Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cornelius public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues with low priority
Trail naming for regional maps
Two new trail names — Flatwater Trail and Pioneer Trail — will put the city's north/south routes on the Metro regional green spaces map, helping cyclists and paddlers navigate to Steamboat Park and the Tualatin River.
City Rebranding and Communications Plan
The city hired Funk/Levis & Associates to create its first strategic communications plan and a refreshed brand, funded by ARPA dollars, with completion targeted by year's end.
Floodplain Land Donation Near Harleman Park
The city will accept three undevelopable floodplain parcels next to Harleman Park and Echo Shaw Elementary, opening the door to trails, birdwatching, wetland restoration, and school partnerships — pending final legal review.
River Bend Park naming
The city's new park at 1965 South 29th Boulevard, squeezed between a big Tualatin River bend and 345th, was officially named River Bend Park.
County sheriff drone program for public safety
Commissioner Willey showcased the sheriff's new drone program, which can quickly assess incidents from the air and has already helped catch fleeing suspects — including one tracked onto a TriMet bus.
20-year Capital Improvement Plan
The updated CIP identifies $43.6 million in projects, with completed work including the $1.9 million Miraposa Causeway and water system upgrades, and most future spending in the street fund.
Park shelter reservation changes
New rules limit shelter reservations to four hours, add structured weekend shifts, and give Cornelius residents priority for peak-season (April-September) bookings made January through March. Mariposa Park is so popular the city regularly has to turn people away.
City AI use policy
Cornelius adopted its first policy governing staff use of artificial intelligence — allowing it for drafting and research while banning use with confidential data, automated decisions affecting people, or anything violating law or policy.
2025 Community Events Recap and 2026 Plans
Staff recapped a strong 2025 events season — tree lighting, farmers market at Grande Foods, 9/11 ceremony at Veterans Park — and previewed 2026 additions including an emergency preparedness fair, a city-hosted State of the City at the library, and a spring ribbon cutting for Mariposa Causeway.