On the agenda: North Plains Agenda Document — Flock Camera (Nov 2)

City of North Plains
Agenda
City Council Meeting
Monday, November 2, 2026
Work Session - 6:00 pm
Business Meeting - 7:00 pm
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via ZOOM
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Page
1.

WORK SESSION - 6:00 PM
*Note - Work Sessions now have a separate Zoom login from Business Meeting
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Work Session Topic
A.

2026-27 Council Agendas
□ Council Report Calendar
□ Annual Calendar

2.

CALL TO ORDER

3.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4.

ROLL CALL

5.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm

4-7

A.

Approval of June 15, 2026, City Council minutes
□ 06 - City Council Meeting - 15 Jun 2026 - Minutes

8 - 15

B.

Approval of July 6, 2026, City Council minutes
□ 07 - City Council - 06 Jul 2026 - Minutes

16 - 21

C.

Approval of July 20, 2026, City Council minutes
□ 07 - City Council - 20 Jul 2026 - Minutes

22 - 28

D.

Approval of July 31, 2026 City Council Special Session minutes
□ 07 - City Council - Special Session - 31 Jul 2026 - Minutes

29 - 34

NORTH PLAINS CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA PACKET
Monday, November 2, 2026
Page 1 of 85

6.

E.

Approval of August 11, 2026, City Council Special Session minutes
□ 08 - City Council Meeting - 11 Aug 2026 - Minutes v2

35 - 41

F.

Approval of August 20, 2026, City Council Special Session minutes
□ 08 - City Council - Special Session - 20 Aug 2026 - Minutes

42 - 45

G.

Approval of August 26, 2026, City Council Special Session minutes
□ 08 - City Council - Special Session - 26 Aug 2026 - Minutes

46 - 49

H.

Approval of September 8, 2026, City Council minutes
□ 09 - City Council - 08 Sep 2026 -- Minutes

50 - 55

I.

Approval of September 21, 2026, City Council minutes
□ 09 - City Council - 21 Sep 2026 -- Minutes

56 - 63

J.

Approval of October 5, 2026, City Council minutes
Brought back with correction noted on TGM Grant discussion
□ 10 - City Council Meeting - 05 Oct 2026 -- Minutes v2

64 - 69

K.

Approval of October 14, 2026, City Council Special Meeting minutes
□ 10 - City Council - Special Session - 14 Oct 2026 - Minutes

70 - 74

L.

Approval of October 19, 2026, City Council Minutes
□ 10 - City Council - 19 Oct 2026 - Minutes

75 - 80

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm
Persons wishing to speak on matters not on the agenda may be recognized at this
time. The public comment period is a limited public forum and comments are therefore
appropriately limited to matters of City concern, official action, or other matters that
may come before the City Council.
Written comment in advance of the meeting is welcome and should be emailed to
[email protected]. An individual or community group that wishes to provide
public comment virtually must register with the City Recorder by 3:00 pm the
day of the meeting and provide their name, address, email, phone, and a general
topic.

7.

PRESENTATION:
7:20pm - 7:40pm
A.

8.

County Commission Vice-Chair Jerry Willey - Annual Update

NEW BUSINESS:
7:40pm - 7:45pm
A.

Parks & Recreation Board Recommendation to fill vacancy
There has been a vacancy on the Parks & Recreation Board since early
Spring. The vacancy was posted on the city website as well as the standard
places around town. The Board had a meeting in June, but had received no
applications at that time. The vacancy was still posted, even though no Parks
& Rec Board meetings were held in July, August, or September. The city
received one application prior to the October meeting. The board members
interviewed the applicant and are now making the recommendation to the City
Council that the applicant, Marianne Vanderveldon, be appointed to fill the

NORTH PLAINS CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA PACKET
Monday, November 2, 2026
Page 2 of 85

81

vacancy through June 30, 2027.
□ Vanderveldon application - Redacted
9.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
7:45pm - 8:20pm
A.

Tom Holt, City Lobbyist - Discussion to develop the City's 2027
Legislative Priorities
7:45pm - 8:15pm

82

https://www.orcities.org/resources/communications/bulletin/loc-boardadopts-2027-28-legislative-agenda
□ Legislative Priorities
B.
10.

11.

Presentation - Councilor Shurts - regarding Flock Cameras
8:15pm - 8:20pm

REPORTS
8:20pm - 8:30pm
A.

City Manager Report - verbal

B.

Council Reports

C.

Review November 2026 Council Calendar
□ 2026 November Calendar of All Monthly Meetings
□ 2026 Calendar of All NP City Meetings & Ex Officio Duties
□ 2026 Council Committee Appointments

83 - 85

ADJOURNMENT:
*****

North Plains City Council meetings are accessible for disabled individuals. The City will also endeavor to
provide services for persons with impaired hearing or vision and other services, if requested, at least 48 hours
prior to the meeting. To obtain services, please call City Hall at (503) 647-5555
*****
The following City Council Meetings are scheduled to be held at:
Jessie Mays Community Center - 30975 NW Hillcrest Street North Plains, OR
The meetings will be held on the following dates at 7:00 p.m.:
Monday, Nov. 16, 2026
Monday, Dec. 7, 2026
Monday, Dec. 21, 2026
Join Zoom Meeting
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NORTH PLAINS CITY COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA PACKET
Monday, November 2, 2026
Page 3 of 85

COUNCIL REPORT
Date Prepared: October 28, 2026
To:

North Plains City Council

AGENDA ITEM NO.

From: Interim City Manager Paul Koch
For Meeting Of: November 2, 2026
Subject: Work Session on annual Calendar
BACKGROUND: Your work session on the November 2 meeting date will focus on setting up the
annual calendar. The attached work sheet covers four months and includes the possible addition of
new City Council members and your new City Manager. February is the planned transition month
then the balance of the year should involve the new manager in working with the Council to set the
schedules for the balance of the year.
Not yet included are the schedules for Boards and Commissions. And there may be other items the
Council wishes to place on the calendar. This is a work session.

Page 4 of 85

ANNUAL CALENDAR PLANNING FOR CITY COUNCIL: WORK SHEET

Introduction: In our effort to create an annual calendar, this work begins
with a three-month effort that will be expanded in 2027 with the new Council.
In February you should get the new CM on board so creation of the calendars
should include your new CM.

1. NOVEMBER 2026:
a. November 2:
6 pm work session on annual calendar.

b. November 16:
6 pm Urban Renewal Board
1. Request for additional funding for Glencoe house
removal.
2. Review work plan for Tiberius

7 pm Regular Council meeting

c. November 22:
City Manager application deadline

2. DECEMBER 2026:
a. December 7:
7 pm Regular City Council Meeting:

Page 5 of 85

b. December 21:
6 pm Urban Renewal Board
1. Tiberius report on grant program

7 pm Regular City Council meeting

c. Special workshop on Planning Commission assignments.
(TBD)

3. January 2027:
a. January 4:
7 pm Regular City Council meeting
1. Meet with Prothman to review semi-finalists.
2. Swearing in of any new Council Members

b. January date for full training for Council. (Date to be set)
i. Legal
ii. Planning
iii. Departments
c. January 18:
6 pm Urban Renewal Board

7 pm City Council meeting

Page 6 of 85

d. January 18-22 Final City Manager Interviews

4. February 2027: (Transition Month)
February 1:
7 pm Regular City Council meeting.
Reception for new City Manager
Set date for joint work session with Planning
Commission.

February 15:
6 pm Urban Renewal Board

7 pm Regular City Council Meeting.

Page 7 of 85

MINUTES

City Council Meeting
Monday, June 15, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor Aaron Dumbrow, Councilors Mark De Forge, Mandy
Hagedorn, Trista Ugarte, Anna Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

City Manager Bill Reid, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister, Police Chief
Eamon O'Reilly, Library Director Robin Doughty, Public Works
Director Dustin Lueckenotte, Asst. Planner Rowan Maiorano, City
Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

EXECUTIVE SESSION
Prior to the regular business meeting, at 6 pm the City Council will convene an executive
session pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(f) Exempt Public Records. The executive session will
be closed to all but City Council, the City Attorney and recognized news media per City
Council rules and Oregon Revised Statutes. The Council will convene the regular
business meeting at 7 pm following the executive session.
a)

Executive Session

ORS 192.660 (2)(f) to consider exempt public records

2

CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 pm

3

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4

ROLL CALL
a)

5

Page 8 of 85

All members in attendance.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
**Mayor Dumbrow announced two items to be added to the agenda following Public
Comment: consideration of a separation agreement with the City Manager, and
consideration of appointing Robin Doughty as Acting City Manager. No objections were
raised by Council.
a)

City Manager Report - Agenda Items

b)

Res. No. 2352 - WCCLS Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Exhibits A, B, &

c)

Approval of June 1, 2026 City Council Minutes.

C

Motion to approve the Consent Agenda
*Mayor Dumbrow had intended to take a separate vote on Resolution No. 2352
(WCCLS Intergovernmental Agreement). City Recorder Lesmeister raised a point of
order that the resolution was part of the Consent Agenda and had therefore already
been approved. Mayor Dumbrow acknowledged this and no further action was taken.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Hagedorn.
Motion was approved unanimously.
6

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm
Persons wishing to speak on matters not on the agenda may be recognized at this time.
The public comment period is a limited public forum and comments are therefore
appropriately limited to matters of City concern, official action, or other matters that may
come before the City Council.
Written comment in advance of the meeting is welcome and should be emailed to
[email protected]. An individual or community group that wishes to provide public
comment virtually must register with the City Recorder by 3:00 pm the day of the meeting
and provide their name, address, email, phone, and a general topic.

a)

Rob Drake, non-resident and former Interim City Manager, spoke in support of
retaining City Manager Bill Reid. He cited Mr. Reid's professionalism, his work
advancing the Commercial Street grocery store project, and a $1 million federal EPA
grant for brownfield cleanup.
Meredith Bach and Joyce Meek-Reynolds asked Council to approve a brass plaque
with a photograph and short biography of Jessie Mays. It would be mounted on a
boulder at the community center playground. They described Ms. Mays as a firstgrade teacher of 38 years and the first woman elder of the Scotch church and noted
that her son Elmer Mays recently turned 100.
Robert "Butch" Kindel, North Plains resident, reflected on his 44 years on the City
Council and expressed opposition to the appointment of one of the Council vacancy
applicants.
Chris Edmonds, representing the North Plains Eastside Coalition, spoke in support of
City Manager Reid. He stated that Mr. Reid had been mistreated and that the pool of

Page 9 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
replacement candidates would be shallow. He also referred to a memo from Mr. Reid
that he felt Council had not answered.
Linda Galas-Merten, representing Strong Towns North Plains via Zoom, reported that
the City is a defendant in LUBA Case No. 2024044 concerning the 2022 Housing
Needs Analysis (plaintiff: 1000 Friends of Oregon). She noted that the petition for
review is due June 17 and that the City's attorneys would then have 21 days to
respond. She asked whether the City's insurance would cover the defense and fees,
and whether the City has the resources to pay if it does not.
7

ADDED ITEMS PER CONSENT AGENDA
a)

Consideration of Separation Agreement with City Manager
Motion to authorize the Mayor to execute the separation agreement on behalf
of the City
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Weber.
Motion was approved 5 to 1 with the following vote:
Councilor De Forge - yea
Councilor Hagedorn - yea
Councilor Warrington - yea
Councilor Weber - yea
Councilor Ugarte - nay

b)

Consideration of Appointing Library Director Robin Doughty as Acting City
Manager
Motion to appoint Library and Administrative Services Director Robin Doughty as
Acting City Manager, effective Monday, June 22, 2026, until an interim city manager
is in place or July 6, 2026, whichever occurs first, with authorization of 10%
additional duty pay during that period
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Weber.
Motion was approved 5 to 1 with the following vote:
Councilor De Forge - yea
Councilor Hagedorn - yea
Councilor Warrington - yea
Councilor Weber - yea
Councilor Ugarte - nay

8

PRESENTATION
Via Zoom - UMPQUA VALLEY FINANCIAL
7:20pm - 7:35pm

Page 10 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
a)

9

A representative of Umpqua Valley Financial reported that the firm had received and
reviewed the first draft of the FY 2022 financial statements and met with City staff the
prior Friday. The City had since provided additional requested documentation, which
would be reviewed that week. A second draft would be reviewed before the final draft
is provided.
Councilor De Forge asked why the audit had taken six months rather than the 60
days originally anticipated. The auditor responded that documents were not ready for
review when the firm first engaged with the City and were received only recently. The
auditor stated that the firm's standard turnaround is about 60 days once all
documents are received. The auditor said the FY 2022 review was about 80%
complete and that first audits typically take longer, with subsequent years expected to
move more quickly.
In response to Councilor De Forge's question about findings, the auditor stated that
prior reports contained findings and that findings were expected in the single audit
area.

STAFF REPORTS
7:35 pm - 7:45 pm
a)

Library Department Monthly Report
Library and Administrative Services Director Robin Doughty reported that the
summer reading program was going well and had nothing to add to the written report.

b)

Police Department Monthly Report
Police Chief Eamon O'Reilly had nothing to add to the written report. In response to
Councilor De Forge's question about reduced activity compared to the prior year,
Chief O'Reilly stated that year-over-year comparisons are difficult and that he prefers
to review trends month by month. Councilor Warrington asked about reports of
squatters in a residential area, and Councilor Hagedorn stated that a resident had
reported the issue. Chief O'Reilly stated he was unaware of the reports and asked
that such information be sent directly to him or reported through the non-emergency
line. He said he would have dispatch review for related calls.

c)

Public Works Monthly Report
Public Works Director Dustin Lueckenotte had nothing to add to the written report. No
questions were asked.

d)

Community Development Monthly Report
Assistant Planner Rowan Maiorano and the City's engineering representative from 3J
Consulting had nothing to add to their reports. Councilor Ugarte thanked City staff for
their thorough reports and recognized Assistant Planner Maiorano and Director
Doughty for their participation in a recent presentation.

Page 11 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
e)

Finance Department Monthly Report
A finance staff representative reported that this was the first monthly report prepared
by Merina and that nothing unusual was seen month over month. Council had no
questions.

10

RESOLUTIONS:
7:45pm - 7:55pm
a)

Res. No. 2351 - FY 2027 Fee Schedule Resolution
Mayor Dumbrow noted that the fee schedule is approved annually and had been
reviewed by the Budget Committee.
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2351, adopting the FY 2027 Fee Schedule
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ugarte.
Motion was approved unanimously.

b)

Resolution No. 2353 - Planner Job Description
Motion to adopt Resolution No. 2353, authorizing the creation of a Planner job
description
Motion was made by Councilor Ugarte.
Councilor De Forge then moved to table the resolution until after the audit is
complete. The motion received no second and was withdrawn.
Councilor Ugarte renewed her motion to adopt the resolution, which again received
no second and did not pass.
Mayor Dumbrow stated the item would return under Unfinished Business at the next
meeting.

11

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
7:55 pm a)

UGB PAC Meeting Update and Council Representation Update
Councilor De Forge reported no updates.

b)

Interview Applicants for City Council Vacancy
term through Dec. 31, 2028
Mayor Dumbrow explained that the mayor votes only in the case of a tie and that
Council could interview all, some, or no candidates. With 10 applicants, Council
discussed time limits for statements: Councilor Weber proposed five minutes, and
Mayor Dumbrow suggested three. By consensus, Council settled on four minutes per
candidate.

Page 12 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
Elizabeth Beaupain (via Zoom), a five-year resident and business owner, stated that
she is not against growth but wants clear written policies before a large expansion.
She also emphasized transparency, public access to audit reports, and phasing the
533-acre proposal in smaller steps.
Lisa Fry cited her service on the Economic Development Commission (since 2018)
and the Budget Committee, and her role as volunteer coordinator for the North Plains
Events Association. She emphasized supporting existing businesses, planning ahead
for growth, transparency, and cooperation with City commissions.
Ariel Goodwin, former Mayor, stated that her health is now stable. She emphasized
collaboration, visible results, rebuilding trust, and balancing growth with livability and
use of existing tools such as urban renewal.
Pauline Rosado, an eight-year resident, cited her experience with PTA and school
boards and her knowledge of Robert's Rules of Order. She called for sensible and
sustainable growth, more commercial services, and senior transit access.
Jason Ruston, a resident since 2016 and a program manager by profession, stated
that the question is not whether to grow but how. He cited the need for sound
financials, a clear plan, and improved communication.
Russ Sheldon expressed disappointment in the Council's action regarding the City
Manager and withdrew his application.
Mike Shurts, a general contractor and resident of more than nine years, stated that
he would help rebuild community trust in light of the UGB debate. He also proposed a
beautification program and updates to outdated City codes.
Anis Zaman cited his policy background, emphasized innovative policy and active
community engagement, and noted his conflict-resolution experience.
Tera VanDyke, a lifelong resident with more than 18 years in public finance, stressed
thoughtful growth tied to financial capacity, timely audits, grant management, and
transparency.
Cynthia Hirst had a family matter arise and was unable to present. Mayor Dumbrow
allowed additional time, but she did not appear.
Mayor Dumbrow reviewed the voting procedure: each Councilor may nominate or
second, but not both, and nominations without a second die. Voting would be by
paper ballot.
Councilor Ugarte nominated Lisa Fry; the nomination received no second and died.
Councilor Hagedorn nominated Jason Ruston, seconded by Councilor Weber.
Councilor Warrington nominated Mike Shurts, seconded by Councilor De Forge.
Paper ballots were handed out by the City Recorder. The City Recorder then read
each paper ballot vote:
Councilor Ugarte - Jason Ruston
Councilor Weber - Jason Ruston
Councilor Hagedorn - Jason Ruston
Councilor De Forge - Mike Shurts
Councilor Warrington - Mike Shurts
Page 13 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
Jason Ruston was appointed to fill the vacancy by a 3-2 vote and will be sworn in on
the July 6, 2026, City Council meeting.
Mayor Dumbrow reminded unsuccessful applicants of the fall election and stated that
the filing deadline is believed to be August 15.
.
c)

Audit Update
Mayor Dumbrow noted that the audit update had been moved earlier in the meeting
at the City Manager's request, and no further discussion occurred.

d)

Amending Council Rules
Mayor Dumbrow reported that the City Attorney had not completed the proposed
language. Council agreed by consensus to postpone the item to the July 6 meeting.

12

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Parliamentarian Discussion
Councilor Hagedorn proposed a temporary three-month pilot to retain a
parliamentarian. She asked that staff return with options on scope, qualifications, and
cost, with the goal of ensuring consistency, efficiency, and confidence in meeting
procedures. She stated this would not replace the City Attorney, staff, or Mayor.
Councilor Ugarte asked what outcome and measure of success was expected. She
initially suggested any engagement begin once a permanent City Manager is in place
and later stated her view that a parliamentarian is not needed. She said the mayor
keeps meetings on track and that the Council itself affects meeting efficiency.
Councilor Weber favored asking City Attorney Emily Matasar for a name and cost,
and Councilor De Forge supported receiving options. Mayor Dumbrow asked what
the Council hoped to accomplish and suggested that training at an off-site retreat
could be an alternative. Councilor Hagedorn clarified that the request was only for
staff to research options and costs.
Council reached consensus for staff to return with costs and options under
Unfinished Business at a future meeting.

13

REPORTS
a)

City Manager Report
City Manager Reid stated that this was his last City Council meeting. He thanked the
Council and recognized North Plains' volunteers and City staff, asking Council to
continue cultivating volunteers and to retain staff. He expressed confidence in
Director Doughty as Acting City Manager.

Page 14 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
June 15, 2026
b)

Council Reports
Councilor Warrington reported attending the joint Council and Planning Commission
work session, the OPB Think Out Loud event, and the Ice Cream Social. She
requested a future agenda item on the code discussion. Mayor Dumbrow responded
that the code language had already been sent to the Planning Commission and staff,
with another work session to follow.
Councilor Hagedorn reported on her ex officio role with the Planning Commission,
noting confusion about the path forward on the code package and a continued
discussion planned for mid-July. She also noted upcoming WCCCA business.
Councilor De Forge suggested that staff convene Council to build a common
understanding of the City's legal activity and expenses. Mayor Dumbrow said he
would ask the City Attorney whether this should occur in executive session, and
Council agreed.
Councilor Ugarte reported attending the Policy Advisory Board and thanked the North
Plains Events Association and volunteers. She asked for legal clarification on
whether Councilors attending events such as the OPB session or a UGB PAC
meeting create a quorum. Councilor Warrington said the City Attorney had advised
her she could attend as a citizen. Mayor Dumbrow asked that emails not be
forwarded to the full Council to avoid creating a quorum. Councilor Ugarte will email
the City Attorney, asking that the response go to all Council members.
Councilor Weber reported on MACC meetings (executive sessions), the Economic
Development Commission, the Parks and Recreation Board, and the Ice Cream
Social.
Mayor Dumbrow reported no ex officio duties. He proposed referring the Jessie Mays
plaque request to the Parks Board to return with a proposal, and Council agreed by
consensus. Councilor Ugarte requested a future agenda item regarding the planner
position, which Mayor Dumbrow confirmed would automatically return under
Unfinished Business.

c)

Review July 2026 Council Calendar
Mayor Dumbrow noted that the July 1 Economic Development Commission meeting
is cancelled. He stated that he would be absent from the next meeting and that
Council President Hagedorn would preside.

14

ADJOURNMENT: 8:32 pm

Aaron Dumbrow, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder
Page 15 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Monday, July 6, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacant , Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason
Ruston, Mike Shurts, Anna Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

Acting City Manager Robin Doughty, City Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

CALL TO ORDER AT 7:00 PM
Council President Hagedorn oversaw the meeting in Mayor Dumbrow's absence.

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

4

Mayor Dumbrow and Councilor Ugarte excused.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

No minutes to approve.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor De Forge.
Motion was approved unanimously.

5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm

Page 16 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 6, 2026

6

a)

Paul Harwood, North Plains resident, asked about the plan and timing for an interim
city manager, how long Acting City Manager Doughty would serve in that role,
whether she would receive additional compensation, and whether the Council had
publicly discussed these matters.

b)

Lisa Ferrari Harwood, North Plains resident, asked the Council to consider
Resolution 2356 carefully before voting. She cited possible overlap between regional
planning memberships and the City's current financial position.

c)

Butch Kindel, North Plains resident, objected to the June 15, 2026, vote to terminate
the former City Manager's contract. He asked the Council for a written public
explanation.

d)

Ricky Smith, North Plains resident, criticized the Council's handling of staffing
vacancies, reduced City Hall hours, recruitment costs, and meeting procedures. He
asked who prepared the evening's agenda packet.

e)

David Barnes and Vicky Barnes, residents of Banks, opposed the proposed private
jet hangar project at Hillsboro Airport. They said an appeal would be heard August 18
and asked the Council to send a letter of concern to the City of Hillsboro.

f)

David Hatcher, North Plains resident, raised concerns about Urban Renewal Agency
grant practices. He said the Agency does not issue grants and called for Councilor
Weber's removal as chair.

g)

Lora Dexheimer, representing the North Plains Food Bank, invited the Council to the
volunteer barbecue on Sunday at 1:00 PM and to the "Kick Start to School" event on
the 18th, which will serve up to 700 students.

h)

Elizabeth Beaupain, a local business owner, appeared by Zoom. She asked what
action the Council would take on her business's denied tenant improvement grant
application and asked for transparent, consistent administration of future grant
programs.

RESOLUTIONS:
a)

Res. No. 2355 – Appointing Jason Ruston to City Council for the remainder of a
term ending Dec. 31, 2028
Move to approve Resolution No. 2355
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

b)

Oath of Office – Swearing in of Jason Ruston to North Plains City Council for a
term through Dec. 31, 2028
Acting City Manager Doughty administered the oath of office to Councilor Ruston,
who was then seated.

Page 17 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 6, 2026
c)

Res. No. 2356 – Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement with MidWillamette Valley Council of Governments
City Attorney Matasar explained that the agreement would make the City an affiliate
of the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments (COG). The only committed
cost is a $500 annual affiliate fee. Services such as city recorder, planning, and
recruiting would be available at affiliate rates while the City is in transition. Councilor
Ruston asked whether the referenced Local Service Plan existed. City Attorney
Matasar said it did not yet exist and that services would be defined after the City
joined. In response to Councilor Warrington, she said the Acting City Manager would
determine which services to request once the City became an affiliate.
Move to approve Resolution No. 2356
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Weber.
Motion was approved unanimously.

d)

Following the vote on Resolution No. 2356, City Attorney Matasar raised a related
matter. She explained that under the city's charter, the City Manager Pro Tem may
only appoint or remove employees with council approval. Acting City Manager
Doughty informed the Council that she had been in contact with the deputy city
recorder from the City of Sherwood, who had agreed to assist the city with city
recording duties on a temporary basis while the regular city recorder, Lori Lesmeister,
is on a leave of absence. Lori Lesmeister is expected to return on September 14th.
Acting City Manager Doughty noted that the Deputy City Recorder of Sherwood could
only work approximately 10 hours per week in any case, and that the plan was to
have this temporary experienced city recorder in place with the COG as a backup.
Move to authorize Acting City Manager Doughty to hire the Sherwood deputy
city recorder as a substitute city recorder, with the Mid-Willamette Valley COG
as backup.
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

e)

Res. No. 2357 – Authorizing Execution of Agreement with Beery, Elsner &
Hammond, LLP for Municipal Legal Services
Acting City Manager Doughty introduced this item as a renewal of the city's legal
services agreement with Beery, Elsner & Hammond, LLP (BEH), noting it was an
administrative oversight that the prior contract had been allowed to expire on June
30, 2025. City Attorney Matasar acknowledged the oversight and stated that
mechanisms are now in place to prevent such lapses from occurring again. She
noted that the city and BEH had continued operating under the terms of the expired
contract. The proposed resolution would renew the agreement for a three-year term
from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. BEH has served as the city's attorney
since 1998.

Page 18 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 6, 2026
Councilor DeForge recommended soliciting information from other firms before
committing to a three-year term. Councilor Weber agreed, favoring a competitive
process and more discussion with the full Council. Councilor Warrington cautioned
against placing added burden on the Acting City Manager. Councilor Ruston asked
about the City's exposure under the lapse.
Motion to table Resolution No. 2357 to the July 20, 2026, meeting, pending
comparison of rates and services.
Moved by Councilor DeForge. Second by Councilor Weber.
The motion carried unanimously.
City Attorney Matasar advised that staff lacked capacity for fact-finding and
suggested a subcommittee or a single councilor. Councilor Warrington noted that the
subcommittee should not include the whole Council.
Motion to authorize the Council President to form a subcommittee of two
councilors to investigate law firms for the City.
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously by a roll call vote with all in attendance voting
aye.
7

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
a)

UGB PAC Meeting Update
Councilor De Forge reported no updates.

b)

Audit Update
Acting City Manager Doughty reported that the audit firm and the City's contracted
finance consultant could not attend because the meeting was outside business
hours. The consultant met with part of the audit team on June 18, and she followed
up June 24 without a response. She said staff's portion of the audit was complete
and that draft financials had been received. The controls-recommendation portion
remained outstanding.
Councilor DeForge expressed concern that the audit was in its seventh month
against a promised 60 days and asked for greater urgency. Acting City Manager
Doughty said she would seek recommendations at the Oregon City/County
Management Association conference. Councilor Warrington asked that the consultant
submit a written status memo for each meeting. Acting City Manager Doughty agreed
to set that expectation. Councilor Weber proposed authorizing Councilor DeForge to
contact the auditor and consultant directly. After City Attorney Matasar advised that
contract administration is delegated to the City Manager under the Charter, he
withdrew the proposal. Councilor Ruston asked whether the contracts include

Page 19 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 6, 2026
reporting requirements. Acting City Manager Doughty said she would review them.
The Council President asked about a contract amendment to expand the consultant's
scope following the former City Manager's departure. Staff will follow up.
c)

Council Rule Government Data Acquisition
(no update from staff)

d)

Parliamentarian
No update from staff.
Councilor DeForge asked whether councilors could research costs to relieve staff.
Acting City Manager Doughty noted the expense was not budgeted and suggested
first scheduling a brief presentation by a parliamentarian at a regular meeting.
Councilors reported hourly rates of roughly $100 (Councilor DeForge) and $150–
$200 (Council President). Councilor Weber proposed a three-month trial, estimating a
cost of a couple of thousand dollars that could be offset by fewer attorney
attendances. Councilor Warrington supported the idea. The Council President
favored a trial with defined success criteria. No motion was made. The Council
President will connect staff with the regional parliamentarian association director, and
scheduling will follow agenda protocol.

8

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Update on Interim City Manager Search and Extension of City Manager Pro
Tem Appointment to July 20, 2026
City Attorney Matasar reported that no candidates had been found who were both
qualified and available for full-term work. Options under review include an assistant
city manager from a nearby city on loan. Acting City Manager Doughty agreed to
continue serving through July 20. Councilor DeForge asked that search criteria be
widened, for example to include a finance manager. City Attorney Matasar had no
objection, noting that the mayor is the designated liaison. In response to Councilor
Weber, Acting City Manager Doughty said human resources expertise is the most
useful skill at present. Councilors were asked to send criteria and feedback to the
Mayor and the Acting City Manager rather than the City Attorney, to control costs.
By unanimous consent with no objection, the Council extended Acting City Manager
Doughty's appointment as City Manager Pro Tem through July 20, 2026. City
Attorney Matasar confirmed that no formal motion was required.

b)

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Urban Requalification Process
City Attorney Matasar reported that no packet materials were provided. She forecast
an intergovernmental agreement for the July 20 agenda to continue the City's
membership in the Washington County CDBG Consortium. Council approval is
required by the end of July.

Page 20 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 6, 2026
9

REPORTS
a)

City Manager Report
Acting City Manager Doughty thanked staff and said it was difficult to reduce
services. The Council President praised her leadership. The Council President read
Mayor Dumbrow's written report on the interim City Manager search, which listed the
criteria of city management experience, Oregon experience, and small-city
experience. It said no candidate met more than one criterion, that candidates are
expected to be presented on July 20, and that staff shortages call for patience.

b)

Council Reports
Councilor Warrington: Reported on the June 17 Library Board meeting. The two new
members begin terms July 1.
Councilor DeForge: Commended Councilor Weber for identifying a $30,000 issue
while serving as an ex officio liaison. He requested future agenda items on the
Hillsboro Airport jet hub and on the housing needs analysis policy, the latter for July
20 because of legal deadlines. Acting City Manager Doughty said staff could not draft
a position letter, so the Council will discuss who would write it. Councilors supported
both requests.
Councilor Weber: Requested an agenda item on the Urban Growth Boundary and
Transportation and Growth Management (TGM) grant process, and a monthly
finance report from the finance consultant. The Council President proposed
consolidated questions to the consultant for a memo at the July 20 meeting. City
Attorney Matasar advised that questions and manager-search criteria go only to the
Acting City Manager and the Mayor.
Councilor Ruston: Thanked the Council and invited residents to contact him.
Council President Hagedorn: Reported on the Washington County Consolidated
Communications Agency (WCCCA) compensation study and salary updates for six
job classifications. She also reported on parliamentary training, noting that the
Council's rules cite an outdated edition of Robert's Rules and that the agenda format
is nonstandard. She recommended a class for councilors.

c)
10

Review July 2026 Council Calendar

ADJOURNMENT: 8:41 pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 21 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Monday, July 20, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor Aaron Dumbrow, Council President Mandy Hagedorn,
Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason Ruston, Anna
Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

Temp. City Manager Robin Doughty, City Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

EXECUTIVE SESSION

2

CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 pm

3

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4

ROLL CALL

5

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

Approval of (DATE) City Council Minutes.
No minutes available for approval.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ruston
Motion was approved unanimously.

6

PUBLIC COMMENT:
a)

Page 22 of 85

Mayor Dumbrow reminded the public that the Council may not respond to public
comments and that councilors could raise matters during council reports.
Resident Russ Sheldon said he supported both the legal counsel renewal and the
interim city manager appointment as necessary for stability. He asked the Council for

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026
a long-term strategy to retain staff, recruit leadership and preserve institutional
knowledge.
Resident Lori Furrow urged a transparent, inclusive interim city manager selection
involving the whole Council. She said legal counsel should remain neutral and that
no one person should influence or recommend a candidate.
Resident Robert "Butch" Kindel, a 52-year resident, expressed concern over the loss
of long-serving staff and what he described as outside influences harming the city.
Emily Waldron, rural resident, said the charter provides for rural resident
participation. She urged the Council to pursue a resolution on a housing matter she
called the "HNA," and raised concerns about reported workplace findings regarding
the interim city manager candidate's prior tenure. She also questioned the focus on
the TGM grant while the Brownfields grant remains behind.
Resident Ricky Smith criticized the treatment of city staff and the proposed $3,000
parliamentarian expenditure outside the adopted budget. He defended the city
attorney’s contract and thanked Councilor Ugarte.
Resident Cindy Smith asked the Council not to hire a dedicated parliamentarian. She
noted that none of Oregon's 241 cities employ one, that the city attorney or recorder
typically fills the role, and that the League of Oregon Cities offers free parliamentary
training.
Resident Meredith Bach asked the Council to approve a boulder and an
approximately $500 metal plaque honoring Jessie Mays at the community center.
She said Mr. Kindel would handle installation.
Linda Galas-Merten, speaking online for Strong Towns North Plains, praised the
Urban Renewal Agency board's consultant guidance, business grant program and
regular meetings. She also praised the Council's effort to obtain a parliamentarian,
citing cost-effectiveness and the charter's Robert's Rules requirement.
7

STAFF REPORTS
7:20 pm - 7:30 pm
a)

Finance Department Monthly Report - Amanda Taylor, Merina + Co.
Amanda Taylor of Merina & Co. presented the report for the month ending May 2026.
Reports will now lag about six weeks so month-end closing can be completed and
verified.
In response to Councilor De Forge, Ms. Taylor said the report's pivot tables are
drawn directly from the general ledger and match system-generated reports.
In response to Councilor Warrington, Ms. Taylor explained that red figures were
manually highlighted to show categories above the expected 45.8 percent. General
Government materials and services stood at 61 percent because Merina's fees
replaced the vacant finance manager position, which is budgeted under personnel.
Community Development materials and services stood at 87.5 percent, likely due to a
purchase budgeted for the biennium. No department was over budget in total.

8

RESOLUTIONS:
a)

Page 23 of 85

Res. No. 2353 Planner Job Description

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026
Acting City Manager Doughty said that over the past four weeks the Assistant
Planner had been performing planner-level work, and she supported the promotion.
Councilor De Forge asked why the position was not open recruitment; Mayor
Dumbrow replied that it was a promotion.
Councilor Ugarte supported the resolution as an investment in retention, estimated
the added cost at $10,000 to $15,000, and asked that a career progression
framework be developed later. Councilor Weber, Council President Hagedorn and
Councilor Warrington asked whether the matter could wait for a permanent city
manager and raised budget concerns. Councilor Ruston asked whether the
employee met all essential job functions. Mayor Dumbrow said the choice was
effectively between promoting the employee and cutting city services.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2353, authorizing the City Manager to create a fulltime Planner position per Exhibit A
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion failed with the following roll call vote:
Councilor Ruston – aye
Councilor Ugarte – aye
Mayor Dumbrow – aye
Councilor Warrington - nay
Councilor Weber – nay
Councilor Hagedorn – nay
Councilor De Forge - nay
b)

Res. No. 2357 Authorizing BEH PSA
City Attorney Matasar explained that the contract with Beery, Elsner & Hammond,
LLP (BEH) expired June 30, 2025, without either party noticing. BEH remains the
appointed city attorney under the charter. The city may terminate the contract at any
time without penalty or notice, so approval carries no downside while operating
without a contract carries risk. She said a shorter contract would be no different.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2357, renewing the personal services contract with
Beery, Elsner & Hammond, LLP from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028,
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Hagedorn.
Motion was approved 4-3 by the following roll call vote:
Councilor Ruston – aye
Councilor Ugarte – aye
Mayor Dumbrow – aye
Councilor Warrington - nay
Councilor Weber – aye
Councilor Hagedorn – nay
Councilor De Forge – nay

Page 24 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026

c)

Res. No. 2358 On Call Engineering Contract
Brian Feeney of 3J Consulting said the five-year engineering contract has ended and
the proposed one-year contract, not to exceed $100,000, would bridge services until
an RFP can be issued. Acting City Manager Doughty cited weekly construction
inspections as a service needing no gap. Mr. Feeney said the contract covers plan
review, permit approvals and inspections, while larger capital projects remain on
hold.
Councilor De Forge asked why an RFP was not started earlier; Mayor Dumbrow said
those with the answer were not present.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2358, a contract with 3J Consulting not to exceed
$100,000
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

d)

Res. No. 2359 Proprietary GIS Model Contract
Mr. Feeney said 3J created the city's GIS system, which supports planning,
engineering and public works, and the contract maintains and updates it. Acting City
Manager Doughty said it qualified as a sole source because of the system's
proprietary nature and could support automated water meter reading. Assistant
Planner Maiorano stressed continuity for planning and public works.
Councilor Ruston asked about vendor lock-in. Mr. Feeney, Acting City Manager
Doughty and Assistant Planner Maiorano said GIS systems are generally proprietary.
Mayor Dumbrow shared similar experiences from his professional work and said he
had cleared any conflict.
In response to Councilor Weber, Mr. Feeney said the contract totals $200,000 over
two years, which is within the adopted budget. Recent monthly costs were about
$6,000 and are expected to be lower for maintenance.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2359
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

e)

Res. No. 2362 Interim City Manager Appointment
Mayor Dumbrow said three qualified candidates were identified, one declined and
one was unavailable until August, leaving Gary Marks. Mr. Marks answered Council
questions.
●Audits (Councilor De Forge): Mr. Marks said Lebanon received clean audits for
each of his five years there.
●Priorities (Councilor Ruston): Mr. Marks said he would bring stability, assist with the
permanent manager recruitment, and offer to lead vision and strategic planning.

Page 25 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026
●Administrative leave (Councilor Ugarte): Mr. Marks said the allegations of abrasive
conduct were untrue and that the recruiter had vetted him.
●Motivation (Councilor Weber): Mr. Marks cited his passion for city government
despite being retired.
●Dual roles and residency (Councilor Warrington): Mr. Marks said he can serve as
city manager and finance director and pledged transparency. He is arranging
temporary housing near North Plains.
●Conflict experience (Council President Hagedorn): Mr. Marks described resolving a
dispute in Whitefish, Montana, by reassigning two employees.
Mayor Dumbrow said Mr. Marks does not seek a long-term role and is comfortable
with about six months. City Attorney Matasar said the start date needed to move one
day because Acting City Manager Doughty agreed to
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2362 as amended, extending Acting City Manager
Doughty's service through July 21 and delaying Mr. Marks's start to July 22.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor De Forge.
Motion was approved unanimously with a roll call vote with the Mayor and all
Councilors voting aye
.
Motion to appoint Robin Doughty to serve as city manager pro tem through July 21,
2026.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor De Forge.
Motion was approved unanimously.
9

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
a)

Audit Update – Amanda Taylor of Merina + Co
Ms. Taylor reported that the auditors returned immaterial changes to the FY22
financial statements. Merina sent the final copy back the following day. The
engagement partner who must sign the audit report is on vacation for ten days, and
no other firm member can approve it. The remaining pieces are the auditor's report,
the single audit report and the Oregon minimum standards report. Merina has begun
engagement letters for additional audits.
Councilor Weber asked for a reasonable timeline. Ms. Taylor said timing is in the
auditor's hands and that municipal auditors are heavily overloaded. Councilor
Warrington asked about the 2022 draft; Ms. Taylor said a draft exists but is withheld
to avoid circulation of a non-final document. Ms. Taylor said she will attend the next
meeting if the audit has been issued and otherwise will attend the second meeting of
each month to present the financial report.

b)

Page 26 of 85

Council Rule Government Data Acquisition

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026
10

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Discussion of Drafting Letter to Port of Portland
Councilor De Forge raised a public request that the Council write a letter opposing a
new hangar at the Hillsboro Airport, citing jet noise and lead concerns. Mayor
Dumbrow said a formal Council letter would require a resolution and that the matter is
not directly related to the city. Council consensus was not to pursue a Council letter.
The Mayor and City Attorney Matasar noted that individual councilors may write on
their own behalf if they state they are not speaking for the city.

b)

City Attorney Subcommittee
Councilor De Forge reported that he and Councilor Warrington had contacted several
interested firms and were using preliminary criteria such as municipal, land use and
employment law experience, cost and responsiveness. They proposed that interested
firms appear before the Council.
Acting City Manager Doughty said another city manager advised that the process is
an intermediate procurement requiring a request for qualified quotes. She estimated
transition costs of $10,000 to $20,000 that are not budgeted. Councilor Warrington
said she read the public contracting code as not requiring an RFP. Councilor De
Forge will follow up with the City Attorney and the new city manager.
Mayor Dumbrow said the work was moving without Council guardrails. Councilor
Ugarte, Councilor Weber and Council President Hagedorn supported tabling the
matter and holding a work session. Council consensus was to hold a work session
with the interim city manager.

11

REPORTS
a)

Acting City Manager Report
Acting City Manager, Doughty noted that most staff reports were under the consent
agenda. She announced her departure after nearly seven years, with a last day of
July 30, and praised the library staff. Mayor Dumbrow, City Attorney Matasar,
Councilor Weber and Councilor Ugarte thanked her for her service.

b)

Council Reports
Councilor De Forge had no updates and suggested a work session on the
engineering RFP.
Councilor Ruston reported on the library board meeting, where a new chair was
elected and the Friends of the Library gave updates.
Councilor Ugarte asked about city assistance with the Jessie Mays boulder and
plaque. Acting City Manager Doughty recommended Council goal setting.
Councilor Ugarte announced National Night Out for Thursday, July 30, from 6 to 8
PM at Jessie Mays.
Councilor Weber reported on food bank events and suggested inviting an expert to a
work session.

Page 27 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
July 20, 2026
Councilor Warrington reported on the July 14 Urban Renewal Agency meeting. She
requested a "follow-up items" sub header under unfinished business. Mayor
Dumbrow will check the Council rules with the interim city manager.
Council President Hagedorn asked that her status update and timeline on a topic
missing from unfinished business be entered into the public record.
Mayor Dumbrow had no ex officio duties and reported time spent on city manager
recruitment.
c)

Review (Month) 2026 Council Calendar

12

ADVICE/INFORMATION ITEMS:

13

EXECUTIVE SESSION

14

ADJOURNMENT:

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 28 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES

City Council - Special Session Meeting
Friday, July 31, 2026 - 12:00 PM
Via Zoom Only

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor Aaron Dumbrow; Council President Mandy Hagedorn;
Councilors: Mark De Forge, Trista Papen, Jason Ruston, Anna
Warrington, Don Weber

COUNCIL ABSENT: Mayor Aaron Dumbrow excused.
STAFF PRESENT:
1

City Attorney Emily Matasar, Planning Assistant Rowan Maiorano

CALL TO ORDER at 12:00 pm
Council President Mandy Hagedorn called the Special Meeting of the North Plains City
Council to order at approximately 12:00 PM on Friday, July 31, 2026. The meeting was
conducted via Zoom. Council President Hagedorn noted that while no live public comment
would be received at this special meeting, all written public comments submitted had been
received and acknowledged and would be included in the public record upon publication.

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

This meeting was held virtually via Zoom only.
Mayor Dumbrow was excused. All other members of Council were in attendance.

4

RESOLUTIONS:
a)

Res. No. 2363 - Interim City Manager Appointment
Council President Hagedorn introduced the item — Resolution No. 2363, appointing
an Interim/Pro Tem City Manager and authorizing a temporary employment
agreement — and invited legal counsel to present the staff report, after which she
indicated she would entertain discussion and questions from the Council.

Page 29 of 85

City Council - Special Session Minutes
July 31, 2026
Staff Report
Legal Counsel Emily Matasar, of the Office of the City Attorney, briefly confirmed that
Ross Schultz was also present on the call before proceeding with her presentation.
Legal Counsel Matasar opened by providing context for the emergency nature of the
appointment. She advised the Council that the previous Interim/Pro Tem City
Manager, Gary Marks, had resigned suddenly on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, after only
four days in the role. His stated reasons for departing were severe staffing shortages,
actions by council members, and actions taken by a member of the community —
and notably, he had resigned prior to signing the employment agreement that had
been negotiated with the City.
Legal Counsel Matasar acknowledged that she had heard concerns from some
quarters regarding the abbreviated process and a perceived lack of transparency, but
she was emphatic that the situation constituted a genuine crisis: "This is a crisis."
She conveyed the gravity of the situation by noting that her firm represents
approximately 25 cities in Oregon, with attorneys having decades of experience in
government law, and that none of them had ever encountered a situation like the one
facing North Plains. She observed that North Plains is already a small city with a
small staff, and that the city currently found itself relying on a skeleton crew. Legal
Counsel Matasar took a moment to specifically acknowledge and thank remaining
staff members — Bailey, April, and Rowan — for going above and beyond their job
descriptions in recent days: "I cannot express how amazing they have been these
last few days."
Legal Counsel Matasar explained the path to Mr. Schultz's candidacy: during the
prior search for an interim city manager, her colleague Heather Martin had spoken
with Mr. Schultz and knew he was available on a short-term basis. Heather Martin
contacted him, and he agreed to fill in on a short-term basis. Legal Counsel Matasar
noted that Mr. Schultz is qualified, with experience not only as a city manager but
specifically as an interim city manager on multiple occasions. She described the
immediate need clearly: the city needs someone with experience to come in, stabilize
operations, and help run a transparent process to recruit a longer-term interim city
manager and, ultimately, a permanent city manager. However, she underscored that
the city did not have the luxury to take those steps today, tomorrow, or even next
week.
The recommendation of the Office of the City Attorney was to appoint Ross Schultz
at this meeting. Legal Counsel Matasar advised that both she and Mr. Schultz were
available to answer questions.
Council Questions for Legal Counsel
Council President Hagedorn invited questions from the Council for legal counsel
before proceeding to a motion.
Councilor Trista Ugarte raised two questions: first, she asked for an explanation of
why live public comment was not being offered at this session; and second, she
sought confirmation that public comment would be available at the Monday council
meeting.
Legal Counsel Matasar responded that written public comment had been received
and distributed to the Council, and that the decision to forgo live verbal comment was
a practical one given the emergency circumstances. She noted that public comment
is not required by law, and that the recommendation was to move forward with a brief
Page 30 of 85

City Council - Special Session Minutes
July 31, 2026
special meeting accepting only written comment. Regarding the Monday meeting,
Legal Counsel Matasar advised that the regular council meeting was being
rescheduled because there was no staff available to prepare an agenda or packet,
which is required under public meetings law to be posted in advance. She expressed
hope that the incoming interim city manager would be able to schedule a special
meeting relatively quickly to resume the city's business.
Councilor Warrington asked who had vetted and approved Mr. Schultz as the interim
city manager candidate, and whether any other applicants had been considered.
Legal Counsel Matasar clarified that it is ultimately the Council's prerogative to
approve and appoint Mr. Schultz as interim. As for vetting, she noted that the Office
of the City Attorney had examined his credentials and had worked with him
previously in his other roles as city manager. She further confirmed that the offer is
conditional, pending the passage of a background check. She also noted that Council
had forwarded her some emails from individuals who had expressed interest in the
role and suggested those names could be considered in the next round of
recruitment — reiterating that this appointment was, in essence, an emergency
solution.
Introduction of Ross Schultz
Council President Hagedorn invited Mr. Ross Schultz to briefly introduce himself to
the Council before questions.
Mr. Schultz thanked the Council President and provided an overview of his
professional background. He described approximately 45 years of public service,
beginning at the Port of Portland where he served for roughly 18 years as Corporate
Finance Manager, with some additional information technology work. In 2000, he
joined the City of Sherwood as Finance Director, was subsequently appointed
Assistant City Manager, and then City Manager. He served eight years as
Sherwood's City Manager, during which time the city's population grew from
approximately 10,000 to 18,000 residents. In 2008, he retired and founded his own
small business, CityX. Since that time, he has served as Interim City Manager,
Interim Finance Director, and in other interim management roles for 13 different
municipalities. He expressed his readiness to answer questions from the Council.
Council Questions for Mr. Schultz
Council President Hagedorn opened the floor for individual councilor questions,
proceeding in order of appearance on the screen.
Councilor Weber expressed gratitude for Mr. Schultz's willingness to help and asked
him to elaborate on his interest in taking on interim roles so many times. Mr. Schultz
responded with candor and good humor: "It's kind of the honeymoon phase of being
a city manager — that's why I like it." He added that after more than 30 years of
public service, the interim model allows him to set his own schedule, which is the
practical appeal.
Councilor Ruston indicated he had no questions at this time.
Councilor De Forge asked Mr. Schultz directly: "What can we do to make you
successful next week?" Mr. Schultz identified open communications as the single
most important factor. He acknowledged that he did not yet know all the inner
workings of the City of North Plains, though he had read and heard quite a bit from
colleagues. He noted that his phone had already been "ringing off the hook" even
Page 31 of 85

City Council - Special Session Minutes
July 31, 2026
before his appointment and emphasized that open communications would be
essential to getting everything back on track.
Councilor Ugarte thanked Mr. Schultz for considering North Plains and expressed a
desire to make sure he was clear on the expectations of the role given the current
circumstances. She noted, as Legal Counsel Matasar had, that the situation was
unprecedented, and said she wanted to ensure he understood what he was walking
into — specifically the critical state of staffing, the need to wear many hats, and the
absence of a currently appointed Mayor. She framed it as wanting to ensure
transparency while also setting him up for success. Mr. Schultz responded warmly,
expressing his intention to speak with each councilor and the mayor individually
before truly getting started: "I look forward to asking you what your expectations are
and understanding what those are before I really get going." Councilor Ugarte
affirmed that understanding and reiterated the business-critical nature of the staffing
situation.
Councilor Warrington welcomed Mr. Schultz and, noting his extensive experience,
asked him to speak to what his first steps would be to stabilize the city, "as people
are saying we need so badly." Mr. Schultz outlined a clear initial approach: if
councilors could make time during the first week — Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday
— he would like to meet with each of them one-on-one to understand their
expectations and their view of the city's needs. He also planned to meet with staff to
conduct what he called "first aid" — addressing the most urgent needs first. He noted
that resources are available through the League of Oregon Cities and the Willamette
Valley COG, and that he was "not beyond actually calling up city managers from
other cities and seeing if we can beg, borrow, steal personnel to help the city keep its
staff going." He was clear that his plan would be informed by what he learned from
the Council and staff in those early conversations.
Council President Hagedorn asked if there were any final questions before
proceeding to the motion. Hearing none, she moved forward.
Move to adopt Resolution No. 2363, appointing Ross Schultz as the Interim/Pro
Tem City Manager and authorizing the Council President to enter into a
temporary employment agreement with Ross Schultz.
Council Discussion on the Motion
Council President Hagedorn opened the floor for council discussion on the motion.
Councilor Ruston raised a practical concern about what day one would look like for
Mr. Schultz — specifically regarding continuity and onboarding: "There are things
with some of the turnover — questions about getting him online, technically,
passwords, keys to the building — just that whole shebang so he's not showing up at
8 o'clock in the morning standing outside all lonely in a parking lot." She further
expressed concern about continuity of information — whether files, passwords, and
the status of current projects from departing staff would be accessible to the incoming
interim.
Council President Hagedorn confirmed that she had been personally working with
Legal Counsel Matasar on exactly that issue for the past 48 hours. She invited Legal
Counsel Matasar to address the question. Legal Counsel Matasar confirmed that,
while she had not yet had a chance to reach out directly to current city staff, her
intent was to ensure that someone would be there to welcome Mr. Schultz, get him
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City Council - Special Session Minutes
July 31, 2026
into the building, and get him online on Monday. The City Recorder then advised, via
written communication received during the meeting, that IT support would be on-site
in person on Monday, which Council President Hagedorn acknowledged and relayed
to the group. Council President Hagedorn also noted personally that she planned to
be present at City Hall at 8:00 AM on Monday morning to welcome Mr. Schultz on his
first day and invited any councilors who wished to join her for a cup of coffee to do
so.
Hearing no further discussion, Council President Hagedorn called the vote on the
motion previously stated
:
Move to adopt Resolution No. 2363, appointing Ross Schultz as the Interim/Pro Tem
City Manager and authorizing the Council President to enter into a temporary
employment agreement with Ross Schultz.
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ugarte.
Motion was approved unanimously.
b)

Council President Hagedorn formally congratulated Mr. Schultz on his appointment,
telling him: "There are a lot of people here in the city of North Plains that are looking
forward to sitting down with you and partnering with you and helping you to be
successful. We appreciate your willingness, especially, to serve the city of North
Plains."
Councilor Explanation of Votes
Council President Hagedorn noted that under Council Rules, Section F(1)(f),
members wishing to explain the reasons for their votes were invited to do so. She
opened the floor and recognized councilors individually.
Councilor De Forge stated that he viewed this as an extraordinary situation and
expressed sincere appreciation for the remaining city staff who were weathering the
storm. He expressed his support for Mr. Schultz's involvement and his commitment to
partnering together to set the city and its residents up for success.
Councilor Ugarte thanked city staff, describing them as "the glue that has been
keeping things running," and extended thanks to Legal Counsel Matasar for her work
through what she characterized as circumstances that were "probably beyond the
scope of what we could have ever imagined." Regarding her own vote, Councilor
Ugarte stated directly: "We are at a critical level where this is going to start to greatly
impact not just government operations, but our residents as well." She expressed
appreciation for Mr. Schultz's willingness to step in immediately and articulated her
hope that his service would provide the breathing room necessary to find a longerterm city manager and rebuild city staff.
Councilor Warrington acknowledged Mr. Schultz's qualifications, having reviewed his
resume, but offered a candid observation: "We really only had one vote to vote on, so
there isn't a lot of explanation to do. I wish there would have been more applicants —
not that there's anything, of course, wrong with mister Schultz." She noted that it is
generally good policy to have more than one candidate to consider for a city
executive role. She nonetheless expressed full support for Mr. Schultz and committed
to doing everything she could to make his time successful.

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
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Councilor Ruston stated that he had reviewed Mr. Schultz's resume and was
impressed by it, noting he appeared to be the right person to help the city over the
next 30 days. He expressed appreciation for his willingness to step in.
Councilor Weber echoed prior comments, affirming that Mr. Schultz was a very
qualified candidate, that the city was clearly in a time crunch, and that his ability to
start right away was of significant value. He closed simply: "I'm very grateful for his
willingness to say yes."
Following the explanation of votes, Mr. Schultz addressed the Council briefly, noting
that as his first act, he intended to reach out to each councilor upon arriving Monday
morning to schedule individual one-on-one meetings during the first week. He asked
councilors to keep some time available and assured them he would be flexible.
Council President Hagedorn expressed confidence that councilors would be eager
and flexible to meet with him and affirmed: "Your success is our success."
5

ADJOURNMENT: 12:25 pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 34 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Tuesday, August 11, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacant, Council President Mandy Hagedorn, Councilors
Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason Ruston, Anna Warrington, Don
Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

Interim City Manager Ross Schultz, Library Supervisor Brianna
Sowinski, City Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

WORK SESSION - 6:00 PM
*Note - Work Sessions now have a separate Zoom login from Business Meeting
Join Zoom for Work Session:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89086049926?pwd=UFztWAfRucKwpB4Dw7fHjzKHE6yWbk.1
Meeting ID: 890 8604 9926
Passcode: 920752

TOPIC
City Manager Transition
2

CALL TO ORDER

3

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4

ROLL CALL
a)

5

Councilors De Forge, Rustin, Ugarte, Warrington and Weber in attendance.
Council President Hagedorn excused.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

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Res. 2365 A Resolution Authorizing Bank Signers

City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
Councilor Mark De Forge announced that Resolution 2365 had been moved from the
Consent Agenda to New Business.
6

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm

a)

Cindy Hirst, North Plains resident, opened by requesting that Council members pull
their microphones closer to them, noting that she is partially deaf and had difficulty
hearing. She thanked the Council for providing residents with insight into how it
intends to address the city's governance challenges but expressed serious concern
that a formal transition or succession plan had not been publicly discussed at a City
Council meeting following the city manager's resignation on June 18th.
Ms. Hirst provided background context, noting that during the 2024 election, four
council candidates had expressed an intent to replace the city manager, and that
since the new council took office in January 2025, the city manager's employment
had been a recurring topic. She characterized the resulting environment as a "toxic
work environment created by the council," which she held responsible for the
resignations of the City Manager, the Public Works Director, and the Library Services
Director. She argued that if this outcome was foreseeable, the Council had nineteen
months to prepare and publicly communicate a succession plan.
Ms. Hirst posed several pointed questions directed at the Council: Who has been
responsible for key administrative decisions since June 18th? How many meetings
have been held on these issues? How many emails or other communications have
been exchanged? And, most critically, "How have decisions been made if not through
public deliberation?" She directed specific remarks to Councilors Hagedorn,
DeForge, Weber, and Warrington, asking that the public be informed of the extent to
which outside advocacy organizations — including Friends of North Plains Smart
Growth, 1000 Friends of Oregon, CPO 8, and Strong Towns North Plains — have
influenced Council decision-making, particularly given that many of their members do
not reside in the City of North Plains. She concluded that the Council's continued
silence was "unacceptable" and that residents deserve clear answers and
transparent decision-making.

b)

Linda Galas- Merten, (via Zoom) representing Strong Towns North Plains, expressed
"heartfelt gratitude" to the Council for its "unwavering commitment and resilience
during these challenging times." She acknowledged that the recent resignations had
"undoubtedly tested your leadership and fortitude," but praised the Council for
navigating the changes "with grace and determination." Ms. Galas-Merten stated that
it was "reassuring to know that our city is in capable hands" and that the Council's
dedication "does not go unnoticed," thanking them for prioritizing community wellbeing even "in the face of those who want nothing more than to demean your work."
A brief audio interruption caused a portion of her remarks to be repeated at the
request of City Recorder Ross.

c)

Emily Waldron, rural resident of 97133, described her professional background as a
clinician in mental health. She opened by thanking the Council for its "perseverance
in wading through a mess," drawing a parallel from her clinical experience, noting

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City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
that when people deal with long-standing problems and "years of rug sweeping, it's
really hard to rock the boat, because everyone wants you to steady the boat and
keep the status quo." She commended the Council for "rocking the boat to make a
change" and pursuing a better course for the city.
Ms. Waldron then turned to the issue of data centers and growth policy. She stated
that through her work with Oregon Data Center Defiance, she had prepared and
submitted to the Council a draft resolution and draft ordinance that would ban data
centers from the City of North Plains, which she characterized as an effort to put the
city's stated positions into legally enforceable code. She acknowledged the city's
staffing challenges, saying she did not want to wait for a new planning director to be
appointed before bringing the draft forward. Ms. Waldron respectfully requested that
the Council forward the document to the city attorney for review and potential
adoption at a future meeting.
d)

Jacquelyn Hunt, rural resident of 97133, provided an update on the North Plains
Volunteer Network, a program operating under the North Plains Senior Center,
designed to build connections between neighbors through acts of service. She
described its goals as reducing loneliness, strengthening neighborhoods, and
supporting residents in aging safely and independently in their community.
Ms. Hunt reported several noteworthy developments: the program is currently in the
active window for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) annual grant
cycle through Washington County, and thanked Councilor Ugarte for participating in
the selection process. With CDBG funding secured, the Volunteer Network has hired
a part-time coordinator with experience in social work, grant-making, and program
development. The program's advisory group has had its first meeting, with the next
meeting scheduled for the current month. Ms. Hunt welcomed interested community
members to participate in the advisory group. She also shared that the program had
been selected for the second round of Portland State University's computer science
capstone project, which will assign a team of five graduating computer science
students to further develop the program's platform over the next six months.

e)

Lisa Fry, North Plains resident, identified herself as chair of the Economic
Development Commission. Her comments were focused and practical, asking the
Council to think proactively about how the city's volunteer boards and commissions
can continue to function effectively during the current period of administrative
transition. She noted that the Commission had been in the midst of launching several
initiatives — including a passport program to support local businesses — and
expressed concern that without proper procedural support, that work was stalled.
Ms. Fry asked two specific questions of the Council: What are the plans for
commissions going forward during the transition? And what kind of support can
commissions expect from the city as they pursue their initiatives? She emphasized
that the Commission wants to ensure it is "following procedure" and doing things the
right way on behalf of residents and local businesses.

f)

Tera Van Dyke, a lifelong North Plains resident, addressed the Council specifically
regarding Resolution 2364 and the upcoming process to fill the vacant Council seat
left by Mayor Dumbrow's resignation. She urged the Council to proceed with extreme
caution, transparency, and respect for public trust during what she characterized as a
"very delicate transition" marked by ongoing leadership turnover and questions
surrounding administrative stability.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
Drawing on the Council-Manager form of government framework, Ms. Van Dyke
stated that "the lines between governance and administration need to be fiercely
protected," and warned that when those roles get crossed, "public trust suffers." She
cautioned that rushing a major appointment during a period of instability "risks
creating the perception of an appointment process that lacks broad community
mandate." She urged the Council to weigh the long-term impacts of filling the seat in
the current environment, to ensure maximum transparency in any selection criteria,
and to prioritize "restoring faith in our local leadership." She concluded: "North Plains
deserves a stable, transparent government where the community's voice is respected
at every step."
g)

7

Elizabeth Ocaña (online, did not connect)
Interim City Manager Ross Schultz noted that Elizabeth Ocaña had submitted an
online comment form but had not appeared in the Zoom meeting. Staff confirmed
there was a user with a raised hand, but whose identity could not be confirmed. It
was clarified that the city's procedure requires online commenters to register by 3:00
p.m. the day of the meeting and noted a willingness to allow Ms. Ocaña to comment
if she was present and able to unmute. After no response was received, Councilor De
Forge moved to the next agenda item.

RESOLUTIONS:
a)

Res. No. 2364 – A Resolution of the City of North Plains declaring a City
Council Vacancy
Councilor De Forge introduced Resolution 2364, noting there was no formal staff
report and characterizing the matter as straightforward: accepting the resignation of
Mayor Aaron Dumbrow, effective July 28, 2026, and formally declaring the Council
seat vacant pursuant to City Charter Section 32. Councilor De Forge briefly outlined
the standard process to follow: the vacancy notice would be posted in the local
newspaper, with a two-week application period during which any qualifying individual
may apply, after which the Council would consider the appointment at a future
meeting.
Councilor De Forge offered additional consideration for the Council, suggesting that
clarity around application open and close dates would be beneficial to the public. City
Recorder Ross recommended August 26th as the application deadline, explaining it
would be two weeks plus one day from the anticipated publication date in the
Hillsboro News Times, the city's newspaper of record. City Attorney Emily Matasar
clarified the applicable code requirements, noting that public notice must be posted at
designated local locations, on the city website, and in a newspaper of general
circulation, and that the deadline must be at least two weeks after the notice. She
noted that the specific posting date would depend on the newspaper's next available
publication window, and suggested the city ensure the vacancy notice is prominently
displayed on the city website as well.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2364, A Resolution of the City of North Plains
declaring a City Council Vacancy
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

Page 38 of 85

City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
8

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Res. 2365 A Resolution Authorizing Bank Signers
Interim City Manager/City Recorder Ross Schultz raised a point of order noting that
the check-signing item — Resolution 2365 — had been moved to New Business per
the agenda modification announced at the outset of the meeting.
Councilor De Forge confirmed this and invited Councilor Warrington to open the
discussion on Resolution 2365.
Councilor Warrington raised a question of policy and process regarding the
resolution. She noted that the resolution lists six authorized positions that may
endorse checks — Mayor, Council President, City Manager, Interim City Manager,
Finance Director, and Library Director — and asked whether there is an existing
policy establishing a hierarchy of signers for situations such as staff vacations or
absences. Councilor Warrington expressed a desire for a clearly defined chain of
authority so that it is unambiguous at any given time who is authorized to act.
Councilor De Forge acknowledged the question, noting his understanding that a
practice had previously existed under former leadership whereby absences were
coordinated, and that he felt this process was managed responsibly. However, he
was mindful of balancing the timeliness of passing the resolution with
accommodating Councilor Warrington's concern. He proposed moving forward with
adopting the resolution while committing to bringing back an administrative policy
addressing the hierarchy question at a future meeting.
City Recorder Ross confirmed that an administrative policy could be drafted and
returned to Council and asked if that approach would be satisfactory. Councilor
Warrington agreed.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2365, A Resolution of the City Council of the City
of North Plains, Oregon, Authorizing the Heritage Bank Signer List
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

9

COUNCIL REPORTS
a)

Page 39 of 85

Councilor Warrington reported that since the last Council meeting, she had
volunteered at City Hall on August 3rd, coinciding with the first day of the Interim City
Manager. She noted that staff members April and Bailey had matters well in hand —
the sign on the door had been removed, and staff felt they had sufficient time to
accomplish their work — and so she stayed only approximately one hour to one and
a half hours. She described the visit as a valuable opportunity to connect with city
staff and gain a better understanding of operations in the building. Councilor
Warrington also noted her volunteer work at the Elephant Garlic Festival on August
7th and 8th, including working at the food bank to sell raffle tickets. She noted that
Parks and Recreation meetings had been canceled, so there were no ex officio
meetings to report. Councilor Warrington concluded her report by making a direct and
heartfelt plea to the community: "I really want us to do better as a team." She
described having been confronted by "angry people yelling at me all the way to my

City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
car" after the last City Council meeting and asked that the community strive not to
yell at Council members in the parking lot.
Councilor Weber offered warm praise for the North Plains Events Association, calling
the Elephant Garlic Festival "wonderful this year." He made note of the absence of
train interference during the event — a past source of disruption — and described the
festival as "wonderfully well-run" and "wonderfully attended." He observed that
parking coordination was a notable logistical challenge but had been addressed with
multiple designated parking lots. Councilor Weber also attended the parade, which
he described as enjoyable and well-organized, with many families, children, and
candy in abundance. He additionally noted attending the fire department's open
house during the weekend, calling the entire series of events "a wonderful weekend
to have your family out," accessible to all regardless of spending. He closed with an
expression of gratitude to the Events Association and its volunteers for the
"tremendous amount of work" involved.
Councilor De Forge provided a brief update, noting that he had volunteered at the
Garlic Festival and had a great time. He expressed genuine appreciation to City
Recorder Ross Schultz, to city staff, and to the Council members who volunteered
during the transition period.
Councilor Ugarte reported no ex officio duties since the last meeting and offered
thanks to the North Plains Events Association and the Knights of Pythias for another
successful Elephant Garlic Festival, describing it as "a ray of positivity that we all
needed in our town." Councilor Ugarte then raised two items from the public
comment period for potential future agenda consideration. First, she asked whether
the Council would be willing to discuss its vision for boards and commissions during
the current administrative transition, specifically noting the questions raised by
Economic Development Commission Chair Lisa Fry about how those bodies can
continue to function and receive support. She suggested a focused discussion on a
90-day vision for boards and commissions, addressing what the Council can provide
and what those bodies can expect. Councilor Weber expressed no objection to that
discussion. Second, Councilor Ugarte raised the topic of data center bans, noting
that there has been prior Council discussion on the matter and red tape encountered
in getting a proposal through the Planning Commission. She asked whether a future
agenda item on the topic might be appropriate, "pending staff capacity."
Councilor Warrington responded positively to the data center discussion, noting that
"there's been mixed communication around that" and expressing a preference for
bringing in experts to better understand the issue before acting, suggesting it be
placed on a future meeting agenda rather than the next one.
Councilor Weber agreed and linked the data center discussion to the city's
Transportation Growth Management (TGM) grant process related to prospective
growth planning, recommending that both topics be addressed together in a single
future agenda item.
Councilor De Forge solicited the view of Councilor Ruston, who confirmed agreement
that both items should be on a future agenda.
Councilor Ruston offered a broader personal report, reflecting on his first month
serving on the Council. He thanked community members for sharing thoughts and
ideas with him and acknowledged that the experience had been "a little different than
what I was expecting." He joined his colleagues in congratulating the Events
Association for the Garlic Festival, noting that he and his wife attended both Friday
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City Council Meeting Minutes
August 11, 2026
and Saturday, including the car show, which he described as "a great event."
Councilor Ruston concluded by directing specific thanks to City Manager Ross
Schultz for quickly getting the Public Works building open and for sustaining his
efforts "for more than a week," saying: "I think that speaks a lot about you."
City Recorder Ross thanked Councilor Ruston for the recognition.
10

11

EXECUTIVE SESSION
a)

ADJOURN TO EXECUTIVE SESSION – ORS 192.660 (h) To consult with counsel
concerning the legal
rights and duties of a public body regarding current litigation or litigation likely
to be filed.

b)

Councilor De Forge read the formal executive session script provided by the City
Attorney, as follows: The North Plains City Council convened in executive session
pursuant to ORS 192.660(2)(h), which authorizes the Council to meet in executive
session to consult with counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public
body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed. Representatives of
the news media and designated staff were permitted to attend. All other members of
the audience were asked to leave the room. Representatives of the news media were
specifically directed not to report on or otherwise disclose any deliberations, or
anything said about the subject during the executive session, except to state the
general subject of the session as previously announced. Council President Hagedorn
noted that no decision may be made in executive session and that the Council would
return to open session and welcome the audience back into the room following its
conclusion.

ADJOURNMENT to Executive Session at 6:35 pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 41 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council - Special Session Meeting
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Work Session – 6pm to 7:30pm
Business meeting – 7:30 pm
Jessie Mays Community Center

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacancy; Councilors: Mark De Forge, Trista Papen, Jason
Ruston, Anna Warrington, Don Weber

COUNCIL ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
1

Interim City Manager Ross Schultz

LOGIN INFORMATION TO ATTEND VIA ZOOM
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82816580673?pwd=9TExJo0wGOqD9M3LEjkf02ZssyTf1S.1
Meeting ID: 828 1658 0673
Passcode: 304996

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

WORK SESSION - 6:00 PM
a)

Interview questions and process.
The Council reviewed eight questions that City Manager Schultz had summarized
from councilor’s feedback. It agreed to ask both candidates identical questions, with
each councilor assigned specific questions. The Council removed the original
question 8 as duplicative of question 2. Question 5, a follow-up to question 4, was
folded into question 4. A new question 8, "Why North Plains?", was assigned to
Councilor Ruston. Councilor Warrington was assigned questions 1 and 7, Councilor
Weber questions 2 and 6, Interim Council President Forge question 3, and Councilor
Ruston questions 4 and 8. Any councilor could ask a follow-up at any time after
identifying themselves. City Manager Schultz would keep time, allowing about 30
minutes of questions and a short period for candidate questions.
Councilor Ugarte, participating remotely, asked that speakers use the microphones
closely and that the questions be emailed to her. She also advised that the Zoom link
in the agenda packet was incorrect and that the only valid link was the one on the

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 20, 2026
City website calendar. She informed the Council that she had a prior commitment
and would not ask questions. Councilor Warrington noted that a tie could occur
because Councilor Ugarte might not be present for the vote, and the Council agreed
to contact her by phone if a tiebreaker was needed.
b)

Candidate Tim Johnson
Mr. Johnson, of South Beach, Oregon, described more than 40 years of public-sector
management experience. His recent work included an interim engagement in MiltonFreewater, and he also cited past work in Lincoln County, San Diego, and
Sacramento. He said he would treat everyone with honesty, integrity, and dignity and
would use a specific, measurable, accountable, responsive, and time-bound
management approach. He said that building a full-time city manager recruitment
would take about 6 months rather than 3 to 4, and he indicated he could serve about
6 months. He recommended recruiting candidates in the winter or mid-fiscal-year
window. He identified his top priorities as recruiting a full-time city manager and
completing audits and reconciling the budget, citing ORS Chapter 294 and fiduciary
responsibility. He also advised the Council to review the City's local gas tax revenue
forecasts and public safety costs.
In response to Councilor Warrington, Mr. Johnson described a long-running
development and flood-risk conflict in Sacramento. He said that listening more
closely to constituents would have produced a better outcome, and that the same
honesty, integrity, and dignity approach applied. In response to Councilor Weber, he
said boards and commissions need annual work programs, council concurrence, a
framework, budget resources, and expertise. He gave an example of how he handled
a hostile outside organization, citing San Diego's Super Bowl hosting debate.
In response to Councilor Ugarte's question about a news-reported resignation in
Lincoln County, Mr. Johnson said the departure was planned. He said he had told the
county when hired that he would leave after caring for his mother, and that he left
after she passed away. He provided materials describing his work program to the
Council.

c)

Candidate Paul Koch
Mr. Koch described about 30 years of experience, including interim work for more
than 70 cities and counties. He said his approach is to spend the first two weeks
listening to staff, councilors, committees, and community members, and then to
propose an action plan. He would also ask the Council to host a community
workshop to identify issues and develop a 5-to-7-year action plan and budget. He
said he asks councils for honesty about what they want to achieve and how.
In response to Councilor Ruston's request for an example of managing division and
turnover, he cited a community where he brought opposing groups together on a 17member committee to restore a fire department. He also described an interim role
where a police chief was collecting payments from local businesses. For audit delays,
he said he would hire an auditor and catch up, noting that Oregon agencies have
been flexible. For hostile outside groups, he said he would meet their leaders with
local officials present and build relationships, citing an example in Cascade Locks
involving the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. He said he sought this work to
help local governments get organized and plan for a successful future.

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 20, 2026
Mr. Koch's one question to the Council was whether it was ready to hear what it did
not want to hear and take positive action. Interim Council President Forge and
Councilors Warrington, Weber, Ruston, and Ugarte each said they were open to
candid feedback.
d)

Work Session Discussion
No decision was made during the work session. Councilor Ugarte described Mr.
Johnson as strong and confident but was concerned about his flexibility. She said Mr.
Koch had a proven record, a people-first approach, and a willingness to have difficult
conversations. Councilor Warrington described Mr. Johnson as driven and effective
but forceful. She said Mr. Koch's listening-based approach better fit the community,
though she wondered whether it would be enough. Councilor Weber said both
candidates were strong. He found Mr. Johnson stronger on finance and fast, direct
action, and found Mr. Koch stronger at relationship building. Councilor Ruston said
both were qualified, but that Mr. Koch communicated more clearly and was better
suited to building consensus. Interim Council President Forge said the choice came
down to personality fit. City Manager Schultz suggested the Council compare the
candidates' styles in open session rather than score them.

4

CALL TO ORDER at 7:30 pm
*Councilor Ugarte was not on Zoom at the time the meeting was called to order.
a)

City Manager Schultz advised that the Council President had resigned and that the
Council needed to select a presiding officer for the meeting.
Councilor Weber nominated Councilor Forge to serve as Interim Council President
for the meeting.
Councilor Ruston seconded. No other nominations were offered. The motion carried
unanimously.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

5

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Council Deliberations on Work Session Discussion
Councilor Ruston, Councilor Warrington, and Councilor Weber each stated a
preference for Mr. Koch. They cited his temperament and consensus-building
approach, the need for a softer approach suited to the whole community, and a style
similar to that of City Manager Schultz. Interim Council President Forge said he also
supported Mr. Koch.
Interim Council President Forge recommended that two councilors support the city
attorney during negotiations on compensation and benefits, so the Council's
negotiating position would not be disclosed publicly. The resulting contract would
return to the Council in open session for approval. The Council indicated the term
would be open-ended until a full-time city manager was hired, with a recruitment

Page 44 of 85

City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 20, 2026
process to begin at a later meeting. It also indicated the contract would likely allow
termination on short notice, such as two weeks.
Motion that the Council authorize the City Attorney to negotiate with Paul Koch for the
position of Interim City Manager
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.
Motion that the Council authorize two appointees, Councilor Ruston and Councilor
Warrington, to provide support to the City Attorney in negotiations with Paul Koch
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.
b)

6

City Manager Schultz proposed a special meeting on Wednesday, August 26, 2026,
at 6:00 PM to review the negotiated contract. Both candidates had said they were
available to start September 1, and the Council wanted to avoid a gap in leadership.
City Manager Schultz said he would adjust his schedule to be present to welcome the
new interim city manager. The Council indicated it was in agreement with the meeting
date.

ADJOURNMENT: 7:48 pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 45 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council - Special Session Meeting
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Jessie Mays Community Center 6:00 PM

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacant; Councilors: Mark De Forge, Trista Papen, Jason
Ruston, Anna Warrington, Don Weber

COUNCIL ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:
1

Interim City Manager Ross Schultz

LOGIN INFORMATION TO ATTEND VIA ZOOM
Join Zoom Meeting
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Passcode: 304996

2

CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 pm

3

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4

ROLL CALL
a)

All members in attendance.
Councilor Ruston attended via Zoom.
Interim City Manager Ross Schultz in attendance
Interim City Recorder Colleen Resch in attendance
City Attorney Emily Matasar attended via Zoom.
Police Chief O'Reilly in attendance.
There was no consent agenda for approval.
Motion to approve the agenda as presented.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ugarte.
Motion was approved unanimously.

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 26, 2026
5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
We encourage those wishing to comment to do so in advance of the meeting by emailing
comments to [email protected] will be read into the record. Persons wishing to
speak on matters not on the agenda may be recognized at this time.

a)

6

Russ Sheldon, a North Plains resident, reminded the Council that its members are
policymakers, not administrators. He cited the City Charter provision on requests for
staff assistance, which states that council members shall not direct the activities or
workloads of city staff and that individual requests must be presented to the city
manager for approval. He said the provision protects staff from conflicting direction
and preserves the chain of command. He asked each councilor to honor the Charter
and the Council's rules, especially given recent leadership and staffing changes.

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Resolution No. 2368 - Approve Contract for Paul Koch - Interim City Manager
Councilor Warrington reviewed the process for transparency. Interim City Manager
Schultz vetted the applicants, and two were brought forward for public interviews.
The Council unanimously voted to begin contract negotiations with Paul Koch. The
Council's representatives, working with the city attorney's office, negotiated the
agreement, and Mr. Koch accepted the City's offer. Councilor Ruston agreed with this
account and said the Council was positioned to vote. Councilor Weber stated the
contract looked good and commended the representatives.
The agreement (Exhibit A) provides for compensation of $75 per hour, up to a
maximum of $14,000 per month. Its term runs from August 31, 2026, until February
28, 2027, or until a new City Manager is hired, whichever occurs first. Councilor
Warrington thanked Mr. Koch for his professionalism during the process.
Motion to approve Resolution 2368, appointing Paul Koch as Interim/Pro Tem City
Manager and authorizing a temporary employment agreement
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved by a roll call vote with all Councilors voting aye.

b)

Resolution No. 2369 -Accept Resignation of Council President Mandy Hagedorn

Councilor Warrington read former Council President Mandy Hagedorn's resignation
letter into the record. In it, Ms. Hagedorn cited ongoing threats and harassment from
outside interest groups that raised concerns for her personal safety. She expressed
disappointment that people willing to serve must weigh that service against their own
safety and well-being.
Councilor Ugarte asked whether the matter had been presented to law enforcement
and whether remaining councilors should be concerned about imminent threats.
Police Chief O'Reilly stated that Ms. Hagedorn had made reports to the department,
which documented them and takes such concerns seriously. He said he had no
current concerns for anyone on the Council, apart from an incident outside the
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City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 26, 2026
community center after a meeting some months earlier, which he believed had been
mitigated. He said he had spoken with several individuals involved and did not expect
the issue to recur. He added that officers would continue to attend council and other
meetings as needed.
Councilor Ruston asked what actions had been taken. He expressed concern about
harassment he had witnessed after meetings and about online posts and called such
conduct sad and inappropriate. Councilor Warrington said she had also filed a report
regarding the harassment and thanked the Chief and his deputies for escorting
councilors to their cars. Councilor Weber said he had also contacted the Chief
several times, praised his responsiveness, and noted that such issues make it harder
to recruit people to serve on the Council.
Motion to approve Resolution 2369, accepting the resignation of Council President
Mandy Hagedorn and declaring the seat vacant.
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved by a roll call vote with all Councilors voting aye.
7

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
a)

Discussion - Process for New Mayor Selection
City Attorney Emily Matasar participated remotely. The Council used the 2025 mayor
selection process as a basis and confirmed it could make different decisions.
Recusal. Council President Pro Tem DeForge announced his intent to apply for
mayor and asked the Council to excuse him from voting on the appointment. No
other councilor indicated an intent to apply. The City Attorney advised that recusal
requires unanimous consent, which is established if no objection is raised. No
objections were raised, and the recusal was approved by unanimous consent. At the
City Attorney's suggestion, the Council also consented, without objection, to his not
voting on the procedural decisions for the process. The City Attorney confirmed he
could continue presiding over the meeting.
Interviews and applications. The application period remains open until September 5.
By consensus, the Council agreed to interview all applicants. Councilor Weber noted
the time allotted could be adjusted depending on the number of applicants. Interim
City Manager Schultz explained that, because September 5 is a Saturday, late
applications may not be published within 24 hours of the meeting. On the City
Attorney's recommendation, the Council agreed that the September 8 packet would
include all applications received at that point, with address and security information
redacted. Later applications would be published on the morning of the meeting.
Interview questions and time limit. The Council reviewed the six questions used in
2025 and retained all of them. Question F was revised after discussion. Councilor
Warrington questioned whether it remained applicable given recent turnover.
Councilor Weber suggested asking candidates for their own vision. Councilor Ugarte
proposed removing the "next 2 years" timeframe while keeping the reference to the
Council's adopted vision, saying the vision should remain the Council's guide despite
turnover. Consensus was reached on the following wording: "The council recently set
a vision for the city. As mayor, how would you support that vision?" The City

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
August 26, 2026
Recorder will email the questions and the time limit to each applicant upon receipt of
the application. The Council set a 10-minute time limit per candidate and allowed
follow-up questions. If more than six applications are received, the Council may
revisit the time limit at its next meeting. The City Attorney advised that the Council
retains flexibility to change the rules. The recorder will keep time.
Presiding officer and voting. The Council chose to retain the 2025 voting procedure.
The presiding officer votes as a councilor but does not cast a second, tie-breaking
vote. If a tie occurs, the Council will deliberate and, failing resolution, defer the
decision until the vacancy is filled. The City Attorney clarified that, under the code
and charter, a mayor does not otherwise vote except to break a tie and confirmed the
Council's intent.
Motion to appoint Councilor Warrington as presiding officer for the mayor selection
process. Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston. Motion was
approved unanimously.
8

COUNCIL REPORTS
a)

9

Council members thanked Interim City Manager Schultz for his service, noting that he
had met individually with each councilor and staff member. Councilor Ruston asked
Mr. Schultz to prepare a final report on the state of the City, including his
observations and recommendations. Mr. Schultz agreed. Councilor Weber asked for
a summary of any staff salary or benefit changes made in the last month, and Mr.
Schultz agreed to provide it. Council President Pro Tem DeForge invited Mr. Schultz
to join a future council meeting or executive session to discuss his feedback.
Councilor Warrington welcomed incoming Interim City Manager Paul Koch, who
begins Monday. Mr. Schultz confirmed that staff had prepared for his arrival. Mr.
Koch thanked the Council and said he would get started when he arrived. Council
President Pro Tem DeForge thanked city staff for their election support. Councilors
Weber and Warrington thanked county elections staff for their assistance.

ADJOURNMENT: 6:58 pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder
10

ADJOURNMENT:

Page 49 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES

City Council Meeting
Tuesday, September 8, 2026 - 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor- Vacancy, Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason
Ruston, Anna Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

Interim City Manager Paul Koch, City Attorney Emily Matasar (via
Zoom), Interim City Recorder Colleen Resch

OTHER:

1

CALL TO ORDER

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL

4

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

Councilor De Forge moved to pull the minutes from the Consent Agenda and place
them under New Business for separate consideration. The balance of the agenda
was approved as amended.
Motion to approve the agenda as amended
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
a)

Page 50 of 85

Lisa Ferrari-Harwood, North Plains resident, announced that developer Lennar had
officially transferred control of the Brent Hill Homeowners Association to homeowners
and introduced the newly elected board. She requested an open line of
communication with the City regarding maintenance and safety of forthcoming public
restrooms in the area.

City Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026

7

b)

Meredith Bach, North Plains resident, requested that a pictorial tribute to Jessie Mays
be installed over the drinking fountains at the Jessie Mays Community Center at an
estimated cost of $500, noting that Jessie Mays's son Elmer, age 100, supported the
idea.

c)

Russ Sheldon, North Plains resident, addressed governance concerns, including
council appointments in lieu of elections, leadership turnover, and a pending recall
petition against Councilor De Forge. He urged the Council to allow voters to decide
whether Councilor De Forge should remain in office, rather than the Council
determining the outcome through an appointment to the mayoral vacancy.

d)

Robert "Butch" Kindel, North Plains resident, spoke in support of Cynthia Hirst for
mayor and expressed concern about the number of council positions filled by
appointment rather than election.

e)

Linda Galas-Merten, via Zoom, representing Strong Towns North Plains, raised
questions regarding the unauthorized use of the City of North Plains logo on signage
at the North Plains Senior Center, a private nonprofit. She noted the City has no
formal policy governing logo use and urged the Council to adopt such a policy
retroactively.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
a)

This item was pulled from the Consent Agenda for separate consideration.
June 15, 2026 Minutes: Councilor Warrington and Councilor Ugarte identified several
corrections needed, including: adding Bill Reed to the staff presence list on page 3;
correcting voting attributions on pages 5–6 (removing Councilor Warrington as voting
nay on the City Manager separation agreement and the Acting City Manager
appointment, and substituting Councilor Ugarte); and correcting the Finance
Department report entry to reflect Bill Reed rather than a representative from
Umpqua Valley Financial. Additional discussion revealed that the Umpqua Valley
Financial section of the minutes contained names and characterizations that did not
match the recorded video. Given the extent of unresolved corrections, the Council
agreed to postpone approval of the June 15th minutes to a future meeting.
July 6, 2026, Minutes: Councilor Ugarte requested the following corrections:
changing her attendance status from "absent" to "excused," and correcting the
spelling of "Butch Kindel" in the public comment section. No other corrections were
raised.
Motion to approve the July 6, 2026, minutes as amended.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

b)

Page 51 of 85

The June 15, 2026, minutes were continued to the next meeting for further
review and correction.

City Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
6

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Awarding Contract for New Roof on the Jessie Mays Community Center
Interim City Manager Paul Koch presented the staff recommendation. Public Works
solicited three bids for replacement of the roof at the Jessie Mays Community Center
with a metal roof. The bids received were: Ideal Roofing at $61,250; JT West Coast
Gutter and Roofing at $67,162.50; and SA Roofing at $59,950. Public Works
recommended SA Roofing as the lowest qualified bidder. The Council noted all three
firms had strong online ratings. A budget of $100,000 was previously allocated via
Resolution No. 2349 from the General Fund Contingency. All bids included a caveat
that replacement of damaged wood structural elements would incur additional costs.
The Interim City Manager confirmed the intent to begin work promptly ahead of the
rainy season and to coordinate the work schedule around planned community events
at the Center.
Motion to authorize the Interim City Manager to award a contract to SA Roofing with
authority to spend up to $59,950.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

b)

Authorization to Seek Bids to Contract for City Manager Search
Interim City Manager Koch noted that his contract runs through February 2027 and
recommended the Council initiate the permanent City Manager search now, given
that the process is expected to take 90–120 days. He proposed seeking proposals
from search firms and returning with a recommendation at the October 26, 2026,
meeting. A tentative timeline included contracting with a search firm in October,
beginning recruitment in November, reviewing finalists and conducting interviews in
December, and onboarding a new City Manager in January or February 2027.
Motion to authorize the Interim City Manager to seek proposals from search firms and
bring a recommendation to Council in October 2026.
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

c)

Res. No. 2370 – Authorization to Proceed with State Grant for Glencoe Rd. 5
Acres
Interim City Manager Koch reported that the City has an opportunity to apply for a
state grant to assist with the cleanup of the Glencoe Road property, a long-standing
priority. He noted that COLPAC and the state have offered assistance, that there is
no known budget impact at this time, and that grant application deadlines require
prompt action. Councilor Warrington provided context that the grant is supplemental
funding for structure removal, to be followed by soil remediation and eventual
development steps. The Interim City Manager also noted that a private individual has

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
claimed to hold a contract for barn demolition on the property, and that staff will
research and verify the matter with legal counsel before proceeding.
Motion to approve Resolution No. 2370 authorizing the City Manager to apply for a
state grant in support of the Glencoe project.
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.
d)

Action to Select Mayor for the City – Application(s)
Councilor De Forge recused himself from this item given that he is one of two
applicants for the mayoral vacancy. Councilor Warrington presided. The Council
received a recall petition submitted that morning naming Councilor De Forge, though
the signatures had not yet been submitted to or verified by Washington County.
A substantive debate arose over whether to proceed with the mayoral selection
process or postpone it pending validation of the recall petition. Councilors Ugarte and
Ruston favored postponement, while Councilors Weber and Warrington were initially
inclined to proceed, citing City Attorney guidance that there was no legal impediment
to doing so. The Council took a brief recess to connect City Attorney Emily Matasar
via Zoom.
City Attorney Matasar confirmed that the Council may legally proceed with the
appointment even with a pending recall petition. She noted the legal effect of
appointing Councilor De Forge to the mayoral vacancy would be that he would need
to resign his council seat, which would render the recall petition moot. She also
clarified that because the mayor's position is vacant, there is no tiebreaker available;
under the municipal code, an excused member's vote is counted as an aye on a
motion to postpone. She further advised that the recall election timeline, from
signature verification through a special election, would span approximately 70 days,
making a November ballot highly unlikely.
After consultation with legal counsel, the Council moved to postpone the mayoral
selection process for 30 days to allow the recall process to proceed.
Motion to postpone the vote on the mayoral appointment for 30 days.
Moved by Councilor Ruston. Second by Councilor Ugarte.
Motion was approved with the following vote:
Councilor Ruston - aye
Councilor Ugarte – aye
Councilor Weber – nay
Councilor Warrington – nay
Councilor De Forge's excused vote counted as an aye per municipal code. Motion
carried 3–2.
Councilor De Forge returned to the dais after the vote.

8

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
9

REPORTS
a)

City Manager Report
Interim City Manager Koch delivered a verbal report. Key updates included: a
scheduled Thursday meeting with the City Recorder to plan her return to work; a
Wednesday meeting to close out the PR contractor's agreement, including one final
newsletter; upcoming interviews for three finalists for the Programs and Community
Communications Supervisor position, with the recommended hire to be brought to
Council; and a Wednesday meeting on the clean water contract. The Interim City
Manager commended city staff for their high level of performance under significant
staffing pressures.
Councilor Ugarte asked about continuity of communications and PR coverage
following the contractor's September 30th contract end date. The Interim City
Manager acknowledged the risk of a brief gap and committed to analyzing options,
including a possible short-term extension of the existing contract pending the new
hire's start.

b)

Council Reports
Councilor Ruston reported upcoming attendance at the Library Board meeting and
expressed concern about the frequency of canceled board and committee meetings
across the city. He requested a future agenda item to bring all boards and
commissions before the Council for status updates. Interim City Manager Koch
acknowledged the concern and committed to developing a plan to restore regular
meeting cadences.
Councilor Warrington requested that a proposed data center ban ordinance (draft
Ordinance No. 501) be added as a high-priority agenda item. She also requested
agenda items addressing: the Jessie Mays commemorative drinking fountain plaque
(estimated at $500, coordinated with Parks and Recreation); and the outstanding
FY2021–2022 audit results. Council consensus was confirmed for all three items.
Councilor Weber provided updates from his Metropolitan Area Communications
Commission (MACC) work, including a forthcoming Comcast franchise agreement
resolution affecting 15 municipalities and yielding approximately $15,000–$17,000
annually to the City. He reported resolution of a $30,000 unused grant repayment to
MACC. He also noted that a previously approved MACC technology upgrade grant
for the Jessie Mays facility where City Council meetings are held lapsed due to the
City's failure to respond to MACC follow-up requests, though MACC remains open to
a future application. Councilor Weber also reported on an EPA brownfield meeting
regarding the Glencoe property, at which the EPA representative noted the City had
not submitted required documentation to access a previously awarded $1 million
grant for approximately 15 months, a matter now being actively addressed by staff
and lobbyist Tom Holt.
Councilor Weber additionally requested a work session or agenda item on the TGM
(Transportation Growth Management) grant and Urban Growth Boundary process,
suggesting ODOT staff be invited to participate. Council consensus was confirmed.
Councilor Ugarte echoed support for restoring board and commission meeting
schedules and inquired what the Council could do to assist. She reiterated concerns
about the data center discussion being balanced against higher-priority stabilization

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 8, 2026
needs but indicated she would support proceeding with at least a preliminary
conversation. She reminded councilors to follow Robert's Rules and the City's serial
communications policy, including avoiding reply-all on council email threads. She
also requested clarity on which September board and committee meetings are
confirmed to proceed, noting a discrepancy between the agenda packet and the city
calendar, which lists the Parks and Recreation meeting on September 14th as
canceled. Interim City Manager Koch committed to providing a comprehensive, up-todate meeting schedule.
Councilor De Forge reported attendance at the Planning Commission as ex-officio
and at Metro Policy Advisory Committee meetings. He confirmed consensus to
pursue a Jessie Mays commemorative photograph to be hung in the Jessie Mays
facility, with staff to coordinate installation through Public Works and the arts
committee. He noted the data center ban discussion had council consensus to
proceed at the next meeting.
c)

Review September 2026 Council Calendar
The Council reviewed the September 2026 calendar. Councilor Ruston noted the
Urban Renewal Agency had no meetings scheduled. Interim City Manager Koch
indicated this would be addressed. Councilor Ugarte requested confirmation of which
meetings were proceeding as scheduled. Councilor Warrington raised the question of
coverage for the Washington County Coordinating Committee, previously attended
by the mayor. Interim City Manager Koch agreed to review the calendar and assess
his capacity to attend.

10

ADJOURNMENT: 8:53pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 55 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES

City Council Meeting
Monday, September 21, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor – Vacancy, Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason
Ruston, Anna Warrington, Don Weber, Mike Shurts – sworn in during
meeting.

STAFF PRESENT:

Interim City Manager Paul Koch, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister,
Deputy Vance, Library Supervisor Brianna Sowinski, Public Works
Supervisor Cody Brown, City Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

CALL TO ORDER at 7:00 pm

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

4

Councilors De Forge, Ugarte, Ruston, Warrington, and Weber were in attendance.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
*Prior to the vote, Interim City Manager Paul Koch requested the addition of the MACC
Cable Television Franchise Agreement as Agenda Item 7G.
a)

Clean Water Services - Intergovernmental Agreement

b)

City Council Minutes approval from June 15.2026 meeting
wth corrections submitted by Council from the Sept. 8, 2026 meeting

c)

Page 56 of 85

Motion to approve the Consent Agenda

City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda, as amended to include the MACC franchise
agreement as Item 7G Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.
5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
a)

Susan Brown, rural resident, urged the Council to value diversity of thought. She
opposed appointing Mr. Michael Shurts "merely to strengthen an unelected council
majority" and said the appointment should be postponed because of the pending
recall effort involving Council President De Forge.

b)

Cindy Smith, resident, noted that four of five sitting councilors were appointed. She
asked the Council not to fill the vacancies until after the November election, about six
weeks away.

c)

Cindy Hirst, resident and applicant for council vacancy, asked that the interview and
appointment be postponed because the other applications had not been made public
and the public had no chance to comment.

d)

Amaryllis Daniel, resident, said there was no good reason to delay filling any
vacancy, including the Mayor's seat, given the 2024 election results. Ms. Daniels also
asked the Council to discover and disclose any nondisclosure agreements held by
current or past officials, board members or administrators. She asked the Council to
prohibit such agreements going forward and to draft ban language that anticipates
similar future uses.

e)

Tom Murdoch, resident, retired naval officer and applicant for council vacancy, said
the city needs restored trust, communication and accountability. He asked whether
the Council would act on the Interim City Manager's recommendations and review its
adopted goals and strategic pillars.

f)

Chris Edmonds, nonresident, point of contact for east-side UGB study area
landowners, gave Interim City Manager Koch a history of recent political events. He
urged him to verify that history, widen his circle of contacts, and keep community
information flowing through official city channels. He also asked who authorized the
commitment to withdraw Ordinance 489.

g)

Robert "Butch" Kindel, resident, spoke about the Relook Committee, the Housing
Needs Analysis (HNA) and UGB expansion. He warned that without expansion the
state could impose higher-density requirements.

h)

Emily Waldron, rural resident, said an HNA is legally required only for cities over
10,000 population, and that having one may impose more obligations than not having
one.

i)

Mr. Russ Sheldon, resident, said Ordinance 489 was formally adopted after a public
process and that withdrawing it deserves equal scrutiny and transparency. He noted
the HNA identifies about 60 acres for community park needs. He asked the Council
to explain what replacement analysis would be required before deciding.

j)

Linda Galas-Merten, representing Strong Towns North Plains, via Zoom, described
Ordinances 489 and 490 as having "zombie elements" because of procedural
irregularities after the earlier appeal. She supported full rescission and starting over.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026

6

k)

Jacob Roloff, rural resident, supported a data center ban, citing Hillsboro's
experience.

l)

Bryan Van Dyke, resident and Parks and Recreation Board member, said the board
had been permitted to meet only twice since January 2026. He cited city code 31.63
and 31.64 and asked that regular meetings be restored so the board can review
playground designs for Louie Wentz Park and roof estimates for the Jessie Mays
Community Center.

m)

Lora Dexheimer, non-resident, representing the North Plains Food Bank, presented
an email concerning Mr. Murdoch's candidacy. She said it contained inaccurate
statements about the food bank and asked the Council to weigh it.

n)

Chris Armstrong with Signal Technologies invited the Council to a grand opening and
ribbon-cutting on Tuesday, September 29 at 11:00 AM at 29495 NW West Union
Road, Suite A.

STAFF REPORTS
7:20 pm - 7:30 pm
a)

Library Department Monthly Report - Interim Library Manager Brianna Sowinski
Interim Library Manager Brianna Sowinski presented the report. Councilor Ugarte
and Councilor Weber commended the library's performance, and Councilor
Warrington noted the library staff's assistance with city operations training during the
staffing shortage. Councilor Ruston raised the question of a proclamation for Banned
Books Week (October 5th). Interim City Manager Paul Koch recommended that the
Library Board make a formal recommendation directly to the Council for the October
5th meeting; Library Manager Sowinski agreed to explore an emergency meeting of
the board.

b)

Police Department Monthly Report - Chief O'Reilly
Deputy Vance presented in Chief O'Reilly's absence. Councilor Warrington and
Councilor Ugarte inquired about the school resource officer program. Deputy Vance
confirmed he would be receiving training to serve as the designated school liaison.
Councilor Ugarte welcomed Deputy Vance to his first official Council meeting.

c)

Public Works Monthly Report - Interim Public Works Supervisor Cody Brian
Interim Supervisor Cody Brian presented the report. Councilor Weber asked about
playground equipment bids for Louie Wentz Park referenced in public testimony; the
Supervisor was unaware of any submitted bids. Councilor Warrington confirmed that
Jessie Mays Community Center would remain open for meetings during the
upcoming roof installation, but private reservations would not be accepted. A start
date for the roof project had not yet been finalized.

d)

Community Development & Project Update Monthly Report
Brian Feeney of 3J will talk about the need for additional funding
Brian Feeney of 3J Consulting presented the engineering update, noting that multiple
capital projects remain on hold pending direction and budget clarity. Financial Impact

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
& Community Benefit: The FY 2026–27 budget allocated $100,000 for engineering
services, a recurring appropriation that is substantially committed. Multiple capital
projects—including the Main Street Improvements (at 90% plan completion), Pacific
Street Improvements, and others—are stalled pending prioritization. The directive
responds to an immediate need to align remaining budget capacity with the most
impactful projects before year-end, preventing funds from lapsing without benefit.
Residents and businesses will benefit from clearer project timelines and progress on
long-delayed infrastructure improvements. Progress will be reported back at the
October 5th meeting.
Councilor Warrington noted ongoing community questions about construction activity
at NW West Union Road (Frank's Excavation); Brian Feeney confirmed this is a
private site development project under Washington County jurisdiction, with the city's
role limited to approving water line connection. An end-date inquiry would be made.
Interim City Manager Paul Koch recommended the Council direct him to meet with
3J Consulting to develop a prioritized project list for the current budget year, with a
report back at the October 5th meeting.
Motion to direct the Interim City Manager to meet with 3J Consulting to develop a
prioritized list of projects to be completed in the current budget year and create a cost
estimate for additional services, reporting back at the October 5th City Council
meeting
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Weber.
Motion was approved unanimously.
e)

Finance Department Monthly Report - Amanda Taylor, Merina + Co.
Financial Impact & Community Benefit: The FY 2026–27 budget allocated $100,000
for engineering services, a recurring appropriation that is substantially committed.
Multiple capital projects—including the Main Street Improvements (at 90% plan
completion), Pacific Street Improvements, and others—are stalled pending
prioritization. The directive responds to an immediate need to align remaining budget
capacity with the most impactful projects before year-end, preventing funds from
lapsing without benefit. Residents and businesses will benefit from clearer project
timelines and progress on long-delayed infrastructure improvements. Progress will be
reported back at the October 5th meeting.
Councilor Warrington noted ongoing community questions about construction activity
at NW West Union Road (Frank's Excavation); Brian Feeney confirmed this is a
private site development project under Washington County jurisdiction, with the city's
role limited to approving water line connection. An end-date inquiry would be made.

7

NEW BUSINESS:
7:20 pm - 8:25 pm
a)

Page 59 of 85

City Council - Interview candidates and vote to select person to fill Council
vacancy

City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
term through December 31, 2028
Council President De Forge noted that three applications were received but posted to
the city website only hours before the meeting. Councilor Ugarte moved to postpone
the appointment to the next regularly scheduled meeting, seconded by Councilor
Ruston. The motion failed 3–2, with Councilors Weber, Warrington, and Council
President De Forge voting nay. The Council agreed to proceed with a five-minute
presentation format for each candidate.
One candidate, Cindy Hirst, withdrew her application at the dais, citing concerns
about lack of public transparency in the process.
The two remaining candidates, Thomas Murdock and Michael Shurts, each
addressed the Council and answered questions related to their motivations for
service, key issues facing North Plains, qualifications, prior board experience, and
how they would represent all community members. Both candidates were
commended for their willingness to serve. Following deliberations, nominations were
made and seconded by the Council.
A nomination of Michael Shurts was made by Councilor Weber and seconded by
Councilor Warrington. A nomination of Thomas Murdock was made by Councilor
Ruston and seconded by Councilor Ugarte.
Paper ballots were collected and tabulated by City Recorder Colleen Resch. The
results were:
●Council President De Forge: Mike Shurts
●Councilor Warrington: Mike Shurts
●Councilor Weber: Mike Shurts
●Councilor Ruston: Thomas Murdock
●Councilor Ugarte: Thomas Murdock
Mike Shurts was selected by a vote of 3–2.
b)

Swearing in of newly appointed City Councilor
City Recorder Colleen Resch administered the Oath of Office to Mike Shurts.
Councilor Shurts was seated on the dais.

c)

Authorization to hire for Position of Programs & Communications Supervisor
Interim City Manager Paul Koch reported that five candidates were interviewed,
reduced to three finalists, with two withdrawing on interview day. He recommended
the Council authorize an offer to Karli Wrobel and grant authority to negotiate the
starting salary. The current communications contract expires September 30, 2026.
Motion to authorize the hiring of Karli Wrobel as the new Programs and
Communications Supervisor and authorize the Interim City Manager to negotiate the
starting salary
Moved by Councilor Ruston. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
d)

Discussion and Action on Ord. No. 489 - Adopting Updated Housing Needs
Analysis
City Attorney Emily Matasar provided background via Zoom, explaining that
Ordinance 489 was originally adopted in September 2023 and was appealed to the
Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) by 1000 Friends of Oregon. On August 25, 2026,
LUBA remanded the decision back to the Council, placing the ordinance before the
Council for reconsideration. The three options presented were: adopt as-is, amend
and adopt, or take no action (resulting in the ordinance being null and void).
City Attorney Matasar clarified a correction to the City Manager's staff report: the city
agreed to a voluntary remand, not a withdrawal of the ordinance. She further advised
that Oregon's DLCD, through a temporary rule, effectively requires any city relying on
an HNA rather than the newer Housing Capacity Analysis (HCA) to submit a
complete UGB amendment package to DLCD by January 1, 2027 — a deadline that
is no longer achievable for North Plains.
Discussion was substantive. Councilor Ugarte moved to adopt the ordinance, citing
the significant prior investment, the relatively low cost of a potential DLCD challenge
(estimated at less than $20,000), and the risk that abandoning the HNA would
require a future council to commission an entirely new HCA (estimated at more than
$50,000) before any UGB expansion. Councilor Ruston seconded, noting that the
ordinance could still be amended or challenged in the future. Councilors Weber,
Warrington, Shurts, and Council President De Forge expressed concern that DLCD's
interpretation renders the existing HNA effectively unviable, that proceeding would
commit the city to litigation against a regulatory agency, and that the 2024 election
results reflected community opposition to the scale of growth envisioned in the HNA.
Council President De Forge also noted the option of focusing on infill development,
which would not require an HNA or HCA.
Roll call vote:
●Councilor Ugarte: Aye
●Councilor Warrington: Nay
●Councilor Ruston: Aye
●Councilor Weber: Nay
●Councilor Shurts: Nay
●Council President De Forge: Nay
The motion to adopt Ordinance 489 failed, 4–2. Ordinance 489 is null and void.

e)

Presentation & Discussion on Data Centers - Councilor Warrington
Councilor Warrington presented background information on data center types, land
and infrastructure requirements, and impacts, drawing in part from Hillsboro City
Council reference materials dated July 1, 2026. She noted that Hillsboro currently
operates 16–35 data centers and referenced concerns about electricity demand,
water consumption (North Plains receives water through a single 16-inch pipe from
Hillsboro), noise, property values, and proximity to schools. Councilor Warrington
stated this session was exploratory and not a vote on a ban.
Discussion was broad, with all councilors expressing general agreement that data
centers are not a desirable land use for North Plains. Councilor Ruston emphasized
the need for a clear definitional framework before proceeding. Councilor Ugarte

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City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026
proposed a joint work session with the Planning Commission, with input from City
Attorney BEH. Councilor Warrington noted that a draft ordinance template
(Ordinance 501) had been provided for reference. Interim City Manager Paul Koch
indicated he had heard the Council's direction clearly and would coordinate next
steps with the Planning Commission, including bringing back recommendations. No
formal motion was required for this item; direction to staff was provided by
consensus.
f)

MACC - Cable Television Agreement with Comcast of Oregon II
Jonathan Kaufman, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Area Communications
Commission, was present to answer questions. Interim City Manager Paul Koch
noted the agreement must be approved by all 15 MACC member jurisdictions by the
end of September. Key improvements include upgrading all five PEG access
channels to HD (previously only two of five were in HD) and continued access to the
Public Communications Network (PCN). Councilor Weber provided background on
the MACC structure and the multi-year negotiation process.
Motion to approve the Cable Television Franchise Agreement with Comcast of
Oregon II as presented by MACC
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

8

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

9

REPORTS
8:25 pm - 8:30 pm
a)

Council Reports
No formal council reports were delivered.

b)

Review October 2026 Council Calendar

c)

City Manager Report - Verbal
The Interim City Manager offered to provide his verbal report in writing given the late
hour.

10

ADJOURNMENT: 10:00pm

, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder
Page 62 of 85

Date Approved ________________

City Council Meeting Minutes
September 21, 2026

Page 63 of 85

MINUTES
City Council Meeting
Monday, October 5, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacancy, Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason
Ruston, Mike Shurts, Anna Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

City Manager Paul Koch, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister, Police Chief
Eamon O'Reilly, Library Supervisor Brianna Sowinski, City Attorney
Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

CALL TO ORDER AT 7:00 PM

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

4

All Councilors in attendance.
Councilor Ruston attended via Zoom.
Interim City Manager Paul Koch and City Recorder Lori Lesmeister in attendance.

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

Proclamation - Banned Book Week - October 4-10, 2026
North Plains Library Board

b)

Approval of September 21, 2026, City Council Minutes.
Prior to the vote, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister raised a point of order noting that the
Banned Book Week Proclamation, a sub-item of the Consent Agenda, was customarily read
aloud. Library Supervisor Brianna Sowinski read the full proclamation proclaiming
October 4–10, 2026 as Banned Book Week in the City of North Plains.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ugarte.
Motion was approved unanimously.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
5

6

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm
a)

Beth Fraser - Hillsboro School District Communications Officer, presented
information on Hillsboro School District's upcoming capital bond measure on the
November 3rd ballot, totaling $430 million. She noted that projects benefiting North
Plains and the Glencoe High School feeder area are projected at over $41 million.

b)

Katie Rhyne, Hillsboro School Board Chair, advocated in favor of the bond measure,
citing the district's track record of on-time, on-budget project delivery, and highlighted
the need for security upgrades, HVAC and seismic repairs, and career technical
education improvements.

c)

David Hatcher, resident, addressed the topic of infill development, presenting a map
from 3J Consulting indicating approximately 7 acres of residential infill land available
within city limits. He cautioned against over-reliance on infill as a solution to housing
needs and noted a need for additional commercial development.

d)

Emily Waldron, rural resident, expressed appreciation for the Council's early
conversations regarding data centers and cautioned about the TGM grant process,
noting concerns about community representation and the origin of the grant contract.

e)

Amaryllis Daniels, resident, expressed appreciation for recent Council actions,
including filling vacancies promptly and setting aside the prior housing needs
analysis. She urged the Council to investigate the nature of threats cited by outgoing
councilors.

f)

Linda Galas-Merten, via Zoom, representing Strong Towns North Plains, urged the
Council to suspend further work on the TGM concept plan, arguing it was not aligned
with community preferences and that the process was flawed from its inception.

g)

Ron Bunch - submitted via email after the meeting.

PRESENTATION
7:20pm - 7:25pm
a)

Introduction of Karli Wrobel - Community Programs and Communications
Supervisor
Interim City Manager Paul Koch introduced Karli Wrobel as the city's new Programs
and Communications Supervisor, noting it was her first day on the job. He outlined
her three primary responsibilities: community programs development and
management, including the city's inaugural recreation program; community
engagement as the city's liaison with schools, the Chamber, and local organizations;
and facility rental coordination. Interim City Manager Koch noted that an in-house
onboarding committee of four staff members had been established to support
Wrobel's integration. Councilor Wrobel briefly addressed the Council and community,
expressing enthusiasm for the role.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
b)

Washington County Sheriff's Office 2026 Update
Chief Deputy Jim Wheaton and North Plains Police Chief Eamon O'Reilly presented
the annual Washington County Sheriff's Office update. The presentation covered the
county's countywide public safety structure, specialty response teams—including the
Crash Analysis Reconstruction Team, Mental Health Response Team, and Mobile
Field Force—and technology initiatives such as body worn cameras, a Drone as First
Responder pilot program, license plate reader technology, and AI-assisted report
writing. Chief Deputy Wheaton noted that Washington County remains the safest
major urban county in Oregon. The presentation also addressed the Washington
County Jail, built in 1998, which is approaching end of life and is the subject of an
ongoing seven-year jail expansion program. Staffing was noted as a current
challenge, with jail staffing approximately 20 percent below target.
Councilor Warrington raised constituent concerns about speeding on North Avenue
during overnight hours. Chief O'Reilly acknowledged the concern and noted plans to
flex officer hours and request speed enforcement missions from the Washington
County Motors team.
Councilor Ugarte commended the professionalism of Washington County personnel
and encouraged Council members to attend the Washington County Community
Academy.

7

NEW BUSINESS:
7:25pm - 7:35pm
a)

Res. No. 2371 - Affirming the City's Social Media Policy for Elected Officials
Interim City Manager Paul Koch and City Attorney Emily Matasar presented
Resolution No. 2371, which affirms that individual council members may not speak
for or bind the City on social media unless authorized by a council vote, requires a
written disclaimer on personal or campaign social media accounts that identify the
holder as a councilor or discuss city business, and requires that social-media content
relating to city business be retained as a public record. Questions and substantive
discussion addressed the scope of the public records obligation, clarification of the
term "regularly" when discussing city business, the treatment of private pages, and
practical implications for personal communications. City Attorney Matasar advised all
council members to post the required disclaimer as a protective measure regardless
of page privacy settings and noted that any writing relating to the conduct of the
public's business is a public record.
Move to adopt Resolution No. 2371 - affirming the City's Social Media Policy for
elected officials
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

8

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
7:35pm - 8:05pm

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
a)

City Manager Search
Interim City Manager Paul Koch presented a staff report recommending the
engagement of Prothman Executive Search to conduct the search for a new full-time
City Manager. Three proposals were received: Colin Baenziger & Associates at
$34,500; GMP at $19,500 plus $18,500 per additional search; and Prothman at
$19,500 plus $16,500 per additional search. Interim City Manager Koch
recommended Prothman on the basis of their experience with sensitive
organizational situations.
Financial Impact & Community Benefit: The base fee to Prothman for the City
Manager search is $19,500, with additional searches for subsequent positions such
as Public Works Director and Finance Director at $16,500 each. Funds will be drawn
from Materials and Services and may require a budget adjustment in January. This is
a one-time expenditure. Engaging a search firm now is essential given that Interim
City Manager Koch's engagement ends in February 2027, necessitating a new
manager on board by early February to ensure an orderly transition. The community
benefit is a professionally managed, transparent search process with staff and
community involvement, reducing the risk of a poorly matched hire and its attendant
costs.
He confirmed that once the firm is engaged, he would return to Council with a
strategy for staff and community involvement in the selection process.
Move to contract with Prothman Executive Search to assist in the search and
selection of the new full-time City Manager and to direct the Interim City Manager to
finalize the contract
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

b)

TGM Update Report from Consultants
Steve Faust - 3J Consulting
Glen Bolen - ODOT
Interim City Manager Paul Koch introduced consultants Steve Faust of 3J Consulting
and Glen Boland of ODOT, who presented an update on the Transportation and
Growth Management (TGM) grant project, now reframed as the "North Plains Vision
Plan." The consultants noted the project is approximately 75 percent complete under
a $250,000 state grant. Completed work includes community surveys, technical and
project advisory committee meetings, existing conditions memos, and three concept
plan alternatives. The remaining work includes a preferred alternative memo (near
completion), an infrastructure cost and phasing analysis, and a final plan document,
estimated to require approximately $50,000 of remaining grant funds. The
consultants confirmed that completing the project would impose no financial
obligation on the City, as the grant overmatch has been covered, and that the
resulting plan carries no adoption obligation.
Council discussion was substantive and extended. Councilor Ugarte and Councilor
Ruston argued that completing the project at no cost to the city was prudent, as the
infrastructure cost data would be foundational for any future growth decision.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
Councilor Warrington and Councilor Shurts expressed concern that the large
commercial and industrial acreage in the preferred concept did not reflect community
sentiment and questioned the value of completing a study misaligned with community
direction. Council President De Forge indicated a concern about spending taxpayer
funds on a project lacking alignment with council goals and community feedback.
Following the failed vote (due to a tie), Steve Faust with 3J Consulting advised that a
subsequent motion to formally terminate the project under the 30-day written notice
provision of the intergovernmental agreement would provide clearer direction to the
state. Council discussed whether to table the matter pending the seating of a full
seven-member council, including a mayor, which would affect future voting
outcomes. City Attorney Matasar agreed to research the legal effect of the failed
motion and the notice requirements and to report back at the next meeting.
Move to approve allowing the completion of the TGM grant and moving forward with
its finish
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Ruston.
The vote was as follows:
Councilor Ruston - aye
Councilor Shurts – nay
Councilor Warrington – nay
Councilor De Forge – nay
Councilor Weber – aye
Councilor Ugarte - aye
9

REPORTS
8:05pm - 8:20pm
a)

City Manager Report
Interim City Manager Paul Koch reported that effective November 1st, staff time
reporting would include identification of urban renewal and grant time spent. He
requested that the Council schedule a special session the following week to address
$1 million in legislative allocations and review a project list. The Council reached
consensus to hold a special session on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 6:00 PM.

b)

Council Reports
Councilor Shurts reported that he and Interim City Manager Koch would meet Friday
to finalize bids for demolition of houses on the Glencoe Opportunity Area (GOA).
Councilor Shurts also presented a draft postcard survey concept aimed at soliciting
broader community input and requested authorization to develop a mailing to all
approximately 3,800 city residents, with an estimated printing cost of $700–$800 and
mailing cost of approximately $4,400. Council members were generally supportive of
the concept but raised concerns about question design, data privacy, duplicate
responses, and response rates. Council President De Forge requested that Interim
City Manager Paul Koch return with specific recommendations on community

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 5, 2026
engagement strategies, incorporating review of previous survey efforts. Councilor
Shurts additionally requested that a future agenda item include discussion of Flock
license plate reader cameras, citing community concerns. The Council reached
consensus to add the item to a future agenda, with Councilor Ugarte noting a
potential legislative ban on such technology in the 2027 session.
Councilor Warrington reported attendance at a candidate forum on September 24th
and the Signal Technologies facility grand opening on September 29th. She
requested a staff report on why city committees had not been meeting regularly and
inquired about the status of the Jessie Mays plaque decision from the Parks and
Recreation Board. City Recorder Lesmeister noted that all committee meetings are
now scheduled and visible on the city calendar, and that Councilor Warrington had
been sent the Parks and Recreation Board agenda.
Council President De Forge reported attendance at the September Planning
Commission meeting.
Councilor Weber reported ongoing correspondence with Interim City Manager Koch
regarding Urban Renewal Agency matters, noting positive momentum on demolition
of properties at the GOA and anticipated outreach to businesses that had applied for
grants.
Councilor Ugarte reported attendance at the Washington County Consolidated
Communications Agency (WCCCA/9-1-1) Board meeting on September 17th. She
also noted the receipt of public comment on data centers and encouraged the
Planning Commission to consider a height restriction update as a near-term
measure. She noted that Interim City Manager Koch was preparing a report on data
centers in collaboration with staff.
c)

10

INFORMATION ITEMS:
a)

11

Review October 2026 Council Calendar
Review Ex-Officio Duties Schedule - Councilors Ruston & Shurts take openings

North Plains City Charter

ADJOURNMENT: 9:47 pm

, Council President

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 69 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES
City Council - Special Session Meeting
Wednesday, October 14, 2026 – 6:00 pm
Jessie Mays Community Center

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacancy; Councilors: Mark De Forge, Trista Papen, Jason
Ruston, Mike Shurts, Anna Warrington, Don Weber

COUNCIL ABSENT:
STAFF PRESENT:

City Manager Paul Koch, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister, Interim
Library Managerr Brianna Sowinski

1

CALL TO ORDER at 6:03 pm

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

4

Councilor Mike Shurts joined the meeting remotely at 6:45pm

CONSENT AGENDA:
(The items on the Consent Agenda are normally considered in a single motion. Any item
may be removed for separate consideration upon request by any member of the Council.)
a)

City Recorder Lesmeister clarified that the consent agenda consisted of the Council's
agreement on the items listed on the agenda. No minutes were before the Council,
and they would appear on the Monday consent agenda.
Move to approve the Consent Agenda
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Warrington.
Motion was approved unanimously.

5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
a)

Page 70 of 85

Linda Galas-Merten spoke for the North Plains Business Alliance, joined by Lora
Dexheimer of the North Plains Food Bank. She said the Alliance had learned of the
$1 million USDA grant and wished to help the city spend it. She distributed a handout

City Council - Special Session Minutes
October 14, 2026
with a wish list, design prerequisites, and a five-phase concept for a civic center
complex and asked that public bathrooms be added. She said the Alliance saw the
project as an economic driver that would increase foot traffic and support nearby
businesses.
b)

6

North Plains Chamber of Commerce President Russ Sheldon, a former chair of the
urban renewal agency, offered historical perspective on the Glencoe opportunity
area. He said the original commercial focus was meant to strengthen the economic
base. He cautioned that converting part of the site to residential use could require
deeper excavation and additional contaminated soil removal, possibly beyond what
the existing brownfield grant covers. He urged the Council to consult the prospective
grocery operator, seek planning assistance through Business Oregon, and engage
the community before making a fundamental change. He submitted the Chamber's
position statement for the record.

NEW BUSINESS:
a)

Report from Ross Schultz regarding organizational recommendations
Interim City Manager Koch presented the exit report of former Interim City Manager
Ross Schultz and recommended that the Council discuss each item, set priorities,
and assign them to staff. The Council reviewed the nine recommendations one by
one. No formal motion was made.
City Hall staffing. Interim City Manager Koch reported that the front door was now
unlocked, a front-desk employee was in place, and a contracted administrative
assistant covered breaks, so City Hall was no longer staffed by one person. He said
he would later request a full-time administrative assistant. Councilor Weber asked
about budget coverage, and Interim City Manager Koch said staffing changes would
come with the January budget adjustments. Interim City Manager Koch also said he
had asked the Public Works Director for a staffing plan, including weekend coverage.
The Council considered the item complete.
Public relations and messaging. Interim City Manager Koch reported that an internal
onboarding committee was working with the new communications and recreation
staff member to build an annual plan, that the outside communications contract had
ended, and that an existing framework was available. Councilor Ruston asked how
core messages would be defined. Interim City Manager Koch said the plan, including
vision and goals, would come to the Council for review. Councilor Weber suggested a
work session once the plan was ready.
Public information requests. City Recorder Lesmeister reported that 62 requests had
been received, that the city was not out of compliance, and that requests were
handled first in, first out. She said the city attorneys were preparing a new fee
schedule, expected at a November meeting, after rejecting the prior schedule with its
minimum fee. Interim City Manager Koch said the process was being restructured so
the Recorder would receive, catalog, and assign requests while other staff were
trained to respond. Councilor Weber suggested temporary help to clear the backlog.
Workload concentration and human resources. Interim City Manager Koch said he
was currently performing much of the human resources function and delegating to
staff. He recommended at least a part-time human resource professional because of

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
October 14, 2026
state and federal employment rules. He said he would bring back a policy governing
step increases, additional PTO, and compensation adjustments. Councilor Ruston
asked whether the former manager had acted within his authority. Interim City
Manager Koch said the city manager typically held that authority, and Councilor
Ugarte cited Section 34 of the Charter. Councilor Weber asked for the total budget
impact and framework, noting his understanding that adjustments exceeded
$100,000. City Recorder Lesmeister explained that employees could cash out up to
80 hours of PTO once every 12 months. There was no suggestion of reversing the
prior adjustments.
Financial management. Interim City Manager Koch recommended that the city's
search firm begin recruiting finance director candidates so a pool would be ready for
the new city manager, noting that the finance function was fully outsourced. Councilor
Ugarte favored starting the search now, including a 14-day posting on the city
website, citing the risk of further delay. Councilor Weber, Councilor Warrington,
Councilor Ruston, and Councilor De Forge favored allowing the new city manager to
shape the team, noting that the first audit had been passed with the contracted
provider and that no financial emergencies had arisen. Councilor Weber and
Councilor Ruston raised concerns about how a finance director’s hire would affect the
provider's contract. Councilor Shurts, after joining, supported eventually separating
the finance director and city manager roles. By consensus, Interim City Manager
Koch was directed to return as a future agenda item with options for transitioning the
function.
Project management. Councilor Ruston and Interim City Manager Koch agreed that
the incoming city manager should decide whether to add a project manager. Interim
City Manager Koch said such a position could relieve about half of his workload.
Succession planning. Interim City Manager Koch said he was identifying core
services and an appropriate five-year staffing pattern. Councilor Ugarte asked for firm
timelines for each report item, while Councilor Weber suggested reviewing
succession planning in February 2027. The Council agreed to hold a work session
after the regular meeting on Monday, November 2, 2026. Interim City Manager Koch
said staff would prepare a 12-month calendar that included the budget schedule.
Council rules. By consensus, the Council agreed to take up council rules in January
2027, when new members join, possibly with a facilitator from the League of Oregon
Cities. Councilor De Forge also acknowledged the report's favorable observations on
the Police Department and water service.
Financial Impact & Community Benefit
The report's cost figures included $15,000–$20,000 in estimated net costs for public
information requests since January 2026, roughly $16,500 quoted for search-firm
recruitment of supplemental positions, and compensation adjustments that Councilor
Weber understood to exceed $100,000. No new funds were committed. Staffing and
public-records costs are recurring, the search fee would be one-time, and any new
positions would be funded through the January 2027 budget adjustments. The
Council deferred action because the new city manager and new councilors will arrive
early in 2027, and a clearer financial picture is expected in January. Residents would
benefit from faster public-records responses, more stable staffing, and stronger
financial oversight and audit readiness. Oversight will include the November fee
schedule, the November 2 work session calendar, Interim City Manager Koch's
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City Council - Special Session Minutes
October 14, 2026
human resources policy and finance transition recommendations, and the January
financial report.
b)

USDA $1 million Federal Funds Allocation
Interim City Manager Koch explained that $1 million was earmarked through
Representative Bonamici and that the original city hall and police station concept was
estimated at $12–$15 million. He said USDA was pressing the city to file an
application, and that USDA required a smaller project to release the funds. He
presented three options: adopt the original concept, approve a smaller concept
around the library, or reject the funds. He recommended the library-based concept,
citing its location within the urban renewal area, the potential for urban renewal and
state funding, and its downtown benefits. His proposal included two classrooms and
a larger meeting room, a covered walkway to the library, removal of the two public
works buildings and the old city hall, and a look at the city lots across the street for
parking.
Interim Library manager Brianna Sowinski described the library's 2,500 square feet
as inadequate for a city of about 4,000 residents. She said story time often draws up
to 50 people and that gathering, and program space is limited. She noted that grants,
the Friends group, and urban renewal funds could support expansion.
The Council expressed no support for the original concept. Councilor Warrington
asked that 3J Consulting present teardown and remodel/addition options. Councilor
Weber urged a realistic scope, such as avoiding a duplicate kitchen, and noted urban
renewal funds could be a significant source. Councilor Shurts supported the library
concept and offered to prepare preliminary ideas as a general contractor, and he
asked whether a budget ceiling should be set. Councilor Ugarte asked about city
finances, the risk if the grant were spent on planning without construction, and
stakeholder involvement. Interim City Manager Koch replied that federal agencies
can claw back funds, that no city money was required, and that the Council would
approve a concept before the application was submitted. Councilor Ugarte confirmed
that the vote committed the city to no contract beyond directing development of
concepts.
Financial Impact & Community Benefit
The project centers on a $1,000,000 federal USDA earmark, which is one-time,
secured through Representative Bonamici. USDA allows one year to plan and two
years to construct. The original concept was estimated at $12–$15 million, while
Interim City Manager Koch roughly estimated a library-based project at $2–$3 million.
Possible supplemental sources include urban renewal funds (he offered $500,000 as
an example), state legislative appropriations, grants, and the Friends of the Library.
3J Consulting's planning costs will appear in an updated contract on the October 19,
2026, agenda. The timing reflects repeated USDA inquiries and the risk of the funds
being withdrawn or clawed back. Residents would gain library classrooms, flexible
community meeting and rental space, and more downtown activity. Oversight will
include 3J's two or three concept options and cost estimates for Council approval
before the USDA application, a funding strategy, and Interim City Manager Koch's
January financial report.

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City Council - Special Session Minutes
October 14, 2026
Motion that the Council direct the city manager to hire 3J Consulting for the purpose
of designing the new civic building and plaza and to review the lots across the street.
Moved by Councilor De Forge. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.
7

ADJOURNMENT: 8:00 pm

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 74 of 85

Date Approved ________________

MINUTES

City Council Meeting
Monday, October 19, 2026 7:00 PM
Jessie Mays Community Center
and also via Zoom

COUNCIL
MEMBERS:

Mayor - Vacancy, Councilors Mark De Forge, Trista Ugarte, Jason
Ruston, Mike Shurts, Anna Warrington, Don Weber,

STAFF PRESENT:

Interim City Manager Paul Koch, City Recorder Lori Lesmeister,
Police Chief Eamon O'Reilly, Library Supervisor Brianna Sowinski,
Public Works Supervisor Cody Brown, Programs & Communications
Supervisor Karli Wrobel, City Attorney Emily Matasar

OTHER:

1

CALL TO ORDER at 7:00 pm

2

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3

ROLL CALL
a)

4

All Councilors in attendance

CONSENT AGENDA:
7:05pm - 7:10pm
a)

Approval of October 5, 2026, City Council Minutes.
Motion to move the Consent Agenda to New Business due to a question
regarding who made a specific statement in the October 5, 2026, minutes.
Moved by Councilor Ugarte. Second by Councilor Weber. Motion was approved
unanimously.

5

PUBLIC COMMENT:
7:10pm - 7:20pm
Persons wishing to speak on matters not on the agenda may be recognized at this time.
The public comment period is a limited public forum and comments are therefore

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2026
appropriately limited to matters of City concern, official action, or other matters that may
come before the City Council.
Written comment in advance of the meeting is welcome and should be emailed to
[email protected]. An individual or community group that wishes to provide public
comment virtually must register with the City Recorder by 3:00 pm the day of the meeting
and provide their name, address, email, phone, and a general topic.

a)

Public Comment from Ed Andrilenas, property manager of 31392/88 Commercial St.
Cindy Hirst read a letter on behalf of property owners Ed Andrilenas and Andrea
Johnson. The letter opposed structural, zoning or site alterations to the food bank
property, citing its future commercial marketability and the food bank's temporary
occupancy.

b)

Cindy Hirst, North Plains resident, said Councilor Ruston stated at the September 21
meeting that everyone would conceptually say they do not want a data center. She
agreed and said North Plains has no light or heavy industrial land available for one,
and that any urban growth boundary expansion is at least five years away. She urged
the Council not to spend staff time and money on a data center that "cannot be built
here in the near future."
Ms. Hirst said that a framework for the discussion already exists in the Planning
Commission, which assists the Council with policy development, including the
comprehensive plan (Municipal Code Chapter 15) and zoning and development
standards (Chapter 16). She asked why the Council would overlook the Commission
and the public participation it provides. She also said that at the same September 21
meeting several Councilors voted to discard Ordinance 489 and the April 2022
Housing Needs Analysis. With that analysis discarded, she said, future housing
planning must account for Oregon's new guidelines and higher density requirements,
which will require a comprehensive rewrite of the city's plan. She urged the Council to
put the Planning Commission and residents to work on the data center planning
decisions the city will actually need to make.

c)

Emily Waldron, a rural resident, urged adoption of a data center ban. She said a ban
would remove land-speculation pressure and allow the community to focus on its
identity. Ms. Waldron noted that a data center "doesn't just take fresh, undeveloped
land"; it can take land already developed, such as a closed sawmill sold to a
technology company.

d)

Debbie Van Domelen, resident, stated that on Friday, October 16, Councilor Weber
and Councilor Warrington along with a third person (female) were reportedly seen on
her family's private property that is posted 'no trespassing', near hay bales with
political signs, taking pictures. She said photographs show them on the public road,
but eyewitnesses reported additional photographs taken while they were on private
property, and that an eyewitness would speak. She also reported online bullying and
harassment by supporters of Council members, and said she was concerned that
officials "stay out of it." She said her family's property has been in place for 105 years
without such problems, and that "disagreement does not excuse harassment or
disregard for private property."

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2026

6

e)

Sarah Van Domelen, resident, said she saw three people on the property that is
clearly marked with 'no trespassing' signs, on October 16 while going to feed the
animals, and identified Councilor Weber, Councilor Warrington, and another person.
She said people across the street were also taking pictures, that their signs were set
against the hay bales, and that the group crossed the street when she walked toward
the path. She also said Councilor Weber likes to cut across the park on Sunset
Ridge, and she did not think that was appropriate.

f)

Amaryllis Daniels, a North Plains resident, reported that her public records request
found no evidence of nondisclosure agreements binding any city employee or official.
She urged the council to take up a ban on NDAs and closed-door negotiations, and
to permanently ban data centers without delay.

g)

Dougy Daniels, North Plains resident, spoke in support of banning data centers in
North Plains.

h)

Carter Calhoun, Hillsboro resident, spoke in support of banning data centers in North
Plains.

STAFF REPORTS
7:20 pm - 7:35 pm
a)

Library Department Monthly Report
Brianna Sowinski was in attendance to answer any questions regarding her Library
Staff Report. Councilor Anna Warrington asked about new Friends of the Library
members, and the response was that about two had joined. Councilor Don Weber
thanked staff for their support of children's programs.

b)

Police Department Monthly Report
Police Chief Eamon O'Reilly presented the report.
In response to Councilor Anna Warrington request for an update on speeding on
North Avenue, Chief O'Reilly said he would pull data from the speed sign to identify
the best days and times for enforcement. He also said he would notify Public Works
that a 25 mph sign on North Street is partially hidden by a tree.
In response to Councilor Trista Ugarte, Chief O'Reilly said North Plains will not have
a dedicated school resource officer. Deputy Vance will receive SRO training to serve
as the primary school contact for lower-priority calls, and higher-priority calls will go
through 911.
In response to Councilor Don Weber, Chief O'Reilly said the lower September selfinitiated activity, mostly traffic stops, reflected an officer's retirement and staffing
turnover. He said public-demand calls remained consistent and that he expected
activity to increase with Deputy Vance.

c)

Communications & Programs Supervisor Monthly Report
Karli Wrobel presented a first report after about a week and a half on the job.
Councilor Trista Ugarte and Councilor Don Weber commended the supervisor's

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2026
community engagement at the chili cook-off. Karli reported that more than 30
residents, many of them children, contributed recreation program ideas, which will be
compiled to track community engagement trends.
d)

Public Works Monthly Report
Interim Public Works Supervisor Cody Brown presented the report. In response to
Councilor Anna Warrington, Interim Public Works Supervisor Brown said no start
date had been set for the Jesse Mays roof repair and that he would follow up with the
contractor. In response to Councilor Trista Ugarte, he said leaf pickup would begin
October 26, with some pickup before Halloween, and would not be organized by
zone. The Communications & Programs Supervisor will assist with public notice for
the leaf pickup program.

e)

Community Development & Project Update Monthly Report

Brian Feeney of 3J Consulting joined remotely. In response to Councilor Trista
Ugarte, he said the Glencoe and West Union intersection project completed 30
percent design last month and is under review by Washington County and the
railroad. The next design phase begins in November, and bid documents are
anticipated in about nine months. He will bring a county schedule update to the next
meeting.
f)

Finance Department Monthly Report - Amanda Taylor Merina + Co
Interim City Manager Paul Koch relayed questions, as the finance representative was
not available. Councilor DeForge noted that cash balances declined from $24.5
million in 2023 to $22.7 million in 2024 and $21.8 million in 2025, and asked for an
explanation of the three-year decline. Interim City Manager Koch said he would
obtain a response from the finance consultant.

7

UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
7:35pm - 7:55pm
a)

8

NEW BUSINESS:
7:55pm - 8:20pm
a)

Recommendation from the Economic Development Commission to reappoint
Mike Accuardi to the EDC for a 4-year term through Dec. 31,2030
Mike Accuardi was in attendance virtually.
Brief questions and discussion.
Motion to reappoint Mike Accuardi to the Economic Development Commission for a
four-year term through December 2030.
Moved by Councilor Weber. Second by Councilor Ruston.
Motion was approved unanimously.

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City Council Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2026

b)

Safety Issues at North Plains Food Bank
Interim City Manager Paul Koch reported that a risk manager from the city's insurer
assessed the North Plains Food Bank site on Commercial Street in late September.
The risk manager found that loading on Commercial Street and the unattached fence
between the sidewalk and curb were unsafe, and that the city could face insurance
increases or cancellation if the risks were not reduced. He also reported that a 3J
safety project could add a railing along the curb. Staff recommended returning the
two parking spaces, moving unloading to the adjacent side street, installing a railing
and correcting the curb and sidewalk, and removing the yellow fence.
Councilor Don Weber said the risk manager apparently had not been consulted on
the earlier decision and that he deferred to that expertise. Councilor Anna Warrington
said 3J's project list showed no near-term improvements there. Councilor Trista
Ugarte said the earlier decision was based on advice from the city attorney and staff
and that the budget and intersection-project status were unconfirmed. She asked that
the city attorney, 3J, the insurer and the food bank be brought together. Interim City
Manager Koch said he would try to arrange this.
Motion that the safety recommendations of the risk manager be implemented along
Commercial Street, and that the Interim City Manager ensure the safety
enhancements are completed.
Moved by Councilor Ruston. Second by Councilor Shurts.
Motion was approved 5 to 1 with the following vote:
Councilor Shurts – aye
Councilor Warrington – aye
Councilor Ugarte – nay
Councilor De Forge – aye
Councilor Ruston – aye
Councilor Weber – aye

c)

Consent Agenda moved to New Business to address clarification on minutes
from October 5, 2026, City Council meeting.
Councilor Anna Warrington asked that the minutes be corrected to attribute the 30day written notice requirement to the person who read the contract, not the city
attorney. Councilor DeForge recommended that corrected minutes be researched
and brought back. Councilor Trista Ugarte asked that Interim City Manager Paul
Koch also include his post-meeting email update on the contract cancellation, and he
agreed. No vote was taken, and the item was deferred to a future meeting.

9

REPORTS
8:20pm - 8:30pm
a)

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City Manager Report
Feedback on possible changes to the Glencoe Opportunity Area Master Plan

City Council Meeting Minutes
October 19, 2026
Interim City Manager Paul Koch reported that he would be out for the rest of the
week. On November 1st the time-reporting system will begin capturing staff time
spent on the urban renewal area and grants. Lobbyist Tom Holt will attend on
November 2 to receive the council's legislative priorities. Staff are building a 12month calendar of recurring tasks. Councilors were asked to send comments on a job
profile by next Monday.
Interim City Manager Koch asked whether the Glencoe Opportunity Area Master Plan
in the packet should be the plan provided to Tiberius. Councilor Anna Warrington and
Councilor Don Weber asked for mixed-use options, citing the council's original intent.
Councilor DeForge asked for the plan to be revisited and right-sized, possibly phased
and with residential, and mindful of neighboring properties given current vacancies.
Councilor Jason Ruston questioned whether developer interest would differ from the
prior round. Councilor Trista Ugarte proposed a joint work session with the Planning
Commission and 3J. Councilor DeForge noted consensus to learn more and consult
other stakeholders.
b)

Council Reports
Councilor Don Weber reported that the Parks Board is developing ways to honor
Jesse Mays.
Councilor Trista Ugarte thanked chili cook-off volunteers and reported on the
Planning Commission meeting, which included state changes to residential notice
requirements. She reiterated, for the record, that she opposes data centers but wants
a thoughtful process, and stated she has never signed an NDA or received
compensation.
Councilor Anna Warrington reported on the October 7 Economic Development
Commission meeting, where a golden ticket program and a senior assistance
program were discussed. She also noted the October 4 special council meeting and
said she has signed no NDAs. She asked that NDAs be placed on a future agenda,
and there was no objection.

c)

Review November 2026 Council Calendar
City Recorder Lori Lesmeister noted that the Parks and Recreation ex officio duty on
November 9 was vacant. Councilor Mark DeForge volunteered.

10

ADJOURNMENT: 8:58 pm

________________________________
, Mayor

Lori Lesmeister, City Recorder

Page 80 of 85

Date Approved ________________

9/15/2026

Page 81 of 85

COUNCIL REPORT
Date Prepared: October 28, 2026
To:

North Plains City Council

AGENDA ITEM NO.

From: Interim City Manager Paul Koch
For Meeting Of: November 2, 2026
Subject: Setting 2027 Legislative Priorities for the city
1. BACKGROUND: Tom Holt is your paid lobbyist in the Oregon Legislature. He will be present at
your meeting to take about 20-30 minutes to assist you develop your Legislative Priorities. This
is important because your lobbyist needs to know what to do in working for you. One
suggestion would be state funding for the new Civic Library Center complex, the alternative to
take advantage of the $1 million earmark from the federal government. We should know the
estimated cost of that community amenity in a few months.
2. CITY COUNCIL OPTIONS: Not applicable to this discussion. Tom will have the discussion with
Council and encourage you to list items of importance to the community that he can work for in
the Legislative session.

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November 2026
All meetings are now being held at the
Mays Community Center 30975 NW Hillcrest Street

Jessie

All meetings will also be available to attend 'virtually' using Zoom

MEETING

PRIMARY

ALTERNATE

First Monday of the month at
7:00 pm
1st Wednesday of the month
at 6:00 pm

City Council
Economic Development Commission
Washington County Coordinating
Committee (WCCC)

Ruston

Parks & Rec Board
Washington County Office of
Community Development Policy

NOTE

DATE
11/2
11/4

2nd Monday at 12:00 noon

11/9

De Forge

2nd Monday at 6:00 pm

11/9

Papen

2nd Thursday 7:00pm

11/12
11/16

Planning Commission

Warrington

6 pm - 7 pm
3rd Monday of the month at
7:00 pm
3rd Wednesday at 6:00 pm
due to Veteran's Day holiday

Library Board
Metro Policy Advisory Committee
(MPAC)
Metropolitan Area Communcations
Commission (MACC)
Washington County Consolidated
Communications Agency (9-1-1)
5900 NE Pinefarm Ct. Hillsboro &
also via Teams. For info call Admin
at 503.690.4911

De Forge

3rd Wednesday at 6:00pm

11/18

De Forge

4th Wednesday at 5:00pm
Usually Fridays 3-4 times a
year

URA Meeting
City Council

Page 83 of 85

Weber

De Forge

Papen

11/16
11/18

Page 84 of 85

2026 City Council Meeting Calendar Schedule
2026 City Council Meeting Dates-7:00 p.m.

1/5
1/20
2/2
2/17
3/2
3/16

4/6
4/20
5/4
5/18
6/1
6/15

Meetings in yellow are Tuesday meetings
due to Monday holidays

7/6
7/20
8/3
8/17
9/8
9/21

Note: URA meetings will be held April 6, May 5, and June 1

10/5
10/19
11/2
11/16
12/7
12/21

Work Session at 6:00 pm before each Council
meeting unless otherwise noted.

2026 Schedule for Board and Commission Meetings - Ex Officio Duties
1st Wednesday
6:00 pm

Economic
Development

2nd Monday
6:00 pm

Parks & Recreation
Board

2nd
Wednesday
7:00 pm

1/7
2/4
3/4
4/1
5/6
6/3
7/1
8/5
9/2
10/7
11/4
12/2

DUMBROW
WEBER
PAPEN
DE FORGE
DUMBROW
WEBER
CANCELLED
De FORGE
HAGEDORN
WARRINGTON
RUSTON
De FORGE

1/12
2/9
3/9
4/13
5/11
6/8
7/13
8/10
9/7
10/12
11/9
12/7

FAGE
REDING
CANCELLED
CANCELLED
HAGEDORN
De FORGE
WARRINGTON
PAPEN
WARRINGTON
WEBER
De FORGE
PAPEN

1/14
2/11
3/11
4/8
5/13
6/10
7/8
8/12
9/9
10/7
*11/18
12/9

Planning Commission

3rd Wednesday
7:00 pm

REDING
REDING
DUMBROW
PAPEN
De FORGE
HAGEDORN
WEBER
DUMBROW
De FORGE
PAPEN
WARRINGTON
SHURTS

1/21
2/18
3/18
4/15
5/20
6/17
7/15
8/19
9/16
10/21
11/18
12/16

Library Board

WEBER
De FORGE
HAGEDORN
CANCELLED
WEBER
WARRINGTON
HAGEDORN
WEBER
DUMBROW
WARRINGTON
De FORGE

2026 Council Committee Appointments

Meeting

Primary

Alternate

Metropolitan Area Communications Commission
(MACC)
Tual Valley Comm Access TV (TVCTV)
Meets 1:30-4:00pm in Beaverton with Zoom option
Meets quarterly - Dates set approx. 3 weeks in advance

Weber

De Forge

Metro Policy Advisory Committee
(MPAC)
Meet 4th Wednesday of each month 5:00-7:00pm at Metro
Council Chambers in Portland

De Forge

Washington County Coordinating Committee
(WCCC) - City Mayors are representatives on Committee
Meet 2nd Monday of each month in Beaverton 12:00-1:30pm

Washington County Office of Community Development:
Policy Advisory Board
Meet 2nd Thurs of each month 7:00-9:00pm
Various locations throughout Washington County

Washington County Consolidated Communications Agency
9-1-1 (WCCCA)
Sept. 18th 3:00 pm
Dec. 18th 3:00 pm
5900 NE Pinefarm Ct Hillsboro and also via Teams
Info: call admin at: (503) 690-4911

MAYOR

VACANCY

Papen

VACANCY

VACANCY

Papen

NOTE: PLEASE START THINKING ABOUT 2027 POSITIONS/APPOINTMENTS NOW
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