McMinnville board forms tourism advisory committee, awards $839,173.60 CDBG sewer contract and adopts 2020 NEC

The McMinnville City Board approved a slate of civic appointments, awarded a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) sewer rehabilitation contract and adopted an updated electrical code.

The board voted to form a tourism advisory committee and appointed community members Brent Bain (Farmers Market), Kebble Chef (inn owner/operator), Lucas Patterson (short-term rental owner), Todd Barker (outfitter), Anna Sands (restaurateur), Sarah Grissom (youth representative) and Jimmy Haley (local historian) after confirming each person was amenable to serving. The motion to proceed with the appointments was moved by Steve Harvey and seconded by Dietra Dunlap; the motion passed.

On resolution business, the board adopted Resolution 2025-03 to award contract 124-2023 (CDBG Sewer Rehabilitation) in the amount of $839,173.60 to Portland Utilities Construction. The motion to approve the resolution was made by Miss Carrie Morton and seconded by Mr. Steve Harvey; members recorded aye votes and the resolution passed.

On second and final reading the board adopted Ordinance 2025-02 to adopt the National Fire Protection Association's National Electrical Code (NFPA 70, 2020 edition) with amendments. The motion was moved and seconded; recorded votes were in the affirmative and the ordinance passed.

Department heads reported on several community programs: Parks & Recreation staff said a storybook-trail installation (19 panels) coordinated with West Elementary will begin installation the next day; a Vanderbilt-affiliated coach program for eight families has begun; recreation staff noted positive feedback on new fitness equipment; and public-works staff reported the downtown decorative fountain is temporarily out of service while they repair a malfunctioning control board.

The board adjourned after departmental reports.