City Council Approves Debt Refinancing to Save Up to $3 Million, Approves Contract to Design I-5 Ped Bridge
February 2, 2021 — At the February 1, 2021, meeting, the Council approved a resolution authorizing the Finance department to pursue the refinancing of about $26 million in remaining debt from bonds issued in 2011 to finance the Waste Water Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project. With the reduction in interest rates, the City could see anywhere between $1.5 to $3 million dollars in interest savings over the life of the debt.
The Council also approved an amended contract with DOWL, LLC, which allocates an additional $1.15 million for the development of an advance engineering design of the I-5 Pedestrian Bridge. In October, the Council affirmed the Planning Commission’s recommendation of a Tied Arch Bridge
During Communications, Community Development Director Chris Neamtzu detailed the results of an Economic Development program that awarded 43 COVID-19 relief grants to local restaurants, allocating more than $63,000 to help compensate operators for loss of business during the pandemic.
During the work session held prior to the meeting, City Planning staff shared details of the upcoming Middle Housing Plan project, which is updating City code to incorporate new development regulations in accordance with House Bill 2001. Additional rules may be tailored to support the Equitable Housing Strategic Plan, increasing the array of available housing types to appeal to better meet the diverse needs of the community. Public outreach on this project is to begin this spring.
Planners also shared three preliminary Town Center Streetscape design concepts for the Council’s consideration. The Streetscape Plan establishes design guidelines for Town Center sidewalks and streets, including furniture, fixtures, landscaping, public art and pavement design. As the Town Center develops over time, a distinctive Town Center Streetscape establishes a strong sense of place.
- Attend the City’s virtual Streetscape forum on Tuesday, Feb. 9 (noon or 6 pm) to review and comment on preliminary design concepts.
Mayor Julie Fitzgerald re-appointed Councilor Charlotte Lehan to the Tourism Promotion Committee and Councilor Joann Linville to the Wilsonville-Metro Community Enhancement Committee. (Editor: Committee assignments were discussed, but no action was taken at the meeting).
Because of Presidents Day, the next meeting is scheduled to be held virtually on Thursday, Feb. 18, at 7 pm; a pre-meeting work session is scheduled at 5 pm.
Community members can watch all City Council meetings on cable (Xfinity Ch. 30, Ziply Ch. 32) or on the City’s YouTube channel: ci.wilsonville.or.us/WilsonvilleTV.
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