The West Linn City Council held a work session on November 4, 2024, focusing on community engagement and winter preparedness. Key discussions included the implementation of virtual meetings for residents to address traffic safety concerns and the potential closure of local schools.

During the meeting, council members discussed the effectiveness of using platforms like Zoom for public meetings. This approach allows residents to participate from home, particularly when multiple complaints arise from the same neighborhood. The council emphasized that this method enhances efficiency by scheduling specific times for each issue, reducing wait times for participants.

Another significant topic was the status of the Public Safety Advisory Board, which is currently inactive. The council noted that the board was originally formed to study the new police station but lacks a clear mission today. This issue may be revisited during the council's upcoming retreat in January.

City Manager reports highlighted preparations for winter weather, urging residents to consider emergency readiness. The city plans to promote resources available on the West Linn Ready website through social media and newsletters.

Additionally, the council addressed community concerns regarding the potential closure of small schools in West Linn. A council member proposed holding a listening session to gather public input on the matter, suggesting that feedback could be communicated to the school board. While some council members expressed concerns about the city's role in school decisions, there was general agreement on the importance of providing a platform for community voices.

The council plans to coordinate the scheduling of this listening session to ensure maximum participation while avoiding conflicts with other meetings. The discussion underscored the council's commitment to engaging with residents on issues that impact their community.

The next council meeting is scheduled for November 12, 2024, where further discussions on various topics, including construction issues and community engagement, will take place.