Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Astoria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues with critical priority
Shelter First policy implementation
The city is hiring its first homeless liaison under the Shelter First policy to connect unsheltered residents with services and shelter providers.
Homelessness and 11th Street Camps
Residents split sharply: business owners and nearby residents want existing camping and nuisance ordinances enforced and repeat offenders held accountable, while others argue homelessness shouldn't be criminalized and services need to be more trauma-informed and individualized. A work session on the city's homelessness response followed the meeting.
System Development Charge program review
The $3,116-per-trip transportation fee was hitting small businesses with bills of $20,000 to $161,000, and owners said it was killing startups before they opened. The Council suspended the program entirely and promised to redesign it with business input.
FY 2026-2027 City budget adoption
The council adopted a $72.85 million budget with an $8.1738 per $1,000 property tax rate. It's about $10 million smaller than last year mostly because big capital projects wrapped up.