Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in West Linn, OR public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
13 issues in taxes budget
2026-28 Council Priorities
The council received an update on its 2026-28 priorities — the goals that guide what city staff work on and where resources go.
City Manager Evaluation
The council discussed the process and criteria for evaluating City Manager John Williams. How the review is structured can shape expectations for city leadership and staff direction.
League of Oregon Cities legislative priorities
More than a dozen speakers blasted HB 4037 and argued it shouldn't apply to the Tannler project, with one calling it unconstitutional. The council may send a letter raising the concerns to state legislators.
Comcast Franchise Renewal
The new ten-year Comcast franchise keeps the 5% franchise fee, boosts capital support to 1.75% of gross revenues, and preserves PEG channels and customer service standards.
Water System Development Charges Rate Update
The council was scheduled to meet jointly with the Utility Advisory Board to talk through the water system development charges and a water rate study. What comes out of this discussion could shape what West Linn households pay on their water bills and what new development pays to connect.
Annual fee and charge increases
Most city utility fees rise 5% (parks by an extra 5%) starting July 1 to keep up with costs, while System Development Charges drop 4.1% to spur development.
Community advisory group quorum failures
Councilor Bonnington flagged a wave of cancellations among advisory group meetings and suggested an informal group of residents and the city manager to boost community input, with possible ad hoc task force later.
Repeal of SDC Installment Payment Options
A proposed ordinance would eliminate the option to pay system development charges in installments. SDCs are fees charged on new development to fund infrastructure like roads, water, and parks.
Framing Our Future community engagement program
Councilor Bonnington flagged a wave of cancellations among advisory group meetings and suggested an informal group of residents and the city manager to boost community input, with possible ad hoc task force later.
Financial strategic planning as top council priority
The city faces a gap between what services residents value and how they're funded, and the council wants a community-driven plan before a crisis hits. This will shape the next biennial budget and possibly a bond or levy measure.
Parks Maintenance Fee increase for Operations Center
The city raised the monthly parks fee by $5.20 per residence to fund the Parks Department's share of the new Operations Center — roughly $561,000 a year from the General Fund. It's the only fee increase expected for this project, since 80% of the cost comes from existing funds, and value engineering already cut $4.2 million. A low-income rate is available.
General Fund & Parks Utility Service Fee
Council continued a discussion about a utility service fee that would help fund the city's General Fund and parks operations. If adopted later, this fee would show up on utility bills and affect household costs citywide.
2025 City Audit Results
The city's annual audit came back with a clean, unmodified opinion — the best result possible — with no findings on the state compliance report, and the city expects another GFOA Excellence award. Merina & Co. is stepping down as auditor, with Aldrich CPAs taking over.