Roseburg City Council adopts amended ethics laws and appoints new budget committee members

The Roseburg City Council and Urban Renewal Agency convened on January 27, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting the community, including updates to ethics laws, budget committee appointments, and significant concerns regarding homelessness in the area.

One of the key discussions centered around the amendment of the city's ethics laws. City staff presented a revised policy that reflects changes made to the city charter in 2023. The council voted to adopt the amended ethics laws, with a majority in favor and one dissenting vote. This update is crucial as it ensures that the council's policies remain aligned with current legal standards and practices, reinforcing the integrity of local governance.

The council also appointed two new members to the budget committee: Alexis Alonzo, a director of climate resilience, and Mandy Elder, a learning officer at the Ford Family Foundation. Their appointments are expected to bring valuable perspectives to the committee, particularly in addressing budgetary concerns related to community development and sustainability.

During the audience participation segment, community members voiced urgent concerns about homelessness in Roseburg. Janelle Koehler, executive director of the Housing Authority of Douglas County, emphasized the importance of continued engagement and collaboration among local agencies to address the complex challenges faced by the unhoused population. She highlighted the city's efforts towards establishing an urban campground as a potential solution.

Conversely, residents Sherry Herriman and Bernie expressed frustration over the perceived lack of enforcement of existing ordinances regarding camping in city parks. They reported significant impacts on their businesses and properties due to increased homelessness in their neighborhoods, particularly around Deer Creek Park. Both urged the council to implement a rotation system for homeless encampments to alleviate pressure on specific areas and to ensure compliance with city regulations.

The discussions reflect a community grappling with the dual challenges of maintaining public safety and supporting vulnerable populations. As the council moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely monitored by residents and stakeholders alike, particularly as they relate to the ongoing homelessness crisis and the overall health of the local economy. The council's next steps will likely involve further exploration of effective strategies to balance these competing interests while fostering a safe and inclusive environment for all residents.