City Council Work Session 11/19/2024

The City Council Work Session for the City of Milwaukie, Oregon, held on November 19, 2024, focused primarily on updates and proposed amendments to the city's natural resource and tree codes. Planning staff presented detailed information on water quality resource (WQR) and habitat conservation area (HCA) mapping, highlighting efforts to correct inaccuracies and streamline regulations to balance housing development with environmental protection. Discussions included clarifications on buffer zones, administrative review procedures for limited disturbances, and the integration of tree code requirements with natural resource protections. The council also reviewed proposed changes to the tree code, including permit classifications, enforcement improvements, and a new performance bond requirement to ensure tree survival after planting. The session addressed challenges in public communication and enforcement, with plans to improve outreach through welcome packets for new residents. Additionally, council members received updates on local capital improvement projects, including a $15 million library and an $18 million park and school building renovation, funded partly by system development charges. No formal votes or contract awards were reported during this session, but the discussions indicate forthcoming code amendments and ongoing capital projects that may involve future procurement activity.