Oregon City Commission addresses emergency preparedness and courthouse proposal concerns

During the City Commission Regular Meeting on June 18, 2025, in Oregon City, community engagement and emergency preparedness took center stage, highlighting the city's commitment to addressing local concerns.

The meeting began with a light-hearted moment as Mayor Denise McGriff called the session to order, setting a friendly tone for the evening. However, the focus quickly shifted to public comments, where resident Charles Gallia raised two significant issues affecting the community.

Gallia first addressed the lack of representation from Oregon City at a recent meeting of the Office of Emergency Management, which discussed the "Be 2 Weeks Ready" program. This initiative aims to prepare residents for emergencies, and Gallia noted that other nearby cities had active participation. He expressed his willingness to collaborate with city officials to promote this program, emphasizing the importance of community readiness, especially in light of past wildfires.

In his second point, Gallia expressed concerns regarding the process surrounding the old courthouse's redevelopment. He noted that only one proposal had been submitted, suggesting that a broader outreach and review process could have attracted more interest from potential developers. He urged the city to encourage the county to reconsider its approach, as the site holds potential for generating revenue for the community.

The discussions underscored the need for proactive engagement in emergency preparedness and transparent processes in local development projects. The city officials acknowledged Gallia's comments and indicated they would explore ways to enhance community involvement in emergency readiness initiatives.

As Oregon City continues to navigate these challenges, the outcomes of this meeting may pave the way for improved public safety measures and more inclusive development opportunities, ultimately benefiting residents and fostering a stronger community.