The Corvallis City Council held a work session on December 5, 2024, focusing on urban renewal efforts and the establishment of the Downtown Corvallis Organization (DCO) as the official representative body for the downtown area. The meeting included discussions on the management structure of urban renewal districts and the importance of stakeholder involvement in future planning.

Key discussions centered around the potential for a unified agency to oversee multiple urban renewal districts, with council members emphasizing the need for collaboration among various stakeholders, including the county. The council acknowledged the necessity of engaging with all taxing authorities to ensure smooth implementation of urban renewal initiatives.

Jen Waters, president of the DCO, addressed the council, advocating for amendments to the municipal code to formally recognize the DCO in partnership with the city’s economic development office. She highlighted the DCO's efforts to revitalize downtown Corvallis, noting its recent registration as a nonprofit and its aim to access resources previously available through the now-dissolved Downtown Corvallis Association.

The council expressed support for the DCO's mission and discussed the transfer of remaining funds from the former association to assist in the DCO's initiatives. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue the urban renewal process and to keep the community informed about developments.

Overall, the session underscored the council's dedication to enhancing downtown Corvallis through strategic partnerships and effective urban renewal strategies. Future steps will involve formalizing the DCO's role and ensuring that urban renewal efforts do not impact existing districts negatively.