On the agenda: Millersburg meeting — data center (Sep 8)

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CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING AND WORK SESSION
In-Person Meeting with Remote Access Available
Millersburg City Hall
4222 NE Old Salem Road, Millersburg OR 97321
September 8, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
Agenda
Remote access for the meeting is available.
To participate via Zoom, contact City Recorder at 458-233-6300
or [email protected], prior to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, September 7, 2026.
You can watch the City Council Meeting here:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofmillersburg611/streams
A. CALL TO ORDER
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. ROLL CALL
D. CHANGES AND ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
E. CONSENT AGENDA
1) Approval of August 11, 2026, City Council Public Hearing & Regular Meeting
Minutes
2) Approval of August 18, 2026, Special Council Meeting Minutes
Action:
F. GUEST PRESENTATIONS
1) Linn County Sheriff’s Office Monthly Report
2) City Coin Presentation
G. PUBLIC COMMENT
The public has the opportunity to address the Council during "Public Comment” while in the virtual
meeting by virtually signaling by unmuting first, then those who call in will be acknowledged, or if the
public prefers, may send written comments by email to [email protected]. Please limit
comments to one page and include your name and address. Emails received before 5:00 p.m. on the
day of the meeting will be included and read into the record for comments by the Council.

H. COUNCIL MEMBER AND STAFF COMMENTS
I.

CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
1) Project Updates
2) Code Enforcement Dashboard
3) Transition Parkway and Conser Linear Park Ribbon Cutting
4) Conser Road Speed Limit
5) Supplemental Budget

J. CITY ATTORNEY’S REPORT
K. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
L. NEW BUSINESS
1) Events Committee Appointments
Action:
2) Budget Transfer – Resolution 2026-13
Action:
3) Support for RIF Grant Application – Resolution 2026-14
Action:
4) Engineering Services Director/City Engineer Position
Action:
M. CLOSING COUNCIL COMMENT
N. ADJOURN
O. WORK SESSION
1) Utility Assistance Program
Upcoming Meetings & Events:
For a schedule of meetings and events, visit the City’s website calendar at
https://www.millersburgoregon.gov/meetings
The meeting is accessible to the disabled. If you have a disability that requires accommodation to
attend or participate, please notify the Millersburg City Hall in advance by calling 458-233-6300.

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
August 11, 2026 @ 6:00 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER Meeting called to order by Mayor Scott Cowan at 6:00 p.m.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. ROLL CALL
Councilors Present: Mayor Scott Cowan, Council President Mark Raum, Councilors
Mike Hickam, Ray Hunt, and Dick Perdue
Staff Present:

Janelle Booth, City Manager; Andrew Potts, City Engineer; Alan
Sorem, City Attorney; Matt Straite, Community Development
Director; and Sheena Dickerman, City Recorder

D. CHANGES AND ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None

6:01 p.m.

E. CONSENT AGENDA
6:01 p.m.
1) Approval of July 14, 2026, City Council Public Hearing & Regular Meeting Minutes
Action: Motion to approve the consent agenda as presented made by Councilor
Dick Perdue, seconded by Mayor Scott Cowan.
Mayor Scott Cowan:
Aye
Councilor Mike Hickam: Aye
Councilor Ray Hunt:
Aye
Councilor Dick Perdue:
Aye
Councilor Mark Raum
Aye
Motion PASSED: 5/0
F. GUEST PRESENTATIONS

6:02 p.m.

1) Linn County Sheriff’s Office Monthly Report – Mayor Scott Cowan noted that the Linn
County Sherriff’s Sergeant was momentarily unavailable and opted to proceed first
with the Council of Governments/Community Services Consortium report, noting
that substantial information had been included in the packet.
2) Council of Governments/Community Services Consortium Report – Ryan Vogt,
Executive Director of the Cascades West Council of Governments and the
Community Services Consortium, introduced himself and introduced Paul Egbert,
the Agency Director for Cascades West Council of Governments, who noted he had
been in the role for approximately one year and four months.
Vogt acknowledged that the council's packet included three documents: the
annual agency report for the Council of Governments (COG), the annual impact
report for Community Services Consortium, and a one-page overview of how both
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organizations operate within the city. He apologized that the one-pager was missing
some program information but expressed his ongoing commitment to making these
reports more meaningful and specific to Millersburg, noting that regional figures can
be abstract and that residents and officials deserve to understand the local footprint
of these services.
Vogt described the history that brought the two organizations closer together. When
he was hired in 2020, COG executive director position had become vacant, and
the Community Services Consortium executive director was in the process of retiring.
The two boards had been discussing a potential merger for approximately twenty
years, given that both organizations primarily serve low-income individuals and
seniors in the Linn-Benton-Lincoln region. COVID halted formal planning, but over
the past several years, he and former executive director Peggy McGuire worked
toward recognizing the boards' shared vision without pursuing a formal legal merger.
This has resulted in a combined technology services team, a single HR team, and a
shared communications team, all serving both organizations. He said his own
position now spans both agencies to drive the vision of removing barriers for clients
receiving services from either organization.
Vogt highlighted areas of service overlap under discussion, including Community
Services Consortium's administration of the Linn-Benton Food Share, which supplies
food to all food pantries and kitchens in Linn and Benton counties, alongside
Cascades West's Meals on Wheels and Senior Box programs. He described current
conversations aimed at integrating these food-focused departments to reduce
delivery costs and increase food access.
Agency Director Paul Egbert then addressed the Council, highlighting two primary
areas of collaboration with the City of Millersburg: IT and technology services
provided under contract, and transportation planning partnerships. He noted that
Millersburg is one of nine cities in Linn County participating in the Safe Streets and
Roads for All grant, which is currently in a planning phase. He praised City Manager
Janelle Booth as a great partner and noted that city managers across the region
convene on a monthly basis through COG.
Egbert described the agency's refreshed strategic plan, which centers on three
priorities: convening, customer service, and organizational excellence. On
convening, he explained the COG's vision to bring together groups wrestling with
challenges and opportunities rather than dictating solutions, facilitating
connections, grant opportunities, and planning resources. On customer service, he
noted the agency serves as the Area Agency on Aging and administers adult
protective services and food programs and expressed interest in hearing directly
from community members about their experiences rather than relying solely on
internal assessments. On organizational excellence, he described a particular
emphasis on leadership development, referencing a recent collaboration with the

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Albany Chamber of Commerce on a leadership day, where he met City Recorder
Sheena Dickerman.
Cowan thanked the presenters and noted that a utility assistance program
discussion was on the agenda for later in the evening, suggesting a potential
partnership opportunity with the consortium. He acknowledged the ongoing
challenge of communicating available services to community members,
particularly newer residents.
Councilor Ray Hunt requested business cards from both presenters. Vogt offered to
remain in the audience for the utility assistant agenda item, referencing prior
conversations his team had with City staff and City of Albany’s similar program. City
Manager Janelle Booth noted that information was included in the staff report.
1) Linn County Sherriff’s Report
Sergeant Frambes shared that this was his second council meeting this month and
that he was recently returning from a knee injury sustained on a Millersburg call
around the 4th of July. He noted that he might not have answers to all questions
because of his recent absence, but he would find out the answers.
Frambes stated that covering the past two months, there had been 42 arrests in
Millersburg. He noted that the significant majority, approximately 90 percent, were
related to ongoing patrols of Simpson Park following its cleanup. Deputies have
been regularly visiting the park and removing individuals attempting to build shelters
there. He advised the Council not to interpret the arrest figure as cause for alarm,
emphasizing the park patrols accounted for the bulk of enforcement activity.
Frambes stated that regarding an incident on Alexander Lane the prior Friday, that
despite circulating social media rumors of an officer-involved shooting or
kidnapping suspect, the event was actually a self-inflicted gunshot wound. A deputy
responding to a theft case approached a suspect who fired a shot, prompting a
tactical response and the staging of substantial resources to secure the scene. He
explained that such scenarios proceed very slowly and carefully by protocol, which
accounted for the prolonged law enforcement presence.
Frambes reported an attempted burglary at the Grange, noting that the suspect
looked directly at a camera before damaging it. He indicated that the suspect is
well-known to law enforcement and that an arrest was anticipated shortly.
Frambes spoke broadly about what he described as one of the busiest summers in
his nearly 15-year career for mountain rescues and incidents. He noted drownings,
falls, and multiple incidents at Blue Pool and Trail Bridge, with some victims unable to
be recovered from the mountain. He acknowledged this affects Millersburg
indirectly, as significant law enforcement resources are deployed to remote areas
more than an hour away.

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Frambes confirmed a substantial increase in door-to-door solicitation complaints
across the region, including Millersburg, Harrisburg, Halsey, and Mill City. He noted
many solicitors are from out of state and, when contacted, are generally informed
of their obligations and, if appropriate, issued citations. He referenced Harrisburg's
permit process as an example, where permits are filed with the city, reviewed and
signed off on by the sheriff's office, and deputies are notified of who is authorized to
solicit and for what period.
Frambes added that if Council was interested in how day-to-day operations work,
to reach out about a ride along. He also said if something happened in the City they
could contact him for information and not have to wait for 30 days for a Council
meeting.
Councilor Mike Hickam asked about semi-trucks parking near Love's Truck Stop
along the highway, noting safety concerns due to visibility issues at the corner.
Frambes confirmed a deputy had recently written a parking citation to a semi and
clarified that legal parking, absent a clear hazard, limits enforcement options. Booth
added context to the calls in the report, noting that the parking complaints were
related to an access easement that semis frequently block when they stop at the
food carts, which prompted the property owner behind to begin calling in
complaints. Cowan and Hickam acknowledged the matter of parking on the
highway falls primarily under ODOT's jurisdiction as it is outside City limits.
Hickam then raised the issue of community concerns about the ratio of warnings to
traffic citations, noting that residents had brought this up at the prior month's Council
meeting and specifically referenced complaints about speeding on Conser Road.
Frambes responded that available data does not indicate speeding is a significant
problem in Millersburg requiring elevated attention, noting that one dramatic
incident tends to generate complaints disproportionate to the actual frequency of
violations. He emphasized that discretion is a core tool for law enforcement, and
that a warning versus a citation is assessed on the individual's history and whether
education alone is likely to achieve compliance. He noted his office issues no quotas
and that traffic enforcement activity in Millersburg ebbs and flows with resource
demands, such as the ongoing Simpson Park situation. Hickam acknowledged that
the sensor placed on Conser Road did not record the speeds residents were
reporting.
Regarding DUII enforcement, Hickam expressed appreciation for the work being
done, noting a deputy appeared to be "always hunting DUII’s." Frambes
acknowledged the sentiment with appreciation, stating that DUIIs represent a
significant time investment per arrest, two to three hours of paperwork, field sobriety
testing, intoxilyzer processing, and arrest report writing, but that he is proud when
deputies get impaired drivers off the road.

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G. PUBLIC COMMENT
6:35 p.m.
Michael Mueller, Mosey, Millersburg, addressed the Council regarding data centers. He
described it as a hot topic nationally and is advocating for a proactive rather than
reactive approach should data center proposals emerge in Millersburg. He identified
himself as an appraiser, sharing that residential real estate data shows Millersburg has
the most expensive residential property in Linn County by a significant margin, an
average sales price of $623,000 over the past year for non-acreage properties,
compared to $472,000 for comparable homes in Northwest Albany, representing a 32
percent premium, and 38 percent above the broader Linn County average for similar
properties. He argued this demonstrates that the City's industrial character, including
noise from trains, Duraflake operations, ATI, and occasional dairy odors, has not
suppressed property values.
Mueller advocated for exploring data center development as a potential community
investment vehicle, noting that major companies such as Meta are seeking to hire tens
of thousands of workers at six-figure salaries for roles not requiring college degrees. He
referenced the Mike Rowe Works Foundation and Department of Defense workforce
initiatives as evidence of growing demand for skilled trades. He shared personal
examples: his son with a GED earning $140,000 per year at ATI, and his daughter's
husband similarly employed there, allowing them to own a home. He contrasted this
with family members holding advanced degrees competing for positions paying under
$50,000.
Mueller suggested the City consider approaching data center companies, particularly
before the state of Oregon places a moratorium on them and negotiate community
investment as a condition of development, such as contributions toward water
treatment infrastructure, power, or a vocational training facility. He noted that
companies like ATI, Gordon Trucking, and potential data center operators could
potentially sponsor training programs in millwright work, truck mechanics, or fiber optic
installation. He framed the City's industrial zone as an asset to be embraced
strategically.
Cowan summarized the comment as a call to approach potential data center
proposals thoughtfully and to extract meaningful community benefit. No other
members of the public came forward for general public comment, and no written
comments were received online.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
6:42 p.m.
File: DC 26-03 – The City of Millersburg is amending its Development Code to delete two
uses listed as Conditional Uses in Section 2.10.040(2) of the General Industrial Zone (GI)
automotive - dismantling, wrecking and salvage yards, and refuse transfer facilities.
Mayor Scott Cowan opened the public hearing at 6:42 p.m.
City Recorder Sheena Dickerman read the disclosure statement*.

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Community Development Director Matt Straite noted that the Planning Commission
had received a more detailed version of the presentation. Staff proposed deleting two
uses currently listed as Conditional Uses in the General Industrial (GI) Zone under Section
2.10.040(2): automotive dismantling, wrecking, and salvage yards; and refuse transfer
facilities.
Straite explained that staff brought this amendment forward as a standalone item
rather than packaging it within a larger code update due to a sense of urgency driven
by increased inquiries related to issues surrounding Coffin Butte Landfill. He noted that
the City's Code and Comprehensive Plan require that the highest and best uses always
be sought for each zone, and that staff no longer believed these two uses represented
the highest and best use in Millersburg's General Industrial Zone.
Booth added that an additional driver for the amendment was a drafting ambiguity
from a prior code revision. Staff at the time, including the previous city manager,
believed they had written the Code to require these uses to be enclosed if greater than
5,000 square feet, but the language did not read that way upon closer review. The
amendment was initially explored as a fix to that language, but upon further analysis, it
was concluded that neither use was desirable in Millersburg even if required to be
indoors and recommended full deletion.
Councilor Mark Raum asked staff to show the map of where the GI zones are located.
Straite displayed the City's zoning map, identifying the GI zone as generally everything
south of Conser Road, with some exceptions for residential and light industrial uses
toward the southern end of the city.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY:
None
Straite noted that the ordinance included in the packet contained a standard 30-day
effective period, but that staff had also prepared an alternate version with an
emergency clause that would make the ordinance effective upon adoption. He
advised that if Council wished to adopt the emergency clause, they could include that
language in their motion.
Mayor Scott Cowan closed the public hearing at 6:48 p.m.
Council Discussion: Cowan stated that he found the amendment straightforward and
expressed his support for it and specifically endorsed the emergency clause provision.
Action: Motion that Council approve DC 26-03 and adopt Ordinance 228-26 with
emergency provision made by Councilor Dick Perdue, seconded by Councilor
Mike Hickam.
Mayor Scott Cowan:
Aye
Councilor Mike Hickam: Aye
Councilor Ray Hunt:
Aye
Councilor Dick Perdue:
Aye
6|Page

Councilor Mark Raum:
Motion PASSED: 5/0
I.

Aye

COUNCIL MEMBER AND STAFF COMMENTS
6:49 p.m.
Councilor Dick Perdue reported on the Events Committee, noting that there were two
recent successful events; the Drone show combined with a Kids Day in the Park, and
Car show held a couple of weeks later. Both events received a lot of positive comments
from the community. Cowan expressed his regret at having been unable to attend but
confirmed he had heard very positive reviews from the community.
Hickam raised the topic of data centers in connection with the public comment made
earlier in the meeting, suggesting that the Council schedule a work session to discuss
what parameters or policies the City might want to have in place in the event a data
center proposal is brought forward, particularly given the ongoing activity at the state
level in Salem. Cowan agreed, noting the timing was appropriate, and said he would
add it to the list of upcoming work session topics.
Cowan recognized Councilor Mark Raum, who had been absent from the prior meeting
at which current and former Council members were presented with appreciation coins.
He thanked Raum for his service, noting eight years of combined service including time
on the planning commission, and expressed appreciation for his dedication and
leadership.
Cowan reported on a conversation he had recently held with Albany Mayor (Alex)
Johnson II regarding the possibility of an annual Fourth of July fireworks event. He noted
that the City's drone show this year generated significant positive community response
and appeared to have reduced the usual volume of illegal private fireworks. He
gauged the Council's interest in exploring a more formal annual event, sensing general
support with no opposition. He indicated he would raise the topic at the next
appropriate meeting and that the matter would likely be referred to the Events
Committee. Hickam expressed enthusiasm, citing the lack of nearby fireworks options
for residents and he supported ideas of getting community engagement through food
trucks and activities at the park.
Booth noted that staff had received a complaint from a Millersburg resident late that
afternoon regarding illegal fireworks on the Fourth of July, who had brought in a bag of
firework debris that had landed in her yard. Cowan acknowledged the complaint and
said it would be factored into future planning.
Booth also shared that former Mayor Jim Lepin had texted just before the meeting to
express appreciation for his recognition coin, which he had received by mail.
Booth offered a correction to a statement she had made at the previous meeting
regarding the City's tax history. She explained that when permanent tax rates were
established statewide under the Measure 50 framework, most cities had existing levies
to use as a baseline. Millersburg, however, had never assessed a tax and therefore had
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no baseline, resulting in a permanent rate set at zero by the state formula. As a result,
Millersburg did have to go to voters to approve a permanent tax rate in 1997, and voters
approved a permanent rate of $3.50 per thousand. The full amount was not levied
immediately but was implemented incrementally. Hickam confirmed his recollection
that the City initially levied at a lower rate before stepping up to $3.50.
J. CITY MANAGER’S REPORT
1) Projects Update-

6:56 p.m.

Booth noted that the City had two new staff members, Intern Nathan Barth, and
Maintenance Worker Bradley Gallogly who started last Wednesday.
City Engineer Andrew Potts presented project updates. He reported that Transition
Parkway is now open to traffic, fulfilling the Council's prior request that it be open before
the end of the month. He noted, however, that the park itself remains closed while
construction closes out. Power to the park is scheduled to be connected by Pacific
Power's contractor between August 19, 2026, and August 26, 2026, after which the City's
contractor will be able to complete seeding installation, irrigation testing, and lighting
systems.
Two drainage improvement projects at the north ballfield are scheduled to begin this
month. The construction area will be fenced off, and the project has been coordinated
with the Pop Warner football team to ensure the safety of young athletes and clear
communication with coaches. The projects are expected to significantly improve an
area that has historically been waterlogged through the winter and early spring.
An project not included in the project updates memo was also noted: a new crosswalk
is currently being installed on Millersburg Drive at the Noel Lane intersection and is
expected to be completed within the week.
Regarding work on the Siuslaw Water Main Improvement Project, Potts reported that
bids were due and opened that same day at 2:00 p.m. The apparent low bidder was
H&J Construction with a bid of $266,923.50. A notice of intent to award was issued at
the end of the business day, beginning a seven-day protest period ending August 18,
2026, after which the contract can be formally awarded. Hickam asked if this would
include the approved meter replacement project. Potts replied that they would not be
touching meters.
Straite reported that the Urban Reserves project, that was in the packet, is moving
forward smoothly.
2) Scheduling Special Council Meeting for Siuslaw Project Award –
Cowan confirmed that a special meeting would need to be scheduled to address
the contract award and agreed to address scheduling at the end of the meeting.

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3) Quarterly Financial ReportBooth introduced the first quarterly financial report, noting this represents a new
practice. The report covers the full fourth quarter of the prior fiscal year through the
end of June. She invited Council members to reach out to herself or staff with any
questions. She also announced that the City's annual audit was underway during
the week of the meeting.
4) Code Enforcement UpdateStraite proposed that the City begin providing the Council with regular code
enforcement activity reports, similar in structure to the sheet provided monthly by
the Linn County Sheriff's Office. Booth said that rather than identifying specific
properties or individuals, the report would summarize activity by category, for
example, noting the number of tall grass violations, blocked sidewalk citations, and
similar items handled in a given period. Cowan expressed interest, and the Council
directed staff to begin producing such reports on a quarterly basis. This could be
changed to more or less frequently as Council desired.
5) LOC Conference –
Booth reminded the Council that the League of Oregon Cities annual conference is
approaching and that registration is due by September 11, 2026. She had re-sent
the information link to all Council members via email and indicated she needs
confirmed attendance, along with preferences for optional conference activities,
from anyone planning to attend. She noted the conference will be held in Salem.
She also confirmed that Timberlab has been selected as one of the tour sites for the
conference's Friday morning tours. Council members wishing to participate in the
tour must be registered for the full conference.
6) Committee/Commission VacanciesBooth reported that the Events Committee has multiple potential openings due to
the Committee not being fully staffed initially and a recent resignation. She also
noted a current vacancy on the Parks Commission. A prospective Events Committee
applicant had already reached out by email that day. Cowan encouraged any
community members present to pick up an application from City Hall. Staff will post
the vacancies through normal channels and bring applications forward to the
Council at a future meeting.
K. CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
None

7:07 p.m.

L. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None

7:07 p.m.

M. NEW BUSINESS

7:07 p.m.

1) Budget Transfer Resolution 2026-12 for Sewer Project
Booth presented the budget transfer request. She explained that during preconstruction work on a previously awarded sewer project, two existing valves that
had been relied upon to divert flow during construction were found to be non9|Page

functional. Staff coordinated with the City of Albany, who operate the system on
Millersburg’s behalf, and both parties agreed there is no longer a need to maintain
that valve functionality going forward. However, the project now requires bypass
pumping rather than flow diversion, increasing the project cost.
Booth stressed the urgency of completing the work during the current dry season,
noting that the project involves the City's main lift station and requires wastewater
flows to be at their seasonal low. Delaying to the following late summer would allow
costs to escalate and could risk an unplanned emergency. The resolution would
transfer funds from the sewer fund's contingency to cover the increased cost,
without increasing the fund's total budget authority.
Hickam confirmed his reading of the financial data, approximately $7 million
available in the sewer fund, and confirmed that the transfer is simply moving funds
from contingency to cover the $10,000 to $30,000 cost increase.
Action: Motion to adopt Resolution 2026-12 made by Mayor Scott Cowan,
seconded by Councilor Dick Perdue.
Mayor Scott Cowan:
Aye
Councilor Mike Hickam: Aye
Councilor Ray Hunt:
Aye
Councilor Dick Perdue:
Aye
Councilor Mark Raum:
Aye
Motion PASSED: 5/0
2) LOC Legislative Priorities –
Booth presented the proposed League of Oregon Cities legislative priorities survey
response. She said staff recommended five priorities drawn from the LOC's provided
list, noting that the survey is limited to the LOC's menu of options. Staff’s proposed
priorities, based on prior Council discussions, were: Public Meetings Law Clarity,
Administrative Procedures Act Reform, Maintaining Local Control of Safe and
Modern Rights-of-Way, Land Availability and Land Use Streamlining, and
Infrastructure Funding. She stated that Councilors can change these to what they
want to see as priorities.
Hickam expressed strong support for Economic and Workforce Development, citing
the growing importance of trades education in an era of advancing artificial
intelligence and college debt concerns.
Cowan and Perdue both identified Public Meetings Law Clarity as a priority given
recent experiences. Booth flagged Targeted Prevailing Wage Changes as having
direct impacts on City projects and industrial development, suggesting it deserves a
higher ranking than the initial draft implied. The right-of-way local control priority was
also confirmed as important, particularly given recent discussions about fiber
infrastructure providers and the risk of state or federal preemption. Straite expressed
personal interest in Land Availability and Land Use Streamlining.
Council reached consensus on the following five priorities: Public Meetings Law
Clarity, Maintaining Local Control of Safe and Modern Rights-of-Way, Targeted
Prevailing Wage Changes, Land Availability and Land Use Streamlining, and
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Economic and Workforce Development. No formal motion was required; staff
received clear direction to submit the survey accordingly.
3) Pedestrian Connection on Conser Road –
Potts presented this item, explaining that the completion of the multiuse path
through the linear park has left a small gap in the pedestrian network between the
intersection of Conser Road and Castillo Drive and the sidewalk near the former
temporary fire station site. Additionally, a previously budgeted sidewalk infill project,
planned for the Millersburg Drive/Morningstar Road area, will not be able to proceed
this construction season due to unanticipated permitting complications with Linn
County. Staff had approached the County under the assumption that the project
could proceed under the City's standard self-design process for sidewalk infill, but
the County's right-of-way permitting requirements turned out to be more
demanding. A formal engineering design will be required, which makes the project
infeasible within the remaining construction window.
Potts presented the concept of redirecting the available sidewalk budget to instead
fill the pedestrian gap on Conser Road. The proposed connection would extend the
multiuse path format, 10 feet wide, separated from the roadway, from the existing
path terminus to the sidewalk near the former temporary fire station. A conceptual
map was displayed. Staff noted this option was selected as the most feasible, costeffective, and least likely to be disrupted by future commercial development of the
adjacent property.
Hickam expressed hesitation, noting that the commercial property adjacent to the
gap may be moving toward development soon. He argued that if development
proceeds, the developer would likely be required to construct this connection
anyway, making a City expenditure of approximately $65,000 potentially redundant.
He preferred to defer the project to the next budget cycle to better understand the
development timeline. Council Member Ray Hunt countered that the safety
concern for pedestrians in the interim is real, noting he had observed residents,
particularly children out of school, walking in the roadway.
Booth noted that funds could potentially come from the Economic Development
fund rather than the street fund, given the commercial context of the connection,
and that sufficient contingency exists from the linear park project.
Action: Motion to direct staff to bring forward the necessary documents to
proceed with the Conser Road pedestrian connection project at the next Council
meeting made by Mayor Scott Cowan, seconded by Councilor Ray Hunt.
Mayor Scott Cowan:
Aye
Councilor Mike Hickam: Nay
Councilor Ray Hunt:
Aye
Councilor Dick Perdue:
Nay
Councilor Mark Raum:
Aye
Motion PASSED: 3/2

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4) Consideration of Utility Assistance Program –
Booth introduced this item, noting it was brought forward by Councilor Hunt. She
explained the concept: a program that would provide credits on water and sewer
utility bills for low-income, disabled, or senior residents. She had spoken with a staff
member from the Community Servies Consortium (CSC) who administers a similar
program in partnership with the City of Albany.
Ryan Vogt, who had remained in the audience at the Council's invitation, was asked
to provide additional context. He explained that CSC's role in Albany's program is to
vet applicant eligibility and report qualifying customers to the city, which then
applies bill credits directly. No cash is transferred to the consumer. CSC charges a
$15 per-application processing fee. He described ongoing discussions in Albany
about streamlining eligibility by aligning it with existing state benefit programs such
as TANF[JB1][SD2] (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and SNAP
(Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program), to reduce the burden on applicants
who may already be verified low-income. He offered to have a technical program
expert attend a future meeting to speak to the specifics of implementation.
Booth summarized Albany's current criteria from a 2021 resolution: qualification
requires being low-income (defined as 70 percent of Linn County's median income)
combined with being a senior citizen or having a disability; the utility account must
be in the qualifying person's name; and the account must be for single-family
residential water service.
Hickam expressed strong support for the concept but stated he would not support
funding the program through increased utility rates charged to all ratepayers. He
suggested that if the City can direct $30,000 annually to charitable contributions, it
can seed this program from the general fund. He asked staff to gather data on the
likely scope of the program, how many residents might qualify, and what the total
annual cost would be, before the Council commits to a funding mechanism.
Perdue agreed, he would not like to see an increase in residents’ bills.
Council and staff discussed having a program director from CSC appear at a future
meeting to answer detailed questions about income definitions, documentation
requirements, and administrative processes which would be valuable before final
decisions are made.
Booth noted the upcoming utility rate study as relevant context, since any decision
about funding through the utility fund could be incorporated into that process. The
Council expressed consensus that the program concept is supported and directed
staff to gather further information, engage CSC for a future presentation, and return
to the Council with a proposal potentially at a work session.
5) Consideration of Sidewalk Repair Assistance Program –
Booth introduced the item, citing a letter from a community member included in the
packet. She explained that Millersburg's Municipal Code places the full financial
responsibility for sidewalk maintenance and repair squarely on the adjoining
property owner, quoting the relevant Code provision: "It is hereby made the duty
12 | P a g e

and complete and sole financial responsibility of all owners of land adjoining any
street in the city to maintain in good repair the sidewalks in front of the land."
Booth noted that some cities offer cost-sharing programs, typically 25 to 50 percent
of repair costs, to help property owners manage what can be very significant
concrete repair expenses, particularly when the damage is caused by tree roots in
planter strips. She emphasized that the City's current Code language makes it
difficult to simply waive the requirement for an individual property owner, and that
a formal assistance program would be the most appropriate vehicle for providing
help.
Hickam acknowledged the situation with sympathy but raised a broader concern:
he has long opposed planter strip requirements on residential streets, having
previously predicted this exact problem. He argued that if a program is established,
it should be paired with a proactive inspection and notification process so that
property owners are warned before damage becomes severe, rather than waiting
for a complaint or a crisis. He expressed opposition to setting a precedent that allows
property owners to simply ignore trees because the City will eventually help pay for
the resulting damage. Booth explained that the City has had requirements for trees
in planter strips and then not had requirements for trees in planter strips at different
times in the past. Currently, there is a requirement for a tree in the planter strip for
each home, that is applied at the time the homes are being built. Then there are
situations, an example here, where they are causing problems to the sidewalk and
staff approve people taking them out. They’re supposed to replant one (1) tree of
the species that is supposed to work within that space, in the planter strip, and there
is a list of recommended trees. She noted that this is not currently an issue for trees
that were put in the past five years but probably ones planted 10, 15, 20, 30 years
ago. She noted that a change in policy could be a discussion, but it wouldn’t
change the situation today.
Mayor Scott Cowan asked for Travis Coots, the letter’s author to address the Council.
Travis Coots, Castillo, Millersburg, explained that he and his wife purchased their
home less than two years ago, having moved to Millersburg with the intent of raising
a family, including twins who arrived after the purchase. He has since faced
significant medical costs and is now confronted with a major sidewalk repair bill
caused by large tree root damage from trees in the planter strip that predated his
ownership. He presented an updated contractor estimate. The labor cost alone is
approximately $7,650, with materials estimated at approximately $2,200. He noted
he is already personally removing the six planter strip trees, three already removed,
at his own expense and stated he has accepted that he is legally responsible for the
repair. He stated: "I want to complete it correctly. It's just the cost of this, coming up
when this developed over decades, is going to be a substantial financial burden
that I wasn't really expecting." He also flagged a second sidewalk damage issue
near his water meter caused by another tree, which he intends to address himself.
13 | P a g e

Straite noted that all trees in the right-of-way require a permit before removal, and
that the permit process is free, requiring only notification to the City. Booth noted
that both the scope of the problem and the appropriate remedy are being
weighed. She advised the Council that if a program is pursued, it should be done
through a formal ordinance update rather than ad hoc waivers and suggested the
program could potentially be made retroactive so that situations like Coots could
qualify.
Perdue noted that he had personally invested approximately $15,000 in sidewalk
repair and tree removal on his own property approximately ten years ago.
Booth proposed a path forward: staff would research how other cities have
structured similar programs, bring back proposed ordinance language for Council
review, and address funding questions. Hickam’s concern about proactive
identification of at-risk trees was noted, though Booth acknowledged staff does not
have arborist expertise in-house and that a full city tree survey would likely require
hiring outside help. Council directed staff to develop a program proposal for a future
meeting. Cowan indicated he would personally follow up with Coots separately.
Community member Chuck Withrow, Obsidian, Millersburg addressed the Council
with visible frustration, asserting that the problem predated Coots ownership and
should not be treated as his fault.
6) Consideration of Regulations for Solicitors –
Booth recapped the context: the Council has received increased complaints from
residents about door-to-door solicitors, as corroborated by the Linn County Sheriff's
Office monthly report. She noted that previous councils have chosen not to enact
solicitation regulations due to enforcement challenges and concerns about
unintended consequences, such as requiring school children selling fundraiser items
to obtain permits. Current tools include state law and trespass statutes for those who
ignore no-soliciting or no-trespassing signs.
Booth described two possible approaches: adopting behavioral regulations without
a full licensing program (such as time-of-day restrictions) or establishing a formal
licensing program similar to Harrisburg's, which requires individual solicitors to register,
undergo background checks, and receive a permit signed off by the Sheriff's Office.
Councilor Ray Hunt stepped away from the dais at 8:07 p.m.
Sorem offered legal guidance, noting that solicitation regulations can be structured
as business licensing requirements applying to commercial activity, with exemptions
for nonprofits holding federal tax exemptions.
Councilor Ray Hunt returned to the dais at 8:09 p.m.
Sorem confirmed the City could implement such a framework without significant First
Amendment risk, as long as distinctions are drawn between commercial and noncommercial activity rather than among types of non-commercial activity. However,

14 | P a g e

he acknowledged the practical question of whether such regulations would move
the needle, given that many solicitors already disregard existing legal requirements.
Cowan stated that he did not like the comment that it created an uncomfortable,
intimidating situation for residents.
Mueller returned to the podium to describe a solicitor the prior day who had nearly
pushed through his front door and then remained in the neighborhood for hours,
creating a feeling of being "lurked" upon. He noted the issue has come up
repeatedly with his HOA. Booth confirmed that an LCSO deputy had, in at least one
instance, told solicitors they lacked a city permit, even though no such permit
currently exists.
However, the prevailing sentiment among Council members was skepticism. Perdue
stated he did not believe a licensing program would solve the problem. Raum
agreed, citing concerns about the van loads of solicitors who arrive, canvass the
entire city in a day, and are gone before any complaint can be acted upon.
Hickam noted that existing law already provides a basis for action when solicitors
ignore no-soliciting signs or become aggressive.
The Council ultimately took no action. Cowan summarized the discussion as
acknowledging the problem but not having a satisfactory legislative solution. He
noted this was not the first time this had come to Council and will likely not be the
last time.
7) Consideration of Change to Driveway Paving Requirements –
Straite presented background, which had originated from a property owner's
request to be exempted from the City's requirement that all driveways be paved.
He explained that the requirement applies to all zoning districts except the Rural
zone, and that a Variance cannot be used to waive the requirement because
variances under Millersburg's code are limited to adjustments of numerical values.
He outlined the options available to the Council and to the property owner:
•

The Council could direct staff to initiate a code amendment process to
modify the driveway paving requirement, though the Planning Commission
had previously reviewed the proposal and chosen not to recommend a
change.

•

The property owner could apply independently for a zone map amendment
to rezone the parcel to the Rural zone, noting the lot meets the minimum size
requirement.

•

The property owner could pay to pursue a development code text
amendment themselves.

•

The property owner could comply with the existing code and pave the
driveway.
15 | P a g e

Straite and Booth both noted that the property owner had visited City Hall on
multiple occasions prior to purchasing the property and was clearly informed each
time of the driveway paving requirement. Despite this, the property owner
purchased the lot and obtained building permits that include a condition of
approval requiring a paved driveway.
Booth acknowledged that constructing a paved driveway on the site may be more
expensive than typical due to soft soils and drainage conditions, but confirmed that
the City's engineering staff believes it can be done with appropriate subgrade
preparation.
The discussion revealed that this is not an isolated case, staff reported multiple
instances of property owners with long driveways who have sought to avoid the
paving requirement and were denied. The Planning Commission's view was that
changing the code to benefit one parcel would set a precedent that could affect
other sites throughout the City.
The Council's consensus, expressed by multiple members, was to uphold the existing
code requirement and decline to initiate a code amendment.
8) Consideration of Change to Municipal Code for Addressing Livestock Waste and
Odors –
Straite introduced this item, explaining that the City has received complaints from a
resident concerning odors and potential runoff from a neighboring property that
keeps horses. He displayed the relevant portions of Millersburg's Municipal Code,
one provision prohibiting noxious or offensive odors and another prohibiting
accumulation of garbage, which by definition includes animal waste. He noted the
City has no formal right-to-farm provision, though some agricultural exemptions exist
in other sections of code.
The item was prompted in part by a letter from Chuck Withrow, who was also
present. Booth clarified that staff is already engaged in code enforcement on two
separate dimensions of the complaint: the odor/waste issue and drainage concerns
arising from changes to the neighboring property's grading and roof drain systems.
Withrow addressed the Council again, describing the situation in more graphic
detail. He reported that manure was being used to fill a low area between the
neighboring barn and his fence line, and that water and manure runoff has crossed
his property line, he found his lawn mower stuck in standing water after returning
from a trip, which he attributed to the neighbor's drainage changes. He expressed
significant frustration.
Straite explained what staff learned from meeting with the neighboring property
owner. She contends that a rain barrel designed to collect roof drain water and
pump it to a central field area was not yet operational when a significant rain event
16 | P a g e

occurred, causing the overflow onto Withrow's property. She characterized it as a
one-time event and described corrective measures underway.
Booth noted that staff intends to require the property owner to implement a gravitybased drainage solution rather than relying on an electric pump, which can fail
during power outages at precisely the times when rain is heaviest. The question of
whether grading changes on the neighboring property, including possible
placement of manure as fill material, rose to the level of requiring a grading permit
is still being evaluated.
Hickam asked whether state right-to-farm laws would limit the City's ability to enforce
its ordinances in this context. Sorem explained that the right-to-farm statute
generally applies in Exclusive Farm Use zones and requires continuous, commercial
farm use, not merely keeping animals for personal enjoyment. He confirmed that
within City limits, the applicability of right-to-farm protections would be very narrow,
if they applied at all, and that the City's livestock-related ordinances are lawful
regulations the City may enforce regardless of an owner's claim to farming status.
Perdue asked whether the property owner had been directly approached about
the complaints. Straite confirmed that staff had visited with the neighboring property
owner and heard her account. He also noted that she and Withrow had attempted
conversations, with limited success.
The Council debated whether the existing code language is adequate or whether
further specificity is needed. Councilors noted that the immediate priority is
enforcement under existing code, the current provisions appear sufficient to address
the piling of manure, the drainage issues, and the odor concerns. Sorem confirmed
that while the existing nuisance standard is more subjective than a bright-line
numerical rule, his office can work with it to support enforcement. Cowan observed
that adding language about dispersal requirements or setbacks from property lines
could add clarity, but sensed the Council was not eager to legislate specific means
and methods.
The Council's consensus was to leave the existing code language in place and
direct staff to proceed with enforcement of both the drainage and waste-related
violations under current code authority. No formal motion was required.
Resident Mike Martin verbally acknowledged that the Council had spent a
considerable amount of time on this subject.
N. CLOSING COUNCIL COMMENT
8:58 p.m.
Hunt requested that the Council formally recognize the Events Committee members
responsible for the car show, asking that letters of appreciation and coins be prepared.
Cowan noted he had sent Hunt an email with an application regarding committee
member recognition and asked him to respond to him so the matter could be finalized.

17 | P a g e

Cowan noted that the Events Committee would be meeting at 5:30 p.m. on August 18.
2026.
Hickam flagged that the property on Kindsey Lane has returned to a state of disrepair,
tall weeds and general disorder, after having been cleaned up in response to prior
code enforcement letters. He noted the location receives high visibility because it is
adjacent to the community mailbox area. Straite acknowledged the ongoing
enforcement relationship with the property owner, noting the owner has been
contacted repeatedly and has called staff furiously in response to letters. He confirmed
that code enforcement will continue to pursue available remedies.
Council addressed the scheduling of the special meeting to award the Siuslaw Water
Main Improvement Project contract. Following the conclusion of the seven-day protest
period on August 18, 2026, Council agreed to hold a special meeting on Tuesday,
August 18, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., in person at City Hall with a Zoom participation option for
members unable to attend in person. Council members wishing to join by Zoom were
asked to notify Dickerman in advance.
Cowan reported that Staff will send Council members possible dates for a work session
to address multiple accumulated topics, including data center policy, utility assistance
program details, and other deferred items. The preference expressed was for a longer
midday session, potentially on a date in September, structured with time limits per topic
to work through the backlog efficiently.
O. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Scott Cowan adjourned the regular meeting at 9:07 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:

Reviewed by:

Sheena Dickerman
City Recorder

Janelle Booth
City Manager

*Presentation materials or documents discussed at the meeting that are not in the agenda packet are archived in
the record. Documents from staff are posted to the website after the meeting. Documents submitted by the public
are available by emailing [email protected].

18 | P a g e

CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
August 18, 2026 @ 5:00 p.m.
A. CALL TO ORDER Meeting called to order by Mayor Scott Cowan at 5:04 p.m.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. ROLL CALL
Councilors Present: Mayor Scott Cowan (Virtual), Council President Mark Raum
(Virtual), Councilors Mike Hickam, Ray Hunt, and Dick Perdue
Staff Present:

Janelle Booth, City Manager; Andrew Potts, City Engineer; Alan
Sorem, City Attorney; Matt Straite, Community Development
Director; and Sheena Dickerman, City Recorder

D. SPECIAL MEETING
1) Award Siuslaw Water Main Project- City Engineer Andrew Potts provided a concise
but thorough overview of the project and the bid process. He explained that the
Siuslaw Water Main Improvement Project would replace a water main and also
incorporate enhancements to the service lines designed to prevent corrosion in the
future. He noted that a bid opening had been held the prior week on August 11,
2026, at 2 p.m. at which five bids were received. Mayor Scott Cowan noted it was a
strong showing. Potts confirmed that it was a very competitive bid.
Potts reported that the low apparent bid had been submitted by H&J Construction,
at a total amount of $266,923.50. He described the subsequent evaluation process,
explaining that a bid review had been completed and H&J Construction had been
determined to be the lowest responsive bidder. A notice of intent to award was
issued later that same day, and the mandatory seven-day protest period had since
elapsed without any protests being filed.
Councilor Mark Raum asked directly whether any protests had been received, and
Potts confirmed that none had. Councilor Mike Hickam raised a question about
whether there were any concerns regarding how low the lowest bid was in relation
to the overall range of bids submitted. Potts stated that all bids were very close to
one another and described it as "a very good spread from an engineering
standpoint". The low bid was within the project budget.

Cowan summarized the position of staff and engineering: the lowest bid was being
recommended, the contractor met all qualifications, and all procedural requirements
had been satisfied.

1|Page

Action: Motion to approve the award of the contract for the Siuslaw Water Main
Improvement Project to H&J Construction in the amount of $266,923.50 made by
Councilor Dick Perdue, seconded by Councilor Mark Raum.
Mayor Scott Cowan:
Aye
Councilor Mike Hickam: Aye
Councilor Ray Hunt:
Aye
Councilor Dick Perdue:
Aye
Councilor Mark Raum:
Aye
Motion PASSED: 5/0
E. CLOSING COUNCIL COMMENT
Cowan apologized for not attending in person.

5:07 p.m.

F. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Scott Cowan adjourned the regular meeting at 5:08 p.m.
Respectfully submitted:

Reviewed by:

Sheena Dickerman
City Recorder

Janelle Booth
City Manager

*Presentation materials or documents discussed at the meeting that are not in the agenda packet are archived in
the record. Documents from staff are posted to the website after the meeting. Documents submitted by the public
are available by emailing [email protected].

2|Page

LINN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Michelle Duncan, Sheriff

1115 S.E. Jackson Street, Albany, OR 97322
Albany, OR. 97322
Phone: 541-967-3950
www.linnsheriff.org

2026
MONTHLY REPORT TO THE CITY OF MILLERSBURG
FROM THE LINN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

FOR THE MONTH OF:

AUGUST

TRAFFIC CITATIONS: -------------------------------------------

5

TRAFFIC WARNINGS: ---------------------------------------------

15

TRAFFIC CRASHES: ------------------------------------------------

2

ARRESTS MADE: ---------------------------------------------------

15

COMPLAINTS/INCIDENTS INVESTIGATED:---------------

173

TOTAL HOURS SPENT:

MILLERSBURG
175.75 Hours

CONTRACT HOURS= 153 HOURS
Michelle Duncan,
Sheriff, Linn County
By: Sgt. Steven Frambes

TO:

Millersburg City Council

VIA:

Janelle Booth, City Manager

FROM:

Andrew Potts, Engineering Services Director/City Engineer

DATE:

August 28, 2026, for Council Meeting September 8, 2026

SUBJECT: Project Updates Memo
Monthly Update on Projects:
Staff continue to advance projects and initiatives that support the City's Strategic
Plan, Capital Improvement Program, Council direction, and operational priorities.
An overview of several specific tasks and projects is provided below.
Transition Parkway Construction Update
Progress toward completing the project has continued through August. Pacific
Power completed installation of the street lighting and electrical service to the park
in late August. This will allow the City's contractor to complete the remaining project
work in September, including grass seeding, minor landscaping, and testing of the
irrigation and lighting systems.
Additionally, City staff will install trash cans, dog waste bag stations, and
informational signage prior to the park opening to the public. Project name signs
displaying “Conser Linear Park” have been installed at each end of the linear park.
Public traffic driving tendencies in the area continue to adjust following the
opening of Transition Parkway to public traffic.
Waverly Drive over Cox Creek Bridge Replacement Project
Work on the bridge substructure and foundations continued through August.
Substructure work is planned to continue through September, with placement of
the box beams also anticipated during the month.
The project is also expected to transition to the next stage of construction, which
will move traffic to the newly constructed east side of the bridge. To address
schedule delays, the contractor has increased the number of workdays and
adjusted the original construction plan to help meet project deadlines.
Access to Talking Water Gardens and Simpson Park remains open, although traffic
delays may occur due to construction activities.
Siuslaw Water Main Replacement Project
City Council approved the award of the construction contract for this project
during the August 18, 2026, special Council session. The contract is currently being
processed.
Construction is anticipated to begin in September or early October, with
completion anticipated by late October.
North Ballfield Drainage Project and Infield Restoration Project
The North Ballfield Drainage Project was completed in August. The project installed
subsurface drainage in the Millersburg City Park north ballfield to address seasonal
drainage issues.

Millersburg City Council
September 8, 2026

Page 2

During the first week of September, the Infield Restoration Project will replace the
north baseball field infield with properly graded infield material designed to
provide positive surface drainage. The project will also improve the overall playing
surface and user experience of the north baseball field.
The work is scheduled to be completed by September 4, 2026.
Street Lighting Conversion Project
Pacific Power began the project to convert our remaining high-pressure sodium
streetlights to LED on August 31. This project will change out 114 fixtures and is
anticipated to take around 2 weeks. The project was originally anticipated to cost
around $11,500 after incentives, which would result in a three-year return on
investment in power cost savings. Energy Trust has informed us of a new incentive
that will result in additional savings of approximately $9,000. The work to replace
“purple” LED lights, which indicates they have failed, will take place at the same
time.

2026 City Council Code Enforcement Dashboard

Code Enforcement activity tends to pick up in the summer. This review looks at
the last three months; June, July, and August. Landscape cases are the most
common, typically grass over 10” tall. Enforcing the removal of blackberry bushes
has been difficult.

Types of
Violations

Specific Types of cases

Nuisance Blackberries/Noxious weeds
Tall Grass
Animal Odor
Waterway obstruction
Drainage
Vehicles in Yard
Rooster
Street/Sidewalk Trees/vegetation Blocking
street/sidewalk
Corner Sight Clearance
Sidewalk Repair
Land Use RV Habitation

Number
of
cases
opened
2
7
3
1
1
1
1

2

Requiring
more
than a
second
letter
2

1

1

3

3

Still
open

5
1
1
2

Totals

25

2026 City Council Code Enforcement Dashboard

June, July, August Year
Comparisons
2023

2024

2025

2026

36

23

12

10

* 2025 appears higher because there was a community-wide complaint that lead to several letters going out for
sidewalk lifts

TO:

Millersburg City Council

VIA:

Janelle Booth, City Manager

FROM:

Andrew Potts, Engineering Services Director/City Engineer

DATE:

August 19, 2026, for the September 8, 2026, Council Meeting

SUBJECT: Budget Transfer Resolution for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget for Path
Project
Action Requested:
Adoption of the proposed attached Resolution 2026-13.
Discussion:
The Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 budget was adopted by the City Council on June 9,
2026. Following budget adoption, a project was identified to connect the newly
constructed multi-use path along Conser Road to the existing sidewalk on the
south side of Conser Road. In the August 2026 City Council meeting, Council voted
to proceed with the project at this time.
To complete the project without exceeding the total appropriations authorized for
the Street Fund, staff recommends transferring the $50,000 Street Fund
Contingency to the appropriate project budget. This budget amendment
reallocates existing appropriations within the Street Fund and does not increase
the fund's overall budget authority.
Budget Impact:
$50,000 transferred from Contingency to Capital Outlay in the Street Fund for
construction of this project.
Recommendation:
Approval of proposed Resolution 2026-13.
Attachment(s):
Resolution 2026-13

RESOLUTION # 2026-13
AN APPROPRIATION TRANSFER RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the City of Millersburg (City) 2026-2027 Budget appropriated funds in the Street Fund;
and,
WHEREAS, due to unforeseen circumstances additional expenditures are now necessary in the Street
Fund during fiscal year 2026-27; and,
WHEREAS, the City’s 2026-27 Budget does not account for the additional funds needed to construct a
connection between the Conser Linear Park multi-use path and the existing sidewalk along the south side
of Conser Road; and,
WHEREAS, the City desires to transfer funds from Contingency to Operations to accomplish this
project; and,
WHEREAS, the total budget appropriations do not change,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MILLERSBURG, OREGON, that amounts for the purposes shown below are appropriated as
follows:
STREET FUND
OPERATIONS
TRANSFERS
CONTINGENCY*
TOTAL APPROPRIATIONS

EXISTING
449,180
732,240
50,000

CHANGE
50,000
0
-50,000

ADOPTED
499,180
732,240
0

1,231,420

0

1,231,420

*Contingency transfer as a percent of adopted appropriations = 4.0%
Effective date: This Resolution shall be effective upon its approval and adoption.
Duly passed by the Council this 8th day of September, 2026.

Scott Cowen
Mayor
ATTEST:
Sheena Dickerman
City Recorder

TO:

Millersburg City Council

VIA:

Janelle Booth, City Manager

FROM:

Andrew Potts, Engineering Services Director/City Engineer

DATE:

August 24, 2026, for the September 8, 2026, City Council Meeting

SUBJECT: Resolution of Support for Regional Infrastructure Fund Grant Application
Action Requested:
Adoption of Resolution 2026-14.
Discussion: During the 2026 session the Oregon legislature allocated $10 million
into the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) for grants to local and tribal
governments with populations under 25,000 for infrastructure projects. This
funding will be spread among the state’s 11 regions, with the intent that a
minimum of $500,000 is awarded in each region. Awarded projects must align
with at least one of the Community and Economic Development Priorities
adopted by the Regional Solutions Advisory Committee and be completed
within 24 months.
The City is currently designing a sewer lift station upgrade project with
construction planned for 2027 to accommodate increased industrial and
residential wastewater flows. Staff feels this project is a good candidate for the
grant program as it aligns well with the schedule and with the regional priorities
for infrastructure and economic vitality. Grant applications are due by
September 16, with awards to be announced in late October/early November
2026.
One requirement of the grant application is that the City Council adopt a
resolution supporting the grant application.
Budget Impact:
This project has been planned in the Capital Improvements Plan and budgeted
for costs that would be incurred in the FY 2026-27 fiscal year. Receiving this grant
would reduce the overall cost of the project to the City.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends Council approval of Resolution 2026-14 supporting the
submittal of a grant application for the sewer lift station project.
Attachment(s):
• Resolution 2026-14 A Resolution in Support for a Regional Infrastructure
Fund (RIF) Grant Application

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-14
A RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR A REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUND (RIF)
GRANT APPLICATION
WHEREAS, Business Oregon is accepting applications for Regional Infrastructure Grants for
projects aligned with community and economic development priorities adopted by the local
Regional Solutions Advisory Committee; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Millersburg desires to participate in this grant program to address
infrastructure needs; and,
WHEREAS, the City Council and staff have identified construction of sewer lift station
upgrades as a high-priority need in the City of Millersburg; and,
WHEREAS, this project aligns with the adopted priorities for the Mid-Valley region; and,
WHEREAS, the grant application requires documentation demonstrating submitter’s authority
to submit the application,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MILLERSBURG, OREGON, that the City Council demonstrates its support for the submittal
of a Regional Infrastructure Fund grant application for upgrades to a sewer lift station and
authorizes the City Manager to submit an application.
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective upon its adoption.
Duly Adopted by the City Council this 8th day of September, 2026.

Scott Cowan
Mayor
Attest:

Sheena Dickerman
City Recorder

TO:

Millersburg City Council

FROM:

Janelle Booth, City Manager

DATE:

August 21, for the September 8, 2026 City Council Meeting

SUBJECT: Engineering Services Director/City Engineer Position Job Opening and
Salary Range
Action Requested: Approval of Engineering Services Director/City Engineer salary
range.
Discussion:
At the end of October, our current Engineering Services Director/City Engineer will
be leaving Millersburg. This position is instrumental in accomplishing many of
Council’s strategic priorities and projects in our budget and CIP. It is also
responsible for overseeing construction of private improvements, maintaining
regulatory compliance for our street, stormwater, water, and sewer systems, and
directing consultants and contractors as they accomplish work for us.
In 2018, the City Engineer role was brought “in-house” with creation of the Assistant
City Manager/City Engineer position. At that time an analysis of costs showed the
City would save significant funds by having its own staff accomplish many of the
necessary engineering functions rather than using consultants. Consultants were,
and are, still utilized for larger design projects or specific expertise, but the day-today engineering, construction management, and regulatory compliance work is
now accomplished by City staff. Based on current consultant rates and staff
wages, the point at which it is more cost effective to hire a full-time staff member
instead of using consultants is when there is a steady workload of approximately
20 to 25 hours per week.
In 2024, the Engineering Services Director/City Engineer position was created to
replace the Assistant City Manager/City Engineer position. For the past two years
this position’s workload has averaged more than 40 hours/week. Staff
recommends filling this position as soon as possible to avoid impacts to ongoing
projects and workload and avoid increased consultant engineering costs.
When the current position was advertised in 2024 the published salary range was
$106,080 to $137,280 depending on applicant qualifications. In the past two years,
Millersburg’s adopted cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) have been 5.5% and
additional merit increases have been 4%, for a total increase of 9.5%. This is
consistent with the industry average (public and private sector) of 10% to 15% in
the past two years. Staff has evaluated comparable positions in both the public
and private sectors and recommends adopting a salary range of $116,000 to
$152,000, with the range to be updated by COLA each year. A summary of the
salary comparisons is attached and additional information will be shared during
the council meeting.
This is a very competitive position to hire. Many employers in both the public and
private sector are currently struggling to fill open engineering positions, especially

Millersburg City Council
September 8, 2026

Page 2

those requiring experience. In order to attract qualified candidates, our salary
range will need to be competitive for this job class, the position duties, and our
area.
Budget Impact:
Funding for this position at its current rate is included in the approved fiscal year
2026-27 budget.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends Council approve a salary range to publish with the Engineering
Services Director/City Engineer job opening advertisement.
Attachments:
Engineering Services Director/City Engineer Job Description
Salary Comparison

Established Date: May 8, 2024
Rev. Date: August 20, 2026

Position Title:
FLSA Status:
Status:
Supervisor:
Supervises:

Engineering Services Director/City Engineer
Exempt
Full-Time
City Manager
City Maintenance Manager

GENERAL PURPOSE SUMMARY: This position plans, manages, and oversees the activities
of public works and engineering services, including water, wastewater, stormwater,
streets, public facilities, and parks. The position manages capital improvement project
delivery; reviews development work for compliance with public standards and
requirements; directs creation of plans and documents for city sponsored projects,
including oversight of bidding and construction; works with outside consultants
employed to perform city work by providing technical assistance; and oversees
construction inspections to ensure compliance with city requirements. This position
serves as a city liaison to the community at large and serves on the city’s management
team.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
1.

Oversees and administers engineering activities (design and construction of
public improvements, permitting, regulatory affairs, and master planning)
determines needs, sets goals and objectives. Serves as the primary contact
with City of Albany staff for management of jointly owned facilities and
coordination of maintenance of water and wastewater systems.

2.

Supervises assigned employees which includes scheduling and assigning work;
mentoring, coaching, and training; developing work plans and reviewing work
for completion; evaluating performance and providing necessary feedback to
employee; setting work standards; imposing or effectively recommending
necessary disciplinary action; responding to staff questions or concerns; and
making or effectively recommending hiring and termination decisions.

3.

Develops and manages the annual budgets for areas of responsibility and
capital projects. Participates in the development of the city budget. Reviews
and monitors city budget expenditures to remain within established budgetary
constraints. Authorizes purchases and signs purchase orders, contract
payments, and change orders. Manages city infrastructure financial planning,
utility rates and fees, and development and preparation of the city's Capital
Improvement Program.

1|Page

4.

Assists the City Manager and members of the City Council in monitoring issues
inside and outside of the organization; assists in development of short and longrange plans; gathers, interprets, and prepares data for studies, reports, and
recommendations. Develops, maintains, and updates long-range facility and
financial plans for transportation, water, sewer, and stormwater utilities.

5.

Conducts a variety of special projects as assigned by the City Manager.
Projects may involve extensive research and comparisons, administrative
follow-up, liaison with community groups, other agencies, and city staff. Keeps
informed on details and progress of special projects informing the City
Manager of progress and any issues of sensitivity.

6.

Confers with the City Manager on administrative matters and policies pertinent
to city operations. Drafts ordinances and policies and facilitates City Council
and community review and adoption.

7.

Demonstrates understanding and good judgment in the evaluation of complex
technical and/or financial information and alternatives related to policy
development and/or engineering project management, planning, design,
design review, surveying, permit issuance, construction, and mapping/records.

8.

Serves as the City Engineer; reviews and stamps engineering drawings and
reports as required. This position’s primary duty requires knowledge in the field
of engineering and application of the same, including the exercise of
discretion and judgement in its performance. Such work is intellectual and
varied as opposed to standardized, requiring critical thinking.

9.

Communicates effectively in writing and orally with a variety of technical and
non-technical groups and individuals regarding budgets and performance,
engineering projects, and utility service policies.

10.

Negotiates with other government agencies, developers, contractors, and
consultants to develop agreements/contracts and resolve issues and disputes.

11.

Prepares and makes presentations to the City Council, advisory commissions
and committees, community groups, other agencies, and news media as
assigned.

12.

Responds to citizen inquiries or complaints.

13.

Evaluates and reviews impacts of development proposals, land use
applications, permits, etc. on city utilities and transportation facilities. Reviews
traffic engineering studies and reports.

14.

Reviews private project development plans and permit applications for
compliance with codes, regulations, and standards. Oversees construction
inspections for conformity with city requirements.

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15.

Coordinates and directs the preparation of engineering plans and
specifications, the bidding process, contract award, and construction
monitoring. Seeks and selects consultants and service providers in accordance
with state and local laws and city procurement policy; manages consultant
and service contracts. Reviews work products and work performance for
compliance with contracts.

16.

Tracks and ensures compliance with regulatory and permit requirements,
develops compliance strategies, and fulfills reporting requirements.
Participates in development of, feedback to, and negotiation with state and
federal regulators (Department of Environmental Quality, Oregon Health
Authority, and Water Resources Department) regarding water, wastewater,
and stormwater permits applicable to the City of Millersburg.

17.

Protects the public investment in its infrastructure through developing
appropriate maintenance and replacement programs in conjunction with the
city’s maintenance staff.

18.

Applies for and administers grant programs as directed.

19.

Attends and participates in professional group meetings; participates in and
makes presentations to a variety of boards and commissions; stays abreast of
new trends and innovations in engineering, public works, and other types of
public services as they relate to the area of assignment. Monitors changes in
laws, regulations, and technology that may affect city operations; implements
policy and procedural changes as needed.

20.

Attends and participates in City Council, Planning Commission, and other
meetings as assigned.

21.

Participates in economic development efforts that may include response to
specific development proposals or creation of long-range economic
development strategies and/or area plans.

22.

Guides development of, maintains, and updates transportation and utility
computer models necessary to support long-range planning, system
optimization and maintenance, and response to development inquiries, as
needed.

23.

Guides development and proposes policies for City Council adoption: utility
rates for services; system development charge methodologies and fees; new
programs for utility customers; and utility facility and financial plans.

24.

Maintains professional networks and attends training sessions and conferences
as necessary to advance skills and keep abreast of issues and practices in all
areas of responsibility, and to maintain required certifications.

3|Page

25.

Represents the City of Millersburg by responding to the public, citizens, its
employees, and others in a prompt, professional, and courteous manner while
continuously maintaining a positive customer service demeanor. Regards
everyone, internal and external, as a customer and delivers the best service
possible in a respectful and patient manner.

26.

Serves as a member of the city’s emergency management team.

27.

Serves as member of various assigned committees.

28.

Possesses the ability to drive and operate a motor vehicle safely and legally.

29.

Maintains regular, reliable, and punctual attendance and adherence to
working hours, work rules and internal policies.

30.

The physical demands of this job are outlined further below and incorporated
herein as an essential job function.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in civil or environmental engineering and ten years responsible
engineering experience including at least two years in a supervisory position, preferably
with a municipal public works or engineering department; or any satisfactory equivalent
combination of education and experience.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Registration as a Professional Engineer (Civil) in the state of Oregon or professional
registration as a Civil Engineer in another state and the ability to become registered in
Oregon within 180 days after employment.
Possession of a valid Oregon driver's license within 45 days of hire, as driving is an
essential job function associated with this position.
The individual is able to perform the essential job functions of this position, with or
without an accommodation, and the individual shall not pose a direct threat to the
health or safety of the individual or others in the workplace, as determined by their
treating physician.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
1. Knowledge of legal issues, statutes, regulations, and codes related to specific
projects or programs within the city.
2. Knowledge of engineering principles and practices; design construction, sewer,
water, storm drain, or street design, and/or traffic engineering.
3. Personnel management, including ability to supervise, train, and evaluate
personnel; productively utilize goal setting and progress monitoring to promote
accomplishment of tasks.

4|Page

4. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, coworkers, the public, other agencies, interest groups, and supply vendors.
5. Actively listen, analyze problems, and identify alternative solutions, projecting
consequences of proposed actions, and implementing recommendations in
support of goals.
6. Communicate effectively verbally and in writing to a wide range of individuals;
provide leadership skills necessary to resolve conflicts.
7. Survey practices, development land use processes and land divisions.
8. Have a working knowledge of the environmental regulatory process.
9. Possess comprehension of the public procurement processes, rules, and laws.
10. Ability to develop capital plans and budgets.
11. Ability to consult on construction business fundamentals.
12. Ability to use computers, systems, and various software.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here (including lifting, mobility, movement, manual
dexterity) are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully
perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made
to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
In the performance of job duties, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit,
talk, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands and fingers, handle,
feel, and operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms. The
employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision
abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral
vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
Manual dexterity and coordination are required to perform the work. This is used while
operating equipment such as computer keyboards, calculators, and telephones.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED:
In the performance of job duties, the employee will use a personal computer (provided
by the city) and various software programs; copier; fax machine; ten key/calculator;
phone; and other related tools and equipment.
This position, in unique situations, may require operation of public works equipment to
assist/support staff.
WORK ENVIRONMENT/WORKING CONDITIONS:
The work environment and working conditions described here are representative of
those that are typical of the job and must be met by an employee to successfully

5|Page

perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made
to enable individuals to perform the essential functions.
The work environment includes an office setting, and frequent travel to field locations
and construction sites in a variety of weather, light (day or night), and terrain conditions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet to moderate in the office
environment. The field work environment frequently involves moderate to loud
construction noise.
This position is regularly required to attend evening meetings and may be required to
work evenings and weekends.
This position requires onsite operations and work. This is not a remote position.
ADDITIONAL JOB INFORMATION
This position is subject to successful completion of pre-employment drug and alcohol
testing. This position is also subject to a successful criminal background screening and
driver’s record screening.
INTENT OF JOB DESCRIPTION
This document is intended to describe the most significant essential and auxiliary duties
performed by the position for illustration purposes, but it does not include other
occasional work, which may be similar, related to, or a logical assignment for the
position.
EEOC STATEMENT
The City of Millersburg provides equal opportunity in employment, activities and its
programs. It is the policy of the City of Millersburg that there shall be no harassment or
discrimination in any of its programs, activities, or employment on the grounds of race,
color, religion, ethnicity, use of native language, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,
marital status, disability, veteran status, age, genetic information or any other status
protected under applicable, federal, state or local laws.
Pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes 408.225-237, the City of Millersburg grants a
preference in hiring veterans as defined by state laws.
To request an accommodation in applying for this position and/or to participate in the
application process, please contact Sheena Dickerman at 458-233-6303 or
[email protected].

6|Page

2026 Salary Comparison

Corvallis (6% PERS subtracted)

position

low

median

Albany

high

position

Public Works Director

$ 146,677

$ 171,732

Public Works
$ 196,787 Director

Assistant Public Works
Director

$ 121,709

$ 142,499

$ 163,289

$ 136,118

Assistant
Public Works
Director/City
$ 155,976 Engineer

City Engineer

$ 116,259

Civil Engineer III

$ 91,520
12.5% increase from 2024

$ 104,000

low
$ 148,154

Lebanon

median
$ 174,081

high

position

Public Works
$ 200,009 Director

low

median

high

$ 128,545

$ 149,641

$ 170,736

position

low

City Engineer $ 140,130

$ 116,345

$ 136,706

Civil Engineer
$ 95,748 $ 104,918
$ 116,480 III
8% - 30% increase from 2024

$ 157,066

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
2025 Salary Survey - Local Govt Sector

Salem

median

$ 164,216

high

$ 188,302 Civil Engineer VI

low

median

high

With 10% increase
With 15% increase

$ 106,080
$ 116,688
$ 121,992

$ 121,680
$ 133,848
$ 139,932

$ 137,280 published with 2024 recruitment
$ 151,008
$ 157,872

Proposed Range

$ 116,000

$ 134,000

$ 152,000

$

median

159,151

16-20 yrs

City Engineer*

$ 111,042

$ 129,265

$ 147,488 Engineer 5*

$ 124,488

$ 145,891

$ 167,294 Civil Engineer V

$

134,653

11-15 yrs Jacobs and DEA

Assistant City
Engineer

$ 100,718

$ 107,247

$ 113,776 Engineer 4

$ 117,354

$ 137,530

$ 157,706 Civil Engineer IV

$

115,106

6-10 yrs

Millersburg

position

Engineering
Services
Director/ City
$ 144,966 Engineer

current

$ 141,617

$ 114,088
10% - 15% increase in past two years
*Position open for a year, unable to fill. Eventually *Closest in responsibilities/duties to our position
filled with internal promotion and hiring of
Assistant City Engineer

Engineering Services
Director/ City
Engineer

position

yrs
experience

Local Private Sector
Comparable Position
current
average
salary
company

10% increase from 2024

9.5% increase from 2024

TO:

Millersburg City Council

FROM:

Janelle Booth, City Manager

DATE:

August 26, for the September 8, 2026, City Council Meeting

SUBJECT: Utility Assistance Program
Action Requested:
Council feedback on eligibility criteria and structure of a utility assistance program.
Discussion:
At the August Council meeting, Council directed staff to move forward
developing a utility assistance program for qualifying water and sewer customers.
Council did not want to raise utility rates for all customers to fund this program,
instead they asked staff to propose a different funding source. Staff were directed
to reach out to the City of Albany and the Community Services Consortium (CSC)
to gather information related to eligibility criteria and customer utilization of a
similar program in Albany.
Eligibility Criteria
Common eligibility requirements to qualify for a utility assistance program include
the following:
• low income
• senior (over 60)
• disabled
Low-income may have several definitions, depending on the program being
discussed. CSC staff recommend aligning income eligibility criteria with existing
programs to aid in administration of the program and provide a more streamlined
experience for customers. CSC recommends using 60% of Area Median Income
(AMI) for Oregon, which is the criteria used for the federal Low-Income Home
Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Oregon Energy Assistance (OEA)
program sponsored through Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS).
Albany also uses participation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
(SNAP) and Oregon Health Plan (OHP) to determine eligibility for their program.
CSC staff have explained that current OHP eligibility can be very hard to
determine because OHP cards do not have expiration dates and their staff do not
have access to information within the OHP system. It is also unlikely that customers
would be excluded from the program if we do not use OHP participation as an
eligibility criterion because they would likely also qualify for SNAP and/or LIHEAP.
Staff recommend low-income status eligibility be based on 60% of AMI and/or
participation in SNAP. The program could also require that participants be senior
or disabled, in addition to documenting low-income status. Estimated numbers of
program participants based on these criteria are listed below.

Millersburg City Council
September 8, 2026

Page 2

Program Utilization
Currently in Albany, it is estimated that approximately 15%-17% of potentially
eligible customers utilize the utility assistance program. Millersburg currently has
1087 residential utility customers, with approximately 185 households potentially
eligible to receive assistance, depending upon the adopted eligibility criteria. An
anticipated 10% participation rate would be conservative, 15% would be
reasonable based on Albany, and 20% would be high but plausible with good
outreach. This results in 18 to 37 customers who may take advantage of the
program if it is open to all qualifying low-income customers. If only available to
senior and disabled customers then those numbers are likely to decrease, but
there is no reliable data to indicate how much.
Assistance Levels and Costs
Staff recommend utility assistance in the form of a percent off the fixed charge for
a customer’s water account, sewer account, or both. The table below shows the
customer savings for several possible scenarios:
50% off base
50% off base
50% off base
Average residential
charge (water charge (sewer charge (water
customer bill*
No discount
only)
only)
and sewer)
Average total
monthly bill
$ 100.63
$ 91.20
$ 74.57
$ 65.14
Average total bimonthly bill
$ 201.26
$ 182.40
$ 149.14
$ 130.28
Customer cost
savings per month
$ 9.43
$ 26.06
$ 35.49
Customer cost
savings per year
$ 113.16
$ 312.72
$ 425.88
*Based on residential customer winter average water usage of 5 units per month.

For these scenarios, the table below shows the costs to the City to fund the
program, including the CSC fee of $15 per application:

Annual
program cost
10% of eligible
customers
15% of eligible
customers
20% of eligible
customers

# of
participants

50% off
base
charge
(water
only)

50% off
base
charge
(sewer
only)

50% off
base
charge
(water and
sewer)

CSC
processing fee
($15/customer)

18

$ 2,091

$ 5,779

$ 7,870

$ 277

28

$ 3,137

$ 8,668

$ 11,805

$ 416

37

$ 4,182

$ 11,558

$ 15,740

$ 554

Budget Impact:
Because this program reduces utility payments, it will result in a decrease in
revenues collected rather than an increase in expenditures. Therefore, no formal
action is needed to modify the FY 2026-27 budget if Council desires to implement

Millersburg City Council
September 8, 2026

Page 3

the program during the current fiscal year. Water and sewer reserves are sufficient
to cover the program costs for the remainder of FY 2026-27. However, based on
previous Council feedback, the current rate study should not include subsidizing
this program through user fees. Instead, the proposed rates should reflect the
actual customer costs necessary to operate the utility and the next budget cycle
should include transfers from the general fund to the utility funds to support this
program.
Recommendation:
Council direction on eligibility criteria, assistance level, funding, and timing of
program implementation.
Attachment:
• Draft sample resolution establishing a customer utility assistance program

RESOLUTION NO. 2026-XX
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A LOW-INCOME ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR
WATER AND SEWER USER FEES FOR SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
CUSTOMERS
WHEREAS, the City Council directed that a low-income program for city water and sewer user
fees be established for qualifying residential customers; and,
WHEREAS, the City of Millersburg desires to fund this program through general fund revenues
rather than through an increase in water or sewer user fees; and,
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
MILLERSBURG, OREGON, that the low-income customer utility assistance program for city
water and sewer user fees as set forth in Exhibit A is hereby adopted and will be effective
Month, Day, Year.
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective upon its adoption.
Duly Adopted by the City Council this 8th day of September, 2026.

Scott Cowan
Mayor
Attest:

Sheena Dickerman
City Recorder

EXHIBIT A
DEFINITIONS
Disabled:

Persons who are unable to engage in any substantial paid activity by
reason of any documented, medically determinable, physical, or mental
impairment that can be expected to last for twelve continuous months or
longer. A statement of disability benefits may be considered proof of
disability for an applicant.

Low Income:

Defined as 60% or less of the state median by household size or qualifying
for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) eligibility.

Senior Citizen:

Persons who are at least 60 years old.

QUALIFICATION CRITERIA
• Low income and a senior citizen, or
• Low income and disabled.
• Utility bill must be in qualifying person’s name and be for single-family residential water
or sewer service.
• Qualifying person must be at least 18 years old.
LEVEL OF ASSISTANCE
Qualifying customers shall receive a credit of 50 percent of the water fixed charge and sewer
fixed charge amount for each bi-monthly bill. The bi-monthly credit will take effect at the start
of the billing period following the City’s notification from Community Services Consortium
(CSC) that the customer has qualified for the credit.
RECERTIFICATION
Qualifying customers will be required to recertify annually.
PROGRAM FUNDING
The program will be funded through general fund revenues.