Forest Grove public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider proposed Development Code Text Amendments (File Number 311-25-000025-PLNG) and will make a recommendation to the City Council. The commission will also receive an update on severe rent burden in Forest Grove during a work session. The agenda includes public comment, approval of minutes, and a director's report.

• Public hearing on proposed Forest Grove Development Code Text Amendments (File Number 311-25-000025-PLNG)
• Work session: Forest Grove Severe Rent Burden Update
• Approval of minutes from 6/2/25 and work session 9/15/25
• Director's report by Bryan Pohl

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss building improvement grants. The agenda includes public comments, a consent agenda, and reports from the council liaison and staff. The meeting is scheduled for December 11, 2025, at Taqueria Corona.

• Discussion of Building Improvement Grants
• Public comments limited to two minutes
• Council Liaison report from Councilor Brian Schimmel
• Staff communications from Miles Glowacki
• Next meeting set for January 8, 2026

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a public hearing on Ordinance 2025-04, which would add a Sanctuary City chapter to the city code, and consider a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with Cornelius for fire services. The meeting also includes a work session, an executive session to review the City Manager's performance, and several presentations.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-04 adding Chapter 39, Sanctuary City, to Title III of the Forest Grove Code
• Resolution 2025-66 authorizing an IGA with Cornelius for fire-related services
• Consent agenda includes a letter to Governor Kotek on immigration enforcement and Resolution 2025-67 designating 2026 council meetings
• Presentations on federal projects, farmer's market update, and Committee for Community Engagement annual report

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to discuss an upcoming presentation to the City Council, including what materials to show (e.g., grocery store QR code posters, open house boards) and who should attend. They will also review notes, set priorities for 2026, and hear liaison reports. The agenda is largely discussion-based with no formal decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Discussion of council presentation content and materials
• Planning for CCE activities in 2026
• Public comment period (2 minutes per speaker, 30-minute cap)
• Consent agenda: approval of meeting minutes

General

The Forest Grove City Council is meeting for its annual goal-setting retreat, facilitated by SSW Consulting and attended by department directors. No public comment will be taken and the council will take no formal action at this meeting, which is focused on discussing goals for the coming year.

• Annual goal-setting retreat with SSW Consulting and department directors
• No public comment or formal action scheduled
• Meeting held at Light & Power Department, 1818 B Street

General

The Forest Grove City Council's Community Enhancement Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss and award Community Enhancement Program (CEP) grants. The meeting is scheduled for 30 minutes and includes roll call, a discussion item on grant awards, and adjournment.

• Discussion and award of CEP Grant Awards
• Zoom-only meeting with webinar ID 850 9651 4222

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will meet on November 24, 2025, to discuss and vote on two key resolutions: declaring the city a sanctuary city and authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with Washington County for transient lodging tax administration. The meeting also includes annual reports from city departments and routine appointments to advisory boards.

• Resolution 2025-64 declaring Forest Grove a sanctuary city for all persons regardless of immigration status
• Resolution 2025-65 authorizing IGA with Washington County for transient lodging tax administration
• Resolution 2025-62 appointing members to city advisory boards
• Resolution 2025-63 establishing subcommittees for Main Street public art and garbage container beautification
• Letter requesting suspension of Flock Safety contract sent to Washington County

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several art-related items, including a 20th anniversary celebration, downtown art installations funded by TLT funds, and waste enclosures for the downtown corridor. The commission will also consider a letter about a mural at Forest Glen Park and receive updates on plaques, fencing, and the Frye Building mural.

• Public Arts Commission 20th Anniversary Celebration
• Downtown Art Installation(s) FY26-27 TLT Funds - Clock and Rotating Gallery
• Downtown Corridor Waste Enclosures
• Address Letter Received re: Forest Glen Park Mural
• Approve minutes from September 18 and October 16, 2025

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss routine business, including approving prior meeting minutes and recapping recent events: a City Council presentation on the annual department report and a community open house. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Approve minutes from October 15, 2025 meeting
• Recap November 10 City Council presentation on annual department report
• Recap October 25 Community Open House event

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting to debrief its recent delegation visit, discussing what went well and what could be improved. The committee will also hear updates from its treasurer and liaisons, and begin planning a January work session to organize the next adult delegation. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Delegation debrief: what went well, what can be improved
• Treasurer, Chamber, Council, and Staff Liaison updates
• January work session/potluck to plan next adult delegation
• Public comment period (2-minute limit per speaker, 20-minute total cap)

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee met to finalize arrangements for the upcoming Student Delegation, confirming activities, the dinner program, and a venue change for the chaperone lunch. The committee also approved the previous meeting's minutes and inducted Aimee Lawlor as a new member. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of 09.29.25 meeting
• Inducted Aimee Lawlor as new SCC member
• Confirmed Student Delegation activities and schedule
• Confirmed Prime Time dinner menu with 50 RSVPs
• Completed dinner program with speaking and entertainment
• Switched chaperone lunch venue from Midget to Kama'aina for 10.23

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission is holding a public hearing to consider proposed Development Code Text Amendments (File Number 311-25-000025-PLNG) and will make a recommendation to the City Council. No action items are scheduled. The meeting also includes public comment on non-agenda items, approval of minutes from September 15, 2025, and a director's report.

• Public hearing on Development Code Text Amendments (File 311-25-000025-PLNG)
• Recommendation to City Council on proposed code changes
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)
• Approval of minutes from September 15, 2025 meeting

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is holding a regular meeting with no listed discussion or decision items. The agenda is mostly procedural, covering call to order, public comments, consent agenda, and staff reports. The meeting will be held at Vex – The Vietnamese Experience, 1937 Pacific Ave.

• Public comments limited to two minutes
• Council liaison: Councilor Brian Schimmel
• Staff communications by Miles Glowacki
• Next meeting scheduled for December 11, 2025

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a work session on police facility next steps and an inclusive community update, followed by a regular meeting with annual reports from several departments. The council will consider a resolution to join the Mayors Innovation Project and a newly added resolution declaring a state of emergency over federal immigration enforcement impacts. An executive session on real property negotiations is also scheduled.

• Resolution 2025-60 authorizing city manager to establish membership in Mayors Innovation Project
• Resolution 2025-61 declaring a state of emergency over federal immigration enforcement impacts
• Public Works, Police, Parks & Recreation, and Fire and Rescue annual reports
• Police facility next steps discussion with Mackenzie Architects
• Executive session for real property transaction negotiations

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to review a recent event, discuss community feedback, and plan for 2026. The committee will also discuss next steps with grocery stores and what to present to the city council. This is a discussion-focused meeting with no formal votes on ordinances or contracts.

• Review of recent event: what worked and improvements
• Discussion of community feedback from event attendees
• Planning 2026 meeting timing
• Review of feedback from Open House and TJ QR code
• Next steps for CCE with grocery stores

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council is meeting on October 27, 2025, with closed executive sessions for real property and labor negotiations, followed by a work session on a communications plan and branding guide. The regular meeting includes public comment, consent agenda, presentations on the watershed and Clean Water Services, and a work session on the liquor license process. No formal decisions are expected during the executive sessions or work sessions.

• URA executive session on real property transactions (ORS 192.660(2)(e))
• Council executive session on labor negotiations (ORS 192.660(2)(d))
• Work session: Communications Plan and Branding Guide
• Presentations: Civics Academy Recognition, Forest Grove Watershed Annual Report, Clean Water Services Annual Update
• Work session: Liquor License Process

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is holding a Zoom-only meeting to discuss preparations for hosting visitors. Topics include host family updates, background checks, adult and student activities, dinner arrangements, entertainment, and a $1,000 sponsorship received.

• Discussion of host families and background checks handled by Joyce Phillips
• Planning student activities including a fire tour and Safeway pumpkin pickup
• Review of dinner catering details and allergy lists
• Status update on a $1,000 received sponsorship and second sponsorship inquiry

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee approved the minutes from the September 15 meeting and discussed preparations for the upcoming Nyuzen student delegation visit, including host family recruitment and activity planning. No formal decisions were made on new business; the committee noted a potential new member and received updates on donations and city reports.

• Approved minutes from 09.15.25 meeting
• Confirmed hosting for 2 adults and 5 students for Nyuzen delegation
• Selected fused glass art piece from Valley Art Gallery as gift to Nyuzen ($259, city provides $150)
• Noted Rotary Club donation of $1000 towards student delegation

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several art-related items, including downtown art installations funded by 26-27 TLT funds, a 20th anniversary celebration, and mural options for the Frye's Building. The agenda also includes routine consent items and information updates on plaques, an upcoming community open house, and a finance report.

• Discussion of downtown art installation(s) using 26-27 TLT funds, including a clock and rotating gallery subcommittee formation
• 20th Anniversary Celebration planning
• Frye's Building mural options
• Community Open House on October 28, 2025, 5:30pm-8pm
• Finance report update

The Public Arts Commission discussed several items but made no formal votes. They agreed not to impose a penalty for the early removal of the Frye's Building mural due to water damage, prioritizing the relationship with the building owner. They also agreed to form subcommittees for downtown art installations and garbage can artwork, and to plan a single 20th anniversary event at the library rather than a year-long celebration.

• Agreed to impose no penalty for Frye's Building mural removal
• Agreed to form subcommittee for downtown art installations (clock and rotating gallery)
• Agreed to form subcommittee for garbage can artwork project
• Agreed to hold a single 20th anniversary event at the library instead of year-long celebration

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and recap recent City Council presentations on the Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan and the Cost Recovery Plan Project, and to plan a community open house event. The agenda is largely routine, with a consent agenda for approving prior meeting minutes and various reports from staff and liaisons.

• Recap of September 22 City Council Work Session on Cost Recovery Plan Project
• Recap of October 13 City Council Presentation on Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan
• Community Open House Event scheduled for Tuesday, October 28, 5:30-8p
• Approval of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Summer marketing intern promotional video report

Community Forestry Commission

The Forest Grove Community Forestry Commission is meeting to discuss several forestry topics, including the Oregon Department of Forestry's Urban and Community Forestry Program, a Tour of Trees brochure, and a downtown street tree removal and replacement project. They will also review registered tree removal permits and receive an update on the Emerald Ash Borer. The meeting is open to public comment.

• Downtown Street Tree Removal and Replacement Project
• Register Tree Removal Permits Issued
• Oregon Department of Forestry - Urban and Community Forestry Program
• Emerald Ash Borer Update
• Tour of Trees Brochure

General

The Forest Grove Community Enhancement Program Committee is meeting to conduct grant interviews and make award decisions. The agenda includes a call to order, consent agenda, and a discussion item on CEP grant interviews and awards before adjournment.

• CEP Grant Interviews and Awards discussion

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on an ordinance to increase the local transient lodging tax from 2.5% to 3.5%. The council will also consider several resolutions, including clarifying the streetlight fee, establishing tourism program funding, and approving a 16-year power sales agreement with the Bonneville Power Administration. Consent agenda items include the September building activity report and tourism awards.

• Ordinance 2025-03: increase transient lodging tax from 2.5% to 3.5%
• Resolution 2025-55: clarify usage of streetlight fee
• Resolution 2025-59: approve 16-year wholesale power sales agreement with Bonneville Power Administration (2028-2044)
• Resolution 2025-57: establish tourism program funding, repeal Resolution 2023-52
• Resolution 2025-58: transfer appropriations within funds for Public Works FY 2025-26

Economic Development Commission

The Forest Grove Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss the Tourism 2026 RFP, a request for proposals related to tourism services or projects. The agenda also includes approval of the September 2025 minutes, public comments, and routine staff and council liaison updates. No other substantive decisions are listed.

• Discussion of Tourism 2026 RFP
• Approve minutes of September 2025 meeting
• Public comments limited to two minutes per speaker

The Economic Development Commission held a meeting with no formal decisions or votes. Members participated in a brainstorm activity to draft Strategic Plan ideas, which staff will summarize for further review. No public comments were made, and the consent agenda to approve previous minutes was not explicitly voted on in the provided text.

• Brainstormed Strategic Plan ideas for further review
• Consent agenda to approve previous minutes (no vote recorded)

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to finalize logistics for an upcoming community event, including table counts, food pickup, room setup, and role assignments. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Final count of tables and attendees
• Confirm food pick-up times
• Room setup and table sharing arrangements
• Interactive CCE table placement and mockup
• Confirm roles and early setup volunteers

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee meets to discuss host family assignments, adult and student activity planning, and reimbursement procedures. The committee also reviews routine reports from treasurer, chamber liaison, council liaison, and staff liaison.

• Four host families confirmed with one including an allergy-suited child
• Safeway agreed to provide pumpkins for student activity
• Discussion on new reimbursement form/procedure for expenses
• Sponsorship update requested from Chamber of Commerce
• Next meeting scheduled for October 16, 2025 at 5:00 PM at the Community Auditorium

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee met and approved the August 27, 2025 minutes. The main focus was planning the upcoming student delegation visit, with an urgent need to secure host families. No host families have been confirmed yet, and the committee discussed tentative activities, a welcome dinner, and a gift for Nyuzen. The committee's treasury balance is $4,372.53, unchanged from last month.

• Approved minutes of 08.27.25 meeting (motion by Yakos, second by Beechwood)
• No host families secured for student delegation; Chamber to solicit volunteers and post application
• Tentative activities planned for 10.23-10.24, including school, tours, and welcome dinner
• Welcome dinner vendor selected as Prime Time restaurant (BBQ theme), budget not yet determined
• Gift to Nyuzen undecided; suggestions include talking sticks and pottery by Maggie Pike
• MOA between City and Chamber being explored, action deferred until after student visit

Historic Landmarks Board

The Forest Grove Historic Landmarks Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed building expansion at 2038 17th Ave, a contributing historic home, and will consider approval of the July 22, 2025 meeting minutes. The board will also receive reports from community engagement, Friends of Historic Forest Grove, and liaisons, and discuss future agenda items.

• Public hearing: Building expansion at 2038 17th Ave (case 311-25-000025-PLNG)
• Approval of July 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Committee for Community Engagement report
• Friends of Historic Forest Grove report
• Council Liaison communications

The Forest Grove Historic Landmarks Board approved the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed next steps for downtown design standards, including a potential visit from the state's Main Street Coordinator, and received legal training from City Attorney Chris Creen. The board voted to move its October 28th regular meeting to September 23rd to attend a CCE community meeting.

• Approved April 22, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Moved October 28th regular meeting to September 23rd (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a regular meeting on September 22, 2025, at the Community Auditorium. The meeting includes a public hearing on a proposed ordinance to increase the local transient lodging tax rate. Presentations cover updates from the Washington County Sheriff, summer parks intern program, East Side Park project, and the Public Arts Commission annual report.

• Increase local transient lodging tax rate from 2.5% to 3.5%
• Approve new liquor license
• East Side Park Update by PLACE, LLC
• Summer Parks Intern Update
• Public Arts Commission Annual Report

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission will meet on September 18, 2025, to discuss and decide on items including downtown art installations funded by 26-27 TLT funds, a local artist inquiry, and updates on the Festival of the Arts. The meeting will also include information updates on plaques, a Lincoln Park mural celebration, and a finance report.

• Downtown Art Installation(s) using 26-27 TLT funds — Clock and rotating gallery
• Local Artist Inquiry discussion
• Festival of the Arts update
• Lincoln Park Mural Celebration on October 1, 2025, at 4:30 pm
• Finance Report presentation

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will review the Eastside Park update and recap a recent City Council work session. They will also discuss a community open house scheduled for October 28. The meeting includes routine approval of past minutes and reports from council and school district liaisons.

• Approve August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Eastside Park Update discussion
• Community Open House Event scheduled for October 28, 5:30pm-8:00pm

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission will hold a work session to discuss potential revisions to the Forest Grove Development Code (FGDC). This is a discussion-only meeting for staff direction, with no formal decisions expected.

• Work session on potential revisions to the Forest Grove Development Code (FGDC)
• No formal decisions will be made at this meeting

General

The Sister City Committee will meet via Zoom to discuss plans for a student delegation, including transportation, activities, welcome dinner, and host families. Routine minutes approval and brief reports from committee liaisons are also on the agenda.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Discuss student delegation plans (transportation, activities, welcome dinner, host families)
• Reports from treasurer, chamber liaison, council liaison, and staff liaison

Economic Development Commission

The Forest Grove Economic Development Commission will discuss and potentially update its strategic plan, including reviewing the previous plan, setting Visioning 2040 objectives and action items, and conducting a brainstorm exercise for the 2025/2026 plan. The meeting also includes public comments, consent agenda, and staff communications about upcoming events and grants.

• Review of previous Strategic Plan
• Visioning 2040 Objectives and Action Items
• 2025/2026 Strategic Plan Brainstorm Exercise
• Community Enhancement Grants applications close Sept 17
• City Watershed Tour on Oct 1, sign up by Sept 23

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a work session on parks and recreation fees and the tourism program, then a regular meeting with proclamations, public comment, and a resolution to adopt new electric rate schedules for the Light and Power Department effective October 1, 2025. The council will also consider a tourism event sponsorship award on the consent agenda and receive a state legislative update. An executive session on labor negotiations is scheduled after the meeting.

• Resolution 2025-53 adopting new electric rate schedules, repealing Resolution 2023-55
• Parks & Recreation Assessment and Fee Study work session
• Tourism Program work session
• Tourism Event Sponsorship Award on consent agenda
• Hispanic Heritage Month and Constitution Week proclamations

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to plan an upcoming community event, discussing table setup, food, outreach focus, member roles, and poster distribution. The agenda is primarily procedural and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions or financial actions.

• Discussion of table and room setup for community event
• Finalizing food choices for the event
• Selecting one of four focus areas: Economy, Community Growth, Health & Active Community, Community Connection
• Assigning member roles: greeters, table stations, and roving engagement
• Poster update and printing plan for distribution across Forest Grove

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a work session and meeting to discuss an electric rate study and Main Street Program, then vote on routine items including revisions to the employee handbook and new food and beverage policies for officials. The meeting includes public comment, presentations on county levies and Metro updates, and several resolutions.

• Adopt revisions to City of Forest Grove Employee Handbook (Resolution 2025-48)
• Adopt Food and Beverage Policy for Appointed Officials (Resolution 2025-49)
• Adopt Food and Beverage Policy for Mayor (Resolution 2025-50)
• Adopt Food and Beverage Policy for Councilors elected in November 2022 (Resolution 2025-51)
• Adopt Food and Beverage Policy for Councilors elected in November 2024 (Resolution 2025-52)

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission will meet on August 21, 2025, to review routine minutes, discuss plaques and downtown art installations, allocate FY2026-27 funds, and address a local artist inquiry. The meeting includes updates on a Lincoln Park mural celebration and festival planning.

• Approve July 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss downtown art installation(s)
• Allocate FY2026-27 TLT funds
• Review local artist inquiry
• Plan Festival of the Arts

The Public Arts Commission discussed several potential projects, including a downtown clock installation, murals on private buildings, and a sculpture trail, but made no formal decisions. They approved the July minutes with a correction and agreed to gather more information before proposing a clock to the council. The commission also acknowledged Linda's decision not to chair the 2025 Festival of the Arts and planned to discuss its future.

• Approved July minutes as corrected (unanimous)
• Agreed to gather more info on other cities' processes for downtown art installation
• Agreed to create a timeline for a clock proposal to council
• Put sculpture trail idea on wish list for future consideration
• Agreed to research murals on private buildings policy (Emily to report)
• Agreed to discuss Festival of the Arts future without Linda as chair

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting on August 20, 2025, at 7:00am. The main discussion items are a community open house and the 2040 Vision Plan. The commission will also consider approving the June 18, 2025 meeting minutes and receive reports from staff and the council liaison.

• Discussion of 2040 Vision Plan
• Community Open House discussion
• Approve June 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Parks & Recreation Department reports for July and August

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to plan an upcoming community event, including finalizing a list of honored guests, deciding who will personally invite them, and coordinating tables, food, and room organization. The committee will also discuss follow-up questions about an interpreter and banner availability, and may receive board updates on a grocery store and board buddies if time allows. The agenda is largely procedural and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions or financial items listed.

• Finalize list of honored guests to invite
• CCE members to personally invite 2-3 guests each
• Review committed groups for tables
• Discuss food options and room organization
• Check on interpreter availability and banner spot

Sister City Committee

The Sister City Committee will hold its regular meeting at the Community Auditorium. The group will review past minutes, hear a brief recap of the adult delegation experience, and discuss plans for an upcoming student delegation. No formal decisions are scheduled.

• Approve June 10, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss upcoming student delegation plans

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee approved minutes, discussed a city directive that will reduce funding from bottle/can redemptions, and finalized plans for the adult delegation to Nyuzen, including selecting a woodwork piece by Uli Kirchler as the official gift. The committee also set a potluck meeting for August 27 and scheduled the next meeting for July 16.

• Approved minutes of May 14, 2025 meeting
• Agreed on woodwork piece by Uli Kirchler as gift to Nyuzen, purchased for $150 (discounted from $375)
• Finalized adult delegation schedules and itinerary for Nyuzen trip
• Set August potluck meeting for August 27, 5-8 pm

Historic Landmarks Board

The Forest Grove Historic Landmarks Board is meeting to review and adopt the April 22, 2025 meeting minutes, discuss board member legal training, and plan next steps for a joint workshop on downtown design standards. The agenda also includes communications from council, Friends of Historic FG, and staff. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Review and adopt April 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion: Board member legal training (Beery Elsner & Hammond)
• Discussion: Downtown Design Standards Joint Workshop next steps
• Council, Friends of Historic FG, and CCE Board communications

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including plaque options and installation costs, long-term art acquisition goals using TLT funds for Main Street, the Festival of the Arts, and a sponsorship request for the Chalk Art Festival. They will also receive updates on the Lincoln Park Mural timeline, Meet the Artists Dinners, a vacancy, and the finance report. The agenda includes routine consent items and public comment.

• Plaque options and installation costs
• Long-term art acquisition goals / TLT funds / Main Street
• Festival of the Arts
• Chalk Art Festival sponsorship application request
• Lincoln Park Mural timeline update

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission approved adding $232 from discretionary funds for plaque installation and Nate's mural, and unanimously approved a $500 sponsorship for Valley Art's Chalk Art Festival. The commission also discussed long-term art acquisition goals for downtown, including possible rotating art, and agreed to research options before voting.

• Approved $232 from discretionary funds for plaque installation and Nate's mural (unanimous)
• Approved $500 sponsorship to Valley Art for Chalk Art Festival (unanimous)
• Approved May 15 meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)

General

The Forest Grove City Council, meeting as the Community Enhancement Program Committee, will discuss and vote on the 2025-26 CEP Grant Program. The agenda includes public comment, a consent agenda, and possible additions or deletions. The main action item is the approval of the grant program, presented by staff.

• Discuss and approve 2025-26 CEP Grant Program
• Public comment period (2-minute limit per speaker)
• Consent agenda and additions/deletions

Urban Renewal Agency

The Forest Grove Urban Renewal Agency board will consider a resolution to correct appropriations for the 2025-2027 biennial budget and repeal a section of a prior resolution. The meeting includes public comment and a consent agenda, but the main action is the budget correction resolution.

• URA Resolution 2025-06 correcting appropriations for biennial budget (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2027)
• Repeals Section 2 of URA Resolution No. 2025-05
• Public comment limited to 2 minutes per speaker

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a work session on downtown historic design standards, then a regular meeting with public comment, consent agenda, and several resolutions. Key actions include adopting the Forest Grove Forward 2040 Vision Plan, authorizing a housing planning grant application, an ODOT agreement for highway access management, and extending the Comcast cable franchise. The meeting also includes updates from the Senior & Community Center and Business Development Center.

• Resolution 2025-43 adopting the Forest Grove Forward 2040 Vision Plan
• Resolution 2025-44 authorizing application for Oregon DLCD housing planning grant
• Resolution 2025-45 authorizing IGA with ODOT for Tualatin Valley Highway access management grant
• Resolution 2025-46 extending Comcast cable TV franchise for MACC renewal process
• Consent agenda includes June 2025 building activity report and tourism event sponsorship awards

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission is holding a regular meeting with public comments, consent agenda, and discussion items. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Public comments limited to two minutes
• Next meeting scheduled for September 11, 2025 (no August meeting)
• Meeting held at McMenamins Grand Lodge, 3505 Pacific Ave.

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to discuss updates on outreach efforts and to plan an upcoming ATM event, including deciding on a name, roles, and invitations. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Updates on Grocery Store Outreach, Farmers Market, and Board Buddies
• ATM event planning: name, roles, invitations, and table participants
• Council Liaison Report from Brian Schimmel
• Staff Update from Stephanie Fleischer

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold public hearings and vote on multiple resolutions setting fees and charges, including surface water management, sewer, and solid waste rates, effective July 1, 2025. They will also consider increasing parking fines, awarding an IT services contract, and approving the city manager's performance review and compensation. Work sessions earlier in the day cover the 2040 Vision and police building, with no formal action.

• Resolution 2025-32: setting fees & charges, effective July 1, 2025
• Resolution 2025-33: establishing surface water management (SWM) rate
• Resolution 2025-34: establishing city sewer utility rates
• Resolution 2025-35: fixing solid waste rates charged by franchisee
• Resolution 2025-37: increasing parking fines

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss an annual update to the City Council and review the Forest Grove Forward 2040 Vision Project during its community review period. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items, public comment, and reports from the council liaison and staff.

• Annual commission update to City Council on June 23, 2025
• Forest Grove Forward 2040 Vision Project community review period
• Approve May 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Council Liaison Report by Councilor Marshall
• Parks & Recreation Department Report

Community Forestry Commission

The Community Forestry Commission will meet to approve prior minutes and discuss several tree-related items, including a downtown street tree removal project and tree removal permit requests. The commission will also receive an update on the emerald ash borer. No final decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Approve April 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discuss Tour of Trees brochure
• Discuss Downtown Street Tree Removal Project
• Discuss Tree Removal Permit Requests
• Emerald Ash Borer update

The Commission approved the April meeting minutes with a spelling correction and concurred with issuing an emergency permit to remove a high-risk Oregon white oak at 2324 15th Avenue. They also discussed updates on the Tour of Trees brochure, downtown tree removal, and other permit requests.

• Approved April meeting minutes with spelling correction (unanimous)
• Concurred with issuing emergency tree removal permit for Oregon white oak at 2324 15th Avenue

Economic Development Commission

The Forest Grove Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on agenda items, including an update on public meetings and a review of the 2020 Economic Development Strategic Plan. The meeting is open to the public, with time for public comments.

• Review of 2020 Economic Development Strategic Plan
• Update on public meetings/meeting space
• Council liaison report by Councilor Brian Schimmel

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting via Zoom to discuss routine business and updates. Key discussion items include finalizing a gift for the adult delegation and planning activities for the upcoming student delegation trip in October 2025, as well as the host family application process. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Finalize delegation gift for adult delegation
• Plan activities for student delegation (October 22-26, 2025)
• Discuss host family application process
• Approve meeting minutes (consent agenda)
• Updates from Treasurer, Council Liaison, Chamber Liaison, and Staff Liaison

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee approved the April 15, 2025 minutes and discussed the upcoming adult delegation to Japan, including travel dates and a gift for Nyuzen. One delegate withdrew, and the committee is considering a work by artist Uli Kirchler for the gift, with a $150 budget. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes as submitted (motion carried)
• Noted delegate Gretchen Uh withdrew from adult delegation
• Agreed to explore Uli Kirchler artwork for Nyuzen gift within $150 budget

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to discuss updates on an email campaign for a new grocery store, hear reports from board members, and plan an upcoming ATM event, including selecting a date and theme. The agenda is largely routine, with public comment and consent agenda items.

• Grocery store email campaign update
• ATM event planning: date, theme, invitations
• Board Buddies updates from other boards
• Council Liaison Report
• Staff Liaison Report

Urban Renewal Agency

The Forest Grove Urban Renewal Agency board will meet on June 9, 2025, at the Community Auditorium to adopt its biennial budget for July 1, 2025–June 30, 2027. The meeting includes a public hearing on the budget resolution and a public comment period.

• Public hearing on URA Resolution 2025-05 adopting biennial budget and declaring tax increment
• Public comment period (up to 30 minutes, extendable by majority vote)

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold public hearings to adopt a two-year budget, levy taxes, and approve a capital improvements program for fiscal years 2025-27. The meeting also includes proclamations for Juneteenth and Pride Month, a resignation acceptance, and an intergovernmental agreement with TriMet for the TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit Project.

• Adopt biennial budget (2025-27) via Resolutions 2025-24, 2025-25, 2025-26
• Approve Capital Improvements Program for FY 2025-30 via Resolutions 2025-29 and 2025-30
• Authorize intergovernmental agreement with TriMet for TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit Project (Resolution 2025-31)
• Accept Public Arts Commission resignation (Consent Agenda)
• Repeal prior resolution appointing Council liaison to Chamber of Commerce (Resolution 2025-23)

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two development proposals: a major modification to a conditional use permit for athletic field lighting at Neil Armstrong Middle School, and a multifamily design and site review for a 17-unit development at 1930 23rd St. The commission will also discuss results from the 2040 Vision Labs and approve minutes from the April 21st meeting.

• Public hearing: Major modification to conditional use permit for athletic field lighting at Neil Armstrong Middle School, 1777 Mountain View Lane
• Public hearing: Multifamily design review and site review for 17-unit multifamily development at 1930 23rd St.
• Director's report on 2040 Vision Labs results
• Approval of minutes from April 21st meeting

General

This is a councilmember meeting with local athletic groups to gather feedback on the Parks & Recreation Cost Recovery Plan. No formal action or recommendations will be made, and no public comment will be taken. The meeting is informational, with presentations from 19 local youth and community sports groups.

• Feedback on Parks & Recreation Cost Recovery Plan
• Presentations from 19 local athletic groups including CYO Track, FC West Soccer, and FG Little League
• Meeting held in Light & Power Conference Room, 1818 B Street

General

The Forest Grove Urban Renewal Agency will hold a public comment period and then discuss and approve its proposed FY 2025-27 budget. The agenda also includes approval of the May 13, 2025 meeting minutes and a public comment period for items not on the agenda.

• Public comment on proposed FY 2025-27 URA budget
• Discussion and approval of FY 2025-27 URA budget
• Approve May 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The Urban Renewal Agency Budget Committee elected David Andersen as chair by unanimous voice vote (11-0). The committee reviewed the proposed FY 2025-27 URA budget and recommended a significant increase of $30k for professional services reserved for property purchases. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.

• Elected David Andersen as URA Budget Committee Chair (11-0)
• Recommended $30k increase to professional services for FY2025 URA property purchases

General

The Forest Grove Budget Committee will continue its review of the proposed FY 2025-27 budget, with discussion of budget analysis tools and specific funds including the Community Enhancement Fund, Capital Improvement Plan Excise Tax, Public Arts, and Library Endowment Fund. The committee will also take public comment on the proposed budget and may vote to approve it. The agenda is largely procedural, with the main substantive item being the budget review and potential approval.

• Discussion of FY 2025-27 Proposed Budget
• Review of Community Enhancement Fund
• Review of Capital Improvement Plan Excise Tax
• Review of Public Arts fund
• Review of Library Endowment Fund

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a public meeting to discuss and vote on ordinances and resolutions, including updates to floodplain management regulations and changes to health benefits for elected officials. The meeting will also feature a presentation from Ride Connection and a public hearing on an intergovernmental agreement for a school resource officer.

• Ordinance 2025-02 amending floodplain management regulations per FEMA 2024 model ordinance
• Resolution 2025-22 approving IGA with Forest Grove School District for School Resource Officer (SRO)
• Resolutions 2025-19, 2025-20, and 2025-21 adjusting health, vision, and dental benefits and stipends for Mayor and Councilors effective July 1, 2025

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss the biennial budget, prepare its annual update to the City Council, and review the Forest Grove Forward 2040 Vision Project. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Discussion of biennial budget
• Annual update to City Council on June 23, 2025
• Forest Grove Forward - 2040 Vision Project
• Approve April 16, 2025 meeting minutes

General

The Forest Grove Budget Committee will meet to continue its review and discussion of the proposed budget for the 2025-27 fiscal period. The agenda includes a public comment period regarding the proposed budget and the approval of meeting minutes from April 15 and May 13, 2025.

• Review of Building Permits Fund
• Review of Parks SDC Fund
• Review of Light & Power Fund
• Review of Sewer, Water, and Surface Water Management funds
• Public comment session on the FY 2025-27 proposed budget

The Forest Grove Budget Committee met on May 20, 2025, to continue reviewing the FY 2025-27 proposed budget. A motion to add a budget line item for the Main Street Program, contingent on packet materials being available by May 28, failed 3-8 with one abstention. The committee approved the consent agenda and an agenda addition, but adjourned before a planned discussion on decision-making tools. Remaining budget items were deferred to the May 28 meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes from April 15 and May 13, 2025 (12-0)
• Approved agenda addition for discussion on budget decision-making tools (12-0)
• Motion to add Main Street Program budget line item failed (3-8, 1 abstention)
• Motion to adjourn early failed (no second)
• Deferred remaining budget items to May 28, 2025 meeting

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss art plaques, Meet the Artist Dinners, the Long Term Art Acquisition Plan, the Festival of the Arts, and the 2025-27 Strategic Plan Draft. The agenda also includes information updates on the Lincoln Park Mural preparation schedule and timeline, an art location discovery walk, and a finance report.

• Discuss plaque options
• Discuss Meet the Artist Dinners
• Discuss Long Term Art Acquisition Plan
• Discuss Festival of the Arts
• Review 2025-27 Strategic Plan Draft

The Public Arts Commission approved spending $301 for plaque production and unanimously adopted the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan. They also discussed plans for artist dinners, a long-term art acquisition wish list, and the Festival of the Arts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $301 expense to Miracle Sign Co. for plaque production (unanimous)
• Approved 2025-2027 Strategic Plan (unanimous)
• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes as corrected (unanimous)

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and receiving updates from officers and liaisons. The main discussion items are planning for adult and student delegations, with no votes on ordinances or contracts expected.

• Approve meeting minutes
• Updates from Treasurer, Council Liaison, Chamber Liaison, and Staff Liaison
• Discussion of Adult Delegation planning
• Discussion of Student Delegation planning
• Possible discussion of marketing materials for future agenda

General

The Forest Grove Budget Committee is meeting to review and discuss the proposed FY 2025-27 budget, including a budget message and a public hearing on state shared revenue. The agenda includes a planned review of multiple city funds and departments, such as police, fire, library, and parks. No consent agenda items are listed. The meeting is open for public comment on the budget.

• Review of FY 2025-27 Proposed Budget
• Public Hearing on State Shared Revenue
• Public Comment on FY 2025-27 Proposed Budget
• Election of Chair
• Next meeting scheduled for May 20, 2025

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to discuss routine business, including welcoming a new member, updates on board connections, a new sign-up sheet, and a possible student-designed poster. They will also discuss how to promote the police bond at city events. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Welcome new CCE member Sarah
• Discuss new Google sign-up sheet
• Consider asking FGHS students to create a poster for the city
• Plan city events to promote the police bond

General

The Urban Renewal Agency will review and discuss the proposed budget for fiscal years 2025-27. The meeting includes a budget message and a period for public comment regarding the proposal.

• Election of Chair
• FY 2025-27 URA Proposed Budget review and discussion
• Public comment on FY 2025-27 URA Proposed Budget

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a work session on the 2040 Vision, then a regular meeting with public comment, consent agenda, and several public hearings. Key actions include second reading of an ordinance updating the Economic Opportunities Analysis, first reading of revised floodplain regulations, and resolutions endorsing a preferred alternative for the Tualatin Valley Highway Bus Rapid Transit project and amending council rules. The meeting will end with an executive session to review the City Manager's performance.

• Ordinance 2025-01: Adopt 2025 Economic Opportunities Analysis update (2nd reading)
• Ordinance 2025-02: Adopt revised floodplain management regulations per FEMA 2024 model (1st reading)
• Resolution 2025-17: Endorse locally preferred alternative for Tualatin Valley Highway BRT project
• Resolution 2025-18: Amend council rules subsections 4.1, 6.4.2, 9.2, 10.2, 11.2, 14.3; delete 3.12
• Consent agenda includes new liquor licenses and renewals, Resolution 2025-16 on board appointments

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission’s May 8 meeting is procedural with no decisions or discussions listed. Public comments are allowed, but no agenda items require action.

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold work sessions on council rules and floodplain management code amendments, followed by a regular meeting. The main action item is a public hearing on Ordinance 2025-01 to replace the 2019 Economic Opportunities Analysis with a 2025 update. The meeting also includes proclamations, consent agenda items (liquor licenses, a proclamation request, and commission resignations), and presentations on the Farmer's Market and economic development.

• Ordinance 2025-01 amending the Comprehensive Plan to adopt the 2025 Economic Opportunities Analysis Update
• Annual liquor license renewals and a new liquor license on consent agenda
• Proclamation for Small Business Week and request for 250th Birthday of the U.S. Army
• Farmer's Market update presentation
• Economic Development Commission annual report presentation

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission will hold a work session on the TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit Locally Preferred Alternative and an intergovernmental agreement, followed by a public hearing on proposed development code amendments to adopt the FEMA Model Floodplain Management Ordinance. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of prior minutes, and a director's report.

• Work session on TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit Locally Preferred Alternative and Intergovernmental Agreement
• Public hearing on File Number 311-25-000005-PLNG: Development Code Amendments to add FEMA Model Floodplain Management Ordinance
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)
• Approval of minutes from March 3, 2025
• Director's Report by Bryan Pohl

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including installation costs and alternatives for plaques, the Meet the Artist Dinners, a long-term art acquisition plan, a proposal to revise commission rules, and the Festival of the Arts. They will also receive updates on the Lincoln Park Mural timeline and a finance report and budget review. Public comment is allowed for items not on the agenda or not scheduled for a public hearing.

• Discuss installation costs and alternatives for plaques
• Long Term Art Acquisition Plan
• Proposal for Revision of Commission Rules
• Lincoln Park Mural Timeline update
• Finance Report and Budget Review

The Public Arts Commission approved spending $2,590 from discretionary funds for the Festival of the Arts, covering market sponsorship, performer stipends, and printing. They also discussed plaque materials, artist dinners, a long-term art acquisition plan, and a proposal to revise commission rules, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved $2,590 expenditure for Festival of the Arts (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 22, 2024 as corrected (unanimous)
• Removed goal list from strategic plan workbook (consensus)

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes from the previous meeting and receiving reports from staff, the council liaison, and the school district representative. No major decisions or public hearings are on the agenda; the meeting is largely procedural.

• Approve meeting minutes from March 19, 2025
• Receive Parks & Recreation Department Report for April
• Council Liaison Report from Councilor Marshall
• School District Representative Report from Brad Bafaro

Community Forestry Commission

The Forest Grove Community Forestry Commission will meet to approve its March meeting minutes, receive a staff report on trees near Main Street Parking Lot, and discuss updates on the Emerald Ash Borer. Commissioners will also review the annual report to the City Council and plan an Arbor Month tree planting at Thatcher Park.

• Approve March meeting minutes
• Review trees adjacent to Main Street Parking Lot north of 1910 Main Street
• Discuss Emerald Ash Borer update
• Review Commission Annual Report to City Council
• Plan Arbor Month tree planting at Thatcher Park on April 25th

The Community Forestry Commission approved the March meeting minutes unanimously. They discussed the annual report to City Council, final plans for the Arbor Month tree planting at Thatcher Park on April 25, and a draft update to the Tour of Trees brochure. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting via Zoom to discuss the current status of delegation selection and planning for the fall student delegation. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving meeting minutes, a treasurer update, and reports from council, chamber, and city liaisons. No votes on substantive policy are scheduled.

• Discussion of current status of delegation selection
• Fall student delegation planning
• Approve meeting minutes
• Treasurer update by Doreen Stenson
• Council update by Councilor Karen Martinez

General

The Forest Grove Budget Committee is meeting to discuss the biennial budget process, including revenue and cost factors for FY2025/27 and General Fund financial projections. They will also review upcoming capital improvement projects and City Council goals. No formal decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists of discussion items only.

• Biennial Budget Process Discussion
• Revenue and Cost Factors FY2025/27 Budget
• General Fund Financial Projections
• Upcoming Capital Improvement Projects
• City Council Goals and Objectives

The Forest Grove Budget Committee met to discuss the city's transition to a biennial budget, review the online budget document, and hear revenue and cost projections for FY2025/27. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with the proposed budget book to be distributed on May 6.

• Removed agenda item E.4 (Upcoming Capital Improvement Projects) from discussion
• Approved minutes as presented on 05.20.2025

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold an executive session to evaluate the City Manager's performance, followed by work sessions on council compensation and an economic opportunities analysis. The regular meeting includes proclamations, public comment, consent agenda items, presentations on the Family Justice Center, forestry, library, and water fluoridation, and a resolution appointing the city auditor.

• Executive session to review City Manager performance (ORS 192.660(2)(i))
• Work session on council compensation
• Work session on Economic Opportunities Analysis
• Resolution 2025-14 consenting to board and commission appointments
• Resolution 2025-15 appointing city auditor for FY 2025-2027

General

The Forest Grove Urban Renewal Agency board will decide on awarding building improvement grants and modifying the grant program. They will also appoint an auditor for fiscal years 2025-2027. The meeting includes routine consent items and a public comment period.

• Approve URA Minutes of 11.12.2024
• Award Building Improvement Grants (Resolution 2025-02)
• Modify Building Improvement Grant Program (Resolution 2025-03)
• Appoint URA Auditor for FY2025-FY2027 (Resolution 2025-04)

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement is meeting to discuss several community engagement topics, including how to replicate the high turnout from the State of the City event at the fall ATM, updates on Trader Joe's and other grocery store prospects, and ways to promote the police bond at city events. The committee will also consider new member applications and volunteer for the Farmers Market booth.

• Discussion on Trader Joe's and other grocery store outreach
• Police bond promotion at city events
• Farmers Market booth volunteer recruitment for July-October
• New member applications for the committee
• Consent agenda: approval of previous meeting minutes

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission will discuss and review its strategic plan, budget and finance reports, a marketing proposal, and plans for the 2025 Festival of the Arts. The meeting also includes routine approval of past meeting minutes and updates on plaques and public art maintenance.

• Review Strategic Plan
• Review Budget and Finance Report/s
• Marketing and Visibility Proposal
• Festival of the Arts 2025
• Approve Public Arts Commission Meeting Minutes of February 20, 2025

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission discussed strategic planning, fundraising challenges, and future art acquisitions. They agreed to draft a proposal to the city about revising board and commission fundraising rules, with a target to review it in April and present to Councilor Gustafson. They also decided to keep flexibility for a 2026 art acquisition and plan a project for 2027, while continuing work on the city art collection's online map and promotional items.

• Approved February 20, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously
• Agreed to draft a proposal to city on fundraising rule changes, review in April
• Decided to keep flexibility for 2026 art acquisition, plan project for 2027
• Agreed to develop a long-term art acquisition plan
• Decided to keep PAC anniversary planning on regular meeting agenda
• Agreed to update FOTA project names to Brian, Orson, Linda, Kristin
• Agreed to change sponsorship language to 'minimum' one per year
• Agreed to discuss marketing proposal further at future meetings

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss and decide on a Cost Recovery Plan recommendation to the City Council, including a draft policy and a partnership MOU. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items (approving minutes) and reports from the council liaison, school district representative, and staff.

• Cost Recovery Plan recommendation to City Council
• Cost Recovery Policy - DRAFT
• Partnership MOU - DRAFT
• Approve February 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approve March 5, 2025 work session minutes

Community Forestry Commission

The Community Forestry Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by the Light and Power Department to remove trees listed on the Forest Grove Register of Significant Trees at 1603 Ash Street and 2039 18th Avenue. The commission will also discuss and potentially approve expenditures for an Arbor Month tree planting event, discuss a Tour of Trees brochure update, and review the Emerald Ash Borer situation. The agenda includes standard items like approving prior meeting minutes and receiving reports.

• Public hearing on removing significant trees at 1603 Ash Street and 2039 18th Avenue (City File 311-25-000006-PLNG)
• Discuss Arbor Month tree planting event and approve expenditures
• Discuss Tour of Trees brochure update
• Discuss Emerald Ash Borer situation
• Approve February 19, 2025 meeting minutes

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting to discuss routine updates and several upcoming events. The main discussion items include planning for an adult delegation, reviewing volunteer documents, and organizing the Emperor's Birthday Celebration and Consul General Welcome Reception. The agenda is largely procedural, with consent agenda items and reports from liaisons.

• Discussion of Adult Delegation
• Call for Volunteers - review documents
• Emperor's Birthday Celebration and Consul General Welcome Reception
• Approval of February 20th meeting minutes
• Review process for planning 2025 Student Delegation

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will convene to deliver the annual State of the City address, receive updates on the Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan and Kyle Park Design, and hold a presentation on the annual audit. The meeting also includes a public hearing on a proclamation policy resolution and a work session for the Urban Renewal Agency to discuss Building Improvement Grant Program Awards.

• State of the City address at 5:30 PM
• Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan & Kyle Park Design presentation at 7:30 PM
• Annual Audit presentation at 7:45 PM
• RESOLUTION 2025-13 establishing proclamation policy public hearing at 8:00 PM
• Urban Renewal Agency work session on Building Improvement Grant Program Awards Part Two at 8:30 PM

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a work session to discuss and form an overall recommendation on the Parks & Recreation Cost Recovery Plan. This is the only substantive item on the agenda; the rest is procedural (call to order, next meeting, adjournment).

• Discussion and recommendation on Parks & Recreation Cost Recovery Plan
• Next meeting scheduled for March 19, 2025 at 7:00am

Committee for Community Engagement

The Forest Grove Committee for Community Engagement will discuss filling vacant board positions, the possibility of attracting a new grocery store (including Trader Joe's information and a 2018 city survey), and updates from other boards. They will also plan a Farmers Market booth for May-October and hear reports from council and staff liaisons.

• Discussion of possible vacant positions on the Committee for Community Engagement
• Grocery store updates: Trader Joe's information and possibility of a future grocery store for Forest Grove
• Review of 2018 grocery store city survey
• Farmers Market booth sign-up for May to October
• Staff liaison report includes Board and Commissions Dinner at Waltz Brewing on June 18 and Police Bond update

The Committee for Community Engagement approved removing Zach Fransen from the board after he missed his third meeting. The committee also discussed recruiting new members, a grocery store survey, and upcoming events, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved removal of Zach Fransen from board (vote not recorded)

Planning Commission

The Forest Grove Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to review the city's 2025 Economic Opportunities Analysis, adopt findings, and recommend a preferred growth scenario to the City Council. The commission will also discuss a condition of approval for the Davis Estates planned development regarding parkway planter strips and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Public hearing on File 311-25-000002-PLNG: 2025 Economic Opportunities Analysis and Comprehensive Plan amendment
• Davis Estates Planned Development condition of approval – parkway planter strips
• Approval of minutes from November 4, 2024 meeting

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend amendments to the Development Code's off-street parking and loading standards (Article 8) and related definitions (Article 12) to the City Council. The recommendation affirms an administrative decision and aims to align the code with state rules. No other action items were considered; the meeting also included a work session on severe rent burden and a director's report on the Forest Grove Forward project and a potential grocery development.

• Recommended Article 8 parking/loading standards amendments to City Council (7-0)
• Recommended Article 12 definitions amendments to City Council (7-0)
• Approved September 3, 2024 minutes by acclimation

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold an executive session, an urban renewal work session, and a regular meeting. The regular meeting includes public comment, a consent agenda, presentations, and several resolutions, including adopting 2025 council goals, an intergovernmental agreement for the Maple Street/Fern Hill Road/OR 47 intersection improvements, and a labor agreement with the firefighter's union. The agenda also includes a work session on proclamation policy.

• Resolution 2025-07 adopting 2025 City Council goals and objectives
• Resolution 2025-08 intergovernmental agreement with Washington County for Maple Street/Fern Hill Road/OR 47 intersection improvements
• Resolution 2025-11 labor agreement with IAFF Local 1660, effective July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2027
• Resolution 2025-09 adopting city manager performance evaluation forms
• Resolution 2025-10 amending council rules of procedure

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on several items, including a mini-grant application from Knickers in a Bunch, a partner/triad arrangement, plans for the commission's 20th anniversary, mural videos and signage, and a Meet the Artist Dinner featuring artist Nate. The agenda also includes routine consent items and informational updates on various arts projects and finances.

• Mini-Grant Application from Knickers in a Bunch
• 20th Anniversary planning
• Mural Videos and Signage
• Meet the Artist Dinner - Featured Artist: Nate
• Lincoln Park Mural update

The Public Arts Commission approved a mini-grant for the Knickers in a Bunch event from discretionary funds (motion passed with one nay vote) and unanimously approved the Festival of Arts timeline. The commission also discussed but tabled a decision on installing stanchions around the Seven Generations base until more information is available. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational or discussions.

• Approved mini-grant for Knickers in a Bunch from discretionary funds (one nay vote)
• Approved Festival of Arts timeline (unanimous)
• Tabled stanchion installation for Seven Generations base pending city approval

Sister City Committee

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes and receiving financial and liaison reports. The main discussion items are committee elections, updates to administrative instructions, and planning for a Forest Grove delegation to Nyuzen, including dates and selection process. A future agenda item will address the Nyuzen student delegation.

• Approve minutes from 01.23.2025
• Financial report by Treasurer Doreen Stenson
• Discussion of committee elections
• Update to Sister City Committee Administrative Instructions
• Planning for Forest Grove delegation to Nyuzen (dates, selection process)

The Forest Grove/Nyuzen Sister Cities Committee met on January 23, 2025, and approved minutes from October and November 2024. They discussed financial updates, including a balance of $4,988.13 and pending expenses, and heard that Sister City funding for the coming year is secure. The committee also addressed new membership requirements, deciding to review bylaws and amend them to create an at-large membership category for non-resident members.

• Approved minutes for October 16 and November 14, 2024 meetings
• Noted financial balance of $4,988.13, with pending expenses to be reported
• Discussed potential federal funding uncertainty, but confirmed Sister City funding is secure
• Agreed to review SCC, City, and Chamber relationships and report at next meeting
• Agreed to amend bylaws to create at-large membership category

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on the Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan and Kyle Park Design update, presented by Alta Planning and PLACE. They will also prepare for an April 3 work session with athletic facility user groups. The agenda includes routine consent items, public comment, and reports from staff and liaisons.

• Discussion of Forest Grove Loop Trail Master Plan and Kyle Park Design update
• Preparation for April 3 work session with athletic facility user groups
• Approval of January 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• February Parks & Recreation Department Report

Community Forestry Commission

The Forest Grove Community Forestry Commission is meeting to discuss and take action on several items, including hazard tree removals by the Light and Power Department, approving the 2025 meeting calendar, and finalizing Arbor Day 2025 event plans. They will also discuss street trees, update the Tour of Trees brochure, and receive an update on the Emerald Ash Borer. The meeting includes public comment and reports from liaisons and staff.

• Light and Power Department hazard tree removals
• Approve 2025 meeting calendar
• Finalize Arbor Day 2025 event plans
• Street trees discussion
• Emerald Ash Borer update

Economic Development Commission

The Forest Grove Economic Development Commission is meeting to discuss and decide on Building Improvement Grant submissions. The agenda also includes public comments, communications from the Chamber of Commerce, Adelante Mujeres, and Pacific University, plus staff and council liaison reports. No dollar amounts or specific project details are listed in the agenda.

• Building Improvement Grant submissions (discussion/decision item)
• Public comments (2-minute limit)
• Communications from Chamber of Commerce, Adelante Mujeres, Pacific University
• Staff communications by Miles Glowacki
• Council liaison report by Councilor Brian Schimmel

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will meet to discuss routine items, hear presentations on downtown and Main Street programs, and take public comment. The most consequential item is a public hearing on Resolution 2025-06, which proposes a $29.5 million bond measure for a new police facility and other capital costs.

• Resolution 2025-06: $29.5M bond measure for new police facility and capital costs
• Approval of Community Forestry Commission Meeting Minutes
• Support Letter for FEMA BRIC Grant Application for Watercrest Reservoir Replacement Project
• Presentations on Downtown Projects and Programs, Main Street Program, and Small Business Development Center Update

Committee for Community Engagement

The Committee for Community Engagement will introduce new members, elect a chair, vice chair, and secretary for 2025–2026, and discuss the possibility of a Trader Joe’s grocery store in Forest Grove. The meeting also includes routine reports and updates from other boards.

• Introduction of new board member Bill Clark and council liaison Brian Schimmel
• Election of Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary for 2025–2026 term
• Discussion on feasibility of a Trader Joe’s grocery store in Forest Grove

The Committee for Community Engagement held a routine meeting with no public comment and no substantive decisions beyond approving minutes and electing officers. Members discussed reaching out to Trader Joe's about a grocery store study, with plans to email the company and consider contacting other grocery stores. The next meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2025.

• Approved meeting minutes (motion by Jennifer, second by Eva)
• Re-elected Heather Finnigan as chair
• Elected Madigan Shepard as vice chair
• Elected Katy Cannon as secretary

Historic Landmarks Board

The Historic Landmarks Board will hold its January 28, 2025 meeting at the Community Auditorium to conduct annual officer elections, adopt meeting minutes, and approve a 2025 calendar and work plan. The board will also discuss Preservation Month and steward award recipients.

• Annual officer elections
• Adoption of October 22, 2024 meeting minutes
• Review and adoption of 2025 calendar
• Review, discussion, and adoption of 2025 work plan
• Discussion of Preservation Month

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold work sessions on refining city goals and objectives, reviewing the transient lodging tax, and reviewing the ballot title for a police building measure. The regular meeting includes presentations on the TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit project and Washington County housing services, followed by an executive session on labor negotiations.

• Work session: Goals & Objectives Refinement with consultant SSW Consulting
• Work session: Transient Lodging Tax Review
• Work session: Police Building Ballot Title Review
• Presentation: TV Highway Bus Rapid Transit Project by Metro
• Presentation: Washington County Housing Services Update

General

The Forest Grove Sister City Committee is meeting to handle routine business and discuss several items, including selecting a fundraising subcommittee, planning a delegation to Nyuzen, reviewing committee membership terms, and updating bylaws. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Approve minutes from October 16, 2024 and November 14, 2024 work session
• Discussion of Forest Grove delegation to Nyuzen, including dates and selection process
• Fundraising subcommittee selection
• Review of committee membership term renewal/expiration
• Bylaws review and updates to Facebook account and email

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council is holding its annual goal-setting retreat, a work session with no public comment and no formal action. The retreat is facilitated by SSW Consulting and attended by all department directors, running from 8:30 AM to 2:30 PM. The agenda is procedural and contains no specific policy items or decisions.

• Annual goal-setting retreat with SSW Consulting
• All department directors in attendance
• No public comment or formal action taken

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission will meet on January 16, 2025, to discuss routine approval of past meeting minutes, officer elections, setting a retreat date, and reviewing the strategic plan. The meeting also includes updates on local art projects like the Lincoln Park Mural and plaques for notable sculptures.

• Approve Public Arts Commission Meeting Minutes of 11.21.2024
• Officer Elections
• Set Retreat Date
• Review Strategic Plan / Increase Visibility
• Lincoln Park Mural discussion

Economic Development Commission

The Forest Grove Economic Development Commission will meet on January 16, 2025, to discuss and potentially decide on building improvement grant submissions. The meeting also includes public comments, communications from local organizations, and reports from staff and council liaison.

• Building improvement grant submissions (decision/discussion)
• Communications from Chamber of Commerce, Adelante Mujeres, and Pacific University
• Staff communications by Miles Glowacki
• Council liaison report by Councilor Brian Schimmel

Public Arts Commission

The Forest Grove Public Arts Commission is meeting to discuss the 2025 Festival of the Arts, including reviewing confirmed information, improving publicity, and planning booth features for specific dates. They will also discuss arts stakeholders. The agenda includes public comment and routine consent items, but no major decisions or contracts are listed.

• Review of 2025 Forest Grove Festival of the Arts information
• Discussion on improving festival publicity
• Planning booth features for May 7, June 4, July 2, and August 6
• Discussion about arts stakeholders

Parks and Recreation Commission

The Forest Grove Parks and Recreation Commission will hold its January 15, 2025 meeting, where it will vote on the 2025 meeting dates and times, and nominate a Chairperson and Vice Chairperson. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of December 2024 minutes, and reports from the Council Liaison and staff. This is a routine organizational meeting with no major policy or budget decisions listed.

• Vote on 2025 meeting time, day, and dates
• Vote on nominations for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson
• Approve December 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• January Department Report from staff
• Council Liaison Report from Councilor Marshall

Community Forestry Commission

The Forest Grove Community Forestry Commission is meeting to elect its chair and vice-chair for 2025, approve December 2024 minutes, and discuss Arbor Month 2025 event planning. The agenda is mostly routine administrative items, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Election of Chair and Vice Chair for Calendar Year 2025
• Approval of meeting minutes from December 18, 2024
• Discussion of Arbor Month 2025 event planning
• Public comment period
• Reports from council liaison, commissioners, and staff liaison

The Community Forestry Commission re-elected Justin Marble as Chair and Mark Nakajima as Vice Chair for 2025, and approved the December 18, 2024 meeting minutes. No other formal decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was discussion about Arbor Month 2025, street tree planting, and future agenda items.

• Re-elected Justin Marble as Chair and Mark Nakajima as Vice Chair for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved December 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Grove City Council will hold a regular meeting with work sessions on public meetings law and police facilities, followed by annual reports from several departments. The council will also vote on resolutions to elect a council president, amend council rules, and release a public utility easement, among other routine items.

• Resolution 2025-03 electing City Council President
• Resolution 2025-04 amending Council Rules of Procedure by deleting Section 13
• Resolution 2025-05 authorizing release of a public utility easement
• Annual reports from Community Development, Public Works, Light & Power, and Library
• Consent agenda includes appointments to boards and commissions

General

The Forest Grove City Council will meet to conduct routine business and vote on a resolution authorizing the appropriation of proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds for the Forest Grove Urban Renewal Agency (URA) for fiscal year 2024-25. The meeting includes a public comment period and a consent agenda for routine items.

• URA Resolution 2025-01: Authorizing appropriation of bond proceeds for FY 2024-25

Committee for Community Engagement

The Committee for Community Engagement will meet on January 7, 2025, at the Community Auditorium to discuss routine approvals, board updates, and 2025 priorities including the ATM 2025 date and future focus areas. The meeting includes public comment and a consent agenda for previous meeting minutes.

• Approve or edit previous meeting minutes
• Addition of new CCE board member and council liaison
• Tentative date set for ATM 2025 and review of 2040 Forest Grove Forward Project themes
• February election of new board positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary)
• Staff update from Stephanie Fleischer