Astoria Council, Development Commission Tackled Paving, Sewer Repairs, and Suomi Hall Stabilization
Astoria's City Council and Development Commission held a busy stretch of meetings over the past two weeks, with agendas covering infrastructure spending, rideshare rules, and a historic building stabilization request. Because minutes have not yet been published for any of the three sessions, what follows reflects what each body was scheduled to consider — not confirmed outcomes.
City Council — July 7
The Council's July 7 agenda centered on a five-year Public Works Capital Improvement Plan identifying roughly $246 million in infrastructure needs. The plan was listed for adoption alongside the updated Parks Master Plan covering 2026–2036.
Consent-calendar items included accepting a utility easement for Bethany Lutheran Church at 420 34th St. and approving a License to Occupy a portion of the 11th Street right-of-way near 1122 Lexington Ave. for a retaining wall.
The Council was also set to hold a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance allowing transportation network companies — rideshare services — to operate in Astoria. Additional agenda items included possible charter amendments, transportation system development charges, and a salary resolution for city employees.
Development Commission — July 17
The Astoria Development Commission was scheduled to review an Astoria Partnership Program application from Friends of Suomi Hall for Phase 1 of the Lifting and Leveling, Stabilization of Suomi Hall project.
The Commission's consent calendar included adopting draft minutes from November 3, 2025, and June 1, 2026. Public comment was limited to three minutes per speaker.
City Council — July 17
The Council's July 17 agenda included the second reading of the rideshare ordinance, moving it closer to final adoption.
Two construction contracts were on the agenda: a $689,317 paving project contract and a $62,910 emergency sewer repair contract, both listed for authorization to award.
The Council was also set to approve a lease of Heritage Square for the Astoria Regatta at $1.00 and accept a $25,000 Homeland Security Grant for security cameras.
What This Means for Residents
The Capital Improvement Plan, if adopted, would guide roughly $246 million in infrastructure spending over five years — affecting roads, utilities, and public facilities. The rideshare ordinance would determine whether companies like Uber and Lyft can legally pick up passengers in Astoria. The paving and sewer contracts address immediate maintenance needs. The Suomi Hall application could advance preservation of a landmark building.
Coming Up
No upcoming meetings are listed for the next 14 days. Residents should check the city's official agenda portal for newly posted sessions.
*Note: All three meetings listed above are reflected by agenda only; minutes have not yet been published. Final actions, vote tallies, and any amendments will be confirmed when minutes become available.*