Ashland public meetings in 2025

General

The 2200 Ashland Street Ad Hoc committee is meeting to select a Chair and Vice Chair. Members will discuss site planning and services and accountability to determine what information is needed for a recommendation to the Council.

• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Update on site planning for 2200 Ashland Street
• Update on services and accountability for 2200 Ashland Street

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss goals and a workplan for 2026 and hold nominations for Committee Chair and Vice Chair. Members will also discuss updates regarding the Manufactured Home Park Zone.

• Review of Goals for 2026
• Nominations for Committee Chair and Vice Chair
• Manufactured Home Park Zone Update
• Workplan review and Presentation debrief

General

The committee will meet virtually to elect a new Chair and Vice Chair for 2026. Members will also review a work plan and discuss responses to working group emails.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair for 2026
• Review of Council celebration and work plan meeting
• Informational item regarding bike rack installations on 3rd St.
• Informational item regarding Oregon State University Transportation Training slide deck

City Council

The City Council is holding a study session to receive a presentation and proposal regarding electric rates.

• Electric rate presentation and proposal

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a second reading of an ordinance language change and a first reading of Ordinance 3275, which would amend Chapter 10.68 Public Parks to add provisions for special‑use permitted activity. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of minutes from December 1 and 2, a consent agenda for the annual OLCC license, and a public forum. Unfinished business on the Citywide Strategic Plan will be discussed.

• Second reading – Ordinance Language Change (Set #1)
• First reading of Ordinance 3275: amend Chapter 10.68 Public Parks for special‑use activity
• Approval of minutes for the December 1, 2025 retreat and December 2, 2025 business meeting
• Consent agenda approval of the annual OLCC license
• Public forum and public hearing

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting will include a presentation on the audit and updates on commission and committee workplans for 2025/2026. Public comment is welcome via an online form submitted by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting.

• Audit Presentation
• Commission & Committee Workplans & Updates 2025/2026
• Public comment via online form (due by 10 a.m.)

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Ashland Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will review its work planning meeting and schedule for 2026, and discuss gas-powered lawn and garden equipment. The meeting will also include staff and council liaison updates.

• CEPAC Work Plan Schedule for 2026
• Gas Powered Lawn and Garden Equipment discussion
• Staff Liaison Updates
• Council Liaison Updates

The committee approved the meeting minutes unanimously. Members authorized Chair Bryan Sohl to summarize the 2025 accomplishments and work plan and distribute the summary to CEPAC members. The meeting also included updates on USDA loan status, state weatherization grants, and upcoming council agenda items.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized Sohl to summarize and distribute 2025 accomplishments and work plan

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet for a work session discussion. No specific policy decisions or ordinances are listed on the agenda.

• Work session discussion

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will discuss the PROS Plan strategic goals review as an informational item. No decisions or votes are indicated. The meeting is a retreat with no public forum.

• PROS Plan – Strategic Goals Review (information only)

The Parks & Recreation Commission held a retreat to review the draft strategic goals for the Parks, Recreation, Open space, & Senior services (PROS) plan. Staff presented the draft goals and asked commissioners for input. No motions were adopted; the item was recorded as informational only.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold Type II public hearings on two development proposals. The first is a subdivision of two parcels at 44 Scenic Drive into five residential lots, including removal of eleven trees and a request to waive standard street improvements. The second is a site design review for two new commercial buildings at 2262 and 2270 Ashland Street, with a property line adjustment increasing the lot size. The commission will consider approvals for both projects.

• Subdivision of 44 Scenic Drive (tax lots 5701 & 7302) into five lots, removal of 11 trees, exception to street standards
• Site Design Review for two-story commercial buildings at 2262 Ashland St., phased redevelopment
• Property Line Adjustment for tax lot 1600, increasing size from 0.38 to 0.82 acres

The commission considered an application for a five‑lot performance‑standards subdivision at 40‑44 Scenic Drive and Tax Lot 7302. Staff recommended approval of the outline and final plan, a physical & environmental constraints review permit, an exception to street standards, and a tree removal permit, subject to conditions. The minutes do not record a vote or final approval by the commission.

General

The Ashland City Council will review reports from affordable childcare grant recipients and examine the need for preschool and childcare seats in the city. It will discuss the "Mind the Gap" plan to address slot shortages caused by the closing of Children’s World Montessori, including input from local providers. The council will also consider a business engagement work plan, covering final question changes, sample selection, interview scheduling, and analysis methods.

• Review reports from affordable childcare grant recipients
• Discuss "Mind the Gap" strategies for childcare slots after Children’s World Montessori closure (involving UU Fellowship, Ella's Classroom, Little Sprouts, Siskiyou School)
• Assess the need for preschool/childcare seats in Ashland using data from the Southern Oregon Early Learning Hub
• Finalize business engagement work plan: question revisions, business sample selection, interview schedule, and analysis plan

The Ad‑Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning approved the draft minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting by unanimous consent. Members discussed the need for more infant/toddler care and considered using $100,000 of unused grant funds to seed an endowment. Two action items were set: John Love will start an exploratory conversation with the Ashland Schools Foundation, and Jessica Therkelsen and Paula Hyatt will develop endowment‑fund options and a roadmap for a Council recommendation.

• Approved draft minutes of 11/6/25 (all ayes)
• Assigned John Love to initiate exploratory conversation with Ashland Schools Foundation
• Assigned Jessica Therkelsen and Paula Hyatt to develop endowment fund options and roadmap for Council

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Ashland Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will approve minutes from the November 6 meeting, hold a public forum, and discuss unfinished business including a review of 2025 accomplishments and the 2026 workplan slated for City Council presentation on December 15. The meeting also covers updates on the Belonging Survey, volunteer recruitment for subcommittees, and planning a SERJAC social event. New business includes deciding on alternatives for the next regular meeting scheduled for January 1, 2026.

• Review of 2025 accomplishments and 2026 workplan before City Council presentation on Dec 15, 2025
• Discussion of next regular meeting date (Jan 1, 2026) and possible alternatives
• Belonging Survey status update – survey is live with link provided
• Recruitment of volunteers for the ELEA subcommittee and Housing Equity working group
• Planning ideas for a SERJAC social event

The committee approved the minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting unanimously. Members agreed to reschedule the January 2026 regular meeting to Thursday, January 8, 2026, 4:30‑6:00 PM in the Otte‑Peterson Conference Room at 1195 East Main Street. A working group was formed to post Belonging Survey flyers with QR codes on December 13, 2025, and members were assigned to the ELEA subcommittee and the Housing Equity working group. Additional tasks were delegated to compile report additions and plan a SERJAC social event.

• Approved minutes from 11/6/2025 (unanimous)
• Moved regular Jan 2026 meeting to Jan 8, 2026, 4:30‑6:00 PM, Otte‑Peterson Conference Room (agreement)
• Formed working group to post Belonging Survey flyers on Dec 13, 2025
• Assigned Simon and Smith to ELEA subcommittee
• Assigned Greenspan and Mendel to Housing Equity working group with HHSAC
• Tasked Mendel to compile 2025/2026 report additions and send to liaison Gooden
• Tasked Smith to compile SERJAC social event ideas for next meeting

General

The Ashland General Audit Committee will approve minutes from its October 7 and December 10, 2024 meetings. The committee will hear a presentation by independent auditors Baker Tilly LLP on the City of Ashland Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Management Letter. Members will discuss and vote on a motion to accept the Fiscal Year 2025 City of Ashland Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, either as presented or amended. Public input may be submitted electronically or in writing before 10:00 a.m. on the meeting day.

• Approval of Audit Committee minutes (Oct 7 2024, Dec 10 2024)
• Presentation by Baker Tilly LLP: Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Management Letter
• Motion to accept the Fiscal Year 2025 City of Ashland Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Public testimony submission instructions (email by 10:00 a.m. Dec 3 2025)
• Election of Committee Chair

The Audit Committee elected Linda Adams as committee chair, approved the minutes from October 7 and December 10, 2025, and accepted the City Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. All three motions passed unanimously.

• Elected Linda Adams as committee chair (unanimous)
• Approved Committee Minutes of Oct 7 2025 and Dec 10 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted City Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will approve its agenda and the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting, hold a public forum, and receive liaison reports. It will then discuss its 2025 accomplishments, outline the 2026 work plan, and review board assignments for December 2025 and January 2026.

• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes of October 8, 2025
• Public forum for community input
• Council liaison report (Jeff Dahle) and staff liaison report (Derek Severson)
• Discussion of 2025 accomplishments, 2026 work plan, and review of board assignments

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission will consider actions regarding safety and intersection modifications at Winburn Way and Granite Street. The body will also vote on the 2026 meeting schedule and the Indoor Facility Use Policy.

• Winburn Way Safety (Action)
• Modification of Winburn Way/Granite Street Y Intersection (Action)
• Indoor Facility Use Policy (Action)
• 2026 Park Commission Meeting Schedule (Action)
• Ashland Parks Foundation Annual Report (Information)

The commission approved the minutes from the October, November 5 and November 12 meetings by unanimous consent. Commissioners voted to approve limited use of Glysophate for staff safety versus automobile use. The 2026 Park Commission meeting schedule was approved, moving the December business meeting to the 2nd and canceling the December 9 meeting, with a 5‑0 vote. No vote was recorded on the proposed pedestrian route on Winburn Way.

• Approved October 1, November 5, and November 12 2025 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved limited use of Glysophate for staff safety (vote passed, tally not recorded)
• Approved 2026 Park Commission meeting schedule, moving December meeting to the 2nd and canceling the Dec 9 meeting (5‑0)
• Noted addition of Pat Acklin to the foundation board and hiring of Teresa Fernandez (no vote recorded)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will vote on ordinances regarding liquor license reviews and property annexation at 1511 Highway 99. The body will also discuss the use of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and the surplus process for two city properties.

• Second Reading of Ordinance 3255 relating to Liquor License Review
• Second Reading of Ordinance 3272 regarding property annexation at 1511 Highway 99
• Resolution 2025-30 to extend the Portable Signs pilot program in commercial areas
• Contract for Ashland Fiber Network DOCSIS 3.1 Upgrade Project
• Surplus property process requests for the Imperatrice Property and 380 Clay Street

The council approved the minutes from the November 17 and 18 meetings. It approved first readings of several housekeeping ordinances (3260, 3262, 3266, 3274, 3277, 3278, 3279, 3280, 3281) and the second reading of Ordinance 3255 (liquor license review) and Ordinance 3272 (annexation and fire‑district withdrawal). The council also directed staff to begin the surplus‑property process for the Imperatrice Property.

• Approved minutes of Nov 17 and Nov 18 meetings – passed (Sherrell, Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen – YES)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3260 removing section 2.29.020(P) – passed (DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle – YES)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3262 updating 2.54.070 for electronic surplus‑property payments – passed (DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle – YES)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3266 setting business‑license fees by resolution – passed (DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle – YES)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3274 updating tobacco‑control chapter to reflect state changes – passed (DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle – YES)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3255 (liquor license review) – passed (Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne – YES)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3272 annexing property, withdrawing from Jackson County Fire District 5, and adopting planning findings – passed (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell – YES)
• Directed staff to begin the surplus‑property process for the Imperatrice Property – passed (Sherrell, Hansen, Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan – YES)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a retreat on December 1, 2025 at the Council Chambers, 1175 East Main St. Council members will hear presentations on City Finance 101, the General Fund forecast, reserve fund goals, and reviews of recent cost‑cutting measures. Additional discussion will cover possible revenue‑generation ideas and, time permitting, the Facilities Masterplan. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for informational reports and discussion.

The council decided to hold a special session in January to discuss the Facilities Master Plan and a joint meeting with the Parks Commission on discretionary spending cuts. It also scheduled separate study sessions to review the city budget line‑by‑line and to bring back a fire department analysis in spring 2026. Staff will prepare reserve‑fund scenarios and cost‑recovery analyses, with additional fiscal impact studies to be presented in April or May. The council will revisit the reserve‑fund policy in the second quarter of 2026.

• Schedule special meeting in January to discuss Facilities Master Plan
• Schedule joint meeting with Parks Commission in January on discretionary spending cuts
• Schedule separate study session to review City Council budget line‑by‑line
• Bring back fire department analysis (ambulance service area, staffing models) in spring 2026
• Prepare reserve‑fund analysis showing 2‑month and 3‑month operating reserve scenarios
• Prepare cost‑recovery analysis for fees and services for annual fee adoption process
• Follow up with additional fiscal impact analysis of revenue and cost‑cutting measures in April or May
• Revisit reserve‑fund policy, including minimum fund balance target, in Q2 2026

General

The Ashland City Council will approve the minutes from the October 17, 2025 meeting and hold a public forum. New business includes reviewing a zoning ordinance and land‑use standards for the 2200 Ashland Street site. The council will hear reports from the Site Planning and Services/Accountability subcommittees. A proposal to dissolve the working groups will also be considered.

• Zoning Ordinance, Land Use and Development Standards for 2200 Ashland Street site
• Report from Site Planning Subcommittee
• Report from Services/Accountability Subcommittee
• Proposal to dissolve working groups

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee will review upcoming projects, discuss previous goals, and hold a brainstorming session on the City of Eugene’s Renters Protection and social service grants. The meeting includes a workplan draft review and a dot exercise to refine and prioritize goals.

• Review of upcoming projects
• Discussion of City of Eugene’s Renters Protection
• Overview of the City’s Social Service Grant
• Workplan draft review and brainstorming
• Dot exercise to refine and prioritize goals

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss the location of the Guanajuato Heart and maintenance for Rio Amistad. Members aim to adopt an Annual Work Plan for a December 15th City Council meeting. The group will also discuss the South Ashland Beautification Project.

• Guanajuato Heart location
• Rio Amistad maintenance
• Annual Work Plan adoption
• South Ashland Beautification Project

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Ashland Transportation Advisory Committee will consider a Commission & Committee Appreciation Event and discuss a public safety review request for Grandview Drive. It will also address the Working Group TAC email review, strategic communication assignments, and receive updates on the Transportation Service Provider and bike rack installations.

• Commission & Committee Appreciation Event – action required to discuss workplan accomplishments and 2026 actions
• Grandview Drive – action required to discuss the newest safety review request by the public
• Working Group TAC Email Review and Responses – action required to discuss as necessary
• Strategic Communication Assignments – action required to discuss educational articles to develop
• Bike Rack Installations – informational update

The committee approved the September 18 minutes. It also approved installing flexible candlesticks and signage at both ends of the Water Street train tunnel to block vehicle traffic while allowing pedestrians and bicycles. The motion was seconded by David and passed.

• Approved September 18 minutes (approved)
• Approved flexible candlesticks and signage on Water Street to prohibit vehicle traffic (approved)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Trails Advisory Committee will meet to set its 2026 meeting schedule. The body will also receive information regarding proposals for the Dormouse Trail and the Fence Trail redo.

• 2026 Trails Advisory Committee Meeting Schedule
• Dormouse Trail Proposal
• Fence Trail Redo Proposal

The Trails Advisory Committee approved a recommendation to move the Dormouse Trail proposal forward to the Park Commission. The motion passed with five members voting Yes and one voting No. A motion to approve the 2026 meeting schedule was not acted on. The committee also decided to form a working group on the Trail Proposal Procedure that will include Director Houston and members Braught and Bender.

• Recommend Dormouse Trail proposal to Park Commission – approved (5 Yes, 1 No)
• Form working group on Trail Proposal Procedure with Director Houston, Braught, and Bender – approved
• 2026 Trails Advisory Committee meeting schedule – not addressed

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a new liquor license review ordinance. The body will also discuss a proposal for a winter weather shelter and the ratification of labor agreements.

• First Reading of Ordinance 3255 regarding Liquor License Review
• Proposal for Winter/Extreme Weather Shelter at 2200 Ashland St
• Ratification of 3-Year Labor Agreements with IAFF Local 1269 and Parks and Recreation Teamsters Local 223
• First Quarter FY 26 Finance Update
• Appointment of Audit Committee Members

The council approved the first reading of a liquor‑license review ordinance, directed staff to contract a winter shelter at 2200 Ashland St with a $30,000 city contribution, ratified three‑year labor agreements for the fire and parks unions, and set a study session on natural‑gas franchise options. It also adopted the council retreat agenda.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3255 (liquor license review) – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Directed staff to enter agreement with OHRA for winter/extreme weather shelter at 2200 Ashland St, contributing $30,000 – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Ratified 3‑year labor agreement with Teamsters Local 223 (Parks & Rec) and authorized city manager to sign – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell; NO by DuQuenne, Dahle)
• Ratified 3‑year labor agreement with IAFF Local 1269 (Fire & Rescue) and authorized city manager to sign – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Directed staff to schedule April study session on natural‑gas franchise vs. right‑of‑way options – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Approved City Council retreat agenda – passed (YES vote by Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session to review Ordinance Language Change Set 1 and to receive an update on prohibited camping enforcement. Public comment is welcome on these agenda items.

• Review of Ordinance Language Change Set 1
• Update on Prohibited Camping Enforcement

The council approved the remaining items from Tables 1 and 2 of the proposed code changes to move forward to ordinance drafting. It directed staff to create a working group of up to three councilors and relevant staff to review draft changes to sections 3.08, 2.08, 2.04.020, 2.28 and all Table 3 items before the next full council meeting. The meeting was extended to 7:30 p.m. by unanimous agreement, and the police chief was instructed to provide additional camping‑enforcement data when resources allow.

• Approved remaining items from Tables 1 and 2 to proceed to ordinance drafting
• Directed staff to form a working group (up to three councilors) to review draft code changes to sections 3.08, 2.08, 2.04.020, 2.28 and all Table 3 items
• Extended meeting end time to 7:30 p.m. (unanimous)
• Asked Police Chief O'Meara to provide detailed camping‑enforcement data, including misdemeanor trends and unique citation counts, when resources permit

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will hold its regular meeting on November 13, 2025 at the City Hall location on Siskiyou Blvd. and 51 Winburn Way, with a Zoom option. The agenda includes a consent agenda to approve minutes from meetings on September 11, October 9, September 24, and October 10, 2025. New business will present the committee’s 2025 accomplishments and outline the workplan for 2026. Public testimony will be accepted for both public forum items and agenda items.

• Approve minutes from 9/11/2025, 10/9/2025, 9/24/2025, and 10/10/2025 CEPAC meetings
• Public forum for citizen input
• Presentation of 2025 accomplishments
• Discussion of 2026 workplan

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider two action items: an Indoor Facility Use Policy and the East Main Street Community Park Phase II. The meeting also includes informational reports on the Senior Services Division annual activities and the Q4 FY25 financial update. Several advisory committee minutes will be approved by consent.

• Indoor Facility Use Policy (action)
• East Main Street Community Park Phase II (action)
• Senior Services Division Annual Report (information)
• Q4 FY25 Financial Update (information)
• Consent agenda: minutes from Senior Advisory, Recreation Division, and Trails Advisory committees

The commission voted to table the October 1 minutes addendum discussion and move it to the December 3 meeting. The consent agenda items were approved unanimously. Commissioners also approved matching funds of up to $731,250 for Phase II of East Main Street Community Park, contingent on a successful LWCF grant.

• Table addendum to October 1 minutes (4 Yes, 1 No)
• Approve consent agenda items (4 Yes, 0 No)
• Approve matching funds up to $731,250 for Phase II park, if grant succeeds (4 Yes, 0 No)

General

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning is meeting to discuss filling childcare slots following the closing of Children’s World Montessori. The body will review the status of the Presbyterian Church, UU Fellowship, and Siskiyou School, and discuss funding and business engagement.

• Strategies for filling childcare slots due to closing of Children’s World Montessori
• Status of Presbyterian Church and UU Fellowship
• Siskiyou School childcare discussion
• Meeting with Ashland Parks Foundation regarding future funding
• Assessment of the need for preschool and childcare seats in Ashland

The committee approved the draft minutes from the October 2 meeting. It added an agenda item to request regular reports from grant recipients and assigned staff to determine reporting requirements and send the request. The next meeting was scheduled for December 4, 2025, with a focus on finalizing business interviews. The committee also postponed further work on the business‑engagement survey until the December meeting.

• Approved draft minutes of 10/2/25 meeting (unanimous ayes)
• Added agenda item to discuss regular reports from grant recipients (motion passed)
• Seward assigned to contact Little Sprouts about childcare space (task assigned)
• Decided to revisit business‑engagement survey topic at December meeting (postponed)
• Gooden assigned to check reporting requirements with City Manager’s Office and Chair Love, then request reports (task assigned)
• Set next meeting date for December 4, 2025 (meeting scheduled)
• Committee agreed next meeting will focus on finalizing business interviews (topic planned)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Ashland Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will discuss several items, including a review of the updated Enhanced Law Enforcement Area ordinance. The meeting also includes a status update on the Belonging Survey, a presentation on the Equitable Housing Plan, and discussions on committee structure and a social event. Public announcements for Native American Heritage Month and a vigil are also shared.

• Review of updated Enhanced Law Enforcement Area ordinance
• Status update and next steps for the Belonging Survey (survey is live)
• Presentation by Linda Reid on Equitable Housing Plan development
• Review and discussion of SERJAC Committee Structure
• Planning ideas for a SERJAC social event

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the October 9 meeting. It decided to form a working group of two SERJAC members and two HHSAC members to develop the city’s Equitable Housing Plan, with Allison Mendel volunteering as one SERJAC member. It also created a working group to examine the updated Enhanced Law Enforcement Area ordinance, with Simon volunteering to serve. Members voted to keep the current SERJAC committee structure unchanged.

• Approved minutes from 10/9/2025 meeting (all ayes)
• Formed Equitable Housing Plan working group (Mendel volunteered, second SERJAC member to be selected)
• Formed Enhanced Law Enforcement Area working group (Simon volunteered, second member to be selected)
• Decided to retain current SERJAC committee structure (in favor)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission reviewed staff recommendations for the Winburn Way safety project, including an 8‑ft pedestrian route, crosswalks, and Y‑intersection improvements, and asked for input before a decision at the December 3 meeting. A draft Indoor Facility Use Procedure was also presented for commissioner feedback. No actions were approved, denied, or formally tabled at this meeting.

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on property annexation and liquor license reviews. The body is also deciding on the adoption of legislative amendments to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Masterplan.

• Ordinance 3272: Annexing property and withdrawing area from Jackson County Fire District no. 5 (1511 Highway 99)
• Ordinance 3255: Repealing and replacing AMC Chapter 6.32 regarding Liquor License Review
• Ordinances #3267, #3268, and #3269: Legislative Amendment to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Masterplan
• Resolution 2025-28: Establishing ownership of the Hargadine Cemetery
• Resolution 2025-29: Approving a seasonal event day on December 6th, 2025

The council voted to adopt Ordinance 3272, annexing the Grand Terrace site and withdrawing it from Jackson County Fire District No. 5. A resolution to apply for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for East Main Community Park Phase 2 was also approved. The second reading and adoption of ordinances 3267, 3268, and 3269 implementing the Southern Oregon University 2025 Facilities Master Plan were adopted. Consent‑agenda items establishing ownership of Hargadine Cemetery and adding a seasonal event day on Dec 6, 2025 were approved.

• Approved Ordinance 3272 annexing Grand Terrace property (6‑0 vote)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑27 to seek park grant for East Main Community Park Phase 2 (5‑1 vote)
• Adopted second reading of Ordinances 3267, 3268, 3269 for SOU Facilities Master Plan (5‑0 vote, 1 abstention)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑28 establishing ownership of Hargadine Cemetery (6‑0 vote)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑29 adding a seasonal event day on Dec 6, 2025 (6‑0 vote)
• Approved minutes of Oct 7, 20, 21, 2025 business meetings (6‑0 vote)
• Postponed first reading of Ordinance 3255 (liquor license review) to next meeting
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous vote)

City Council

The City Council will hold a study session to review a proposal regarding electric rates. The body will also discuss a ballot measure question concerning whether the City Charter should be amended to require voter approval for utility bill fees or taxes.

• Electric rate presentation and proposal
• Ballot measure regarding City Charter amendment for utility bill fee or tax voter approval

Councilors voted 4-2 to postpone the electric rate presentation until the complete cost‑of‑service study is provided to members and the public. A straw poll on a ballot measure to require voter approval for utility fees resulted in a 3‑4 vote, and staff were directed not to place the measure on the ballot.

• Postponed electric rate presentation until full study is provided (4-2)
• Directed staff not to place utility‑fee ballot measure on ballot (3-4 straw poll)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will meet on Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Siskiyou Room, 51 Winburn Way. The commission will consider approval of the findings for planning application PA‑T2‑2025‑00060 located at 300 Clay Street. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn at 11:15 a.m.

• Approval of Findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00060, 300 Clay Street

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will discuss a draft workplan and next steps for the Equitable Housing Plan. The meeting also includes a debrief of a community event.

• Workplan draft review and discussion
• Equitable Housing Plan next steps
• Community event debrief

City Council

The Ashland City Council meeting will consider several items, including a consent agenda item to approve a liquor license for the Calypso Hotel. The council will also take a second reading of Ordinance 3276 to vacate a portion of the Fern Street public right‑of‑way and approve a BPA contract. Additional discussion topics include the APRC PROS Plan, the citywide strategic plan update, staffing and service level adjustments, a food & beverage tax, meeting frequency, and the annual Climate and Energy Action Plan report.

• Liquor License Approval for Calypso Hotel (consent agenda)
• Second Reading of Ordinance 3276 – Vacating a Portion of the Fern Street Public Right of Way
• BPA Contract Approval
• Review of APRC PROS Plan
• Discussion of Food & Beverage Tax

The council approved the BPA Provider of Choice contract, authorizing the city manager to sign the wholesale power agreement that will run through 2044. The consent agenda approved a liquor license for the Calypso Hotel. Council also approved the second reading of Ordinance 3276 to vacate a portion of Fern Street and adopted new conservation incentives for electric home upgrades.

• Approved BPA Provider of Choice contract (Dahle, Sherrell, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen YES)
• Approved liquor license for Calypso Hotel (Bloom, Dahle, Sherrell, Kaplan, Hansen YES)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3276 (Bloom, Dahle, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell YES)
• Approved conservation incentives for electric home upgrades (Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, Bloom, Dahle YES)

City Council

The City Council will hold a study session to review reports and presentations. Discussions include a potential charter amendment regarding utility fees and the Bonneville Power Administration contract.

• Bonneville Power Administration Provider of Choice Contract
• Ownership of City Hall
• Ballot measure question on amending the City Charter to require voter approval for utility bill fees or taxes

The council directed staff to file a legal action in Jackson County Circuit Court to obtain a clean title for the City Hall property. Council members also voted unanimously to extend the meeting by 30 minutes to finish this item. Rules were suspended so petitioner George Kramer could answer questions about a proposed utility‑fee ballot measure, and staff were instructed to bring that measure back for further council discussion.

• Pursue legal action in Jackson County Circuit Court to secure clean title for City Hall (unanimous)
• Extend the meeting by 30 minutes to address the City Hall ownership item (unanimous)
• Suspend rules to allow petitioner George Kramer to address council questions on utility‑fee ballot measure (unanimous)
• Direct staff to bring the utility‑fee ballot measure back to council for further discussion (unanimous)

General

The body will select a Chair and Vice Chair and review the committee member role and handbook. Members will discuss previous ad hoc work and the construction update for 2200 Ashland Street.

• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• Construction update for 2200 Ashland Street
• Review of Committee Member Role and Handbook

General

The Recreation Division Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the Daniel Meyer Pool season review and PROS Plan updates. The committee may take action on draft bylaws for the advisory body.

• Potential action on draft RDAC Bylaws
• Review of 2025 Daniel Meyer Pool season, including $52,400 in revenue and 10,631 admissions
• PROS Plan updates
• Review of 2026 meeting calendar

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The committee will review updates on public art installations and maintenance. Members will discuss installation costs for the Playwrights Walk Plaque and recommendations for the Public Art Story Map. The body will also work on the Annual Work Plan for reporting to City Council.

• Discussion of additional installation costs for Playwright’s Plaque
• Recommendations for Public Art Story Map refresh
• Update on Micah BlackLight’s artwork, Ancestor’s Future: Crystallizing Our Call
• ODOT update regarding Traffic Signal Box
• Formation of a Task Group for the Sabrina Cotta Project

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will review safety improvement options for the Water Street and Van Ness Street intersection. The committee will also consider email responses from its working group and plan strategic communication articles. Additional items include updates on the Transportation Service Plan and bike rack projects.

• Water Street and Van Ness Street Intersection – discuss safety improvement options (action required)
• Working Group TAC Email Review – discuss responses (action required)
• Strategic Communication Assignments – discuss educational article development (action required)
• TSP Update – informational item
• Bike Racks – informational item

The Transportation Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the August 21 meeting by unanimous vote. The committee also set its next meeting for October 16, 2025, to be held via Zoom. No other actions were formally approved during this session.

• Approved August 21 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for Oct 16, 2025 (Zoom)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a site design review for the Caldera Oaks Subdivision. The proposal involves constructing four four-plex buildings, including eight deed-restricted affordable housing units.

• Site Design Review for four four-plex buildings at 300 Clay St.
• Request for a Solar Setback Exception for the northernmost building at 300 Clay St.

General

The Ashland Senior Advisory Committee will meet to discuss reports from Parks and Recreation leadership. The committee may take action on draft bylaws and the appointment of a member for a second term.

• Potential action on draft bylaws for ASAC
• Potential action on second term appointment for Toyokawa
• Recognition of service for Frank
• Establishment of 2026 Meeting Calendar

The commission approved the minutes from October 13, 2025. It adopted draft bylaws for the senior advisory committee. The board approved adding community‑partner presentations to the 2026 ASAC agenda and confirmed the election of officers at the meeting.

• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (motion by Talbert, second Toyokawa; Johnson and Englehardt voted yes)
• Approved draft advisory committee bylaws (motion by Englehardt, second Talbert; all voted yes)
• Approved bringing back community partner presentations to ASAC meetings for 2026
• Approved election/continuation of officers at the meeting (motion by Talbert, second Toyokawa; outcome approved)

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will hear a presentation from SOU Sustainability Director Becs Walker. The body will discuss the electrification of existing buildings and updates regarding urban land use and transportation.

• Presentation by SOU Sustainability Director Becs Walker
• Discussion on electrification of existing buildings
• Updates on Urban Land Use and Transportation and the TSP
• Discussion on gas powered lawn and garden equipment
• Planning for City Facilities Tour

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will review a draft of the Belonging Survey and determine a timeline for its distribution. The meeting includes presentations on Indigenous Peoples Day and the 'Pioneer Mike' sculpture.

• Review of draft Belonging Survey in Survey Monkey
• Planning for wide distribution of Belonging Survey
• Presentation by Kenwani Kravitz on Indigenous Peoples Day and Native American Heritage Month
• Presentation by Peter Finkle on the 'Pioneer Mike' sculpture at the Ashland Plaza

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Ashland Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will meet on October 8, 2025, in person and via Zoom. The agenda includes approval of the agenda, approval of minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting, a public forum, and liaison reports from the City Council, staff, and SERJAC. The commission will discuss board assignments for October/November 2025, revisions to the Butler Perozzi Fountain, and the workplan.

• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes (August 6, 2025)
• Public forum
• Review board assignments – October/November 2025
• Butler Perozzi Fountain revisions (Mike Gardiner & Dale Shostrom)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will meet to approve construction contracts for the North Mountain Avenue Overlay, Phase I Project, and to vacate a portion of the Fern Street public right-of-way. The council will also hear a public hearing on an amendment to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Masterplan.

• Approval of construction contract with Carter & Company, Inc. for North Mountain Avenue Overlay, Phase I Project
• Approval of personal services contract for construction administration services for North Mountain Avenue Overlay, Phase I Project
• Public Hearing First Reading of Ordinance 3276 - Vacating a portion of Fern Street public right-of-way
• Public Hearing for a Legislative Amendment to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Masterplan
• Second Reading of Ordinance No. 3273 Amending Enhanced Law Enforcement Area and Persistent Violation

The council approved a construction contract for the North Mountain Avenue overlay project, not to exceed $3,593,271.50, and a personal services contract for construction administration services, not to exceed $492,206.40. It also moved Ordinance 3276 (vacating a portion of Fern Street) and Ordinances 3267‑3269 (Southern Oregon University master‑plan amendments) to the next reading, and approved Ordinance 3273 with amendments to the law‑enforcement area code. The consent agenda and the September 15 and 16 meeting minutes were approved as well.

• Approved minutes of September 15 and 16 meetings (unanimous yes)
• Approved consent agenda items including committee appointments, quitclaim deed, and liquor license (unanimous yes)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3276 to vacate part of Fern Street (unanimous yes)
• Approved first reading of Ordinances 3267‑3269 adopting SOU 2025 facilities master‑plan amendments (unanimous yes)
• Approved Ordinance 3273 with amendments to Section 10.120 (4‑2 vote)
• Approved construction contract with Carter&Company, Inc. for North Mountain Avenue Overlay Phase I, up to $3,593,271.50 (6‑0 vote)
• Approved personal services contract with Dowl for construction administration, up to $492,206.40 (6‑0 vote)

General

The Ashland Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning will confirm quorum, approve draft minutes, and discuss recent budget cuts to the Early Childhood Development major. Members will consider the Business Oregon Child Care Infrastructure Fund grant program, which is open for applications until December 16. The committee will also examine strategies to fill childcare slots lost after the closure of Children’s World Montessori, including possible sites at Presbyterian Church and UU Fellowship. Additional topics include a business engagement work plan and potential future funding sources.

• Business Oregon’s Child Care Infrastructure Fund grant program open; application deadline December 16
• “Mind the Gap” strategies to fill childcare slots after Children’s World Montessori closure, status of Presbyterian Church and UU Fellowship sites
• Business engagement work plan with Grants Pass: Oregon Center for Creative Learning
• Exploration of future funding from Oregon Community Foundation endowment
• Model of Ashland Parks Foundation for funding

The ad hoc committee approved the draft minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. It also voted to not hold a meeting in January 2026, effectively postponing the next session. No other motions were adopted.

• Approved September 4, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided not to meet in January 2026

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider several informational items and one action item. The only action item is the adoption of an Indoor Facility Use Policy. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, a consent agenda for Trails Advisory Committee bylaws, and public forum time.

• Approval of minutes from September 3 and September 10 meetings
• Consent agenda: Trails Advisory Committee Bylaws
• Action: Adopt Indoor Facility Use Policy
• Information: Acid Castle Adjacent Parcels
• Information: Court Reservation Procedure

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the September 3 and September 10 meetings by unanimous consent. The commission also approved the Trails Advisory Committee bylaws as part of the consent agenda, with all five commissioners voting Yes. No other items were adopted; the remaining proposals were presented for staff input only.

• Approved September 3 & 10 meeting minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved Trails Advisory Committee bylaws (5-0)

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will review and adopt a consolidated annual performance evaluation report, discuss the Housing Services Management Plan actions, and develop the scope of work for the Equitable Housing Plan. An unfinished outreach event will also be discussed. The meeting includes a public forum and routine agenda items.

• Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report Overview and Adoption
• HSMP Action Summary Discussion
• Equitable Housing Plan Scope of Work Development Discussion
• Outreach Event Discussion (unfinished business)

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will hold a regular meeting to discuss unfinished business regarding urban, land use, and transportation. The agenda lists no specific items for decision.

• Urban, Land Use, and Transportation General Discussion
• Public testimony accepted for agenda items and public forum

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will hold a study session to discuss special event permits. No decisions or votes are listed. The meeting includes standard announcements, a public forum, and procedural items.

• Discussion of Special Event Permits

Parks & Recreation Commission

The committee will approve minutes from its April 14 and July 15, 2025 meetings. It will vote on a bylaws amendment. The meeting will also provide information on trail proposal procedures, management protocols, the PROS service level goal, and a new trail proposal.

• Bylaws amendment (action)
• Trail Proposal Procedure (information)
• Trail Management Protocol (information)
• PROS Plan – Trails Service Level Goal (information)
• Trail Proposal (information)

The Trails Advisory Committee approved its draft bylaws and recommended them to the Park Commission. The committee voted unanimously to recommend against adopting the Trail Management Protocol. It also voted to decline further discussion of the trail service level goals. Minutes from the April and July 2025 meetings were approved.

• Approved Trails Advisory Committee bylaws and recommended them to the Park Commission (unanimous)
• Recommended against use of the Trail Management Protocol (unanimous)
• Declined further discussion of trail service level goals (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for the April 14, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for the July 15, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Public Arts Advisory Committee will receive updates from the Mural Fest & Fringe Fest and Guanajuato Heart task groups and may consider recommendations from each. Members will discuss possible changes to meeting frequency and start time. A budget update will be presented as the city begins a new biennial arts budget season, along with reports on art maintenance and other projects.

• Mural Fest & Fringe Fest Task Group update and possible recommendation
• Guanajuato Heart Task Group update and possible recommendation
• Discussion of meeting frequency, start time, and other possible changes
• Budget update – entering new biennial budget season
• Art Maintenance Report/Update

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will consider options to modify Winburn Way for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians in Lithia Park. It will also discuss safety improvements at the Water Street and Van Ness Street intersection, review comments from the Click Fix and TAC working groups, and plan educational articles for strategic communication. Informational updates on the Transportation Service Plan and the Oregon Department of Transportation funding bill (HB 3991) will be presented.

• Winburn Way alterations – review potential options for auto, bike, and pedestrian use in Lithia Park (action required)
• Water Street and Van Ness Street Intersection – discuss safety improvement options (action required)
• Click Fix and TAC review – discuss comments received and next steps (action required)
• Strategic Communication Assignments – discuss development of educational articles (action required)
• ODOT Transportation Funding Bill (HB3991) – informational update

The committee approved the July 17 minutes and, after a motion and second, unanimously accepted the amended letter to the CEPAC. Other agenda items such as signal timing upgrades, bike path safety, and radar speed signs were discussed but no formal actions were taken. The meeting adjourned with the next session scheduled for September 18, 2025.

• Approved July 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted amended letter to CEPAC (unanimous)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will conduct a public hearing and first reading of Ordinance 3273, which amends the Enhanced Law Enforcement Expulsion Process. The council will also consider Resolution 2025-26, which updates the Fiscal Year 2026 miscellaneous fees and charges schedule. Additional items on the consent agenda include approval of a liquor license application, selection of a public art award for the Traffic Signal Box project, and the city council fall retreat.

• Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance 3273: Amending the Enhanced Law Enforcement Expulsion Process (AMC 10.120)
• Resolution 2025-26: Amending the Fiscal Year 2026 Miscellaneous Fees and Charges Schedule
• Public Hearing and First Reading of Ordinance 3272 (1511 Highway 99 – Planning Action #PA‑T3—2024‑00011) postponed to November 4, 2025
• Liquor License Application Approval (consent agenda)
• Public Art Award Selection – Traffic Signal Box project (consent agenda)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session on September 15, 2025. Council members will receive an introduction to the Regional Fire Service Planning and Capacity Study and an overview of the Dusk to Dawn Lawn program with an OHRA partnership review. No formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for informational presentations and public comment.

• Regional Fire Service Planning and Capacity Study Introduction
• Dusk to Dawn Lawn Overview and OHRA Partnership Review

The council heard a presentation on a regional fire service planning study. It discussed the Dusk to Dawn night‑lawn program and OHRA partnership. Staff were directed to provide police call data, clarify camping‑ordinance rules, and assess city‑owned properties as alternative sites before the December retreat. Councilors also voted to extend the meeting by 15 minutes.

• Extended meeting by 15 minutes (decision)
• Directed staff to deliver data on police calls at the Dusk to Dawn lawn
• Directed staff to clarify ordinances related to camping bans and state law
• Directed staff to assess city‑owned properties as potential alternative sites

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will review unfinished items on waste characterization, land use and transportation, and gas‑powered lawn equipment. New business includes planning a city facilities tour and considering a Berkeley ordinance that requires electrification of existing buildings when they are sold.

• Unfinished Business – Ashland Waste Characterization
• Unfinished Business – Urban Land Use and Transportation
• Unfinished Business – Gas Powered Lawn and Gas Equipment
• New Business – City Facilities Tour Planning
• New Business – Berkeley ordinance re electrification of existing building at time of sale

The committee approved the minutes on the consent agenda unanimously. It voted unanimously, with Barrett abstaining, to send a letter requesting collaboration with the Planning Commission and the Transportation Advisory Committee on the Transportation System Plan. The group decided to remove specific incentive figures from the gas‑powered lawn and garden equipment proposal and will revisit it later. Members agreed to adopt a best‑practice of providing 2–3 page or 800‑character summaries for lengthy documents.

• Approved consent agenda minutes (unanimously)
• Approved motion to send collaboration letter on Transportation System Plan (unanimously, Barrett abstained)
• Removed specific incentive figures from gas‑powered lawn and garden equipment proposal; to revisit later
• Adopted best‑practice of providing short summaries for lengthy documents (no formal vote)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to discuss and take action regarding the East Main Street Park. The meeting includes an executive session to negotiate real property transactions and evaluate employee performance.

• Action item: East Main Street Park
• Executive session: Real property transactions
• Executive session: Employee performance review
• Informational training: Public Records, Public Meetings Law, and Government Ethics

The Parks & Recreation Commission adopted a construction budget of $3,025,000 for Phase I of the East Main Street Community Park and approved $350,000 for contingency funding. The budget will be funded by reallocating $425,000 from three low‑impact capital projects, adding $525,000 from the transient lodging tax, and may include up to $200,000 from the System Development Fund pending City Council action. The motion passed unanimously with all five commissioners voting Yes.

• Adopt construction budget $3,025,000 for East Main Park (unanimous Yes)
• Approve contingency funding $350,000 for East Main Park (unanimous Yes)
• Reallocate $425,000 from cancelled/reduced projects (PROS Plan, irrigation controllers, land acquisition limitation) (unanimous Yes)
• Add $525,000 from transient lodging tax to project budget (unanimous Yes)
• Consider up to $200,000 from System Development Fund pending City Council approval (unanimous Yes)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will vote to approve the findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00059, Kestrel Park Phase III. The meeting also includes a public meeting law training presentation by the Ashland Legal Department. Additional agenda items are routine announcements, consent agenda approval, and public forum procedures.

• Approval of Findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00059, Kestrel Park Phase III
• Public Meeting Law training presentation by Ashland Legal Department

The Planning Commission approved the August 12, 2025 regular meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. It also approved the findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00059, Kestrel Park Phase III, with a 4‑0 vote after Commissioner KenCairn recused herself. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 12, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00059 Kestrel Park Phase III (4-0, one recusal)

General

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning is meeting to discuss the status of awarded grants and strategies to address childcare slot gaps. The body will also work to finalize a business engagement plan and discuss future funding.

• Status of $135,000 in affordability grants: Ashland Family YMCA ($50,000), Ella’s Classroom/ABC Montessori ($35,000), Avery Street Preschool ($30,000), and Mountain Star Preschool ($20,000)
• Strategies to fill childcare gaps following the closing of Children’s World Montessori
• Finalization of a business engagement questionnaire and interview plan
• Discussion on cultivating future funding

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning approved the draft minutes from the September 4 meeting by unanimous vote. The committee reported that four affordability grant checks totaling $135,000 have been issued to local providers. No other formal actions were taken; the group discussed strategies to fill childcare gaps and future funding options.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The committee will hear a presentation from Micah BlackLight regarding 'Ancestor's Future: Crystallizing Our Call'. Members will discuss the Belonging Survey, fees for the Community Center and Pioneer Hall Park, and the Equitable Housing Plan.

• Discussion on Community Center and Pioneer Hall Park fees
• Collaboration with Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee on the Equitable Housing Plan
• Update and discussion on the Belonging Survey
• Presentation by Micah BlackLight
• Rescheduling of the October meeting due to Yom Kippur

The advisory committee approved the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting by unanimous consent. It also decided to move the October regular meeting to Thursday, Oct 9 at 4:30 pm in the Otte‑Peterson Conference Room at the Grove to avoid a conflict with Yom Kippur. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved minutes from 8/7/2025 (unanimous consent)
• Rescheduled October regular meeting to Thursday, Oct 9, 4:30 pm in Otte‑Peterson Conference Room at the Grove

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will meet on September 3, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The agenda includes a public forum, public meeting law training, discussion of the East Main Street Community Park, review of the Pros Plan, and a lookahead review of upcoming items. No specific decisions are listed in the agenda.

• East Main Street Community Park – discussion
• Pros Plan – review
• Public Forum – public input
• Public Meeting Law Training – compliance overview
• Lookahead Review – upcoming agenda items

The Parks & Recreation Commission did not approve or deny any items. It instructed staff to bring forward the East Main Street Community Park funding proposal to the September 10 business meeting.

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The committee will conduct a tour of projects funded by Community Development Block Grants (CDBG). Members will also continue a discussion regarding a community event.

• Tour of CDBG funded projects
• Continued discussion on community event
• Approval of June 26, 2025, minutes

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Ashland Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at Siskiyou Blvd., 51 Winburn Way (with a Zoom option). The agenda lists a discussion of existing building decarbonization as the sole substantive item. Public testimony is accepted for both public forum items and agenda items. The meeting will adjourn after the discussion.

• Discussion of existing building decarbonization

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a closed Type II public hearing to consider a request to vacate a portion of the Fern Street public right‑of‑way north of 648 Roca Street. The request is from the City of Ashland Public Works Department and, if approved, will be recommended to the City Council. The meeting will also discuss a special event permit with Deputy City Manager Jordan Rooklyn, provide a 2025 legislative update, and consider plans for the commission’s annual retreat.

• Vacate portion of Fern Street right‑of‑way north of 648 Roca Street (public hearing)
• Special event permit discussion with Deputy City Manager Jordan Rooklyn
• 2025 legislative update
• Planning Commission annual retreat discussion

The Planning Commission voted 4‑0 to recommend that the City Council approve the Fern Street public right‑of‑way vacation north of 648 Roca Street, adding a pedestrian easement, a 10‑foot utility easement, and a deed restriction for public access. Commissioners also expressed support for consolidating the city's short‑term event permits into a single code section. The commission set its annual retreat for October 28, 2025, with the exact time to be determined.

• Recommended City Council approve Fern Street right-of-way vacation with easements and deed restriction (vote 4‑0)
• Supported moving forward with consolidation of short‑term event permits into one code section
• Scheduled annual Planning Commission retreat for October 28, 2025 (time TBD)

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Public Arts Advisory Committee will hear updates on the Traffic Signal Box Selection Panel, the Mural Fest & Fringe Fest Task Group, and the Guanajuato Heart Task Group. A budget update will be presented as the city begins its new biennial budget cycle. The meeting also includes a public forum, liaison reports, and other business updates related to art maintenance and projects.

• Traffic Signal Box Selection Panel Update
• Mural Fest & Fringe Fest Task Group Update
• Guanajuato Heart Task Group Update
• Budget Update – entering new biennial budget season
• Art Maintenance Report

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Ashland Transportation Advisory Committee will consider several action items. Members will review crash and near‑miss data, discuss a letter from the Climate and Environment Policy Advisory Committee, and examine safety improvement options for the Water Street and Van Ness Street intersection. Additional discussion will cover strategic communication assignments and updates on the Wayfinding Project, TSP, and accessibility standards.

• Crash and Near Miss Review – action required to examine data and discuss possible actions
• Climate and Environment Policy Advisory Committee – action required to discuss chair's letter and develop a response
• Water Street and Van Ness Street Intersection – action required to discuss safety improvement options
• Strategic Communication Assignments – action required to discuss educational articles to develop
• Wayfinding Project Update – informational item

The committee approved the July 17, 2025 minutes as amended. It unanimously moved the A Street crosswalk discussion to the Traffic Calming and Safety Improvement Program update. It approved a motion urging the Public Works Director to investigate removing the 25 mph speed sign on Pinecrest Drive and replace it with “Share the Road” signs. Additional actions were assigned to staff for a FAQ page, a subcommittee on SeeClickFix submissions, and development of the TSP website.

• Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (amended)
• Unanimously moved A Street crosswalk discussion to TSP update
• Approved motion to recommend Public Works Director investigate removal of 25 mph speed sign on Pinecrest Drive and replace with “Share the Road” signs
• Assigned Fleury to draft FAQ page for TAC
• Assigned Fleury to meet with Cottle to develop TSP website by end of July/early August
• Correnti to coordinate room reservation for potential subcommittee meetings
• Volunteers Peterson‑Adams, Dahle, and Brouillard to join subcommittee reviewing SeeClickFix submissions
• Graf motion to recommend prompt investigation of Pinecrest sign change passed

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding property annexation at 1511 Highway 99. The body is also deciding on legislative amendments to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Masterplan and a contract amendment for an emergency shelter.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 3272 regarding property annexation at 1511 Highway 99
• Second reading of Ordinances #3267, #3268, and #3269 for SOU Facilities Masterplan amendments
• Emergency Shelter Contract Amendment for Phase 2 Guaranteed Maximum Construction Price
• Resolution 2025-25 supporting a Housing Planning Assistance Grant application
• Discussion of the 2025 Ashland Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP)

The council approved the minutes from the August 4 and 5 meetings and adopted the consent agenda. Two public‑hearing items were postponed: Ordinance 3272 to September 16 and the university facilities amendment to October 7. The council set operational guidelines for the 2200 Ashland St emergency shelter and approved the contract amendment with Outlier Construction for up to $947,936. It also adopted the 2025 Ashland Community Wildfire Protection Plan.

• Approved August 4 & 5 meeting minutes (Sherrell, Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen – YES)
• Approved consent agenda (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES)
• Postponed public hearing and first reading of Ordinance 3272 to Sep 16, 2025
• Postponed first reading of university facilities legislative amendment to Oct 7, 2025
• Adopted emergency shelter operational guidelines (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Sherrell – YES; Kaplan, Hansen – NO)
• Approved Emergency Shelter Contract Amendment with Outlier Construction up to $947,936 (DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES; Bloom, Dahle – NO)
• Adopted 2025 Ashland Community Wildfire Protection Plan (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES)
• Adjourned meeting (All Ayes – YES)

City Council

The City Council will hold a study session to receive reports and presentations. The meeting focuses on updates regarding the Ashland Fiber Network and East Main Park.

• Ashland Fiber Network Business Plan Update
• East Main Park Update

The council expressed general support for a hybrid approach that combines DOCSIS 3.1 upgrades with targeted PON deployment. It approved a $1,600,000 appropriation to fund the hybrid expansion program and scheduled a mid‑biennium review of the project. The East Main Park update highlighted cost growth to over $5.5 million and discussed possible funding options, but no final decision was made pending the Parks Commission’s recommendation.

• Approved $1,600,000 appropriation for hybrid DOCSIS 3.1 and PON expansion (no vote tally recorded)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider two actions: setting a rental fee for Pioneer Hall and the Community Center, and changing the process for filling a numbered commission position with an at‑large seat. The meeting also includes routine approvals of minutes, a public forum, and upcoming event notices.

• Pioneer Hall & Community Center Rental Fee (action)
• Commission Numbered Position to At‑Large Process (action)
• Approval of minutes from July 2 and July 9 meetings
• Consent agenda items for senior advisory and recreation committee minutes
• Upcoming open houses for East Main Street Park and Winburn Way Safety

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the proposed rental fee structure #2 for Pioneer Hall and the Community Center and moved it forward to City Council. The commission also voted to change its numbered commissioner positions to at-large positions for future elections. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted proposed rental rate structure #2 for Pioneer Hall and Community Center (unanimous Yes)
• Changed Park Commission numbered positions to at-large positions for election purposes (unanimous Yes)

Planning Commission

The commission will consider a Type II public hearing for PA‑T2‑2025‑00059, a final plan approval for a 15‑lot subdivision proposed by PDK Properties LLC. The agenda also includes approval of revised findings for PA‑T2‑2024‑00053 at 231 Granite Street and routine consent agenda items such as the July 22, 2025 special meeting minutes. Public comments are invited before the commission’s decisions.

• Approval of revised Findings on remand for PA‑T2‑2024‑00053, 231 Granite Street
• Type II public hearing: PA‑T2‑2025‑00059 final plan for 15‑lot subdivision on Tax Lot 8600
• Consent agenda: approval of July 22, 2025 special meeting minutes

The commission approved revised findings for the 231 Granite Street project, removing a specific sentence, with a 4‑0 vote. It also approved the final plan for the 15‑lot subdivision on tax lot 8600 (PA‑T2‑2025‑00059), adopting staff‑recommended conditions, also by a 4‑0 vote. Both actions followed public comment and were recorded in the meeting minutes.

• Approved revised findings for 231 Granite Street, removing sentence (4-0)
• Approved 15‑lot subdivision plan for tax lot 8600 with conditions (4-0)
• Approved July 22, 2025 special meeting minutes (consent agenda) (4-0)

General

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning will review the status of three grants awarded in July and revisit the funding decision for Ella’s Classroom/ABC Montessori, including a vote on granting funds. The meeting will also finalize a business engagement work plan and discuss strategies to replace childcare slots lost from the closure of Children’s World Montessori. Additional items include updates on committee goals and planning for future funding.

• Vote on granting funds to Ella’s Classroom/ABC Montessori
• Status update on three grants voted to award in July
• Finalize business engagement work plan questionnaire and interview plan
• Discuss strategies to fill childcare slot gap after Children’s World Montessori closure
• Update chart on progress toward committee’s goals

The committee approved the draft minutes from the July 3, 2025 meeting with all ayes. It also approved a $35,000 grant to Ella’s Classroom LLC to fund playground infrastructure, including shade trees. Other agenda items were discussed but no further actions were taken.

• Approved minutes of 7/3/25 meeting (all ayes)
• Approved $35,000 grant to Ella’s Classroom LLC for playground infrastructure (Hyatt, Love, Verner, Sebanc, Ransford, Seward – YES)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will discuss proposed fees for Pioneer Hall and Community Center, consider a vice chair nomination, and review the Belonging Survey. The meeting will also include public forum and liaison updates.

• Discussion of proposed fees for Pioneer Hall and Community Center
• Vice Chair nomination and election
• Belonging Survey update and discussion
• Presentation: Ashland Sunrise Project's Get Into Action
• Guided Support Group for Families of Trans Individuals announcement

The committee approved the July 10 meeting minutes unanimously. It passed a motion to endorse and support the Ashland Sunrise Project, asking the City Council to back its actions (six yes votes, one abstention). The members elected Sean Smith as Vice Chair by unanimous consent.

• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Endorsed Ashland Sunrise Project and requested City Council support (YES: Simon, Mendel, Smith, Greenspan, Sage, Tyler; ABSTAIN: Preskenis)
• Elected Sean Smith as Vice Chair (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will review a request for site design and conditional use permits for an eight-unit apartment building. The commission will also discuss award options for the 100th anniversary of the Ashland Springs.

• Review of PA-T1-2025-00272 for 40 Granite Street regarding porches, decks, and a second-story bathroom addition
• Request for exception to allow four-foot walkways instead of the five-foot minimum
• Discussion of award options and a coloring book page for Celebrating 100 Years of the Ashland Springs

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from July 2, 2025 by voice vote. Members approved signing and mailing a centennial letter to the Ashland Springs. HPAC recommended approval of the 40 Granite Street site‑design and conditional‑use request, subject to the discussed details. The commission noted no concerns with the proposals for 165 Gresham Street and 223 Maple Street.

• Approved agenda (voice vote)
• Approved July 2, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved signing and mailing of Ashland Springs centennial letter
• Recommended conditional approval of 40 Granite Street renovation project
• Noted no concerns with 165 Gresham Street addition
• Noted no concerns with 223 Maple Street porch repair

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will discuss the rental fee for Pioneer Hall and the Community Center. It will also review the process for converting a numbered commissioner seat to an at‑large position, and consider the design for a new park on East Main Street. Additional items include a review of pool recreation protocols and a lookahead of upcoming projects.

• Pioneer Hall & Community Center rental fee
• Commissioner numbered position to at‑large process
• East Main Street Park design
• Park protocol review – recreation – pool
• Lookahead review of upcoming initiatives

The Parks & Recreation Commission met as a study session on August 6, 2025. Commissioners discussed revised rental rates for Pioneer Hall and the Community Center, a possible change to at‑large commissioner elections, the East Main Street Park design, and draft pool operation protocols. No motions were adopted, votes taken, or actions approved during the meeting. The commission will continue to review these items at future meetings.

City Council

The Ashland City Council will consider several consent agenda items, including the purchase of a van‑mounted sewer inspection camera, approval of a design contract for Phase 2 and 3 of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Headworks Upgrade Project, and purchase of chemicals for the water and wastewater plants. The council will also conduct second readings of Ordinance 3270 to remove AMC 4.32 alarm systems and Ordinance 3261 to amend the floodplain map by removing the locally adopted Ashland modified floodplain from Hamilton Creek. Additionally, the council will ratify three‑year labor agreements with local unions.

• Approval to purchase a van‑mounted sewer inspection camera system
• Award of design contract – Phase 2 & 3 of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Headworks Upgrade Project
• Approval to purchase chemicals for the water and wastewater treatment plants from the lowest bidder
• Second reading of Ordinance 3270 – removing AMC 4.32 alarm systems
• Second reading and adoption of findings for Ordinance 3261 – removing Ashland modified floodplain from Hamilton Creek

The Ashland City Council approved three-year collective bargaining agreements with the IBEW Electrical Union, the IBEW Clerical/Technical Union, and the LIUNA Laborer Union. The council also approved Resolution 2025-22, repealing and replacing a prior resolution on employment conditions. In the same meeting the consent agenda items and second readings of Ordinances 3270 and 3261 were approved.

• Approved consent agenda items (van-mounted sewer camera, wastewater design contract, chemicals purchase, 2200 Ashland St. committee appointments) – motion passed
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3270 removing Chapter 4.32 Alarm Systems – motion passed (6-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3261 amending the physical and environmental constraints map – motion passed (6-0)
• Approved three-year labor agreement with IBEW Electrical Union – motion passed (4-2)
• Approved three-year labor agreement with IBEW Clerical/Technical Union – motion passed (4-2)
• Approved three-year labor agreement with LIUNA Laborer Union – motion passed (4-2)
• Approved Resolution 2025-22 repealing and replacing prior resolution on employment conditions – motion passed (Mayor broke 3-3 tie)
• Approved minutes of July 14, July 15, and corrected June 17 meetings – motion passed

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session to hear a presentation on the proposed ELEA Ordinance. The council will also review the three-year labor agreements with IBEW Electrical Union Local 659, IBEW Clerical Union Local 659, and LiUNA Local 737 as outlined in Resolution No 2025-22. The meeting is for discussion and public comment rather than a formal vote.

• ELEA Ordinance (presentation)
• Ratification of three-year labor agreements with IBEW Electrical Union Local 659, IBEW Clerical Union Local 659, and LiUNA Local 737 (Resolution No 2025-22)

The council voted to move the proposed Enhanced Law Enforcement Area (ELEA) ordinance forward to a business meeting within the next two sessions. Staff were directed to schedule a financial retreat by October 1, 2025 to develop five‑year and long‑term financial plans. Council indicated they have enough information to consider the three‑year labor agreements at the upcoming business meeting, pending further financial modeling.

• Agreed to bring the ELEA ordinance forward within the next two business meetings
• Directed staff to schedule a financial retreat by Oct 1 2025
• Requested comprehensive five‑year financial modeling before voting on labor agreements
• Stated council has sufficient information to vote on the three‑year labor agreements at the next business meeting

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee will hold a public forum, receive an update on state funding for housing and homelessness, and discuss an upcoming outreach event. The meeting will also cover development of the scope of work for the Equitable Housing Plan and address a question about an OHRA tour. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Update on State Funding for Housing and Homelessness
• Outreach Event Discussion
• Equitable Housing Plan Scope of Work Development Discussion
• OHRA Tour Question
• Public Forum

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will approve findings for two pending permits: PA‑T2‑2025‑00056 at 120 Westwood Street and PA‑T3‑2024‑00011 at 1511 Highway 99 North. It will hold a Type II public hearing on a request to vacate a portion of the Fern Street public right‑of‑way north of 648 Roca Street and will make a recommendation to the City Council. The agenda also includes routine items such as a consent agenda and public forum.

• Approve Findings for PA‑T2‑2025‑00056, 120 Westwood Street
• Approve Findings for PA‑T3‑2024‑00011, 1511 Highway 99 North
• Type II public hearing: vacate portion of Fern Street right‑of‑way north of 648 Roca Street
• Consent agenda approval of June 24, 2025 Special Meeting minutes
• Public forum for citizen testimony

The Planning Commission approved the June 24, 2025 special meeting minutes by a 4‑0 voice vote. The commission approved the findings for 120 Westwood Street (PA‑T2‑2025‑00056) and 1511 Highway 99 North (PA‑T3‑2024‑00011) with unanimous 4‑0 roll‑call votes. In the Fern Street right-of-way vacation hearing, commissioners voted 3‑1 to reopen the public record for written testimony and to continue the hearing on August 26, 2025.

• Approved June 24, 2025 special meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved findings for 120 Westwood Street, PA‑T2‑2025‑00056 (4-0)
• Approved findings for 1511 Highway 99 North, PA‑T3‑2024‑00011 (4-0)
• Voted 3-1 to reopen public record for written testimony and continue Fern Street right-of-way vacation hearing

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss the placement of several art pieces, including a mural from Mural Fest and a piece from the Fringe Festival. The body will also review strategic planning, the M.A.P discussion, and the upcoming biennial budget season.

• Placement of 2nd Guanajuato Heart
• Placement of Jarrett Davidson’s Mural from Mural Fest
• Placement of Art Piece from Fringe Festival
• Budget update for the new biennial budget season
• Velocity update from Public Works

General

The Recreation Division Advisory Committee will receive an update on the Parks, Recreation, Open Space & Senior Services (PROS) strategic plan and discuss a Level of Service model for recreation. The committee will also review proposed staffing and schedule protocols for the Daniel Meyer Memorial Pool, which require no new city funding. Additional items include a draft charge and bylaws change to a four‑year term cycle and the election of new RDAC officers.

• PROS Plan Level of Service information and discussion (Agenda Item VII.2)
• Daniel Meyer Pool staffing and schedule protocols presentation (Agenda Item Daniel Meyer Pool protocols)
• RDAC charge and bylaws update to a four‑year term cycle
• Election of new RDAC Chair (Michael Dotson) and Vice Chair (Cori Grimm)
• Change of next meeting date to October 16, 2025

The Recreation Division Advisory Committee approved the May 15 meeting minutes with a correction to a member’s name, and approved adding discussion of meeting frequency to the agenda. Members Grimm and Spitzley were appointed to a subcommittee to advance the PROS plan. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved May 15 RDAC minutes with corrections (all members approved)
• Approved addition of agenda item to discuss RDAC meeting frequency (all members approved)
• Appointed members Grimm and Spitzley to subcommittee for PROS plan implementation

General

The Transportation Advisory Committee will meet virtually to discuss a street crosswalk request. The body will also address See Click Fix submittals and the development of educational articles for strategic communication.

• Street crosswalk request
• See Click Fix issue mitigation process
• Strategic communication educational articles
• Wayfinding Project update
• TSP update

The committee approved the May 15, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed a request to review traffic calming from A Street to E Main Street, a proposed dog‑walking path through Lithia Park, and CEPAC’s recommendation to double EV and bike purchase incentives for low‑ and moderate‑income households. They also considered one‑way street conversions and updates on the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, but no further actions were voted on.

• Approved May 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Trails Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss trail policy, procedures, and bylaws. The body will also review the Bandersnatch Trail name consolidation and the PROS Plan Level of Service.

• Trail Policy
• Trail Procedure
• Bandersnatch Trail Name Consolidation
• PROS Plan Level of Service
• Bylaws

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on several ordinances, including the SOU 2025 Facilities Master Plan Amendment. The body will also consider an award for an affordable housing RFP and a resolution to change a street name.

• Award of Affordable Housing RFP to Beach Creek Properties
• Resolution 2025-23 to change the name of Houck Way to Hagen Way
• Public hearing on ORD 3267, 3268, and 3269 regarding SOU 2025 Facilities Master Plan Amendment
• Public hearing on ORD 3261 to remove the Ashland Modified Floodplain from Hamilton Creek
• Resolution 2025-24 to amend the Miscellaneous Fees Book

The council approved the consent agenda and the first reading of Ordinance 3270 to remove an unused alarm code. It also approved the first reading of Ordinance 3261 to correct the floodplain map. Three ordinances (3267, 3268, 3269) were adopted to align the city’s comprehensive plan, zoning maps, and code with the Southern Oregon University 2025 Facilities Master Plan. Finally, Resolution 2025‑24 updating the miscellaneous fee schedule was approved.

• Approved consent agenda (ECSO user agreements, name change, liquor license, granite street findings) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3270 (remove alarm systems code) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3261 (amend floodplain map) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES
• Approved Ordinance 3268 (amend code sections, raise solar height to 38 ft) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell – YES; Hansen – Abstain
• Approved Ordinance 3267 (adopt SOU master plan amendment into comprehensive plan, set height allowances) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell – YES; Hansen – Abstain
• Approved Ordinance 3269 (align zoning and plan maps with SOU master plan) – vote: Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Sherrell – YES; Hansen – Abstain
• Approved Resolution 2025‑24 (update miscellaneous fees schedule) – vote: Dahle, Kaplan, Sherrell, Hansen – YES; Bloom, DuQuenne – NO

General

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will meet on July 14, 2025 at the Ashland Senior Center. The agenda includes a public forum, division reports, and business items such as the ASAC Charge, the PROS Plan – Level of Service / Priorities, and the Department Customer Service Model. The committee will review and discuss these topics.

• ASAC Charge
• PROS Plan – Level of Service / Priorities
• Department Customer Service Model
• Senior Services Superintendent Report
• Senior Services Coordinator Report

The commission approved the minutes of the May 12, 2025 ASAC meeting by unanimous consent. The Parks Commission also approved the ASAC charge, authorizing the senior advisory committee to advise on policy matters. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved May 12, 2025 ASAC meeting minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved ASAC charge (by Parks Commission)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session to review the Community Wildfire Protection Plan. The meeting will take place on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

• Review of Community Wildfire Protection Plan
• Meeting location: Council Chambers, 1175 E Main Street
• Public comment available via online form by 10 a.m. the day of the meeting

The Ashland City Council held a study session on the Community Wildfire Protection Plan, hearing presentations on risk, infrastructure, insurance, and community engagement. Council members discussed funding, code enforcement, affordability, insurance, and outreach strategies. The council directed staff to develop a detailed outline of the city’s responsibilities, costs, resource analysis, and efficiency options for implementing the plan. No other formal actions were taken.

• Directed staff to provide a comprehensive outline of responsibilities, costs, resource analysis, and efficiencies for CWPP implementation

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will discuss long-term goals for the city's future through 2050. The body will also address financial options for climate and environment projects amid state transportation funding shortfalls and RVTD cuts.

• Discussion on 2050 city future goals regarding urban, land use, and transportation
• Review of financial options following State Transportation dollars shortfall and RVTD cuts
• Discussion on gas powered lawn and garden equipment
• Recology Waste Stream Survey and composting updates
• Proposal for a two-to-three page summary for shared long documents

The committee approved the meeting minutes unanimously. It then voted 7‑1 to endorse a proposed expansion of energy‑efficiency incentives for the next biennium. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Endorsed expanded energy‑efficiency incentives for next biennium (7-1)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The advisory committee will approve the minutes from its June 5 meeting, hear a public forum, receive liaison reports, and discuss whether to attend a Rotary meeting. No other decisions are listed.

• Approval of minutes from the June 5, 2025 regular meeting
• Report on Plawrights Plaque Installation
• DEI Survey Subcommittee Report
• Update from Chair regarding conversation with Mayor Graham
• Discussion regarding attending Rotary

At the July 10 meeting, the committee approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 regular meeting by unanimous consent. The motion was made by John Tyler, seconded by Catherine Greenspan, and all members voted aye. Additionally, Cassie Preskenis volunteered to represent the committee at a Rotary speaking engagement on August 26.

• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cassie Preskenis volunteered to attend Rotary talk on Aug 26

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet to hold a discussion regarding urban land use and transportation. The meeting includes opportunities for public testimony.

• Discussion on Urban Land Use and Transportation

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission meeting will consider several actions, including a revision of park ordinances and adoption of a new policy framework (1.01.001). Commissioners will also act on the Community Center/Pioneer Hall rental fee and receive information on the East Main Street Park design. An executive session is scheduled to discuss real‑property negotiations.

• Park Ordinance(s) Revision (Action)
• 1.01.001 – Policy Framework Policy (Action)
• Community Center/Pioneer Hall Rental Fee (Action)
• East Main Street Park Design (Information)
• Executive session to negotiate real property transactions

The Parks & Recreation Commission voted unanimously to approve edits to Ashland Municipal Code Chapter 10.68 and forward the amendment to the City Council. The commission also adopted Policy 1.01.001 – Policy Framework with unanimous support. The proposal to change rental fees for Pioneer Hall and the Community Center was tabled until the August meeting.

• Approved edits to AMC Chapter 10.68 (special use permits) – motion passed (Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Bachman Yes, Landt Yes)
• Adopted Policy 1.01.001 – Policy Framework – motion passed (Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Bachman Yes, Landt Yes)
• Tabled Community Center/Pioneer Hall rental fee proposal – motion passed (Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Bachman Yes, Landt Yes)

General

The Ashland General Committee will review applications for the Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program and recommend which to fund and in what amounts. It will also finalize a business engagement work plan questionnaire and update a progress chart on its goals. The meeting includes setting the day and time for future committee meetings before adjourning.

• Review and recommend funding amounts for Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program applications
• Finalize questionnaire and plan for the business engagement work plan
• Update chart showing progress on the committee's goals
• Decide on day and time for future committee meetings
• Adjournment items: follow‑up on work plan, progress discussion, future funding cultivation

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning approved a total of $100,000 in grant funding for the biennium, allocating $50,000 to the Ashland Family YMCA, $30,000 to Avery Street, and $20,000 to Mountain Star. The motion passed with all members voting yes. The committee also adopted a new standing meeting time of 10:30 am, effective immediately.

• Approved $50,000 grant to Ashland Family YMCA (unanimous)
• Approved $30,000 grant to Avery Street (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 grant to Mountain Star (unanimous)
• Changed standing meeting time to 10:30 am (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 6/5/25 meeting (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will consider several discussion items, including board assignments for July and August 2025, a de‑brief of Historic Preservation Week, and the possibility of holding quarterly meetings. The commission will also review a land‑use request to add a walk‑up coffee kiosk at 142 East Main Street, a primary contributing historic resource in the Ashland Downtown Historic District.

• Review Board Assignments – July & August 2025
• Historic Preservation Week de‑brief
• Discuss possibility of quarterly meetings (January, April, July, October) and related review meetings
• Land Use Item Review: coffee kiosk request at 142 East Main Street (McGee‑Fortmiller Building, C‑1‑D zoning)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will meet on July 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber at 1175 E Main Street. The agenda includes a revision of park ordinances, a review of policy framework 1.01.001, discussion of the Community Center/Pioneer Hall rental fee, and a lookahead review. Commissioners will hear public testimony before deciding on these items.

• Park ordinance revision
• Policy framework 1.01.001 review
• Community Center/Pioneer Hall rental fee discussion
• Lookahead review

The commission directed staff to move the amendment to AMC Chapter 10.68 and the new policy‑framework draft to the July 9 regular business meeting for action. They also added East Main Street Park Design to the July 9 agenda. No final decision was made on the Community Center and Pioneer Hall rental‑fee alternatives.

• Moved AMC Chapter 10.68 ordinance amendment to July 9 meeting
• Moved Policy Framework (1.01.001) to July 9 meeting
• Added East Main Street Park Design to July 9 agenda

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Ashland Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will hold a regular meeting on June 26, 2025. The committee will receive updates on Climate Friendly Areas, review the Beach Creek Request for Proposals and make a recommendation, discuss an outreach event, and get an update from Sunstone. Unfinished business includes a review of the City of Medford Affordable Housing Toolkit. The meeting will conclude with liaison reports, announcements, and agenda planning for future meetings.

• Climate Friendly Areas update presented by Brandon Goldman, Community Development Director
• Beach Creek RFP review and recommendation
• Discussion of an outreach event
• Update from Sunstone
• Review and discussion of the City of Medford Affordable Housing Toolkit

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will discuss the process for recommending a one-way conversion for Water Street. The body will also address vision obstruction issues and strategic communications with the community.

• Water Street one-way conversion recommendation
• Vision obstruction mitigations based on near miss surveys
• Transition of near miss reporting to See Click Fix
• Strategic communication presentation from City Manager office
• Updates on B Street Corridor and North Mountain Avenue, Oak Street, and middle Clay Street improvements

The committee voted to approve the May 15, 2025 minutes after correcting references to CFEC, CFA, and a wording error on page 3. No other formal actions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting consisted of announcements, reports, and discussion of upcoming projects and outreach plans.

• Approved May 15, 2025 minutes with corrections (motion passed)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will hold a legislative public hearing to consider amendment PA-L-2025-00016 to the Southern Oregon University Facilities Master Plan. The amendment proposes zone changes for properties in the SOU district that could be sold to private owners, with the properties remaining under the SOU overlay while owned by the university and shifting to the underlying zoning if privately owned. The meeting also includes routine agenda items such as approval of minutes and a public forum for citizen testimony.

• Legislative public hearing on PA-L-2025-00016 to amend SOU Facilities Master Plan zoning
• Approval of April 29, 2025 special meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Approval of May 27, 2025 special meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Approval of June 10, 2025 regular meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Public forum for citizen testimony

The commission approved the consent agenda, including prior meeting minutes, by a 7‑0 voice vote. Commissioners Phillips and KenCairn moved to recommend adoption of the 2025 Southern Oregon University Master Plan amendment, which includes zoning changes for properties that may be transferred to private ownership and requires Conditional Use Permits for projects within 50 feet of private property. Commissioner Perkinson recused himself from this action and left the meeting.

• Approved consent agenda (April 29, May 27, June 10 minutes) – voice vote, 7‑0
• Motion to recommend adoption of the 2025 SOU Master Plan amendment with zoning map changes (no vote tally recorded)
• Commissioner Perkinson recused from reviewing the SOU Master Plan action and departed the meeting

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a permit appeal for a single-family dwelling on Hillside Lands. The body will also consider ordinances regarding economic opportunity and recreational immunity, as well as various city contracts and vehicle surpluses.

• Public hearing on PA-Appeal-2025-00021 for 231 Granite Street, including a permit to remove 74 trees
• Second reading of Ordinance 3265 adopting the 2025 Economic Opportunity Analysis
• Second reading of Ordinance 3264 establishing Recreational Immunity Protections
• APD Contract for Records Management System
• Construction contract for Water Treatment Plant Offsite Improvements

The council approved the minutes from the June 2 study session and June 3 business meeting and adopted the consent agenda. It voted to exclude the appellant’s untimely written arguments and then affirmed and remanded the planning application PA‑T2‑2024‑0053 for 231 Granite Street back to the Planning Commission. The body also passed the second readings of Ordinances 3265 and 3264, and tabled Resolution 2025‑22 until August. All actions were taken with recorded roll‑call votes.

• Approved June 2 study session and June 3 business meeting minutes (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Approved consent agenda as‑is (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell)
• Disallowed appellant’s untimely written arguments (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, DuQuenne)
• Affirmed and remanded planning application PA‑T2‑2024‑0053 to Planning Commission (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, DuQuenne)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3265 adopting the 2025 Economic Opportunity Analysis (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Hansen, Sherrell, DuQuenne)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3264 establishing recreational immunity protections (yes vote by Kaplan, Dahle, Bloom, Hansen, Sherrell, DuQuenne)
• Tabled Resolution 2025‑22 until the first business meeting in August (yes vote by Dahle, Bloom, Kaplan, Sherrell, DuQuenne; no vote by Hansen)
• Sworn in new Councilor Derek Sherrell (no vote recorded)

City Council

The Citizens' Budget Committee will approve the minutes from its May 7 and May 14, 2025 meetings. The City Council will hear the Ashland Police Department annual report and an update on the city's strategic planning process. No other actions are listed.

• Approve Citizens' Budget Committee minutes from May 7, 2025
• Approve Citizens' Budget Committee minutes from May 14, 2025
• Review Ashland Police Department (APD) annual report
• Discuss city strategic planning process and next steps

The council heard the Ashland Police Department’s annual report, noting an increase in reported use‑of‑force incidents and crime statistics. Council members discussed the city’s proposed strategic planning process, which includes an $80,000 budget for public engagement and drafting. No formal motions, approvals, or vote tallies were recorded during the study session.

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will review unfinished business regarding city environmental goals. The committee is discussing how to move forward with climate initiatives in a fiscally restricted environment.

• Discussion on gas powered lawn and garden equipment
• Recology waste stream survey plans and composting update
• Dark Sky study session report
• Incentives update
• Planning for city goals for the year 2050 regarding land use and transportation

The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes. It approved the first reading of the Climate Friendly Areas Ordinance with amendments. It unanimously approved a motion for staff to continue the CEAP update work and begin tracking the outlined actions. In a later meeting, members agreed to prioritize pedestrian and bicycle projects and develop a funding proposal for the city council.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of Climate Friendly Areas Ordinance with amendments
• Approved motion for Chad Woodward to continue CEAP update work and begin tracking (unanimous)
• Agreed to prioritize pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure projects and develop a funding proposal

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Ashland Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet on June 11, 2025 to discuss the Dark Sky topic. Public testimony will be accepted for this agenda item and for any public forum items. The meeting will be held in person at 51 Winburn Way and via Zoom. The committee will adjourn after the discussion.

• Discussion – Dark Sky (public testimony accepted)
• Call to Order
• Adjournment

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider several items, including adopting a policy framework and approving advisory committee charges. The meeting also includes informational updates on the third quarter FY25, a partnership with Oregon Parks Forever/Kids in Parks, and the Butler‑Perozzi Fountain. Public testimony will be accepted before the meeting.

• Adopt Policy Framework (Action) – item 4.1.01.001
• Approve Advisory Committee Charges (Action) – item 3
• Third Quarter FY25 Update (Information) – item 1
• Oregon Parks Forever/Kids in Parks – Track Trails Partnership (Information) – item 2
• Butler‑Perozzi Fountain (Information) – item 5

The commission approved the corrected minutes from the May 7 joint session and acknowledged the Recreation Division Advisory Committee minutes by unanimous consent. Commissioners adopted new charges for the Senior Services and Recreation Division advisory committees with a 3‑1 vote. The proposed Department policy‑framework was tabled indefinitely by a unanimous vote.

• Approved corrected May 7 joint session minutes (unanimous consent)
• Acknowledged Recreation Division Advisory Committee minutes (unanimous consent)
• Adopted advisory committee charges for ASAC and RDAC (3-1)
• Tabled Policy Framework 1.01.001 indefinitely (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will consider a variance to increase the maximum lot coverage for an addition to the existing garage at 120 Westwood Street, submitted by Rogue Planning & Development for owners Ian and Amie Crisp. The meeting also includes approval of the May 13, 2025 minutes, staff announcements, advisory committee reports, and discussion of the Transportation System Plan public engagement. Residents may provide testimony in person or via Zoom.

• Variance request (PA‑T2‑2025‑00056) for 120 Westwood Street to allow garage addition
• Approval of May 13, 2025 regular meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Staff announcements and advisory committee liaison reports
• Unfinished business: Transportation System Plan (TSP) Public Engagement Plan
• Public forum for citizen testimony, with Zoom link provided

The Commission approved the variance request for 120 Westwood Street, allowing the garage addition and capping lot coverage at 50.5% with a deed restriction. The approval also requires the applicant to remove the proposed hard‑scape and have the removal verified by staff before final project approval. The motion passed unanimously with a 6‑0 vote. The consent agenda, including the May 13 minutes, was also approved by a 6‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda minutes (May 13, 2025) – vote 6-0
• Approved 120 Westwood variance with conditions: deed restriction limiting lot coverage to 50.5%, require hard‑scape removal verification, and all applicant conditions – vote 6-0

General

The Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning is meeting to finalize a grant program announcement for recommendation to Council. The body will also develop a business engagement work plan and update its goal progress chart.

• Finalize announcement of the Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program
• Identify local providers to notify about grant application process and deadlines
• Finalize business engagement questionnaire and work plan
• Update progress chart for short and longer term committee goals

The committee approved revisions to the Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program, keeping the first‑year funding at up to $135K and assigning final award approval to the City Manager. Eligibility now gives preference to full‑time, five‑day programs serving infants or toddlers, and the median income reference was updated to Jackson County. The business questionnaire was revised, and the progress‑chart update was postponed to the July 3 meeting.

• Approved changes to Early Childhood Affordability Grant Program (all ayes)
• Retained first‑year funding level of up to $135K (all ayes)
• Set final grant award approval with City Manager (all ayes)
• Added eligibility preference for full‑time, 5‑day care and infant/toddler programs (all ayes)
• Updated median income reference to Jackson County (all ayes)
• Modified business questionnaire items (no vote recorded)
• Postponed update of committee progress chart to July 3 meeting (no vote recorded)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will approve minutes from a previous meeting, receive updates on a DEI climate survey, and hold a roundtable for community ideas. The agenda also includes announcements for upcoming City Council study sessions and local events.

• Approval of minutes from May 1, 2025 meeting
• Update on DEI Climate Survey
• Roundtable for community ideas
• City Council study session on DEI assessment recommendations
• Playwrights walk plaque unveiling honoring Lorraine Hansberry

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its May 1, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The committee received updates on upcoming events, including a plaque unveiling on June 22 and Pride and Juneteenth flag displays. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes from 5/1/2025 SERJAC meeting (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will discuss updates to advisory committee policies, a Winburn Way subcommittee charter project, an herbicide use exception for integrated pest management, draft changes to park ordinances, and the rental fee for the Community Center/Pioneer Hall. Each item will be presented as an agenda report with supporting documents where noted. The meeting will conclude with a lookahead review.

• Advisory Committee policy and charges updates
• Winburn Way Subcommittee charter project and plan
• Integrated Pest Management herbicide use exception (EPA fact sheets)
• Draft changes to park ordinance(s)
• Community Center/Pioneer Hall rental fee review

The June 4, 2025 Park Commission meeting consisted of updates on advisory committee charges, the Winburn Way subcommittee, an herbicide exemption request, proposed park ordinance amendments, and rental fee review. No votes were taken and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The items were deferred for further discussion at future meetings.

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will consider a pre‑application review for 246 A Street submitted by Rafael Gonzales. The commission will also discuss review board assignments for June and July 2025, debrief Historic Preservation Week, and explore the possibility of holding quarterly meetings. Standard agenda items include approving the agenda, approving minutes from April 2, 2025, and introducing new member Deborah DeLaunay.

• Pre‑Application Review – Rafael Gonzales/246 A Street
• Review Board Assignments – June & July 2025
• Historic Preservation Week De‑brief
• Discuss possibility of quarterly meetings (Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct)
• Introduction of new member Deborah DeLaunay

City Council

The Ashland City Council will consider and vote on the adoption of the 2025‑2027 biennium budget and associated budget resolutions. The meeting also includes approval of several consent‑agenda items such as water rates, a water‑quality contract, and a tax‑allocation resolution for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Ordinances related to the Climate Friendly Area Overlay will receive a second reading, and a public hearing will be held on the budget and other ordinances.

• Public hearing and adoption of the 2025‑2027 biennium budget and related budget resolutions
• Water Rate Resolution – approval of 2025‑2027 water rates
• Goods & Services Contract – Water Quality Temperature Trading Program Partnership (2025‑2031)
• Resolution allocating BN23‑25 Transient Lodging Tax Funds to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival
• Second reading of Ordinances 3249‑3263 to implement the Climate Friendly Area Overlay

The council approved the minutes from the May 19 and May 20 meetings and adopted most items on the consent agenda, including liquor licenses and a water‑quality contract. It adopted the 2025‑2027 biennium budget of $374,021,893 and certified city services. Several ordinances were approved, such as recreational immunity protections and the Climate Friendly Area overlay changes. The council also adopted a new utility assistance program, transferred $700,000 to the fire department’s contingency fund, and approved revised water rates.

• Approved May 19 & May 20 meeting minutes (vote: Hansen, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Bloom, Dahle yes)
• Approved consent agenda items A, B, E, F, G (liquor licenses, solid waste, water‑quality contract, lodging tax to OSF, Chamber marketing) (vote: Hansen, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Bloom, Dahle yes)
• Adopted biennium 2025‑2027 budget $374,021,893 (Resolution 2025‑17) (vote: Dahle, Bloom, Hansen, Kaplan yes; DuQuenne no)
• Certified city services (Resolution 2025‑18) (vote: all five yes)
• Approved Ordinance 3264 establishing recreational immunity protections (vote: all five yes)
• Approved second reading of Climate Friendly Area overlay ordinances 3249‑3263 (vote: all five yes)
• Adopted utility assistance program with income‑based discounts (Resolution 2025‑21) (vote: all five yes)
• Approved $700,000 contingency transfer to fire department budget (Resolution 2025‑16) (vote: all five yes)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will discuss the Strategic Communications plan, receive an update on the AFN Pilot Program and its next steps, and consider options for how to fill council vacancies. Public testimony is limited to agenda items. The meeting is a study session, so no final decisions are required unless the council chooses to act on the appointment options.

• Strategic Communications discussion
• AFN Pilot Program update and next steps
• Council vacancy appointment voting method options

The council chose the Exhaustive Ballot method to fill the vacant council seat. It directed the AFN pilot to keep deploying as presented, to prepare a detailed business plan, and to pause any new fund appropriations until that plan is approved. Council members also agreed to create simple metrics to track the city’s communications progress.

• Adopt Exhaustive Ballot method for upcoming council appointment
• Continue current deployment of the AFN fiber pilot project
• Develop a refined AFN business plan with economic development focus
• Hold off on appropriating additional funds for AFN until business plan is approved
• Create simple metrics to gauge communications progress

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will consider two draft initiatives—Walkable Design Standards and a Transportation System Plan public‑engagement plan—and will hold a legislative public hearing to adopt the Economic Opportunities Analysis Update. The meeting also includes staff announcements, advisory committee liaison reports, and a public forum for citizen comments.

• Walkable Design Standards Draft Code
• Transportation System Plan (TSP) Public Engagement Plan
• Economic Opportunities Analysis Update Adoption (legislative public hearing)
• Staff Announcements
• Advisory Committee Liaison Reports

The Commission unanimously adopted the 2025 Economic Opportunity Analysis (PA-L-2025-00017) with a 5‑0 vote. It also removed the Transportation System Plan Public Engagement Plan from the agenda, deferring discussion to the June 10 regular meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adopted 2025 Economic Opportunity Analysis (PA-L-2025-00017) – vote 5-0
• Removed Transportation System Plan Public Engagement Plan from agenda; to discuss at June 10 meeting

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will approve the April 24, 2025, minutes and discuss the Rogue Retreat Winter Shelter debrief. The meeting includes discussions about touring the Office of Housing and Revitalization (OHRA) and affordable housing units in Ashland.

• Approval of April 24, 2025, Minutes
• Rogue Retreat Winter Shelter Debrief
• Touring OHRA to CDBG funded improvements
• Touring affordable housing units in Ashland
• Community Resource Fair discussion

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet to discuss transportation using informational documents. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Transportation discussion

City Council

The Ashland City Council will consider an ordinance to remove the modified floodplain from Hamilton Creek on the city's constraints map. The body will also review budget corrections, fee updates for fiscal year 2026, and a bridge replacement contract.

• Public hearing and first reading of ORD 3261 regarding Hamilton Creek floodplain map
• Contract for East and West Forks Project – Bridge Replacement
• Resolution adopting miscellaneous fees for Fiscal Year 2026
• Resolution adopting a Parks Fee for BN 25-27
• Resolution adopting corrections and supplemental budget adjustments for BN 2023-25

The council approved the FY26 miscellaneous fees schedule and adopted a $5 per electric‑meter Parks fee effective July 1, 2025. It also approved a $4,600 grant for two donated heart sculptures from Guanajuato and selected Alternative 3A for the water rate structure. The first reading of Ordinance 3261 was tabled until July 15, 2025. Several routine items, including minutes and budget resolutions, were approved.

• Approved May 5 and May 6 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items a‑d: bridge contract, budget corrections, supplemental budget, historic preservation appointment (5‑0)
• Modified FY26 miscellaneous fees schedule: deleted per‑hour field charge and added facility‑usage rates (5‑0)
• Directed staff to delete fee increases for Pioneer Hall and Community Center (5‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑09 miscellaneous fees & charges schedule (4‑1)
• Approved $5 per electric‑meter Parks fee (Resolution 2025‑13) (4‑1)
• Approved $4,600 funding for Guanajuato heart art donation (5‑0)
• Selected Water Cost of Service Study Alternative 3A for rate structure (3‑2)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session on May 19, 2025. The meeting includes a public forum for general comments, a presentation on Recology PI, a review of the Walkable Design Standards (CFEC) draft land use ordinance, and a third‑quarter FY25 financial update. No formal votes are indicated in the agenda.

• Recology PI presentation
• Walkable Design Standards (CFEC) Draft land Use Ordinance (code amendment)
• Third Quarter FY25 Financial Update

The council directed staff to move $35K from social service grants, $100K from homeless services, and $100K from the general fund to the Childcare Grants, totaling $235K. It also approved a $100K marketing contribution to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Staff was instructed not to add extra transparency or setback requirements for garage design standards and to bring back cost information on other walkable‑design proposals. The council asked for feedback copies and for staff to prepare information on voting methods for the council vacancy.

• Directed staff to reallocate $35K from social service grants, $100K from homeless services, and $100K from the general fund to Childcare Grants ($235K total)
• Approved $100K to the Oregon Shakespeare Festival for marketing this fiscal year
• Directed staff not to add additional transparency standards for garages
• Directed staff not to add additional setback requirement for garages
• Directed staff to provide cost information on ground‑floor entrance standards
• Directed staff to provide cost information on commercial window and weather‑protection standards
• Requested a copy of feedback from groups that engaged in the walkable design process
• Asked staff to prepare information on ranked‑choice versus elimination voting methods for the council vacancy

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The committee will hold its regular meeting on May 15, 2025 at the Siskiyou Conference Room, 51 Winburn Way. It will approve the April 17, 2025 meeting minutes, hear a public forum, receive liaison reports, and discuss items such as the Guanajuato Hearts presentation, labor acknowledgment, strategic planning, M.A.P discussion, PAAC timeline planning, traffic signal box selection, and art maintenance. Updates will be given on the Playwrights Walk subcommittee, the We Are Here mural, and the budget. The meeting will close with a round‑table for members to share project opportunities and notice of the next meeting on July 17, 2025.

• Traffic Signal Box Update – Selection Panel
• Budget Update
• Playwrights Walk Update & Subcommittee Formation
• We Are Here Mural Update
• Strategic Planning discussion

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Recreation Division Advisory Committee will meet on May 15, 2025 at The Grove, 1195 E. Main St. The committee will select a new chair and vice chair, receive a liaison report from Commissioner Bachman, get a PROS update from Director Houston, and discuss a new charge for the RDAC. The meeting also includes routine items such as approvals of minutes and public forum time.

• RDAC Chair/Vice Chair Selection (All)
• APRC Liaison Report (Commissioner Bachman)
• PROS Update (Director Houston)
• New Charge for RDAC (Deputy Director Dials)

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the September 19, 2024 meeting. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting. Commissioners discussed upcoming projects, including a request for hardwood flooring in the community‑center staff offices and plans to recruit three new RDAC members in January.

• Approved September 19, 2024 meeting minutes (2-0-1)

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will review a draft engagement plan for the Transportation System Plan. Members will also discuss the transition of near-miss reporting to See Click Fix and crash mitigation efforts.

• Review of Transportation System Plan Public Engagement draft document
• Discussion on transitioning near miss reporting to See Click Fix
• Discussion on education, outreach and crash mitigation efforts
• Wayfinding Project update
• Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Process update

The committee approved the March 20, 2025 minutes after correcting a misspelling. A motion to extend the meeting was approved. Staff were assigned actions to improve the SeeClickFix system, coordinate signal timing with ODOT, and support upcoming bike‑swap outreach.

• Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (motion by Dahle, seconded by Richards)
• Approved motion to extend meeting (motion by Dahle, seconded by Brouillard)
• Scott Fleury to consult Dorinda Cottle to move the SeeClickFix icon higher on the city website
• Scott Fleury to discuss with Lea Richards creating a Transportation category in SeeClickFix
• Scott Fleury to coordinate with ODOT to improve signal timing
• Linda Peterson‑Adams will staff a table at the Rogue Valley Bike Swap on April 26, 2025
• Dave Kahn and Scott Fleury to review e‑bike ordinances in Bend and Eugene
• No vote tallies were recorded for the assigned actions

General

The Ashland General Citizen's Budget Committee will review several budget items. Members may vote on increasing the parks budget, increasing funding for childhood grants, and a property tax levy to pay a general‑obligation bond. The committee will also consider approving the proposed/revised city budget. A public forum will be held before the budget votes.

• Increase Parks Budget
• Increase Budget for Childhood Grants
• Property Tax Levy and Payment of General Obligation Bond
• Approval of Proposed/Revised Budget

The Citizens Budget Committee voted to add $1.4 million to the Parks Department operational budget, contingent on a pending council resolution for a $5 per electric‑meter fee for 24 months starting July 1, 2025. The motion passed with twelve members voting yes and one member voting no. Earlier, the committee also approved the May 25, 2023 and April 30, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously.

• Approved May 25, 2023 minutes (unanimous yes)
• Approved April 30, 2025 minutes (unanimous yes)
• Approved amendment to increase Parks budget by $1.5 M (yes votes: Graham, Hansen, DuQuenne, Bloom, Dahle, Kaplan, Hunter, Adams, Roy, Fredericks, Murray, Spiegler, Wade)
• Approved amendment to increase Parks budget by $1.4 M (yes votes: Bloom, Graham, Hunter, Dahle, Adams, Fredericks, Hansen, Murray, Spiegler, Kaplan, Wade, Roy; no vote: DuQuenne)
• Motion to increase Parks operational budget by $1.4 M passed

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider four actions: naming a park, classifying a park, re‑routing the Bandersnatch Trail, and setting park fees. Each item is listed as an action item on the agenda, meaning the commission will vote on them. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public forum time.

• Park Naming (Action)
• Park Classification (Action)
• Bandersnatch Trail Re‑Route (Action)
• Park Fees (Action)

The commission adopted a $2.50 per hour fee for seasonal use of APRD fields, effective July 1, 2025. A motion to rename 42 parks to 23 names was rejected. The park‑specific classification item was tabled for later consideration. The Bandersnatch Trail re‑route was approved, and the March 12 and April 9 meeting minutes were approved.

• Adopt $2.50 per hour field fee schedule (Weiner Yes, Gardiner Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Reject park renaming to 23 names (Weiner No, Gardiner Yes, Adams No, Landt No)
• Table park classification item (Weiner Yes, Gardiner Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Approve Bandersnatch Trail re‑route (Weiner Yes, Gardiner Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Approve March 12 minutes with correction (Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Approve April 9 minutes by unanimous consent

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will hear a Type III public hearing on a proposal to annex 8.62 acres at 1511 Highway 99 North, along with adjacent state highway and railroad right‑of‑way. The applicant seeks a property line adjustment, subdivision approval for nine lots, and site design review for a 210‑unit apartment project that includes 24 affordable units. The agenda also includes requests for exceptions to development and street design standards and permits to remove two trees.

• Annexation of 8.62 acres at 1511 Highway 99 North plus 6.6 acres of state highway right‑of‑way and 7.68 acres of railroad property
• Property line adjustment between Tax Lots 1700 and 1702
• Subdivision approval to create nine lots (Outline & Final Plan)
• Site design review for 210 apartments in ten buildings, including 24 affordable units
• Exceptions to site development and street design standards; tree removal permits for two trees

The commission approved a correction to the April 22, 2025 Study Session date (vote 6‑0). It then recommended that the City Council approve the annexation of 1511 Highway 99 North (8.62 acres) with added conditions on fire‑road width, property‑line drawings, property‑line adjustment approval, and affordable‑unit details. The recommendation was adopted unanimously (6‑0).

• Approved correction of April 22, 2025 Study Session date (6‑0)
• Recommended City Council approve annexation of 1511 Highway 99 N with conditions (6‑0)

General

The Ashland Senior Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss administrative updates and a new charge for the committee. The session includes a public forum and a division report.

• Discussion of a new charge for ASAC
• Review of Commission & Committee Handbook and policy acknowledgments
• Determination of new member terms and meeting schedule

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will meet to discuss new business regarding committee membership and the city's long-term environmental direction. The committee will also review unfinished business related to incentives, composting, and waste stream surveys.

• Recology Waste Stream Survey
• Composting
• CEAP Report
• Incentives
• Committee Membership

General

The Citizens' Budget Committee will meet to receive budget presentations from city departments. The session includes a period for question-and-answer and deliberation regarding these budgets.

• City Departments' Budget Presentations

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the April 25 2023 meeting. All members who voted recorded a YES vote. No other motions or decisions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting consisted of budget presentations and discussion of revenue and cost‑recovery issues.

• Approved April 25 2023 Citizens Budget Committee minutes (10‑0)

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Ashland Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will review several discussion items. Topics include an update on the Butler-Perozzi Fountain, installation of the second Playwright's Walk plaque, planning for the June Review Board, and final preparations for Historic Preservation Week events. No formal decisions are indicated; the agenda is for informational and planning discussion.

• Butler-Perozzi Fountain update
• Playwright's Walk Plaque #2 installation
• Review Board meeting scheduled for June
• Final Historic Preservation Week preparation and event schedule

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will review service levels and budget challenges within the city's General Fund. Commissioners will discuss current actions to streamline city operations and longer‑term strategies for addressing General Fund issues. The meeting will consider near‑term funding options for the Parks & Recreation operations and maintenance budget for the fiscal biennium ending June 30, 2027.

• Review of Parks & Recreation service levels and budget challenges within the General Fund
• Discussion of actions to streamline city operations and potential long‑term strategies for General Fund challenges
• Consideration of near‑term funding options for Parks & Recreation operations and maintenance budget for the fiscal biennium ending 6/30/2027

The Parks & Recreation Commission presented data on service levels, staffing, and budget challenges, including a 5% general‑fund reduction request. Discussion covered potential cost‑saving measures and future funding ideas. No motions were voted on, and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting.

City Council

The Ashland City Council will conduct a public hearing for the first reading of Ordinances 3249, 3250, 3251, and 3263 to implement the Climate Friendly Area Overlay. The meeting also includes a second reading of Ordinance 3258 to prohibit hazardous fire use, approvals of two liquor licenses, and adoption of fee resolutions for wildfire risk reduction and public safety support. Additional items cover unfinished business on law‑enforcement area processes, transient lodging tax revenue use, and a travel proposal for destination marketing.

• First Reading of Ordinances 3249, 3250, 3251, and 3263 for Climate Friendly Area Overlay
• Second Reading of Ordinance 3258 amending AMC Chapter 10.30 to prohibit hazardous fire use
• Approval of Liquor License for Tlalli
• Approval of Liquor License for Cooks Speakeasy
• Resolution 2025-08 setting the Wildfire Risk Reduction Fee and repealing Resolution 2019-20

The Ashland City Council approved an increase to the Wildfire Risk Fee from $3 to $7 and added CPI‑adjustment language, and also raised the Public Safety Support Fee by $5 with similar CPI provisions. The council approved liquor licenses for Tlalli and Cooks Speakeasy, and authorized the Early Learning and Affordable Childcare Ad Hoc Committee to publish an article. The first reading of four ordinances establishing a Climate Friendly Area Overlay was approved, and the second reading of an ordinance prohibiting hazardous fire use passed.

• Approved Wildfire Risk Fee increase to $7 (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved Public Safety Support Fee increase by $5 (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved liquor license for Tlalli (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved liquor license for Cooks Speakeasy (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved Ad Hoc Committee article ‘Business and Childcare: A Crucial Symbiosis’ (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved first reading of Ordinances 3249, 3250, 3251, 3263 for Climate Friendly Overlay (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3258 prohibiting hazardous fire use (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen)

City Council

The council will hold a study session on May 5, 2025. The agenda includes a public forum for comments, a presentation of Budget Background #3, and a discussion of the Non‑Profit Corporation Low‑Income Housing Property Tax Exemption Program. No formal actions are listed.

• Public forum for general comments
• Presentation of Budget Background #3
• Discussion of Non‑Profit Affordable Housing Tax Exemption program

The council expressed general interest in creating a property‑tax exemption for non‑profit affordable housing. Staff were directed to request impact data, contact the Ashland School District for input, estimate market growth, and develop qualification criteria. No vote tally was recorded.

• Requested detailed financial impact analysis of a non‑profit affordable housing tax exemption (no vote recorded)
• Stated general council interest in moving forward with such an ordinance (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to contact Ashland School District to gauge interest (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to estimate affordable‑housing market growth over the next 3‑5 years (no vote recorded)
• Directed staff to develop specific qualification criteria for eligible developments (no vote recorded)

General

The Early Learning and Affordable Childcare Ad-Hoc Committee will continue business from its April meeting, including reviewing a business engagement work plan and an updated progress chart. Members will discuss strategies for securing funding beyond June 2026 with representatives from the Oregon Community Foundation. The committee will also plan a meeting with an investment banker at Rogue Credit Union and with Bret Anderson of Southern Oregon University's Institute for Applied Sustainability. Additional agenda items include suggestions for future topics.

• Review of business engagement work plan
• Update of progress chart on committee goals
• Discussion on cultivating future funding beyond June 2026 with Kurt Hildebrand and Shasta Zieke of the Oregon Community Foundation
• Planning meeting with an investment banker at Rogue Credit Union and Bret Anderson of SOU's Institute for Applied Sustainability
• Consideration of suggestions for future committee topics

The Ashland General Ad Hoc Committee on Affordable Childcare and Early Learning approved the draft minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting. No other motions were adopted; the remainder of the session consisted of discussion on business engagement, future funding options, and public comments.

• Approved minutes from 4/3/2025 meeting (5-0)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will approve minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting, hold a public forum, receive liaison updates, and hear a Public Arts Advisory Committee update on the Say Their Names Memorial project at Railroad Park. The committee will also discuss upcoming May events, get a subcommittee update on the citywide DEIA Climate Survey, and consider any additional items from members.

• Approve minutes from the 4/3/2025 meeting
• Public Arts Advisory Committee update on Say Their Names Memorial project at Railroad Park
• Current liaison assignments for various city advisory committees
• Subcommittee update – Citywide DEIA Climate Survey
• Discussion of May events

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting, with all members in favor. It also approved the creation of a subcommittee to work with the Public Arts Advisory Committee on organizing and promoting the June 22 plaque unveiling, again with all members in favor.

• Approved minutes from 4/3/2025 meeting (all ayes)
• Created subcommittee to organize June 22 plaque unveiling (all ayes)

General

The Ashland Citizens' Budget Committee will hold nominations for a budget chair and vice‑chair. A public forum will allow community input. The City Manager will present the proposed budget for 2025‑27, followed by department budget presentations. Committee members will have an opportunity to ask staff questions.

• Call for nominations for Budget Chair and Vice‑Chair
• Public forum for community input
• City Manager's presentation of Proposed Budget BN 2025‑27
• Department presentations on budget items
• Committee questions for staff

The Citizens Budget Committee elected new leadership. A motion to appoint Shane Hunter as chair passed. A second motion to appoint Linda Peterson Adams as vice chair also passed. No other substantive actions were recorded.

• Shane Hunter appointed Chair of Citizens Budget Committee (motion passed)
• Linda Peterson Adams appointed Vice Chair of Citizens Budget Committee (motion passed)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will hold a Type III public hearing to consider legislation that would update the city’s zoning map by creating Climate Friendly Area (CFA) overlay zones. The proposed changes would require multifamily residential, mixed‑use, commercial, office and civic uses with minimum building heights of 50 feet and a minimum density of 15 dwellings per acre, with no maximum density cap. The Commission will also review companion amendments to the Downtown (C‑1‑D) district to permit multifamily housing without a mixed‑use requirement, increase the height limit to 50 feet (up to 60 feet as a conditional use), and remove density limits. Public comments may be submitted in writing, in person, or via Zoom.

• Public hearing on legislation to add Climate Friendly Area (CFA) overlay zones to the city’s zoning map.
• Proposed CFA zones would require multifamily residential with ground‑floor mixed use, commercial, office and civic uses, minimum 50‑foot building height, and at least 15 dwelling units per acre with no density cap.
• Companion amendment to Downtown (C‑1‑D) district to allow multifamily dwellings outright, increase height limit from 40 ft to 50 ft (optional 60 ft conditional use), and remove maximum density limits.
• Opportunity for public testimony in person, in writing, or via Zoom (contact PC‑public‑[email protected] by April 29 2025).

The commission voted 7-0 to recommend that the City Council adopt a set of ordinance and map amendments that create Climate Friendly Area (CFA) overlays and update related zoning and code provisions. The recommended actions include adding a new Climate Friendly overlay chapter, repealing the Transit Triangle overlay, lifting density limits in several zones, and increasing allowable building heights. The recommendation will be considered by the City Council at its upcoming meeting.

• Recommend City Council adopt Climate Friendly Area ordinance amendments (7-0)
• Recommend amendment to Land Use Ordinance to add CF overlay and repeal Transit Triangle overlay (7-0)
• Recommend amendment to Zoning Map to apply Climate Friendly overlay and modify Residential overlay (7-0)
• Recommend amendment to Site Design Zones Map to align Detailed Site Review boundary with CF areas (7-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will consider the current status of the department’s FY 26‑27 budget. It will also act on staff recommendations regarding miscellaneous fees and charges for the department. The agenda includes a liaison report and announces upcoming meeting dates.

• Current status of the Ashland Parks and Recreation Department FY 26‑27 budget (possible action)
• Staff recommendations for Ashland Parks and Recreation Department miscellaneous fees and charges (action)
• Liaison report from commissioners/staff
• Joint study session with City Council scheduled for May 7, 2025
• Regular business meeting scheduled for May 14, 2025

The commission voted to adopt a total operating budget of about $15.8 million for the 2025‑2027 biennium and to add a $6.50 monthly park fee to utility bills. It also approved the proposed fee schedule, modifying the sport‑field rental rate to $5 per hour. Action on the APRD miscellaneous fees was postponed until the May 14 meeting.

• Approved FY 26‑27 operating budget of approximately $15.8 M (vote: Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Bachman Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Adopted monthly $6.50 park fee added to utility bills (vote: Gardiner Yes, Weiner Yes, Bachman Yes, Adams Yes, Landt Yes)
• Approved fee schedule with sport‑field rental set at $5 per hour (vote: Gardiner Yes, Weiner No, Bachman Yes, Landt Yes; Adams absent)
• Postponed action on APRD miscellaneous fees and charges until May 14 (no second to motion)

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee will hear a presentation on proposed new committee rules by City Manager Sabrina Cotta. It will also receive a presentation from the La Clinica Street Outreach Team. The committee will review and make recommendations on the draft 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Action Plan. Finally, members will consider nominations for the committee chair.

• New Committee Rules Presentation (Sabrina Cotta, City Manager)
• La Clinica Street Outreach Team Presentation
• Draft 2025 CDBG Action Plan Review and Recommendation
• Nominations for Chair

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will approve the minutes from the February 25 and April 8 meetings and will consider approval of findings for PA‑T2‑2024‑00053 at 231 Granite Street. The commission will also hear a presentation on an Economic Opportunities Analysis by CAI Consultant and a light update to the Southern Oregon University Masterplan. An open public forum will allow residents to provide testimony.

• Approval of minutes from February 25, 2025 special meeting and April 8, 2025 regular meeting
• Approval of Findings for PA‑T2‑2024‑00053, 231 Granite Street
• Economic Opportunities Analysis – CAI Consultant presentation
• Southern Oregon University Masterplan “Light Update”
• Public forum for resident testimony

The Planning Commission and City Council met jointly on April 22, 2025 to discuss the Economic Opportunity Analysis and Southern Oregon University Masterplan. Staff announced upcoming meetings on climate‑friendly zoning, an annexation review, and a transportation system plan update. The session consisted of presentations and discussion but did not result in any formal approvals, denials, or votes.

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will meet to discuss transitioning the near miss application to the See Click Fix application. The body will also review education and crash mitigation efforts. A presentation on the planning workplan and development overview process is scheduled.

• Transition of near miss application to See Click Fix application
• Discussion on education, outreach, and crash mitigation efforts
• Presentation from Planning on workplan and development overview process
• Introduction of Rogue Valley Safe Routes to School Coordinator Lara McCormick
• Updates on the Wayfinding Project and Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant process

The committee approved the corrected February 20, 2025 minutes. It formally invited Southern Oregon University students to serve as a liaison for the Transportation Advisory Committee. The committee voted unanimously to have Public Works forward the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) list to the City Council.

• Approved corrected February 20, 2025 minutes (motion approved)
• Invited Southern Oregon University students to serve as TAC liaison (approved)
• Public Works to forward CIP list to City Council (approved unanimously)

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Ashland Public Arts Advisory Committee will meet on April 17, 2025 to review the FY 2025 art maintenance budget and receive updates on several arts projects. The agenda includes a public forum, liaison reports, and updates on the Playwrights Walk, traffic signal box, We Are Here, Fringe Festival, and Mural Fest. No formal decisions are listed; items are presented for discussion and information.

• Art Maintenance Report & FY 25 Budget Discussion
• Taylor Stewart presentation – “Say Their Names”
• Playwrights Walk update
• Traffic Signal Box update
• Fringe Festival update

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold public hearings on the 2025–2026 Community Development Block Grant award and the 2025‑2029 Consolidated Plan for using those funds. The council will also conduct a second reading of Ordinance 3259, which annexes property at 300 Clay Street and withdraws it from Jackson County Fire District No. 5. Additional items include resolutions on public safety, wildfire and parks fees, and discussion of unfinished business such as the transient lodging tax revenue use for tourism promotion and a water cost of service study update.

• Public Hearing on 2025‑2026 Community Development Block Grant award and action plan
• Public Hearing and decision on the 2025‑2029 Consolidated Plan for CDBG funds
• Second Reading of Ordinance 3259: annexing 300 Clay Street and withdrawing from Fire District No. 5
• Resolutions related to public safety, wildfire, and parks fees
• Unfinished business: Transient Lodging Tax revenue use for tourism promotion

The council accepted Councilor Knauer's resignation and set a timeline to fill the vacancy. It approved the consent agenda for budget transfers, allocated the full CDBG grant to the Maslow Project, and adopted the 2025‑2029 CDBG Consolidated Plan. The council also approved the annexation ordinance and rejected a $9 park fee proposal.

• Council accepted Councilor Knauer's resignation (effective immediately) – no vote recorded
• Added agenda item to discuss the council vacancy – approved (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Approved vacancy‑filling process: applications by May 14, interviews by May 31, appointment June 3 – approved (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Approved consent agenda for budget transfers and supplemental – approved (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Allocated $24,395 CDBG funds to Maslow Project public service project – approved (Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Approved 2025‑2029 Consolidated Plan for CDBG funds – approved (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Second reading of Ordinance 3259 annexing 4.8‑acre parcel at 300 Clay Street – approved (Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne, Kaplan, Hansen: YES)
• Resolution 2025‑06 to set a $9 park fee per electric meter – failed (Kaplan, Hansen: YES; Dahle, Bloom, DuQuenne: NO)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, onboard a new Trails Advisory Committee member, and elect a chair and vice chair. The agenda includes a discussion on re-routing the Bandersnatch trail with the Ashland Watershed Trails Association.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Onboarding of new Trails Advisory Committee member
• Election of Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of Trails Advisory Committee bylaws
• Discussion on Bandersnatch trail re-route

The Trails Advisory Committee unanimously elected Cott as chair and Hansen as vice chair. A motion to bring the previously approved Bandersnatch trail re‑route proposal before the Park Commission was also approved unanimously. Members discussed onboarding requirements and reviewed draft bylaws, but no other actions were taken.

• Elected Cott as Chair of the Trails Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Elected Hansen as Vice Chair of the Trails Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Approved bringing Bandersnatch re‑route proposal to the Park Commission (7‑0)

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session on Monday, April 14, 2025. Council members will hear public comments, review frequently asked questions about the city budget, and receive an update on the Assistance Program. No formal actions or votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Public Forum – 15 minutes for public input or comment on City business not on the agenda
• Budget Background – Frequently Asked Budget Questions presentation
• Assistance Program Update – report on the city’s assistance program
• Adjournment

The council reviewed a proposal to update Ashland's utility assistance programs, including a year‑round 30% discount capped at $400 and the repeal of the senior/disabled discount code. Council members expressed general support but asked staff for additional information on proxy eligibility and financial impact. Staff will return with final program details and a repeal ordinance for future approval.

• No formal approval or denial; council requested more information before taking action

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will receive informational updates on the FY25 quarterly financials and the department budget process. The meeting also includes reviews of a draft policy framework, park fees, and park naming and classifications.

• FY25 Quarterly Financial Update
• Department Budget Process Update
• Draft Policy 1.01.001 - Policy Framework
• Park Fees
• Park Map and Naming

The commission approved the March 5, 2025 study session minutes by unanimous consent. A financial update for Q2 FY25 was presented. Commissioners voted 5-0 to recommend a $9.00 per month park fee to the City Council, with all members voting Yes. A separate motion to urge the council to find a less regressive revenue source was withdrawn.

• Approved March 5, 2025 study session minutes (unanimous consent)
• Recommended $9.00 per month park fee to City Council (5-0 vote)
• Motion to urge City Council to find alternative revenue source withdrawn (no second)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will hold a Type II public hearing on a Physical and Environmental Constraints permit for a new single‑family dwelling at 231 Granite Street, including a driveway grade variance and a request to remove 67 trees. A Type III public hearing will consider a map amendment to remove the Local Ashland Floodplain along Hamilton Creek from Mistletoe Road downstream to Interstate Five. The meeting also includes approval of the February and March 2025 regular‑meeting minutes and a public forum for citizen testimony.

• Type II hearing: P&E Constraints permit for new single‑family home at 231 Granite St, variance for driveway grade, removal of 67 trees
• Type III hearing: Map amendment to delete Local Ashland Floodplain along Hamilton Creek from Mistletoe Rd to Interstate Five
• Consent agenda approval of February 11 and March 11, 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Public forum with Zoom link for citizen testimony
• Open discussion period

The Commission approved the application for 231 Granite Street, adopting amended conditions and granting the variance, exception, and tree removal permits with a 5-1 vote. Commissioners also recommended that City Council approve the removal of the Ashland Modified Floodplain along Hamilton Creek, passing 6-0. The consent agenda removed the February 11, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote, also 6-0.

• Approved 231 Granite St permit with amended conditions (5-1)
• Recommended City Council approve removal of Ashland Modified Floodplain (6-0)
• Removed February 11, 2025 meeting minutes from consent agenda (6-0)

General

The Ashland Early Learning and Affordable Childcare Ad-Hoc Committee will review a draft article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal. Members will discuss a business engagement work plan and explore funding options beyond June 2026. The committee will also revisit its progress by priority and present a progress report to the City Council. Additional items may be raised by committee members.

• Final approval of article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal
• Review of business engagement work plan
• Discussion of future funding beyond June 2026
• Revisiting committee's progress by priority
• Presentation of progress report to City Council

The committee approved the draft minutes from March 6, 2025 by unanimous vote. It also approved sending the final version of the Southern Oregon Business Journal article to City Council with a recommendation to publish, again unanimously. No other motions were decided; remaining items were discussed for future work.

• Approved draft minutes from 3/6/25 (all ayes)
• Approved sending Southern Oregon Business Journal article to Council with recommendation to publish (all ayes)

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will receive an update on the next steps for the DEI Assessment. The body will also consider the Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights.

• Update on DEI Assessment next steps
• Consideration of Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights
• Subcommittee update on Citywide DEIA Climate Survey

The advisory committee voted to accept the minutes from the March 6, 2025 meeting, with all members voting aye. No other formal actions were decided during the session. The meeting included updates, event planning, and discussion of a DEI climate survey.

• Approved March 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will discuss a request for a Conditional Use Permit for a property at 80 Hargadine Street. The commission will also review a Committee Rules Memo.

• Conditional Use Permit request for garage and roof-deck expansion at 80 Hargadine Street
• Discussion of Committee Rules Memo

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission approved the minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting by voice vote, all AYES. The commission also approved the Conditional Use Permit request for 80 Hargadine Street, again by voice vote, all AYES. Award winners for Historic Preservation Week were selected and a schedule of events for the week was adopted. Review Board volunteer slots for May were assigned and award write‑ups were required by April 28.

• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (voice vote, all AYES)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 80 Hargadine Street (voice vote, all AYES)
• Selected Historic Preservation Week award winners (e.g., 599 E. Main St. – Gil Livni, Commercial; 153‑155 Alida St. – Derek Sherrell, Compatible New Construction; 104 S. First St. – Erickson, Residential Remodel; 51 Winburn Way – Alice Peil, Stairs; Near 5 N. Main St. – Glory Nylander, Public Art/Artist)
• Assigned Review Board volunteer slots: May 8 – Brouillard, Emery; May 22 – Scharen, Whitford, Repp
• Adopted Historic Preservation Week event schedule: WalkAshland Railroad District tour (May 13), “Meet the Ghosts” in Ashland Cemetery (May 14), Photo Contest Booth on the Plaza (May 15), Awards Ceremony & Pioneer Hall Fest (May 17)
• Set deadline for award write‑ups to be submitted to staff by April 28

City Council

The Ashland City Council will discuss the 2025-2027 Capital Improvement Program and the use of Transient Lodging Tax revenue for tourism. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding property annexation at 300 Clay Street.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 3259 regarding property annexation at 300 Clay Street
• First reading of Ordinance 3258 to prohibit hazardous fire use
• Second reading of Ordinance 3257 regarding weeds and noxious vegetation
• 2025 Slurry Seal Award of Bid-Contract
• Resolution 2025-03 for property line adjustment of the Imperatrice Property

The council gave first‑reading approval to Ordinance No. 3259, annexing a 4.8‑acre property and withdrawing it from Jackson County Fire District No. 5, and directed staff to prepare findings for the related planning action. The council also approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 3258 amending fire‑use regulations and the second reading of Ordinance No. 3257 updating weeds and noxious vegetation rules. The two‑year Capital Improvement Plan with a six‑year overview was adopted. All motions passed with the votes recorded in the minutes.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3259 (5-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 3258 (5-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance 3257 (5-0)
• Adopted two‑year Capital Improvement Plan with six‑year overview (4-1)
• Approved consent agenda items including slurry seal award, committee appointments, and property line adjustment (5-0)
• Approved minutes of March 17 and March 18 meetings (5-0)

City Council

The Ashland City Council study session will open with a public forum for general comments. Council members will review the budget background and the city’s accounting and fund structure. They will examine city assistance programs for budget numbers 25-27. A discussion will follow on proposed fee changes for public safety, wildfire protection, and parks.

• Budget Background – City Accounting & Fund Structure
• Review City Assistance Programs for BN 25-27
• Budget-Related Fees Discussion: Public Safety, Wildfire and Parks Fees
• Public forum for general public input

The council held a study session to review budget structure, assistance program proposals, and fee options for public safety, wildfire, and parks. Staff presented information and received direction to gather more data on the assistance program and the proposed $5 parks fee. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee will hear presentations from CDBG applicants. It will review the applications and make funding recommendations. The committee will also review the draft Consolidated Plan and discuss feedback from the recent Community Resource Fair. A public forum will be held at the start of the meeting.

• CDBG applicant presentations (4:15‑4:35 p.m.)
• CDBG application review and funding recommendation (4:35‑5:05 p.m.)
• CDBG draft Consolidated Plan review and recommendation (5:05‑5:35 p.m.)
• Review feedback from Community Resource Fair (4:35‑4:45 p.m.)
• Public forum (4:05‑4:15 p.m.)

Transportation Advisory Committee

The committee will review the Southern Oregon University Master Plan Update and the Transportation Capital Plan. Members will also discuss next steps following a City Council decision regarding e-bikes.

• Southern Oregon University Master Plan Review
• Transportation Capital Plan Review
• E-Bike discussion regarding Council decision
• Wayfinding Project update
• Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Process update

The committee approved the December 19, 2024 and January 16, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion and second. Members also voted to extend the February 20, 2025 meeting, and the extension was approved. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved December 19, 2024 minutes (all approved)
• Approved January 16, 2025 minutes (all approved)
• Extended meeting time (all approved)

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Ashland Public Arts Advisory Committee will discuss the FY 2025 art maintenance budget and consider proposals for a Fringe Festival and a Mural Fest. Business updates include a City Manager briefing on committee guidelines and other project presentations. The meeting also provides time for public comments and liaison reports.

• Art Maintenance Report & FY 25 Budget Discussion
• Fringe Festival Proposal
• Mural Fest Proposal
• City Manager’s Update – Committee Guidelines
• Traffic Signal Box Update

City Council

The Ashland City Council will approve minutes from recent meetings, appoint a member to the Social Equity & Racial Justice Advisory Committee, and hear a presentation on the second quarter FY2025 financial results. A public hearing will consider the first reading of ordinance 3257, which updates the city's weeds and noxious vegetation regulations. Unfinished business includes discussion of the City Attorney contract and a study on water cost of service.

• First reading of ordinance 3257 – update to AMC 9.04 Weeds and Noxious Vegetation (public hearing)
• Appointment to the Social Equity & Racial Justice Advisory Committee (consent agenda)
• Second Quarter FY2025 Financial Results and Update (special presentation)
• Discussion of City Attorney Contract (unfinished business)
• Review of Water Cost of Service Study (unfinished business)

City Council

The Ashland City Council held a study session on March 17, 2025. Council members will receive updates on TLT funds and grants and consider recommendations for budget numbers 25‑27. They will discuss a draft Climate Friendly Areas code amendment. An update on the Manufactured Home Park zone will also be presented.

• TLT Funds & Grants update and recommendations for BN 25‑27
• Discussion of draft Climate Friendly Areas ordinance
• Manufactured Home Park zone update
• Public forum for general public comments

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environment Policy Advisory Committee will review updates to its 2025 work plan and discuss the Carbon Pollution Fee Impact Ordinance, noting that a similar measure failed in Bend. The committee will also consider electric vehicle street‑site charging options and potential incentives. Public testimony will be accepted on non‑agenda items and the meeting will include updates from city staff and council members.

• Review of Carbon Pollution Fee Impact Ordinance (reference to Bend's failed ordinance)
• Discussion of electric vehicle street‑site charging options
• Updates to the 2025 Climate and Environment Work Plan
• Consideration of incentives related to climate initiatives
• Public forum for non‑agenda items (public testimony)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will discuss its FY 26‑27 Department Work Plan and Budget Recommendation. It will also consider appointments to the Recreation Division Advisory Committee, a charge for the Trails Advisory Committee, and the formation of a subcommittee for the Winburn Way Travel Management Project. A public forum and a liaison report are also on the agenda.

• FY 26‑27 Department Work Plan (Action)
• FY 26‑27 Department Budget Recommendation (Action)
• Recreation Division Advisory Committee Appointments (Action)
• Trails Advisory Committee Charge (Action)
• Subcommittee for Winburn Way – Travel Management Project (Action)

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will consider unfinished business approving findings for PA‑T3‑2024‑00010 at 300 Clay Street. The commission will hold a Type II public hearing on PA‑T2‑2024‑00053 for a new single‑family dwelling at 231 Granite Street, including a physical and environmental constraints permit, a driveway variance, and a tree removal request for 67 trees. The meeting also includes a consent agenda to approve minutes from previous meetings and staff and advisory committee reports.

• Approval of findings for PA‑T3‑2024‑00010, 300 Clay Street
• Type II public hearing for PA‑T2‑2024‑00053, 231 Granite Street – permit, driveway variance, tree removal of 67 trees
• Consent agenda to approve minutes from the January 28 and February 11, 2025 meetings
• Staff announcements and advisory committee liaison reports

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will discuss updates to its Committee Handbook, ordinance changes, and the State public meetings law. It will also consider the upcoming Review Board in April and plan Historic Preservation Week. The commission will review Planning Action PA‑T1‑2025‑00259, a site design request for exterior improvements at 500 A Street.

• Committee Handbook and ordinance changes discussion (City Manager’s Office)
• Review Board scheduled for April
• Historic Preservation Week planning
• Planning Action PA‑T1‑2025‑00259 – site design review for 500 A Street (exterior stairway, awnings, arbor)
• Public forum for community input

General

The Affordable Childcare Ad Hoc Committee will meet to elect a committee chair and review a business engagement work plan. The group will also discuss a draft article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal.

• Election of Committee Chair
• Business engagement work plan
• Draft article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Ashland Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will approve minutes from its February 6, 2025 meeting, receive a City Manager update on the committee handbook, and hear reports from liaison assignments and the HHSAC Community Resource Fair. The committee will also consider several pending issues, including a city‑wide DEIA Climate Survey and the Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights. Additional topics include a T‑shirt vandalism incident at Railroad Park and the D*** Indian Memorial Road.

• Approval of minutes from the 2/6/2025 meeting
• City Manager update on the committee handbook
• Report from HHSAC's Community Resource Fair
• Consideration of Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights
• City‑wide DEIA Climate Survey

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will hold a study session to review a draft Policy on Policies and the Winburn Way Travel Management Project. The meeting includes an executive session to negotiate real property transactions.

• Executive session regarding real property transactions
• Draft Policy on Policies 1.1.001
• Winburn Way Travel Management Project report
• Trails Advisory Committee charge
• Coffee & Conversation schedule

City Council

The Ashland City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding an appeal for the Kestrel Park Phase III subdivision project. The body will also consider updates to e-bike regulations and the designation of the Municipal Court as the administrative appeal body.

• Public hearing on appeal #PA-APPEAL-2025-00020 for Kestrel Park Phase III
• Proposed e-bike regulation updates from the Transportation Advisory Committee
• Right of Way Vacation request for Fern Street
• Liquor license approval for Harana Cafe
• ORD 3256 to designate Municipal Court as the Administrative Appeal Body

General

The Ashland Public Arts Advisory Committee will hold a special study session to review and update its strategic plan. The meeting includes liaison reports, a public forum for unscheduled items, and a round‑table for member ideas. No formal decisions are scheduled; the focus is on discussion and planning.

• Strategic Plan update – led by Susan Jain
• Liaison reports from City Council, APRC, and Community Development
• Public forum for items not on the agenda (up to 3 minutes per speaker)
• Round‑table member discussion of project ideas (2 minutes each)
• Deferred agenda sections (VI‑VIII) to be addressed at the March 20 meeting

City Council

The Ashland City Council study session will hear public comments, an update on the Accessory Dwelling Unit pre‑approved plan program, a fire department briefing on single roles, a FEMA grant and paid‑leave overtime impacts, and a proposed amendment to Municipal Code 9.04 concerning weeds and noxious vegetation.

• Public forum for general input on City business not on the agenda
• ADU Program Update: pre‑approved plan program
• Fire Update: single roles, FEMA grant and paid‑leave overtime impacts
• Proposed revision to AMC 9.04 addressing weeds and noxious vegetation

General

The City Council is holding a retreat to discuss the city's financial outlook and department workplans. The body will also hold discussions on economic development, affordability, and livability.

• Emergency Management Exercise
• Financial Outlook & Department Workplans
• Discussion on Economic Development, Affordability & Livability

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will hear an overview of the City of Ashland ADU program. A debrief of a recent community resource event will be discussed. The committee will also discuss the Vice Chair position. No formal decisions are noted on the agenda.

• City of Ashland ADU Program Overview
• Community Resource Event Debrief
• Vice Chair position discussion

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will vote on the findings for PA‑T1‑2024‑00255 concerning 110 Terrace Street. It will also hold discussion sessions on a Climate‑Friendly Areas Code update with 3J Consulting & JET Planning, and on a Walkable Design Standards Code update with Cascadia Partners. The meeting includes standard staff announcements, advisory committee reports, and a public forum for resident comments.

• Approval of Findings for PA‑T1‑2024‑00255, 110 Terrace Street
• Discussion of Climate‑Friendly Areas Code update with 3J Consulting & JET Planning
• Discussion of Walkable Design Standards Code update with Cascadia Partners
• Staff announcements and advisory committee liaison reports
• Public forum for resident testimony (in‑person or via Zoom)

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will hear a City Manager overview of the recently approved Uniform Policies (Ashland Municipal Code 2.10) and consider related actions. The committee will also review crash and near‑miss data from July through December 2024, with a decision required. If time permits, members will continue discussion on the E‑Bike Municipal Code update.

• City Manager presentation on Uniform Policies Ashland Municipal Code Update (2.10) – action required
• Review of crash and near‑miss data (July–Dec 2024) – action required
• Continued discussion of E‑Bike Municipal Code Update – action required if time allows
• Wayfinding Project Update – informational
• Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Process Update – informational

General

The Ashland City Council will hold a study session on February 19, 2025. A 15‑minute public forum will allow residents to comment on city business not on the agenda. The council will consider proposed changes to the Enhanced Law Enforcement Area. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment.

• Public forum – 15 minutes for public input on non‑agenda items
• Discussion of Enhanced Law Enforcement Area changes
• Adjournment

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a public hearing on the first reading of Ordinance 3256, amending the municipal court appeals process, and second readings of Ordinances 3245, 3248, and 3254, which includes creating a carbon pollution impact fee for new residential structures. The agenda also includes consent items approving several liquor licenses, a finance update, and new business items such as a fee‑waiver request for the Grandview Terrace annexation and approval of an affordable‑housing RFP for Beach Creek Properties.

• First Reading – ORD 3256: amendment to the administrative appeals process
• Second Reading – ORD 3245: terminate a commission and re‑establish advisory committees
• Second Reading – ORD 3248: establish and clarify Parks and Recreation Department governance
• Second Reading – ORD 3254: create a carbon pollution impact fee for new residential structures
• New Business – Grandview Terrace annexation and site review fee waiver request

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will review the AVISTA Franchise Agreement Renewal. Discussions include city-wide gas usage reporting, franchise fee changes, and right-of-way limits for fossil fuel infrastructure. The committee will also critique the Chad CEAP Update report.

• AVISTA Franchise Agreement Renewal
• Proposed reporting on city-wide gas usage
• Proposed changes to the City Franchise Fee
• Right-of-way limits on new fossil fuel infrastructure
• Critique and edits of Chad CEAP Update report

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will discuss annual reports for the golf program and recreation division. It will take action on the Calle Guanajuato lease agreements, appoint members to the Trails Advisory Committee, and adopt new park classifications. The meeting also includes a vote on the FY 26‑27 department budget recommendation.

• Calle Guanajuato lease agreements (action)
• Trails Advisory Committee appointments (action)
• Park classifications (action)
• FY 26‑27 department budget recommendation (action)
• Golf program annual report (information)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review a request for annexation and a zone change for a 4.8-acre property at 300 Clay Street. The body is also considering a land use interpretation for a Peer Respite Home at 110 Terrace Street.

• Annexation and zone change request for 4.8 acres at 300 Clay St.
• Outline Plan Approval for a 25-lot (37 dwelling unit) subdivision at 300 Clay St.
• Interpretation request for a Peer Respite Home at 110 Terrace St.
• Approval of findings for Sutton Place TL 1600, The Oaks of Ashland Subdivision
• Discussion regarding Ashland Modified Flood Zone along Hamilton Creek

General

The Ashland General Committee will discuss a request to continue resource support for early learning and childcare initiatives. It will outline a business engagement work plan and review a draft article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal. The committee will also review its charge.

• Discussion of request to continue resource support of early learning and childcare initiatives
• Outline for business engagement work plan
• Discussion of draft article for the Southern Oregon Business Journal
• Review of Committee charge

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss community outreach, a city-wide DEIA Climate Survey, and specific local memorials. Members will also review a community toolkit from the Oregon Department of Justice.

• Discussion of T-shirt vandalism of memorial in Railroad Park
• Discussion of D*** Indian Memorial Road
• Update from subcommittee on City-wide DEIA Climate Survey
• Consideration of Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights
• HHSAC Community Resource Fair scheduled for February 26, 2025, at Ashland Library

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will hold a study session to review several agenda reports. Topics include a discussion on pickleball, the FY 26‑27 department work plan, park classifications, the biennium budget, and a lookahead review. No formal decisions are indicated; the meeting is for informational and discussion purposes.

• Pickleball discussion – agenda report and attachments
• FY 26‑27 department work plan – agenda report and attachment
• Park classifications – agenda report and attachments
• Biennium budget – agenda report
• Lookahead review – lookahead

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The Historic Preservation Advisory Commission will conduct a pre-application review for a project at 500 A Street. The body will also finalize event schedules and review nominations for Historic Preservation Week occurring the week of May 19th.

• Pre-application review for 500 A Street
• Planning and nomination review for Historic Preservation Week (week of May 19th)
• Review of Board Assignments for March

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a hybrid meeting with public testimony and an executive session to consider employment under ORS 192.660. The regular business includes a finance update, a public hearing on an ordinance amendment to the Uniform Administrative Appeals Process, and second readings of three ordinances covering commission restructuring, parks and recreation governance, and a carbon pollution impact fee for new residential structures. Unfinished business items include the 2200 Ashland Street Facility Plan committee and a request to withdraw the Affordable Housing Trust Fund RFP. New business features a fee waiver request for the Grandview Terrace annexation and site review.

• First Reading – ORD 3256: Ordinance amendment designating the Municipal Court as the Administrative Appeal Body
• Second Reading – ORD 3245: Ordinance terminating a specified commission and re‑establishing advisory committees
• Second Reading – ORD 3248: Ordinance establishing and clarifying the structure and governance of the Parks and Recreation Department
• Second Reading – ORD 3254: Ordinance amending health and sanitation to create a Carbon Pollution Impact Fee for new residential structures
• Grandview Terrace Annexation and Site Review Fee Waiver Request

City Council

The scheduled Study Session for February 3, 2025, was canceled. The agenda had listed a discussion regarding Enhanced Law Enforcement Area (ELEA) changes.

• Discussion of Enhanced Law Enforcement Area (ELEA) changes

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will use the Jan. 28, 2025 meeting to introduce a new Commission & Committee Handbook and an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guide with pre‑approved plans. A presentation on ADUs will be given by Derek Sherrell. The agenda includes a public forum for community testimony but does not list any formal decisions.

• Introduction of the Commission & Committee Handbook with City Manager Sabrina Cotta
• Introduction of the Accessory Dwelling Unit Guide and Pre‑Approved Plans
• Presentation by Derek Sherrell, "That ADU Guy"
• Public forum for community testimony
• Staff announcements and advisory committee liaison reports

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing and Human Services Advisory Committee will review its annual work schedule and the Beach Creek Request for Proposals. The body will also discuss a report from the Community Engagement Planning Event Workgroup.

• Review of Annual HHSC Work Schedule/Workplan
• Beach Creek Request for Proposals review and recommendation
• Community Engagement Planning Event Workgroup report and event finalization

City Council

The Ashland City Council will hold a regular business meeting to approve several consent agenda items, including a franchise agreement for Sprint Communications and multiple liquor licenses. Council members will take the first reading of an ordinance creating a carbon pollution impact fee for new residential structures. Additional ordinance readings will address the Parks and Recreation Department and other city code changes, and the council will adopt the 2200 Ashland Street Master Plan.

• Granting a franchise agreement to Sprint Communications Company L.P. for use of city rights‑of‑way
• Approval of liquor license for Chipotle Mexican Grill (and other local businesses)
• First reading of ORD 3254 establishing a carbon pollution impact fee for new residential structures
• Second reading of ORD 3248 creating Section 2.28.600 to establish the Parks and Recreation Department
• Council adoption of the 2200 Ashland Street Master Plan

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission is holding a work plan retreat to discuss priorities and review budget requests for fiscal years 2026-2027. No public forum or public testimony will be taken during this session.

• FY 26-27 Commission Priorities
• FY 26-27 Budget Request Review

Transportation Advisory Committee

The Transportation Advisory Committee will consider the capital plan for the 2023‑2025 biennium and discuss the proposed capital budget for the 2025‑2027 biennium. It will also take action to update the municipal E‑Bike code and to approve a legislative letter on e‑bikes and micromobility devices. Informational updates will be given on a Safe Streets and Roads for All grant, the Transportation System Plan, and a traffic‑enforcement officer retirement.

• Capital Plan Review (2023‑2025) and discussion of the 2025‑2027 biennium budget
• E‑Bike Municipal Code Update – request to Council for micromobility regulations
• Legislative Letter regarding E‑Bikes and Micromobility Devices – draft review
• Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Process Update
• Traffic Enforcement – Officer retirement

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Ashland Public Arts Advisory Committee will meet on Jan. 16, 2025 to review updates and discuss several items. The committee will consider an update to the PAAC Strategic Plan and the possibility of scheduling a special session for strategic planning. Additional agenda items include the Say Their Names Memorial, the We Are Here subcommittee update, and various project status reports. The meeting also provides time for a public forum, liaison reports, and other business updates.

• Introduce Emily Simon from SERJAC
• Say Their Names Memorial
• We Are Here – update from subcommittee members
• PAAC Strategic Plan – strategy update and discussion of a special planning session
• Marking Ashland Places II – update

Planning Commission

The Ashland Planning Commission will consider unfinished business on Kestrel Park Phase III and hold public hearings on two applications. One application seeks a formal interpretation of the land‑use ordinance to allow a Peer Respite Home at 110 Terrace Street. The other requests an amendment to the subdivision approval for The Oaks of Ashland to remove a required public pedestrian easement on Sutton Place properties.

• Approval of Findings for PA‑T2‑2024‑00054, Kestrel Park Phase III (unfinished business)
• Public hearing: PA‑T1‑2024‑00255 – interpretation request for a Peer Respite Home at 110 Terrace St.
• Public hearing: PA‑T1‑2024‑00254 – amendment to remove a public pedestrian access easement condition for The Oaks of Ashland subdivision (tax lots 1500, 1600, 1800) on Sutton Place

General

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will elect officers and consider opening a vacant ASAC seat. The meeting includes a presentation on senior programs offered by the Ashland YMCA. Standing reports from the APRC liaison, City Council liaison, education, and senior services will be given, followed by updates from work groups.

• Election of officers
• Open ASAC seat
• Presentation on Ashland YMCA senior programs by Gina Galardi and Jami Hanna
• Standing reports: APRC liaison, City Council liaison, education report, senior services superintendent report
• Livable Ashland Alliance update

Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee (CEPAC)

The Climate and Environmental Policy Advisory Committee will review a Carbon Pollution Fee Impact Ordinance and a Small Engines Plan. The body will also discuss reporting requirements and fee changes regarding the AVISTA Franchise Agreement Renewal. Additionally, the committee aims to make a motion supporting a CEAP update report.

• Carbon Pollution Fee Impact Ordinance
• Small Engines Plan edit
• AVISTA Franchise Agreement Renewal reporting on gas usage and losses
• City Franchise Fee changes regarding hardship and equity
• Right-of-way limits on new fossil fuel infrastructure

Historic Preservation Advisory Commission

The commission will meet to review board assignments and discuss updates to the Preservation Plan provided by staff. The meeting includes reports from council, staff, and the Community Center Management Advisory Committee.

• Discussion of the Preservation Plan with updates from Derek Severson
• Review of Board Assignments for February

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Ashland Parks & Recreation Commission will vote on its Capital Improvement Plan and on Proposed Ordinance 3248. Commissioners will also elect a Chair and Vice Chair and assign liaison duties. An informational item on park operations budgeting will be presented.

• Election of Chair/Vice Chair (Action)
• Commissioner Liaison Assignments (Action)
• Capital Improvement Plan Adoption (Action)
• Proposed Ordinance 3248 (Action)
• Budget – Park Operations Data (Information)

Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee

The Housing & Human Services Advisory Committee will hold a public hearing regarding a substantial amendment to the Action Plan. The committee will then review and decide on the approval of that amendment.

• Public hearing on Action Plan substantial amendment
• Review and approval of Action Plan amendment

Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee

The Ashland Social Equity and Racial Justice Advisory Committee will hold a regular meeting on January 2, 2025. The agenda includes a public forum, liaison business, and a 45‑minute discussion on white and white‑passing allyship. Additional items address T‑shirt vandalism at Railroad Park, a city‑wide DEIA climate survey, and a review of the Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights.

• Discussion of white and white‑passing allyship (45 minutes)
• Review feedback from previous training and guests
• T‑shirt vandalism of memorial in Railroad Park
• City‑wide DEIA Climate Survey
• Consideration of Retail Council of New York State's Customers' Bill of Rights