City Council Work Session 07/21/2026

The City of Milwaukie, Oregon City Council held a work session on July 21, 2026, focusing primarily on economic development goals and business registration code amendments. Staff presented proposals to amend the business license code to allow use of business license revenue for business assistance programs, reduce fees for homebased businesses and certain rental properties, and shift rental fees to a per-unit basis. Council members discussed the administrative implications, revenue impacts, and potential opt-in approaches for fee reductions. There was consensus to proceed with code amendments while deferring more complex affordability-related rental fee discussions to a future session. Additionally, the council reviewed community enhancement plans for Chromeberg Park related to a creek restoration project, emphasizing the need for careful design to balance natural park features with maintenance and safety concerns. The council expressed interest in excluding a consolidated nature play area from the park enhancements and requested further information on long-term maintenance responsibilities. No formal votes were recorded during this session, but staff were directed to return with refined proposals and financial analyses for future consideration.