City Council Regular Session 7/16/2024

The City Council of Milwaukie, Oregon, held its regular session on July 16, 2024, where key procurement-related discussions focused on zoning amendments to implement neighborhood hubs. The council considered rezoning proposals including upzoning certain areas to Neighborhood Mixed Use (NMU) and creating a new Small Scale Mixed Use (SMU) zone to encourage commercial development at an appropriate scale. The council debated permitting drinking establishments as a conditional versus permitted use, with concerns raised about potential neighborhood impacts. The ordinance amending the comprehensive plan, zoning code, and map was moved forward for first and second readings, with the second reading and adoption scheduled for August 6, 2024. Additionally, the council approved an annexation ordinance for a single detached unit at 9304 Southeast 55th Avenue. Updates were provided on various city-led and partnered initiatives related to houseless and behavioral health services, including funding proposals for emergency warming shelters, rental assistance programs, and a stabilization center. The council also discussed ongoing coordination with Clackamas County on recovery and shelter services, and legislative priorities related to transportation funding and tolling. Several motions were passed, and work sessions were planned to further address economic development related to neighborhood hubs and youth engagement strategies.