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January 27, 2025 minutes COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 DATE COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, CITY OF WOODBURN, COUNTY OF MARION, STATE OF OREGON,JANUARY 27,2025 CONVENED The meeting convened at 7:04 p.m. with Mayor Lonergan presiding. ROLL CALL Mayor Lonergan Present Councilor Cantu Present Councilor Cornwell Present Councilor Schaub Present Councilor Brizuela Absent Councilor Grijalva Present Councilor Wilk Present Staff Present: City Administrator Derickson, City Attorney Granum, Assistant City Administrator Row, Economic Development Director Johnk, Community Development Director Kerr, Human Resources Director Gregg, Special Projects Director Wakely, Senior Planner Cortes, Police Chief Millican, Community Services Director Cuomo, Public Affairs and Communications Manager Guerrero, Finance Director Turley, Public Works Director Stultz, Assistant City Attorney Killmer, Community Relations Manager Herrera, City Recorder Pierson MOMENT OF REFLECTION Mayor Lonergan took a moment of reflection to acknowledge the following: • Congratulated the Fire District and acknowledged that four firefighters from the Woodburn Fire District were deployed to Los Angeles to assist with the fires and they successfully returned on Saturday. He expressed gratitude to the four firefighters, namely Robb Gramzow, Raul Garza, Dan Agee, and Joe Jacobucci, for their efforts. • Recognized the 80th anniversary of the Auschwitz liberation, emphasizing that it serves as a reminder of the consequences we may face if we lose our freedom and democracy. • Asked for a moment of silence for the 15-year-old community member that was killed in a train accident. He stated that our hearts go out to his family and friends. • Addressed the uncertainty surrounding immigration policies and their potential impact both nationally and locally. He noted that the City of Woodburn supports the principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). To further clarify the City's stance, the Mayor invited the Police Chief to speak on the City's position moving forward. Police Chief Millican read a brief statement regarding the federal government's nationwide immigration enforcement that is causing concern in the community.Noting that the Woodburn Police Department, under Oregon law, is not authorized to enforce federal immigration laws and is committed to following state laws and the department will continue to serve the Page 1 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 community by upholding the U.S. Constitution, Oregon laws, and department policies, and encourages residents to contact the police for services as needed. BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC Ansar El Muhammed, 1421 June Way, shared that they have lived in the community for nearly 20 years, and the recent incidents involving teens and railroad accidents have prompted them to speak out. They emphasized the need for safety improvements, proposing several initiatives, including: approaching the Woodburn School District to implement railroad safety classes for all grades, taught by Union Pacific, distributing educational flyers to all Woodburn households, installing fences to prevent shortcuts and educating the public on railway laws, slowing down trains and adjusting train schedules to avoid overlap with school walking times, increased patrolling of the tracks during school hours. She provided the City Council with a handout that contained information on train fatalities in Marion County. Emily Rojas, stated that her friend passed away last Friday and emphasized that actions should be taken in response to this loss. She stated that her friend didn't deserve to die and that children should be protected from preventable tragedies and suggested putting up a barrier between the trees to enhance safety and avoid further deaths. Claudia Rojas, stated that the tragedy could have been avoided with proper safety measures. She emphasized the need for barriers between train tracks and walking areas, urging the city to take action to prevent future accidents and protect the lives of young people. She also mentioned the pain families feel when they lose children to preventable accidents and called for more proactive measures. Rebecca Lurback, 1180 Koeffler Ave, thanked the Council for their work on affordable housing, highlighting the need for better education on how this impacts the community. She also voiced strong support for the immigrant community, praising the chief of police for advocating against bigotry and for the fair treatment of immigrants. Additionally, she raised safety concerns regarding Evergreen Rd. near Meadows Estates, which is a high-risk area for seniors. She requested the installation of a stop sign at a dangerous intersection near Walmart, citing frequent accidents and the vulnerability of elderly residents. CONSENT AGENDA A. Woodburn City Council minutes of January 13, 2025, B. Traffic Photo Enforcement Report—October through December 2024, C. Monthly Financial Report, D. Acceptance of Public Utility Easement at 1274 N 5th Street (Tax Lot 051 W07DB00300), E. Acceptance of Easements and Right of Way Associated with the Speculative Industrial Development Project(Tax Lot 052W140000800 & 052W140000801), F. Liquor License Application for Romero's Cantina LLC. Councilor Cornwell asked about the concerns the police department had with the application for Romero's Cantina LLC. Chief Millican stated they do have concerns about people moving from food cart to food cart with alcohol, however, they do not have a legal reason to recommend denial of the application. He added that they will monitor the location. Mayor Lonergan recommended that the applicant put up some sort of barrier. Motion: Schaub/Cantu... approve the consent agenda as presented. Page 2 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 The Motion passed with the following vote: Councilors Schaub, Cornwell, Wilk, Cantu, and Grijalva voting "aye." [5-0] PUBLIC HEARING A Public Hearing to consider input on Planning Commission approval with conditions of the US Market gas station development at 2540 & 2600 Newberg Hwy at the southwest corner of Newberg Hwy & Oregon Way (CU 24-02). Mayor Lonergan declared the hearing open at 7:32 p.m. for the purpose of hearing public input on the Planning Commission approval with conditions of the US Market gas station development at 2540 & 2600 Newberg Hwy at the southwest corner of Newberg Hwy & Oregon Way (CU 24-02). Mayor Lonergan asked if there were any declarations from the Council. Councilor Schaub stated that she is aware of the property and had an issue with tree removal at that location in the past. Councilor Cornwell stated that she is familiar with the property and was a teacher for Rosa Reyes. Councilor Wilk stated that he went to the bank that used to be there. Councilor Cantu stated that she also went to the bank that used to be there. Councilor Grijalva stated that she is familiar with the property. Mayor Lonergan stated that he is familiar with the property. City Recorder Pierson read the public hearing statement. Senior Planner Cortes provided a staff report. He noted that two pieces of testimony came in after the packet went out and they were made available to Councilors today and posted online. Mark Shipman, land use attorney with Saalfeld Griggs PC 250 Church St., Salem, OR, provided testimony on behalf of the applicant. He noted that the vacant property is being developed into a business with significant input from staff and support from the Planning Commission. Key changes from the 2022 application include a"right-in" only driveway design to restrict right-out turns onto Hwy 214, approval from ODOT for access,and a modified landscaping plan with more deciduous trees. The project is located within 160 feet of residential zones, requiring a conditional use permit. The Planning Commission approved the permit with conditions to mitigate impacts on the surrounding neighborhood, and staff recommends approval as the project meets all criteria. Mr. Shipman submitted a letter with supplemental findings for the record to the City Council dated January 27, 2025. Joe Bessman, Transight Consulting LLC, 61721 Splendor LN Bend, OR 97702, addressed concerns regarding the project's access, traffic flow, and safety. He noted that originally the plan included a right-in, right-out access, but this was changed to a right-in only after safety concerns about traffic weaving on Highway 214 were raised. Working with ODOT, the revised access was approved, as it benefits the transportation system by diverting eastbound traffic onto Oregon Way, which is less congested and has a signal for safe left turns. Kevin Girlets, with Ronald James Ped Architect PC, stated that the tanks on this project are double wall tanks. Property Owner Don Sidhu stated that there will be two tanks that are split with four different products. Page 3 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 He added that he expects a delivery by the fuel tanker around every other day. Mick Harris, 888 SW 5th Ave. Ste.1600 in Portland, OR 97204, an attorney with Tonkon Torp representing the appellant Paula Kilgore, stated that there are issues of compatibility with this project and whether the proposal could fit harmoniously with the neighborhood. He stated that the previous design, rejected by the City Council two years ago, had become worse, particularly due to ODOT's highway safety requirements, which could burden Oregon Way. Harris also raised concerns about potential future easements with Dairy Queen and additional site strain.He highlighted non-traffic issues like lighting, noise, and smells, which should also be considered for compatibility. He briefly referred to technical and procedural aspects of the appeal, noting concerns about deferred compliance with future decisions and inadequate analysis in the staff report. Mr. Harris mentioned that he hadn't had time to review the supplemental findings or the letter circulated by the applicant's attorney, requesting a delay in the decision until further review. City Attorney Granum stated that she had not reviewed the supplemental material submitted this evening. She highlighted that the Council had several options during deliberation, including the choice of whether or not to adopt the applicant's proposed additional findings. She added that the Council could still choose to move forward without accepting the supplemental materials. If the Council needed more time to review the material,it was advisable to make that decision before finalizing their decision. Mayor Lonergan asked if any member of the public wished to speak in support of the Planning Commission approval with conditions of the US Market gas station development at 2540 & 2600 Newberg Hwy at the southwest corner of Newberg Hwy & Oregon Way (CU 24-02). Mohan Grewal, 2620 Newberg Hwy, expressed concern about a vacant property near his own, which has been unused for several years. He noted that the site invites issues such as homelessness, garbage, and decreased property values. He emphasized the need for development on the property. He stated that a developed property would bring more jobs,revenue, and improve the city's image.He also raised concerns about local gas prices, advocating for more affordable options, especially for low-income residents. Lorena Silva, PO Box 162, Hubbard, expressed support for the proposed gas station. She highlighted the contributions of Don and Rosa, who are well-regarded in the community, and mentioned their past charitable efforts, such as installing a water filtration system at Saint Luke's. She noted that their involvement would bring positive change to the community. Lorena emphasized that the unpredictability of gas prices should not overshadow the broader benefits of having a responsible and reliable business in the area. Alma Shevchenko, 489 Tumberry Ave., supported the development of the gas station, citing the potential to boost Woodburn's economic growth, create jobs, and stimulate the local economy. She advocated for a more reliable option, like the proposed U.S. market station, based on her positive experiences with their cleanliness and organization at other locations. She stated that she also believed that the new gas station would lead to increased traffic, which would, in turn, increase property values in the area. Rick Hascall, 2832 Olympic St., stated that he is a Woodburn business owner and resident, and Page 4 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses, particularly those like Don and Rosa, who are invested in the city's growth. He argued that the primary concern for the proposed gas station was traffic,but he disagreed with comparisons to the nearby Safeway,stating that the new gas station would be similar to the Chevron station in terms of traffic flow. He pointed out that the city needs another gas station, especially with developments like Amazon's opening. He also noted that competition in the gas market would help drive down prices, benefiting residents and preventing price manipulation by Chevron. Myrna Gusdorf, 665 Troon Ave., spoke in favor of the development of the vacant lot near the city entrance. She described the property as an eyesore with weeds, garbage, and homelessness, which has been an issue for years. They emphasized the need for a project like the U.S. Market to improve the area. She also praised the developer's plan, highlighting that it is a thoughtfully designed project that fits the city's needs. She argued that gas prices are a significant concern, particularly for low-income residents who need affordable and conveniently located gas stations. She encouraged a vote in favor of the plan, emphasizing the competitive pricing the new station would likely offer. Amar Sidhu, 1311 Lancaster Drive,Northeast Salem, stated that he is the marketing representative for U.S. Market, and he is in favor of the proposed gas station, emphasizing the positive impact the company has on the community. He shared that U.S. Market is known for being community-friendly and offering excellent customer service. He addressed concerns raised about U.S. Market's impact on traffic and delivery logistics, reassuring the council that the company has addressed these issues with careful planning and coordination. He added that the development would help bring more visitors to the city and improve fuel pricing for residents, supporting local economic growth. Julian Cocklin, 17225 SE 120th Ave. Clackamas, stated that he is an account executive with Coremark (a vendor for U.S. Market), provided additional context about delivery procedures. He explained that Coremark specializes in delivering to convenience stores. He assured the Council that deliveries would be efficient and would not disrupt traffic flow. He stated that deliveries typically take 25 to 35 minutes and are scheduled to minimize disruption, especially in tight convenience store locations. Fred Shadrin, 35913 S. Kropf Road, expressed support for the U.S. Market development, particularly praising Don Sidhu for his charitable contributions, including donations to Doembecher Children's Hospital. He addressed concerns regarding traffic flow, stating that sufficient engineering had been done to ensure smooth traffic management. Mr. Shadrin shared his experience with fuel stations and noted that lighting would not be an issue at the proposed site, citing other stations as examples. He compared the proposed project to a similar one on Division Street in Portland, arguing that traffic flow would not be negatively impacted. He encouraged the Council to vote in favor of the project. Mayor Lonergan noted that the following individuals, while not wishing to speak, filled out speaker cards in support of the project:Kevin Cach,Todd Mitchell,Doug Eyer,Ivan Tippin, Serge Chernishoff, Marco Sancuz, Patrick McDonough, Tiffanie Baker, Lorena Silva, Parvee Sidhu,Balrad Singh, Daniel Shucknke, Sonya Darling, Jay Bahia, Todd Garner, Irshad Suri, Michael Vasquez, Todd Nelson, Rob Stuart, Mark Shipman, Bryan Galbraith, Harry Bhullar, Tony Sidhu, Bill Hammack, Emily Hammack, Norman Mabee, Inderdit Singh, David Arthur Milam, Sarbjit Kaur, NaJma, and Donna Svela. Debbie Holland, 405 Troon Ave, Woodburn, expressed support for the proposed project, stating that Page 5 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 she and her husband fully support Don Sidhu's application. Kevin Cach, 14900 SW 103rd, Tigard, stated that he is a representative for Space Age Fuel (the fuel vendor for U.S. Market), and provided insight into the delivery process. He explained that Space Age Fuel delivers 40 to 50 thousand loads of gasoline and diesel each month across the state and can accommodate any delivery timing restrictions the City may impose. He mentioned that the company prefers to make deliveries in the evening or late at night to minimize traffic disruption. He reviewed the project plans and confirmed that the delivery process to the proposed location would be safe and efficient. Todd Garner, 2782 Tukwila Drive, Woodburn, expressed his support for the project, commending the planning staff for their excellent presentation and thorough answers to his questions. He also suggested that in lieu fees could be considered for enhancing safety around the nearby railroad tracks,referencing the emotional testimony given earlier in the meeting. Mayor Lonergan asked if any member of the public wished to speak in opposition of the Planning Commission approval with conditions of the US Market gas station development at 2540 & 2600 Newberg Hwy at the southwest corner of Newberg Hwy & Oregon Way (CU 24-02). Jan Dirkham, Oregon Way, expressed strong concerns about the proposed gas station, as she lives just three houses away from the site. She and her husband bought their home to retire in a quiet neighborhood, but they are worried about the increased traffic, noise, and safety issues. She mentioned frequent speeding cars on their street, which could worsen with the gas station's presence. She voiced concerns about the disruption to their quality of life, particularly with noise from nighttime gas pumping. While she is not against having a gas station in town, she believes the location is not suitable for it. Jill Morris, 952 Oregon Way, stated that her home is directly across from the proposed gas station exit and raised concerns about traffic congestion. She mentioned that cars exiting the gas station turning left onto Oregon Way will likely block the left turn lane onto Highway 214, causing further traffic issues. She also expressed concern about headlights from cars shining into her home, disrupting her ability to enjoy quiet evenings. She highlighted that there are already two gas stations within two blocks of her home and questioned the need for another. Environmental impacts and a potential decrease in home values were also mentioned as significant concerns. Jan Duncum„ 980 Oregon Way, stated that she is a resident living directly across from the proposed site, and voiced concerns about traffic and congestion. She mentioned that with the current traffic light on Highway 214, four vehicles would already block her driveway, and she worries this issue will be exacerbated by the gas station. Additionally, the bus stop near the service station exit and increased traffic from golfers and maintenance vehicles further complicates the situation. She suggested that while a gas station could be beneficial to Woodburn, this location is not appropriate for such a facility due to its residential setting. Karen Halter, 938 Oregon Way, echoed the concerns raised by her neighbors, agreeing that the proposed gas station is not suitable for their residential area. She noted the existing traffic from semis and loud cars, which already cause significant noise and disruption. She also stated that the gas station Page 6 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 would exacerbate these problems, making it difficult for her and others in the neighborhood to get any rest. She emphasized that while she acknowledged the businessman's good intentions, the location is not appropriate. Paula Kilgore, 636 Oregon Way, stated that she is the one who filed the appeal against the proposed gas station and convenience store at the location. She opposes the project due to several concerns including traffic hazards on both Highway 214 and Oregon Way, the dangerous traffic light system at the intersection, and congestion caused by the existing businesses in the area. Paula also noted the potential health risks to residents, including fire danger and fuel spills. She is concerned about the future obsolescence of the gas station due to the rise of electric vehicles. She also stated that she has gathered 70 signatures opposing the project and provided them to the City Recorder. Micky Harrison, 924 Oregon Way, stated that she shares the concerns raised by others and emphasized that her objection to the project is not personal, as she believes the developer might be a good person. However,they reiterated that the location is not suitable for the gas station and emphasized the negative impact on the quality of life in the area due to increased traffic and safety issues. Susan Huggins, 910 Oregon Way, stated that she lives near the proposed exit onto Oregon Way, and voiced her strong opposition to the gas station, stating it would disrupt her community. She shared concerns about the safety and livability of the neighborhood, mentioning broken bottles and potential issues with littering. She also mentioned the noise, light pollution, and construction disruptions. Susan emphasized that the location is not right for the proposed project. Becky Hayes, 950 Evergreen Rd, Unit 205, stated that she is a member of a 55+ community, and expressed her strong opposition to the gas station proposal. She noted the insufficient soundproofing and lighting issues with the project and raised concerns about pollution from the gas station affecting the ozone layer and the local environment. She also pointed out that there are existing gas stations nearby, questioning the need for another. Becky further criticized the developer for neglecting to maintain the property in its current state, which she believes is contributing to the area's dilapidated look. Anika Figueroa, 791 S Settlemier Ave, stated that she is speaking on behalf of her parents, who live at 966 Oregon Way, directly across from the proposed gas station. She outlined several concerns, including noise, illumination, hours of operation, and traffic. She emphasized that the traffic report from the applicant was inaccurate, as it compared the gas station to banks, which operate only during business hours, while the gas station would be open much longer. She expressed concerns about headlights shining into homes and the potential safety hazards posed by increased traffic and accidents in the area. She urged the City Council to deny the project due to its negative impact on the neighborhood. Jaime Rodriguez, 1639 Newport Way, spoke against the project, highlighting concerns about traffic congestion on Oregon Way and the Newberg Freeway. He pointed out the existing traffic challenges and the potential for a 25% increase in traffic, especially during peak hours. Jaime also mentioned environmental concerns,including air pollution and gas emissions,which he believes would negatively impact the community. He stressed the importance of making a decision that benefits the overall community rather than focusing on profit and urged the council to consider other locations for the gas Page 7 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 station. Mayor Lonergan noted that the following individuals, while not wishing to speak, filled out speaker cards in opposition of the project: Mary McGrath, Robert Boyle, Marilyn Sbardellati, Lynda Hines, Julie Prevost, Donna Owen, Carol Sullivan, William Wright,Ed Ivey,Janie Torabi,Janie Durk,Vickie Hibberd, Largo Abshere,Laurie Kramer, Gordon Hall,Deborah Lebold,Gloria Bonnie,Donna Rector, Nancy Bellinger, Merra Frochen, Sergio Figuero, Carolyn Shindlebower, Norman Ebanks, Doris Ebanks, Anna and Henry Phillips, Dixie Hilton, Alice Green, Larry Durk, Carolyn Forrest, Stormie Strand, Candy Steffen, Carol Paradis, Jennifer Lopinski, Janice Aiken, Betty Yaws, Ed and Sheila Hawn, Wanda Stevens, Loretta Vittoria, James Burnes, Debbie Grith, Rosemary Hinkle, Julie Hadley, Malena Turner, Diana Meithof, Nancy Landers, Ed, Hawn, Dorothy Monnier, Pam Garrett, Carol Bettandorff, Tom Barrell, Susan Nichols Mayor Lonergan asked for rebuttal testimony from the applicant. Don Siddhu, 692 Troon Ave, shared his positive experience with the growing community and addressed a few concerns. He noted that while the local bank had standard business hours, its ATMs were available 2417,and the parking lot had well-placed,downward-pointing lights for safety.He noted that there are still poles in the parking lot, around 22-25 feet high, but they are pointed downwards and not towards residential areas. He assured Council that they would work with the city staff to ensure compliance with lighting requirements, making sure it is directed appropriately. He emphasized the modern technology used in underground fuel tanks, which includes double-walled tanks and piping with sensors to prevent leaks. He explained that if there's a leak or malfunction, the system shuts off automatically. He reassured that fuel leaks are unlikely unless caused by human error, such as spilling during fueling. He stated that he is committed to working with the city to meet all necessary requirements. Mark Shipman addressed a procedural error allegation made by Mr. Harrison, asserting that no error occurred. The applicant acknowledges the burden of proof and explains that the process of working with the Council to create the final findings is customary. He emphasized that the testimony presented was consistent with the Planning Commission's, which had already made a decision based on substantial evidence, meeting approval criteria and staff conditions. Mr. Shipman clarified that the zoning is long-established as commercial general, and while traffic concerns are noted,the system can handle the proposed use without failure. The Planning Commission's approval, despite some dissent, was based on careful consideration of the evidence. The speaker urged approval of the staff recommendation and conditions as outlined in the Planning Commission's decision. Mayor Lonergan closed the hearing at 9:51 p.m. Mayor Lonergan stated that it was now time for Councilor discussion. Councilor Wilk commented on the importance of comprehensive land use planning in Oregon, acknowledging its benefits despite some criticisms. He noted that within a commercial zone, property owners are allowed to develop their land according to the zoning rules, and in cases like this one, a conditional use permit is required. Councilor Wilk pointed out that the proposed gas station is 160 feet away from the nearest residences, addressing concerns from those most affected. He stated he feels this Page 8 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 is an appropriate use for this facility and that the conditions set by staff and approved by the Planning Commission are designed to minimize the impact of the gas station and make it as non-intrusive as possible. Mayor Lonergan noted that the City can't dictate what a person does with their property as long as they follow the conditions in the property zoning. Councilor Schaub expressed her concerns about the property's development,noting that after the banks were torn down and the property remained vacant, two trees were removed without permission. She also highlighted the worries about the impact on traffic and noise for the nearby senior residents. She added that although the developer met the conditions set by the Planning Commission and planning department, she feels this project does not seem compatible with the neighborhood she has been a part of for 18 years. Councilor Cornwell stated that no one wants a gas station by their home and that if this was in the Tukwila neighborhood it would be a whole different fight. She stated that she enjoys US Markets but wants to do what is best for her constituents. Councilor Cantu stated that she went through all the material so she could make an informed decision. She stated that she understands that nobody wants a gas station right across the street from them, but she feels that this property needs to be developed and it has been sitting vacant way to long. She feels that this development will make that area a lot cleaner and safer. Councilor Grijalva stated that she also went through all the materials so she could make an informed decision. She added that she believes this lot needs to be developed. She added that she appreciates that someone in the community will be the owner and a partner in the community. Mayor Lonergan asked the Council if they believe they can make a decision tonight without looking at the additional material that was passed out by the applicant. Councilors agreed that they could. Motion: Wilk/Grijalva... approve the application with one additional condition that the property owners across the street from the exit on to Oregon Way have an arborvitae barrier and direct staff to prepare a final land use decision for consideration at the next City Council meeting. On roll call vote the motion passed 3-2 with Councilors Wilk, Cantu, and Grijalva voting "aye" and Councilor Cornwell and Schaub voting "nay" AWARD PERSONAL SERVICE AGREEMENT TO OPSIS ARCHITECTURE LLP Assistant City Administrator Row provided a staff report. Dhagmar Kinne, 586 Front Street, expressed her support for the project and offered her help. Motion: Schaub/Cornwell... authorize the City Administrator to enter into a Personal Services Agreement with Opsis Architecture LLP in the amount of $29,600 plus reimbursable expenses estimated to be $500 to provide architectural programming and concept design services for the Community Center Project. Page 9 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 The Motion passed with the following vote: Councilors Schaub, Cornwell, Wilk, Cantu, and Grijalva voting "aye." [5-0] CITY ADMINISTRATOR'S REPORT The City Administrator reported the following: A group of students and adults addressed the council tonight about a recent fatal train collision involving a student and he spoke with them before the meeting and invited them to return for further discussion at the next City Council meeting. He stated that the City has a long history with Union Pacific and trying to engage to improve safety conditions around the railroad tracks and that the Safe Trails to School project is currently underway. The City Administrator emphasized the need for immediate conversations with young people about the dangers of the tracks, urging adults, teachers, parents, and neighbors to have these discussions. While longer- term solutions are explored, such as access improvements and overpasses, these conversations can start right away. MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS Councilor Grijalva appreciates all of the training and information she is getting and that the organizational chart she received is wonderful. Councilor Cantu noted that she will be handing over the gavel to the Woodburn Chambers next president during Friday's annual meeting. Councilor Wilk gave a shout out for citizen participation in regard to the gas station and the train tragedy and added that our community engagement needs to continue and that it will help make Woodburn a safer place. Councilor Schaub thanked staff for their work. Councilor Cornwell asked that staff address the woman that asked for a stop sign on Evergreen Rd. and Harvard. She also noted that the police department had won best chili in the chili cook off. Mayor Lonergan reminded the Council that they have a goal setting session coming up in February and he would like to have everyone's goals at least a week before they meet. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Schaub/Cornwell ... move to adjourn. The Motion passed with the following vote: Councilors Schaub, Cornwell, Wilk, Cantu, and Grijalva voting "aye." [5-0] Mayor Lonergan adjourned the meeting at 10:42 p.m. APPROVED FRANK LONERGAN, MAYA Page 10 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES JANUARY 27, 2025 ATTEST � t Feather Pierson, City Recorder City of Woodburn, Oregon Page 11 - Council Meeting Minutes, January 27, 2025