Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Astoria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in development with high priority
Housing Capacity Analysis and 20-year housing need
The city must reach historically underserved communities, tribal governments, and — per commissioners' suggestion — the general workforce and large employers. Two public meetings, surveys, and focus groups are planned, with a community meeting expected in September.
Customs House Workforce Housing Redevelopment
Non-agenda comments raised missing garbage service near homeless camps on the Riverwalk and concerns about building 50 units of housing in a high-risk landslide area at the Customs House property.
Demolition of historic garage at 1064 14th Street
The council upheld the denial of a homeowner's greenhouse conversion of a rare wood-frame historic garage. Several councilors agreed the preservation code itself may need updating.
Copeland Commons Affordable Housing Infrastructure
A $550,599 state grant will fund the stormwater infrastructure needed to build about 60 affordable housing units at Copeland Commons.
Darigold redevelopment on hold
Staff say they can't get a Darigold RFP out this year — parking costs and project complexity are the sticking points. It's still alive, just not happening in 2026.
Stabilization of historic Suomi Hall
Suomi Hall, one of Astoria's oldest buildings, has structural problems — sinking floors and foundation settlement — that threaten its future. The city's $50,000 grant closes the funding gap on the $330,000 Phase 1 stabilization project, letting construction start in October 2026. Volunteers raised over $226,000 themselves through years of fundraisers.
Columbia Memorial Hospital street vacation
The street vacation and campus agreement complete the framework for CMH's $300 million expansion from 57,000 to over 180,000 square feet — a generational investment in local healthcare.
Development Review and Permitting Reform
Astoria's permitting process has been slow and confusing, partly because the city has long accepted incomplete applications and engineering is stretched thin by capital projects. The audit will recommend fixes like a single intake point and a dedicated engineer for private development review.
Astor East Urban Renewal expansion for workforce housing
Adding the Copeland Commons and Dairigold sites to the urban renewal district could unlock about 120 units, with a workforce housing focus. The final vote comes February 17. A transit district will lose about $40,000 in revenue through 2034.
Community Development 2026 Workplan
2025 saw over half a billion dollars in development for a town of 10,000 — including the $300 million hospital project. 2026 brings the Tongue Point Area Plan, three state-funded housing studies, and monthly code amendments.