On the agenda: Hermiston packet — data center (Jul 8)

PLANNING COMMISSION
Council Chambers, 180 NE 2nd Street

July 08, 2026 at 7:00 PM
AGENDA
Meetings are always open to the public in-person. Other ways of viewing or participating in
live meetings are as follows:
To participate in live meetings through Zoom, registration is required no later than 8am the day
of the meeting by emailing [email protected] and providing participants full name and
place of residence. The Planning Assistant will respond to sender with Zoom meeting details
prior to the start of the meeting.
Submit written electronic comments to [email protected] For written comments to be
part of the record, sender must provide their full name and place of residence, and comments
must be received within the time frame given for the item under discussion. The Planning
Assistant will respond/confirm to sender that their electronic comment was received and will be
made part of the record; or if their electronic comment is not able to be made a part of the
record, the Planning Assistant will respond to the sender and state the reason(s) why.
1. CALL TO ORDER - 7:00 PM
2. MINUTES
A. Minutes of the June 10, 2026, regular planning commission meeting
3. NEW BUSINESS
A. Final Plat- Fieldstone Crossing Phase 2 4N2815CA Tax Lot 1300- 1653 SW 9th St
B. Facade Grant - Christianson Realty Group 4N2811CB Tax Lot 100 - 398 E Ridgeway
Ave
4. PLANNER COMMENTS AND UNSCHEDULED COMMUNICATION
5. ADJOURN

** AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT NOTICE**
Please contact Hermiston City Hall, 180 NE 2nd Street, Hermiston, OR 97838 (Phone No.
1

541-567-5521) at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting time if you need an
accommodation. TTY and TDD users please call Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service
at 1-800-735-2900 or 711.

2

Section 2, ItemA.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2026

Chairman Fialka called the regular meeting to order at 7:00PM. Present were Commissioners Caplinger,
Saylor, Doherty, Rebman, Hamm, Misner, and Kirkpatrick. Commissioner Serrano was excused. Staff in
attendance included Planning Director C.F. Spencer, City Attorney Rich Tovey, and Planning Assistant
Heather La Beau. No Youth Advisors were present.
Minutes
Commissioner Kirkpatrick moved, and Commissioner Saylor seconded to approve the minutes of the May
13, 2026, regular meeting. Motion passed 7-0 with Commissioners Caplinger, Rebman, Saylor, Hamm,
Fialka, Misner, Kirkpatrick, and Doherty in favor.
Partition Plat - Olmedo 4N2811CD Tax Lot 801- 600 SE 7th St
This item continues from the May 13, 2026, regular meeting. Planning Director Spencer stated the staff
report was updated with the requested information provided by the applicant. The garage has been
removed, and the setbacks of the existing buildings are shown on the draft plat. The existing buildings
meet the required setbacks.
Findings of Fact

Chapter 154: Subdivisions

Design Standards
§154.15 Relation to Adjoining Street System.
The property is serviced by SE 7th Street. SE 7th Street is fully improved adjacent to all parcels. All
street rights of way are already platted and no changes are proposed.
§154.16 Street and Alley Width.
SE 7th Street is classified as a local residential street. SE 7th Street has a 55 foot right of way width. No
additional right of way dedication is necessary. The alley adjacent to the north property line of the site
has a 16 foot width and is developed with a pedestrian path. Street and alley standards are satisfied.
§154.17 Easements.
A new six-foot utility easement along SE 7th Street and the existing alley is shown on the plat. ORS
92.044 only permits cities to require easements abutting a street. Easement requirements are satisfied.
§154.18 Blocks.
Block length is not applicable to this plat.
§154.19 Lots.
Parcel 1 is 5,585 square feet. Parcel 2 is 9,198 square feet. Parcel 3 is 11,338 square feet. Parcel 1
contains an existing dwelling and out-buildings. Parcel 2 contains an existing accessory dwelling. Upon
partitioning, the ADU on Parcel 2 will become a primary dwelling. Parcel 3 is vacant. Each lot exceeds
the minimum lot size for single- and two-family housing in the R-3 zone. Parcel 1 exceeds the minimum
lot width of 60 feet and the minimum lot depth of 80 feet in the R-3 zone.
Parcels 2 and 3 are also subject to the flag lot design standards in §154.19(F). Parcels 2 and 3 each
have an access portion of at least 25 feet in width. The applicant has elected not to share access
between each lot and utilize a narrower access flag. Parcels 2 and 3 each exceed the minimum lot size
of 5,000 square feet after removing the area utilized for access. Parcel 2 and 3 satisfy the minimum lot
3

Section 2, ItemA.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2026

depth and width requirements as established in §154.19(F)(5). Lot design standards are satisfied.
§154.20 Character of Development.
The development is occupied with a single-family dwelling and out-buildings on Parcel 1. Parcel 2
contains an accessory dwelling and is intended for additional residential development. Parcel 3 is
intended for additional residential development Uses permitted in the R-3 zone are listed in 157.027 of
the Hermiston Code of Ordinances.
§154.21 Parks, School Sites and the Like.
The comprehensive plan and parks master plan do not indicate a need for any additional parks or schools
in the vicinity of the proposed partition.
Minimum Improvements Required
§154.60 Permanent Markers
Permanent markers shall be set as shown on the final plat in accordance with ORS 92.050 through
92.080.
§154.61 General Improvements
SE 7th Street is fully improved with paving, curb, gutter, and sidewalk along the entire property frontage.
No additional improvements are required.
§154.62 Water Lines
Each parcel is adjacent to municipal water service along the entire parcel frontage. A 6-inch municipal
water line is installed in SE 7th Street. The applicant or owner is responsible for all costs associated with
connection to water service when new dwellings are constructed.
§154.63 Sanitary Sewer System.
Each parcel is adjacent to municipal sewer service along the entire parcel frontage. A 10-inch sanitary
sewer line is installed in SE 7th Street. The applicant or owner is responsible for all costs associated with
connection to sewer service when new dwellings are constructed.
Preliminary Plat
Staff has reviewed the plat and determined the submission of a preliminary plat is not required in
accordance with §154.35(B) of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances which states:
“…Minor partitions containing three lots or less may be exempted from the provisions of this section.”
Final Plat
Per §154.46 of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances, the final plat shall show:

A) The boundary lines of the area being subdivided, with accurate distances and bearings. Shown
as required

B) The lines of all proposed streets and alleys with their width and names. Shown as required
C) The accurate outline of any portions of the property intended to be dedicated or granted for public
use. Shown as required

4

Section 2, ItemA.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2026

D) The line of departure of one street from another. Shown as required

E) The lines of all adjoining property and the lines of adjoining streets and alleys with their widths and
names. Shown as required

F) All lot lines together with an identification system for all lots and blocks. Shown as required
G) The location of all building lines and easements provided for public use, services or utilities.
Shown as required

H) All dimensions, both linear and angular, necessary for locating the boundaries of the subdivision,

lots, streets, alleys, easements, and other areas for public or private use. Linear dimensions are
to be given to the nearest 1/10 of a foot. Shown as required

I) All necessary curve data. Shown as required
J) The location of all survey monuments and bench marks together with their descriptions. Shown
as required

K) The name of the subdivision, the scale of the plat, points of the compass, and the name of the
owners or subdivider. Shown as required

L) The certificate of the surveyor attesting to the accuracy of the survey and the correct location of
all monuments shown. Shown as required

M) Private restrictions and trusteeships and their periods of existence. Should these restrictions or
trusteeships be of such length as to make their lettering on the plat impracticable and thus
necessitate the preparation of a separate instrument, reference to such instrument shall be made
on the plat. No restrictions are proposed or referenced on the plat

N) Acknowledgment of the owner or owners to the plat and restrictions, including dedication to public
use of all streets, alleys, parks or other open spaces shown thereon, and the granting of
easements required. Shown as required

O) Certificates of approval for endorsement by the city council and certificate indicating its submission
to the planning commission, together with approval for endorsement by other local, county and/or
state authority as required by Oregon statutes. Shown as required

Chapter 157: Zoning
§157.027 Medium-High Density Residential (R-3)
Each lot exceeds the minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet for single and two-family dwellings. Each lot
exceeds the minimum lot width of 60 feet and the minimum lot depth of 80 feet. Parcel 3 will also be large
enough to accommodate multi-family dwellings. The R-3 development standards are satisfied. Uses
permitted in the R-3 zone are listed in §157.025(A) and (B) of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances.
§157.101 Development Hazard Overlay
Comprehensive Plan Figure 12 identifies portions of this subdivision as subject to groundwater pollution
hazards due to a high water table. In accord with 157.101 of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances, the City
will prohibit the outdoor storage of hazardous chemicals and underground storage of gasoline and diesel
fuels. Any additional requirements or prohibitions necessary to mitigate groundwater pollution problems
must be developed in conjunction with the Departments of Environmental Quality and Water Resources.
5

Section 2, ItemA.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2026

At the discretion of the planning commission, the applicant may obtain an exemption to the above
requirements if a registered engineer presents documentation which demonstrates that the proposed
development will not contribute to potential groundwater pollution.
Conditions of Approval
Subject to the deliberations of the planning commission and public testimony received, the following draft
conditions of approval are presented.
1. Applicant shall receive certification from the Hermiston Irrigation District prior to final plat approval.
Applicant should be aware that the City of Hermiston will not sign the final plat until the irrigation
district has been satisfied and signs the final plat.
2. Comprehensive Plan Figure 12 identifies this site as an area subject to development hazards due
to a high water table. Therefore, the City will prohibit the outdoor storage of hazardous chemicals
and underground storage of gasoline and diesel fuels. Prior to the development of lots containing
cemented hardpan, the city shall require a registered engineer’s assessment of the design and
structural techniques needed to mitigate potential hazards.
3. In accordance with §154.19(F)(3) of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances, each access for Parcels
2 and 3 shall be paved to a width of at least 20 feet at such time that a dwelling is constructed on
that parcel.
4. All costs associated with connection to water and sewer services for Parcels 1, 2 and 3 shall be
borne by the developer of each parcel.
Commissioner Hamm moved and Commissioner Saylor seconded to adopt the Findings of Fact as written.
10. Motion passed 7-0 with Commissioners Caplinger, Doherty, Rebman, Saylor, Hamm, Misner, and
Kirkpatrick in favor. Commissioner Saylor moved and Commissioner Hamm seconded to approve the final
plat with the conditions of approval. Motion passed 7-0 with Commissioners Caplinger, Doherty, Rebman,
Saylor, Hamm, Misner, and Kirkpatrick in favor.
Discussion of potential code amendments implementing Transportation System Plan
Planning Director Spencer highlighted several items of the draft code amendments proposed as part of
the transportation system plan update. While commissioner feedback is desired of all the amendments,
the following items were discussed in greater detail.
Trip threshold for requiring a transportation impact analysis (TIA). The consultants have recommended
300 trips per day. Currently a TIA is required if the proposed development will create 1000 or more trips
per day. Staff’s recommendation is 400 trips per day. Commissioners may prefer a lower count of 300 for
commercial development. The cost of a traffic study ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. Trip generation
letters are requested on some projects, usually to determine if a functional classification of the street will
change with the proposed project. Concern with the cost of the analysis for the benefit of the information
was expressed. The trip threshold may be set differently for residential and commercial uses.
Major collector standards. The Theater Park subdivision was built similar to what the proposed
amendments require. The block length is 400 feet; there are side yards, and three lots that front W Theater
Lane. Shorter block lengths would allow for more side yards and less rear fences, requiring some houses
to front the collector and not the interior of the subdivision. This would help avoid rear yards with long 6ft
fence lines on major streets. To allow pulling out onto the street and avoid backing out may require
properties to share driveways. Sharing driveways was not a popular option. Adding cross streets increases
6

Section 2, ItemA.

PLANNING COMMISSION
Regular Meeting Minutes
June 10, 2026

the costs of the development and lessens the total number of lots. What options are beneficial and what
are selling constraints needs to be considered. Commissioners discussed reducing the speed limit, and
larger lot sizes to allow each home to have a driveway. Commissioners discussed the aesthetic, property
maintenance, and safety concerns of long fences along the collector streets that are common in local
subdivisions. There are several sites in the city where residential development will be adjacent to collector
streets. To help with some of the maintenance concerns, the use of homeowner’s associations with their
own pros and cons were discussed, as well as trail networks for pedestrian safety. Different standards for
collectors and arterials were considered such as collectors having shorter blocks and facing the street and
arterials continuing to have backyards and greenbelts.
Commissioners are not in favor of narrow streets or the shorter, stub streets that are not able to
accommodate on-street parking.
Planning Director Spencer thanked the commissioners for the feedback.
Planner comments and unscheduled communication
Planning Director Spencer reported that with regards to Hermiston Irrigation District’s (HID) appeal of the
Henry K’s Phase 4 preliminary plat approval, the city council affirmed the planning commission’s conditions
of approval. HID has 21 days to appeal the decision to the State Land Use Board of Appeals. Staff are
considering rewriting the condition moving forward, not specifying a district.
There was a brief discussion regarding data center development in the city.
Adjournment
Chairman Fialka adjourned the meeting at 8:14PM.

7

Section 3, ItemA.

Members of the Planning Commission

STAFF REPORT
For the Meeting of July 8, 2026
Title/Subject
Final Plat- Fieldstone Crossing Phase 2 4N2815CA Tax Lot 1300- 1653 SW 9th St
Summary and Background
PBS Engineering has submitted a final plat for Fieldstone Crossing Phase 2 on behalf of the
Hermiston School District. The subdivision is located on 9 acres of Low Density Residential (R1) zoned land located at the northeast corner of SW 9th St and Gettman Road. The plat contains
eleven residential lots intended for single or two-unit development and one oversize lot of 5.51
acres to be reserved for future residential use or additional school use.
It is the school district’s intent to continue designing and building homes as vocational training
for high school students. The Fieldstone project has been successful and popular with Hermiston
High School students. Students work in architecture, wiring, framing, and many other trades in
each house. One house is built per year, and one house is nearing completion.
The planning commission approved the preliminary plat for this development on March 13, 2024.
The school district and their contractors have completed installation of civil improvements, and
the final plat is now ready for approval by the city.
The planning commission’s approval of the preliminary plat was subject to nine conditions of
approval. All nine approval conditions are applicable to the decision to accept the final plat. The
criteria that are applicable to the decision to accept the final plat are contained in 154.46 of the
Hermiston Code of Ordinances, governing final plat preparation.
As part of the review of the final plat, the Hermiston Irrigation District submitted a letter stating
that the plat properly reflects a buried pipe easement fifty feet in width in SW 9th Street and that
the district has no objections to the plat. A copy of the June 16, 2026, letter is attached to this
report.
Tie-In to Council Goals
Approval of plats is a matter of administration of city ordinances.
Fiscal Information

8

Section 3, ItemA.

There are 12 low density residential lots resulting in 11 new homes proposed for the subdivision.
Each house should sell in the $500,000 range. At full build-out the development will generate
approximately $38,000 in revenue to the city each year.
Alternatives and Recommendation
Alternatives
The planning commission may choose to approve or deny the final plat.
Recommended Action/Motion
Staff recommends the planning commission approve the final plat.
Submitted By:
C.F. Spencer, Planning Director

9

Section 3, ItemA.

EXHIBIT A
Conditions of Approval & Final Plat Requirements
Fieldstone Crossing Phase 2 Subdivision
July 8, 2026
The preliminary plat was approved on March 13, 2024, subject to the following conditions
of approval. The status of each condition is denoted below..
1. Applicant shall work with and receive certification from the Hermiston Irrigation
District prior to final plat approval. Applicant should be aware that the City of
Hermiston will not sign the final plat until the irrigation district has been satisfied
and signs the final plat. The property is located within the boundary of the
Hermiston Irrigation District. The district is required to certify the plat per
the requirements of ORS 92.090.
2. Applicant must sign an improvement agreement and shall install grading, storm
drainage, curb and gutter, sidewalks, street paving, and all service utilities for this
development. All improvements for each phase shall comply with city standards
and specifications and shall receive final approval from the city engineer. All
improvements have been installed and accepted by the city.
3. Streetlights shall be installed at the applicant’s cost. Once installed, the City will
assume the monthly service charges. The applicant has met this condition of
approval.
4. Applicant shall comply with all provisions of 92.12 of the Hermiston Code of
Ordinances (relating to the control of blowing dust) during all phases of
construction. The applicant has met this condition of approval.
5. All streets shall be designated in accordance with §94.22 of the Hermiston Code
of Ordinances as detailed in the findings of fact for Chapter 94. The new cul-desac shall be labeled as SW Fieldstone Ct on the final plat. The applicant has met
this condition of approval.
6. Applicant shall improve W Gettman Road frontage of the property with sidewalk to
the end of the existing curb and gutter (a distance of approximately 460 feet), and
with curb, gutter, sidewalk, drainage improvements, and paving improvements to
minor collector status from the terminus of existing curb and gutter to the east end
of the development site (a distance of approximately 140 feet). The applicant has
met this condition of approval.
7. Water and sewer mains shall be extended in W Gettman Road from their current
terminus at the paving/chip seal boundary to the east line of Lot 7, a distance of
approximately 140 feet. The applicant has met this condition of approval.
8. Easements of at least 10’ shall be provided along all street frontages. The
applicant has met this condition of approval.
9. A notation shall be placed on the plat stating Lots 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 shall not
establish driveways onto W Gettman Road. The lot numbering for the affected

10

Section 3, ItemA.

lots has changed to Lots 19 through 23. The required notation is not on the
final plat and the surveyor shall add this restriction prior to city signature of
the plat.
Final Plat
Per §154.46 of the Hermiston Code of Ordinances, the final plat shall show:
A) The boundary lines of the area being subdivided, with accurate distances and
bearings. Shown as required
B) The lines of all proposed streets and alleys with their width and names. Shown as
required
C) The accurate outline of any portions of the property intended to be dedicated or
granted for public use. Shown as required
D) The line of departure of one street from another. Shown as required
E) The lines of all adjoining property and the lines of adjoining streets and alleys with
their widths and names. Shown as required
F) All lot lines together with an identification system for all lots and blocks. Shown
as required
G) The location of all building lines and easements provided for public use, services
or utilities. Shown as required
H) All dimensions, both linear and angular, necessary for locating the boundaries of
the subdivision, lots, streets, alleys, easements, and other areas for public or
private use. Linear dimensions are to be given to the nearest 1/10 of a foot.
Shown as required
I) All necessary curve data. Shown as required
J) The location of all survey monuments and benchmarks together with their
descriptions. Shown as required
K) The name of the subdivision, the scale of the plat, points of the compass, and the
name of the owners or subdivider. Shown as required
L) The certificate of the surveyor attesting to the accuracy of the survey and the
correct location of all monuments shown. Shown as required
M) Private restrictions and trusteeships and their periods of existence. Should these
restrictions or trusteeships be of such length as to make their lettering on the plat
impracticable and thus necessitate the preparation of a separate instrument,
reference to such instrument shall be made on the plat. Shown as required

11

Section 3, ItemA.

N) Acknowledgment of the owner or owners to the plat and restrictions, including
dedication to public use of all streets, alleys, parks or other open spaces shown
thereon, and the granting of easements required. Shown as required
O) Certificates of approval for endorsement by the city council and certificate
indicating its submission to the planning commission, together with approval for
endorsement by other local, county and/or state authority as required by Oregon
statutes. Shown as required

12

Section 3, ItemA.

13

Section 3, ItemA.

HERMISTON IRRIGATION DISTRICT
366 E Hurlburt Ave
Hermiston, OR 97838-2445
Phone: 541-567-3024
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.HermistonID.org

June 15, 2026

City of Hermiston
Planning Department, Director Spencer
180 NE 2nd St
Hermiston, OR

RE:

Fieldstone Crossing Phase 2

Director Spencer,
Hermiston Irrigation District (HID) has reviewed the proposed subdivision for Fieldstone
crossing Phase 2. The parcel for the proposed plat is within the Districts Federal boundary and
do not have water rights. However, there is a 50’ federal easement listed correctly on the plat.
HID has no objection to the proposed subdivision.
HID appreciates the opportunity to comment on the proposed projects. If you have any
additional questions, please me call at the number listed above.
Respectfully,
Karra
Karra Van Fossen
District Manager

14

Section 3, ItemA.

For Review
04/16/2026 2:10:07 PM

PBS Engineering and
Environmental Inc.
5 N Colville St, Ste 200
Walla Walla, WA 99362
509.956.3026

CLIENT: HERMISTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

PROJECT NO.: 68186

SURVEYOR: GREG E. FLOWERS

DATE: 04/16/2026

CALC BY:

RP

DRAWN BY:

AA

SCALE: 1" = 100'

SECTION: 15

TOWNSHIP: 4 NORTH

RANGE: 28 EAST

CITY: HERMISTON

COUNTY: UMATILLA

SHEET

pbsusa.com
1

OF

3

15

Section 3, ItemA.

For Review
04/16/2026 2:09:57 PM

PBS Engineering and
Environmental Inc.
5 N Colville St, Ste 200
Walla Walla, WA 99362
509.956.3026

CLIENT: HERMISTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

PROJECT NO.: 68186

SURVEYOR: GREG E. FLOWERS

DATE: 04/16/2026

CALC BY:

RP

DRAWN BY:

AA

SCALE: 1" = 40'

SECTION: 15

TOWNSHIP: 4 NORTH

RANGE: 28 EAST

CITY: HERMISTON

COUNTY: UMATILLA

SHEET

pbsusa.com
2

OF

3

16

Section 3, ItemA.

For Review
04/16/2026 2:09:48 PM

PBS Engineering and
Environmental Inc.
5 N Colville St, Ste 200
Walla Walla, WA 99362
509.956.3026

CLIENT: HERMISTON SCHOOL DISTRICT

PROJECT NO.: 68186

SURVEYOR: GREG E. FLOWERS

DATE: 04/16/2026

CALC BY:

RP

DRAWN BY:

AA

SCALE: N/A

SECTION: 15

TOWNSHIP: 4 NORTH

RANGE: 28 EAST

CITY: HERMISTON

COUNTY: UMATILLA

SHEET

pbsusa.com
3

OF

3

17

Section 3, ItemB.

Members of the Planning Commission

STAFF REPORT
For the Meeting of July 8, 2026
Title/Subject
Facade Grant - Christianson Realty Group 4N2811CB Tax Lot 100 - 398 E Ridgeway Ave
Summary and Background
The Hermiston Urban Renewal District has received a façade grant application for improvements
to commercially zoned property located at 398 E Ridgeway Ave. The proposed improvements
to the building include replacing siding, paint, clean & repair retaining wall, new front door, new
fencing, remove lawn and install commercial landscaping, parking lot & concrete walkway
renovations, updated handrails, and new exterior light fixtures. The estimated budget for the
improvements is $50,000. The applicant is requesting an award of $20,000. Under the terms of
the grant program, the district may provide a match of up to 50% of the project budget up to a
maximum of $20,000.
Tie-In to Council Goals
Urban renewal and downtown revitalization are council goals.
Fiscal Information
The project is eligible for up to $20,000 in matching funds. If awarded, the grant is anticipated to
be paid in the 2026-27 fiscal year, in which there is sufficient funding to accommodate the grant.
Alternatives and Recommendation
Alternatives
The planning commission may choose to approve the grant request and determine an
appropriate match percentage or reject the grant request.
Recommended Action/Motion
When scoring the application, commissioners should determine if the project’s improvements
meet the criteria applied to façade improvements.
The planning commission should score the application, and the match determination will be
calculated from the average of all scores.

18

Section 3, ItemB.

No motion is required.
Submitted By:
C.F. Spencer, Planning Director

19

Section 3, ItemB.

20

Section 3, ItemB.

21

Section 3, ItemB.

22

Section 3, ItemB.

Project Description
Christianson Realty Group proposes a comprehensive exterior renovation of the property located at 398
E. Ridgeway Avenue in Hermiston. The project is intended to transform an aging residential structure into
a modern, attractive commercial property that contributes positively to the appearance and economic
vitality of the Hermiston Urban Renewal District.
The proposed improvements include:
•

Removal and replacement of existing damaged and outdated vinyl siding with commercial-grade
HardiPlank siding.

•

Painting the entire building with a modern commercial color scheme to create a professional
appearance and transition the property's visual identity from residential to commercial use.

•

Removal of outdated window awning covers.

•

Cleaning, repairing, reinforcing, and preserving existing masonry elements, including the retaining
wall, exposed foundation wall, sidewalks, front entrance area, and ADA-accessible access ramp.
Enhance, clean, and make the ample off street parking area safer and move visually attractive.

•

Painting the original brick façade on the north facing exterior building wall to create a
contemporary commercial appearance.

•

Replacement of the original residential-style wooden front entry door with a modern commercialgrade glass and metal storefront-style door.

•

Removal and replacement of an aging chain-link fence with a commercial-grade vinyl privacy
fence.

•

Conversion of the existing residential grass lawn area to a low-maintenance commercial
landscape utilizing weed barrier, decorative rock, and professionally designed landscape
elements.

•

Installation of a tongue-and-groove wood ceiling treatment beneath the covered front entrance.

•

Updating of outdated handrails with modern commercial style cables and colors.

•

Replacement of residential exterior lighting fixtures with modern commercial lighting.

The overall objective of the project is to create a vibrant, welcoming commercial property that serves as a
gateway into the Hermiston Urban Renewal District as community members travel south along NE 4th
Street and demonstrates the potential for successful adaptive reuse and commercial redevelopment of
neighboring properties.

23

Section 3, ItemB.

Colors Proposed
A modern commercial color palette consisting primarily of:
•

Charcoal black accents

•

Warm white or light neutral wall colors

•

Natural wood tones at the covered entrance ceiling

•

Black commercial doors, lighting, and architectural accents

The color palette is intended to provide a contemporary, professional appearance while complementing
surrounding commercial properties within the district.

Building Materials Proposed
•

James Hardie® HardiePlank fiber cement siding

•

Commercial-grade exterior paint coatings

•

Glass and aluminum commercial entry door

•

Vinyl commercial privacy fencing

•

Decorative landscape rock and weed barrier system

•

Tongue-and-groove wood ceiling treatment

•

Modern commercial LED lighting fixtures

•

Repaired and preserved existing masonry and concrete elements

Are the proposed improvements designed to contribute to the long-term health of the site and
district?
Yes. The project prioritizes durable, long-lasting materials that will improve the condition and longevity of
the structure while reducing future maintenance requirements. I will use HardiePlank fiber cement siding
which is a durable, low-maintenance, and fire-resistant option for commercial buildings, often providing
high ROI through longevity and enhanced aesthetic appeal. It is 40% thicker than typical residential
siding, making it ideal for resisting damage in commercial applications. Additionally, commercial-grade
paint systems, vinyl fencing, upgraded lighting, and repaired masonry elements are all intended to
provide decades of service and preserve the integrity of the property. These improvements will protect
the building from deterioration while enhancing the overall appearance and stability of the Hermiston
Urban Renewal District.

24

Section 3, ItemB.

Does the proposal add new aesthetic elements beyond the existing site conditions?
Yes. The project substantially enhances the property's visual appearance through modern architectural
materials, updated colors, improved landscaping, commercial lighting, a new entry door, upgraded
fencing, and decorative wood ceiling treatments. The existing property retains many residential
characteristics and outdated design elements. The proposed improvements will create a significantly
more attractive and professional commercial appearance.

Will the proposed improvements enhance the economic well-being of the downtown as well as the
site?
Yes. The property occupies a highly visible location that serves as an important entry point into the
Hermiston Urban Renewal District. The improvements will strengthen the property's commercial
presence, encourage additional private investment, improve public perception of redevelopment
opportunities, and support ongoing commercial growth within the district. By demonstrating the
successful conversion of a former residential property into a professional business location, the project
may encourage neighboring property owners to invest in similar improvements and redevelopment
efforts.

Are the proposed elements scaled properly for the site and of compatible color and materials for
properties within 300 feet?
Yes. The proposed materials, colors, and design elements are consistent with other commercial
development patterns found throughout the Urban Renewal District. The improvements are appropriately
scaled to the existing structure and surrounding properties while creating a cohesive and professional
appearance. The proposed changes will aid in enhancing the commercial aesthetic of the building and
property but will not change the structure in a way that will make it feel out of place or be significantly
different from the surrounding properties. The project balances modernization with compatibility,
ensuring that the property contributes positively to the character of the area.

Will the proposed improvements enhance the value of the property and provide a good return on
investment for the district?
Yes. The improvements will significantly increase the property's marketability, functionality, and longterm value. The project protects and modernizes an existing structure while enhancing its suitability for
commercial use. The resulting increase in property value and visual appeal will contribute positively to
the surrounding area and support the Hermiston Urban Renewal District's objectives of revitalization,
investment, and economic growth.

25

Section 3, ItemB.

CONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS
Main Entrance Renovation
BEFORE

AFTER (PROPOSED)

Front Building Elevation
BEFORE

AFTER (PROPOSED)

26

Section 3, ItemB.

Site & Landscaping Improvements
BEFORE

AFTER (PROPOSED)

27

Section 3, ItemB.

Itemized List of Improvements

1. Complete Exterior Siding Replacement
o

Remove existing exterior siding.

o

Install new fiber cement Hardie® Plank siding to improve durability, weather
resistance, and long-term building preservation.

o

Modernize the exterior appearance with a clean, professional commercial aesthetic.

2. Upgraded Perimeter Fencing
o

Remove existing fencing.

o

Install new white vinyl fencing to enhance curb appeal, improve property appearance,
and provide a more professional streetscape.

3. Concrete and Masonry Rehabilitation
o

o

Repair, reinforce, patch, and refinish existing concrete and masonry elements,
including:
▪

Retaining walls

▪

Sidewalks

▪

Entry steps

▪

ADA-accessible entry ramp

Improve structural integrity, safety, and visual appearance.

4. Removal of Dated Window Awnings
o

Remove existing window awnings that contribute to an outdated residential
appearance.

o

Create a cleaner, more contemporary commercial façade.

5. Commercial Entry Door Upgrade
o

Replace the existing entry door with a modern commercial-grade glass and metal
storefront-style door.

o

Improve building appearance, functionality, and accessibility.

6. Commercial Exterior Lighting
o

Remove outdated residential light fixtures.

28

Section 3, ItemB.

o

Install modern commercial-style exterior lighting to enhance safety, visibility, and
architectural appearance.

7. Tongue-and-Groove Wood Entry Ceiling
o

Install a decorative tongue-and-groove wood ceiling within the covered entrance area.

o

Create a more welcoming, upscale commercial entry experience.

8. Commercial Landscape Conversion
o

Remove existing lawn and grass areas.

o

Install weed barrier, decorative rock, and gravel landscaping.

o

Reduce long-term water usage and maintenance requirements while creating a
professional commercial landscape design.

9. Handrail Upgrade
o

Install stainless steel cables in the handrails in a commercial style.

o

Paint existing handrails black to modernize the appearance.

29

Section 3, ItemB.

30

Section 3, ItemB.

31

Section 3, ItemB.

32

Section 3, ItemB.

33

Section 3, ItemB.

34

Section 3, ItemB.

35

Section 3, ItemB.

36

Section 3, ItemB.

37

Section 3, ItemB.

38

Section 3, ItemB.

39

Section 3, ItemB.

40

Section 3, ItemB.

41

Section 3, ItemB.

42

Section 3, ItemB.

43

Section 3, ItemB.

44

Section 3, ItemB.

45

Section 3, ItemB.

46

Section 3, ItemB.

47

Section 3, ItemB.

48

Section 3, ItemB.

49

Section 3, ItemB.

50