The Economic Development Committee meeting held on November 14, 2024, by the City Council of Scappoose, Oregon, highlighted significant ongoing projects and challenges facing the community, particularly concerning land cleanup and infrastructure development.

A major focus of the meeting was the extensive cleanup required for waterfront land previously owned by Pope and Talbot, a company that manufactured railroad ties. The city is now facing a daunting $30 million cleanup bill due to the environmental issues left behind after the company's bankruptcy. The cleanup process has taken over 30 years to reach a planning stage, and officials expressed concerns that it could take decades before the land is usable again. This waterfront area holds substantial potential for economic development, but its current state hampers progress. City leaders are actively seeking grants to help fund the cleanup, emphasizing the importance of restoring this land for future community use.

In addition to the cleanup discussion, the committee reviewed ongoing projects at the Scappoose Airport. Key initiatives include the installation of a new generator and resurfacing of the tarmac. However, efforts to rent out a hangar building have not yet yielded results, prompting officials to engage a professional agency to attract potential tenants. The airport's development is crucial for enhancing local infrastructure and attracting business.

The meeting also touched on the city's Master Plan, which remains largely unchanged. Officials reiterated their commitment to generating revenue for the community and expressed hope for a forthcoming project that could significantly improve the financial outlook for the city. While there is anticipation for an answer regarding this project by the first quarter of next year, uncertainty remains as timelines continue to shift.

Other discussions included updates from the Columbia River Public Utility District, which is working on various projects, including community initiatives like a warming tree for collecting winter clothing donations. The public library also reported on ongoing land use approvals and planning efforts, including a minor partition to support duplex development.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the long-term planning efforts, including a 50-year plan that addresses urban growth boundaries and housing capacity. City officials are preparing for a work session with the planning commission and city council on December 16, where they will discuss further developments and analyses related to housing and land use.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's ongoing efforts to address environmental challenges, enhance infrastructure, and plan for sustainable growth, all of which are vital for the future economic health of Scappoose and its residents.