea · Sally Coen yea · Alex Paraskevas yea · John Southgate yea
[context] Motion 6-0-0
12 yea
Patrick Fugeman yea · Jose Oliveros yea · Rebecca Jay yea · Sally Coen yea · Alex Paraskevas yea · John Southgate yea · Patrick Fugeman yea · Jose Oliveros yea · Rebecca Jay yea · Sally Coen yea · Alex Paraskevas yea · John Southgate yea
Wed Jun 10, 2026 · 17:30
Museum Advisory Board
Museum Advisory Board to elect secretary.
The Museum Advisory Board will hold a regular meeting with routine items including approval of previous minutes, a staff report, and an update from the Heritage Museum Society. The only new business is the election of a secretary for the board. No major decisions or financial items are on the agenda.
- Approval of May 13, 2026 meeting minutes
- Heritage Museum Society update
- Election of Advisory Board Secretary
museumadvisory-boardelectionsheritage-museumindependence-oregonpublic-meeting
✓ Decided: Museum board elects secretary, weighs admission fee
The Heritage Museum Advisory Board elected Chris Primrose as secretary unanimously and discussed a potential museum admission fee, with City Manager West directing staff to track data for six months. The board also reviewed a levy vs. fee comparison and planned to research other communities' practices. No formal action was taken on the admission fee.
- Elected Chris Primrose as Advisory Board Secretary (unanimous)
- Discussed potential museum admission fee; City Manager directed data tracking for 6 months
- Reviewed levy vs. fee comparison: $638/year levy vs. $236/year fee on $400,000 home
- Kathleen to research admission fee practices in other communities
Museum Meeting Room
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Museum Advisory Board
Wednesday, June 10, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Museum Meeting Room
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 05/13/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Staff Report
6. HMS Update
7. Unfinished Business
8. New Business
8.1. Election of Advisory Board Secretary
9. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Museum Advisory Board will hold this meeting in-person at the Heritage Museum, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone.
●
To attend in person, the Museum address is 281 2nd Street, Independence, OR 97351.
●
For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83741881865?pwd=gZbWKFHcq2FbvCqFRkbBLzh0MGdn4q.1
●
To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID: 837
4188 1865 and Passcode: 534862
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for the
hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made at
least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
Minutes – Heritage Museum Advisory Board 6.10.2026
1.Call to Order @ 5:30
2.Roll Call - Amy Christensen, Museum Director, Marilyn Morton, Council liaison, Vickie
McCubbin, Chris Primrose, Jasper Smith, Kathleen Dinges-Rice, Excused Absence: Linda
Layton, Joe Martinez . Not here Victor Ochoa
3.1 Regular meeting minutes 5/13/2026 Motion to approve by Kathleen Second by Linda
4.Visitors/Public Comment - none
5.Staff Report quilts, Sunday Cherry talk, Last Day of School on Tuesday, Walking tours,
one more walking tour and one more roadshow display. Kim Jensen in May – Oregon’s
Others book, and they are for sale in gift shop. Grants in process. $9,000 grant Oregon
Capitol Foundation for Civics Education. New volunteer Wednesday morning.
6. HMS Update Chris Primrose upcoming – this Friday. Marilyn update – Friday@ 6:00 at
Valkyrie. Considering revenue raising.
7. Unfinished Business - none
8. New Business
8.1 Election of Advisory Board Secretary – Chris – Unanimous.
8.2 Advocacy and Promotion Committee – Jasper and Vickie currently the Museum
Board Members – begin meetings again, now that the budget has (almost passed) with one
more vote.
8.3 Local Option Levy vs. Fee Spreadsheet – total difference per year on $400,000
home is. $638 for levy vs $236 for the yearly fee.
8.4 Potential fee for museum admission – City Manager West – fees for museum
admission. Some people in the community feel the need for charging admission. Keep
track of data for 6 month …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Tue Jun 9, 2026 · 18:45
Urban Renewal Agency
Urban Renewal Agency to consider FY 2026-27 budget adoption
The Urban Renewal Agency will meet to discuss new business and review previous minutes. The primary action item is the adoption of the budget for fiscal year 2026-27.
- Budget Adoption, FY 2026-27
budgeturban-renewal
✓ Decided: Urban Renewal Agency adopts $1.61M FY 2026-27 budget
The Independence Urban Renewal Agency approved its fiscal year 2026-27 budget of $1,611,592, including appropriations and the maximum tax increment, via Resolution No. 2026-01. The vote was unanimous (6-0). The agency also approved the minutes from the March 10, 2026 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved Resolution No. 2026-01 adopting FY 2026-27 budget of $1,611,592 (6-0)
- Approved minutes of March 10, 2026 regular meeting (6-0)
City Hall, Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Urban Renewal Agency
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 @ 6:45 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
* Immediately following the City Council meeting *
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 03/10/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Unfinished Business
6. New Business
6.1. Budget Adoption, FY 2026-27
7. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The Urban Renewal Agency will hold this meeting immediately following the city council meeting
in-person in the City Hall Council Chambers, via video conference (Zoom) or by phone.
Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube channel
at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
● To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
● For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85343318162?pwd=TKjDGaJaYC8dsXqiaacmhvbZNYcr1s.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
853 4331 8162 and Passcode: 147884
Written comments are also welcome and may be delivered to City Hall or emailed
to CouncilComments@ci.independence.or.us no later than 4:00 pm the day of the meeting.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
Urban Renewal Agency Meeting
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
1. Call to Order. Mayor Schwarzler called the meeting to order at 8:20 PM
2. Roll Call. Mayor Schwarzler present.
Present: Councilor Evan Sorce
Councilor Dawn Roden
Councilor Bill Boisvert
Councilor/Council President Kathy Martin-Willis
Councilor Marilyn Morton
Councilor Shannon Corr
Absent:
City Staff
Present:
Kenna West, City Manager
Amanda Christensen, HR Director
Amanda Carey, Finance Director
Jason Kistler, IT Director
Lyle Gilbert, Police Lieutenant
Gerald Fisher, Public Works Director
3. Minutes.
3.1. Regular Meeting 03/10/2026.
Action:
Councilor/Council President Martin-Willis moved to approve the minutes of
March 10, 2026; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None.
Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
Ayes: Evan Sorce, Dawn Roden, Bill Boisvert, Kathy Martin-Willis,
Marilyn Morton, Shannon Corr
Nays: None
Abstentions: None
4. Visitors/Public Comment. None.
5. Unfinished Business. None.
6. New Business.
6.1. Budget Adoption, FY 2026-27.
Director Carey explained that this is adoption of the Urban Renewal Agency
budget for adoption. This was approved by the budget committee.
Action:
Councilor Corr moved to approve Resolution No. 2026-01, a resolution adopting
the Independence Urban Renewal Agency budget for fiscal year 2026-27 in the
sum of $1,611,592, to approve appropriations in the amount of $1,611,592; and
to declare and certify the maximu …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
to approve the minutes of March 10, 2026; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
to approve appropriations in the amount of $1,611,592; and to declare and certify the maximum tax increment that may be raised ; Councilor Morton seconded. Discussion: None Roll call vote. Motion…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Tue Jun 9, 2026 · 17:30
City Council
City Council to review finance and bonds
The City Council is holding a work session to receive a report and presentation. The primary focus of the meeting is a finance and bond review.
- Finance and Bond Review presentation by Carey
financebondscity-council
✓ Decided: Council reviews S&P bond rating, flags reserve and debt concerns
The City Council held a work session to review S&P Global's 2026 bond credit rating assessment, which confirmed the City's investment-grade A rating. The review highlighted positive changes in transparency but identified ongoing weaknesses in reserves, debt burden, and urban renewal fund performance. No formal decisions were made during this informational work session.
- Reviewed S&P Global 2026 bond credit rating assessment (no vote)
- Examined historical credit rating reports dating back to 2010 (no vote)
City Hall, Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Work Session Agenda
City Council
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Reports/Presentations
3.1. Finance and Bond Review (Carey)
4. Adjournment
Meeting Attendance Information:
The City Council will hold this work session in-person in City Hall Council Chambers, via video
conference (Zoom) or by phone. Meetings are also live-streamed on the City’s YouTube
channel at: https://www.youtube.com/c/CityofIndependenceOR.
● To attend in person, the City Hall address is 555 S. Main St.
● For Zoom login
visit:https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85343318162?pwd=TKjDGaJaYC8dsXqiaacmhvbZNYcr1s.1
● To participate in the meeting by phone, dial US: +1-253-215-8782 and enter Webinar ID:
853 4331 8162 and Passcode: 147884
Please Note: Public comments are not accepted during work sessions. Any written public
comments received will be included in the agenda packet for the next regular meeting. Written
comments may be delivered to City Hall or emailed to
CouncilComments@ci.independence.or.us.
The meeting location is accessible to persons with disabilities. A request for an interpreter for
the hearing impaired, or for other accommodations for persons with disabilities, should be made
at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting to Myra Russell, City Recorder, 503-838-1212/TTY:
800-735-2900.
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
City Council Work Session
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
1. Call to Order. Mayor Schwarzler called the work session to order at 5:32 pm.
2. Roll Call. Mayor Schwarzler present.
Present: Councilor Evan Sorce
Councilor Dawn Roden
Councilor Bill Boisvert
Councilor/Council President Kathy Martin-Willis
Councilor Marilyn Morton
Councilor Shannon Corr
Absent:
City Staff
Present:
Kenna West, City Manager
Amanda Carey, Finance Director
Amanda Christensen, HR Director
Jason Kistler, IT Director
3. Reports/Presentations.
3.1. Finance and Bond Review (Carey).
The City Council held a work session to review the City's 2026 bond credit
rating assessment conducted by S&P Global, with Finance Director Carey
presenting the findings. Carey explained that S&P initiated the review in 2026,
marking the first comprehensive evaluation since 2020. She outlined the
agency's rating methodology, noting that the City currently holds an investment-
grade A rating.
The presentation reviewed the key factors S&P considers when evaluating
creditworthiness, including the local economy, governance and regulatory
environment, institutional framework, financial performance, management
practices, and debt obligations. The primary purpose of the session was to
examine past credit rating reports and identify recurring concerns and
opportunities for improvement.
S&P's review highlighted positive changes, including disentangling interfund
dependencie …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
Tue Jun 9, 2026 · 18:30
City Council
Council to adopt 2026-27 budget, update park system development charges
The City Council will hold a public hearing and consider adopting an updated System Development Charge methodology and fees for the Parks system. They will also vote on the 2026-27 budget and several code amendments to municipal codes on streets, traffic, utilities, and service fees. A liquor license change of ownership for JimmyZ Independence Gas & Mini Mart is on the agenda.
- Public Hearing and Resolution #26-1651: Updated Parks SDC methodology and fees
- Resolution #26-1654: Adopts 2026-27 budget
- Ordinances #1635-1637: Amending chapters on Streets, Traffic, and Utilities
- Ordinance #1639: Adding Service Fees chapter and amending utility billing
- Liquor license change of ownership for JimmyZ Independence Gas & Mini Mart
budgetparksfeescode-amendmentsliquor-licensepublic-hearingstreetstraffic
✓ Decided: Council adopts $51.9M FY2026-27 budget with new utility fees
The City Council adopted the FY2026-27 budget of $51,892,822, including new community services and parks fees on utility bills, over Councilor Roden's sole opposition. The council also approved an updated parks system development charge methodology (Option 2) and passed three municipal code updates (Chapters 26, 32, and 34). A separate ordinance establishing the service fees (Ordinance 1639) passed on first reading but will return for a second reading.
- Adopted FY2026-27 budget of $51,892,822 (5-1)
- Approved parks SDC methodology Option 2 via Resolution 26-1651 (5-1)
- Passed Ordinance 1635 amending IMC Chapter 26 (Streets, Sidewalks, Public Places) (6-0)
- Passed Ordinance 1636 amending IMC Chapter 32 (Traffic and Vehicles) (6-0)
- Passed Ordinance 1637 amending IMC Chapter 34 (Utilities) (6-0)
- Approved Resolution 26-1653 electing state revenue sharing (6-0)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 1639 establishing service fees (5-1)
- Rescheduled Resolution 26-1657 to June 23 meeting (6-0)
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Regular Meeting Agenda-Amended 6-10-2026
City Council
Tuesday, June 9, 2026 @ 6:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Minutes
3.1. Regular Meeting 05/12/2026
4. Visitors/Public Comment
5. Reports/Presentations
5.1. Mayor
5.2. Council Liaison Reports
5.2.1. Traffic Safety Commission: Councilor Roden
5.2.2. Historic Preservation Commission: Councilor Morton
5.2.3. Planning Commission: Councilor Martin-Willis
5.3. City Manager
6. Unfinished Business
7. New Business
7.1. Liquor License Application, Change of Ownership: JimmyZ Independence Gas
& Mini Mart (Gilbert)
7.2. Public Hearing: Adopting an Updated System Development Charge
Methodology and Fees for Parks System (Fisher)
7.3. Proposed Resolution #26-1651: A Resolution Adopting an Updated System
Development Charge Methodology and Fees for Parks System (Fisher)
7.4. Proposed Ordinance #1635: An Ordinance Amending the Independence
Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 26, Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places
(Fisher)
7.5. Proposed Ordinance #1636: An Ordinance Amending the Independence
Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 32 Traffic and Vehicles (Fisher)
7.6. Proposed Ordinance #1637: An Ordinance Amending the Independence
Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 34 Utilities (Fisher)
7.7. Proposed Resolution #26-1654: Adopts 2026-27 Budget (Carey)
7.8. Proposed Resolution #26-1653: Elects …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Minutes
City Council Meeting
Tuesday, June 9, 2026
1.
Call to Order. Mayor Schwarzler called the meeting to order at 6:30 pm.
2.
Roll Call. Mayor Schwarzler present.
Present:
Councilor Evan Sorce
Councilor Dawn Roden
Councilor Bill Boisvert
Councilor/Council President Kathy Martin-Willis
Councilor Marilyn Morton
Councilor Shannon Corr
Absent:
City Staff
Present:
Kenna West, City Manager
Amanda Carey, Finance Director
Gerald Fisher, Public Works Director
Amanda Christensen, HR Director
Jason Kistler, IT Director
Lyle Gilbert, Police Lieutenant
Truman Stone, City Attorney
3.
Minutes.
3.1.
Regular Meeting 05/12/2026.
Action:
Councilor Corr moved to approve the minutes from the 5/12/2026 meeting;
Councilor Morton seconded. Discussion: Councilor Roden clarified that she had
contacted the Oregon Government Ethics Commission regarding Budget
Committee Member Nathan Christensen to seek guidance on an issue. She did
not realize her inquiry would trigger a formal investigation, which ultimately
concluded quickly. Councilor Roden apologized for not explaining the situation
clearly at the previous meeting and stated that her intent was simply to obtain
clarification on the matter.
Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
Ayes: Evan Sorce, Dawn Roden, Bill Boisvert, Kathy Martin-Willis,
Marilyn Morton, Shannon Corr
Nays: None
Abstentions: None
4.
Visitors/Public Comment.
• Erin McIntosh, Independence, OR: Opposed t …
Excerpt truncated on this listing page. Full text →
🗳️ How they voted (17 roll-call votes)
Named votes as recorded in the official record.
to approve the minutes from the 5/12/2026 meeting; Councilor Morton seconded. Discussion: Councilor Roden clarified that she had contacted the Oregon Government Ethics Commission regarding Budget…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
[context] Motion 6-0-0
12 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea · Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Resolution 26-1651; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion: Councilor Roden does not support this because she doesn't want to raise fees. Councilor Sorce supports option 2 as the homebuilders also…
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance Amending the Independence Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 26, Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places (Fisher). PW Director Fisher presented an update to IMC Chapter 26 based on input from prior…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
ordinance by title. Action: 2nd Motion: Councilor Roden moved to read the proposed Ordinance # 1635 for the second time by title only; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion:None. Roll call vote…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
motion by restating the correct motion. Action: Councilor Martin-Willis moved to reconsider the prior motion; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
motion by restating the correct motion. Action: Councilor Martin-Willis moved to reconsider the prior motion; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion: None Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0 Ayes: Evan Sorce…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
ordinance by title. Action: 2nd Motion: Councilor Roden moved to read the proposed Ordinance # 1635 for the second time by title only; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
to adopt the proposed Ordinance # 1635; Councilor Corr seconded. Discussion:None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance Amending the Independence Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 32 Traffic and Vehicles (Fisher). PW Director Fisher explained that his is an IMC update to Chapter 32. Action: Councilor Roden moved…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
to adopt the proposed Ordinance # 1636; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion:None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance Amending the Independence Municipal Code (IMC), Chapter 34 Utilities (Fisher). PD Director Fisher explained that this updates IMC chapter 34. Action: Councilor Corr moved to read the…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
to adopt the proposed Ordinance # 1637; Councilor Sorce seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
that the budget committee did. Roll call vote. Motion 5-1-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
resolution to elect to receive state revenues for fiscal year 2026-27; Councilor/Council President Martin-Willis seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 6-0-0
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Ordinance 1639 in full as the text is contained in the Council packet for the first time; Councilor/Council President Martin-Willis seconded. Discussion: None. Roll call vote. Motion 5-1-0
5 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Resolution 26–1657 needs to be postponed to the next meeting as well. Action: Councilor/Council President Martin-Willis moved to reschedule resolution # 26- 1657 to the June 23 city council meeting…
6 yea
Evan Sorce yea · Dawn Roden yea · Bill Boisvert yea · Kathy Martin-Willis yea · Marilyn Morton yea · Shannon Corr yea
Mon Jun 8, 2026 · 17:30
Historic Preservation Commission
Historic Preservation Commission meeting canceled
The regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission scheduled for June 8, 2026, has been canceled.
historic-preservation
City Hall - Council Chambers
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Historic Preservation Commission
Monday, June 8, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
Civic Center - Council Chambers
(see agenda footer for meeting attendance information)
1. Meeting Canceled
The regular meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission for Monday, June 8, 2026,
has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 13, 2026,
at 5:30 PM.
Wed Jun 3, 2026 · 16:30
City Council
City Council to attend Independence Walking Tour
The City Council is attending a walking tour focused on the early 1900s. No deliberations will occur and no decisions will be made during this event.
- Independence Walking Tour: Early 1900's starting at Main St. & C St
community-eventhistorywalking-tour
Main St. & C. St.
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
City of Independence
Special Event
City Council
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 @ 4:30 PM
1. Independence Walking Tour: Early 1900's
The City is hosting a walking tour in Independence starting at 4:30 pm at the corner of
Main St. & C St on Wednesday, June 3, 2026. City Council members,
Board/Commission members, and community members are invited to attend. City
Council and Board/Commission members may attend, and a quorum may be present,
but no deliberations will occur, or decisions will be made.
Showing the 30 most recent meetings of 45 on record.
💰 Federal awards (top 10 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
| $529,886 | FRANCISCO CISNEROS III Department of Agriculture · FRANCISCO CISNEROS III WAGPF000813 C32 |
| $421,291 | AYE GARCIA LLC Department of Agriculture · AYE GARCIA LLC CASRF000931 C11 |
| $414,842 | WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. Department of Agriculture · WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. ORMAF002502 C145 |
| $406,512 | M.A.R. CONTRACTING, LLC Department of Agriculture · M.A.R. CONTRACTING, LLC ORWIF230327 C35 |
| $361,200 | WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. Department of Agriculture · WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. ORWIF240214 C37 |
| $360,000 | WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. Department of Agriculture · WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. ORWIF250322 C53 |
| $352,243 | A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. Department of Agriculture · A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. ORWIF250322 C30 |
| $349,530 | WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. Department of Agriculture · WILLAMETTE VALLEY REFORESTATION,INC. ORUPF240303 C32 |
| $345,527 | A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. Department of Agriculture · A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. NMSWC000001 C4 |
| $340,728 | A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. Department of Agriculture · A.S.I. ARDEN SOLUTIONS INC. CAKNF005159 C30 |
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.
🌐 County-level context (Polk County)
County-level context — from BLS, IRS, FEMA, HUD, Census. These figures cover the whole county this city sits in, not just the city itself.
Federal disasters (10 yr)4 ({"Severe Storm": 8, "Flood": 4, "Biological": 2, "Coastal St · last Tue Apr 7, 2026)
Business establishments1,587 (16,046 employees · 2023)
Fair Market Rent (2BR)$1,543/mo (118 assisted households · 2025)
Adults with low literacy16.9% (low numeracy 25% · 2017)
Sources: BLS LAUS, IRS SOI, FEMA, NHTSA FARS, Census CBP, HUD, NCES PIAAC
City profile
Everything below is drawn from this city’s own public record and primary-source government data. AI-written summaries are a finding aid, not a citable quote.
282
Recorded votes
2
Permitted housing units
Outcomes — economic mobility
source: Opportunity Atlas (Harvard) · research useFor kids who grew up here in low-income households, their adult household-income rank (0–1). The average hides a gap by race:
Research-only layer, shown here for context — not included in the CC BY 4.0 bulk download.
Where it’s happening
geocoded land-use decisions🗺 Interactive map
Every rezoning, development approval, and permit — explore the geocoded records in the research explorer.