Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Astoria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in development
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.
Film-history mural at former Darigold building
Clatsop County wants to turn a blank gray wall at 9th and Duane into a celebration of Oregon film history, from the 1909 Fisherman's Bride to The Goonies, with photo-op spots and QR codes. It supports the county's $225,000 investment in the Oregon Film Museum and should draw tourists to a corner that's currently just concrete and parking lots.