City Council Special Session 09/23/2026

The City Council of Milwaukie, Oregon, held a special session on September 23, 2026, primarily focused on negotiations and future plans related to the North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District (NCPRD) and the Milwaukee Bay Park Phase 3 project. The council discussed the protracted intergovernmental agreement (IGA) negotiations with NCPRD, which had stalled due to new issues raised by the district beyond the original scope. The council voted unanimously to rescind authorization for the city manager to sign the IGAs, effectively concluding the negotiation process and signaling intent to proceed independently with the Milwaukee Bay Park Phase 3 project. The meeting also covered future parks operations and maintenance funding scenarios, including potential departure from NCPRD, with discussions on tax rates, service levels, and community engagement plans. Additionally, the council reviewed procurement plans for the Milwaukee Bay Park project, including a sole source contract with the existing design firm Not Studios and a competitive solicitation for a construction manager/general contractor (CMGC). The council emphasized the need for timely decisions to secure grants and manage project costs amid inflationary pressures. No votes were taken on procurement contracts during this session, but clear action items were established to advance the project and explore funding options.