City Council - 4 May 2026

The City Council of Sandy, Oregon, held a meeting on May 4, 2026, focusing extensively on wastewater management and infrastructure planning. The council discussed the ongoing facility plan amendment to address wastewater discharge challenges under a 2023 consent decree. Three main discharge alternatives were evaluated: Sandy River discharge, conveyance to Gresham, and a new groundwater recharge option involving direct injection to groundwater. The groundwater recharge option emerged as the preferred, lowest-cost alternative, estimated at $134 to $147 million, including treatment and discharge but excluding an additional $14 million needed for collection system improvements applicable to all options. The council considered the phased implementation of a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) expansion and effluent polishing, with plans to issue an RFP for MBR design consultants by July 1, 2026. Discussions also covered potential rate increases, funding opportunities including state and federal grants, and the need to renegotiate agreements with water reuse partners. Additionally, the council addressed updates to municipal codes related to mental health facilities to comply with House Bill 2005, including clarifications on residential facility definitions and zoning implications. Other topics included noise and solicitation ordinance revisions, public safety concerns, and community engagement initiatives. Motions were passed to adopt code amendments as amended, and action items included preparing detailed cost projections and pursuing funding opportunities for wastewater infrastructure projects.