Title
Resolution No. 20-14, Calling for an Election with the Question Shall Oregon City Authorize Underground Placement of a Wastewater Pipeline in Jon Storm Park and Adopting a Ballot Title
Body
RECOMMENDED ACTION (Motion):
Staff recommends approval of Resolution No. 20-14.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
The Oregon City Charter requires voter approval for the City to either grant a property interest in a City park or for the construction of permanent structures unrelated to recreation on park property. Water Environment Services (WES) discussed the requirements of the City Charter with staff and desires City Commission approval to seek that permission. WES is requesting that this issue be considered to be placed onto the November 3, 2020 election ballot. WES would be required to cover costs, if any, related to this ballot measure. Draft ballot measure language has been prepared for the Oregon City Commission to provide feedback and direction to City staff and WES.
BACKGROUND:
The City Commission discussed Resolution No. 20-14 and associated materials at the May 20, 2020 Work Session. The Commissions feedback was incorporated into the Explanatory Statement and the updated version has been attached to this staff report.
Project Overview: The current outfall from the Tri-City Water Resource Recovery Facility (“Tri-City WRRF”) was constructed in 1984 and is nearing capacity during peak wet weather events. In May of 2019, WES’ Board approved the Tri-City WRRF Outfall Project, which calls for the construction of a second underground outfall pipe to carry treated wastewater to the Willamette River in order to provide safe, reliable service for decades to come. The existing outfall is structurally sound and will remain in place for use when needed, creating redundancy and building resiliency for WES’ service area communities. The new outfall will also have a positive impact on the economy by creating jobs during the construction process, supporting economic growth, and provi...
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