The City Commission of Oregon City convened on June 7, 1995, to address several pressing community issues, primarily focusing on cemetery maintenance and code enforcement updates.
The meeting commenced with discussions surrounding the maintenance of the local cemetery, prompted by complaints from residents regarding its condition, particularly during Memorial Day. Phyllis Varney and Deborah Whitney voiced their dissatisfaction, highlighting overgrown grass that obscured headstones and detracted from the cemetery's appearance. Varney emphasized the need for better upkeep, stating that she had to clean the area herself. Whitney echoed these sentiments, expressing shame over the cemetery's state and urging the commission to take action.
In response, city officials acknowledged the concerns and explained that the cemetery operates on a self-sustaining budget, relying on plot sales for maintenance funds. They noted that while efforts had been made to clean the cemetery, including a volunteer cleanup day, financial constraints limited the extent of these efforts. The commission agreed to place the cemetery maintenance issue on a future agenda for further discussion and potential solutions.
The meeting also included a presentation from the code enforcement department, which reported on various compliance issues within the city. The department's officer had responded to numerous inquiries and issued notices for abandoned vehicles and parking violations. The commission discussed the importance of utilizing volunteer resources to address ongoing maintenance challenges, particularly in light of budget constraints.
Additionally, the commission addressed a proposal to streamline the process for making minor changes, such as installing no-parking signs or pruning public right-of-ways, without requiring extensive staff reports each time. This emergency ordinance aims to enhance the efficiency of city operations while maintaining community standards.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the cemetery maintenance issue and explore volunteer opportunities to improve the city's public spaces. The commission's proactive approach reflects their dedication to addressing community concerns and enhancing the quality of life for residents.