The Clackamas County Policy Session on May 1, 2024, focused on the contentious Stafford Child roundabout project, highlighting community concerns and the need for collaboration among local governments. The meeting revealed significant opposition from residents regarding the project, with discussions centering on safety, environmental regulations, and the relationship between Clackamas County and Lake Oswego.

Commissioner West expressed frustration over the public's resistance to the project, citing the emergence of conservation district concerns as a last-minute tactic to halt progress. He emphasized the importance of safety, referencing past successful traffic improvements in the county, and called for Lake Oswego's leadership to publicly support the roundabout initiative. He proposed postponing the project until a letter of support from Lake Oswego's city council is received, along with a plan to address conservation district issues.

Commissioner Savas echoed these sentiments, stressing the need to prioritize safety and move forward with property negotiations. He noted that while public opposition is common, the focus should remain on the project's benefits for the community. He urged for a collaborative approach, suggesting that the county should not be deterred by political pressures.

The commissioners agreed to delay any action on the project until the next business meeting on May 9, 2024. They expect Lake Oswego to provide a letter of support and to engage in discussions about mitigating environmental concerns. The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing community interests with infrastructure development, as well as the necessity for effective communication between local governments to ensure public safety and project success.