Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in West Linn, OR public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in environment
Emerald ash borer threat
Parks and Recreation was scheduled to update the council on the emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle that kills ash trees. The pest's spread could affect tree canopy in West Linn's parks and cost money to manage.
Summer Water Supply and Possible Curtailment
Low snowpack and reduced Clackamas River flows mean the region could hit Stage 2 mandatory curtailment this summer, limiting lawn watering to 8 p.m.–8 a.m. Officials stress the supply system itself is reliable and the city is prepared.
Tree code and CDC Chapter 32 drainage standards need review
A giant, 80-year-old Sequoia in McLean Park — likely planted in 1940 by Dr. McLean's son — is now a protected Heritage Tree, with a community celebration planned for April.
Fern Creek water quality and stormwater oversight
The site sits within 100 feet of the Fern Creek riparian corridor, and opponents — including a former Katy employee and a licensed civil engineer — argue chemical spray, dripping cars, and equipment failures could contaminate the creek and downstream Willamette River. The applicant says wash water is fully contained and triple-filtered, with process water going to the sanitary sewer.
Lady B River Tugboat Status
The Council was scheduled to receive a 30-minute status update on the Lady B River Tugboat matter. Details of the update were not available in the published agenda.
Environmental protection and sustainability
The priority stays on the list, with staff noting much of the work is already underway; Megan flagged urgent needs around emerald ash borer and Mediterranean oak borer management, and council floated a future council values statement.