Commission approves Estacada Community Fellowship meeting space at former Ranger Station

The Estacada Planning Commission on March 19, 2025, approved a conditional-use permit (2025-02-CU) allowing Estacada Community Fellowship to use the former Ranger Station building at 595 NW Industrial Way for meetings and events, subject to conditions including a required change of occupancy and ODOT approval for signs visible from Highway 224.

Planning staff Alan said the site is in the Riverfront Commercial zone and that event and meeting facilities require conditional-use approval in that zone. Staff concluded that “all criteria in this section can be met with conditions of approval,” and recommended approval with four conditions: limiting the approval to the proposed meeting and event space at the stated location; requiring a change of occupancy in coordination with the fire marshal and building inspection (Northwest Code Professionals); requiring compliance with signage rules and ODOT approval for signs visible from Highway 224; and making the approval valid for two years.

Staff explained the fire marshal’s earlier comment reflected limited information submitted at that stage and that supplemental materials addressing occupancy and separations (including a firewall separating a co-located daycare) were later provided. No speakers from the applicant added details at the hearing; staff concluded the information on file and the conditions addressed building and life-safety concerns.

A commissioner moved to approve with the stated conditions, the motion was seconded, and the commission voted to carry the motion. Staff will finalize decision documents and advise the applicant about required building and occupancy permits, and about obtaining any necessary ODOT sign permits. The conditional-use approval requires the church to begin use within two years or seek an extension.