McMinnville — At public comment during the Oct. 14 City Council meeting, Bonnie and Eli Zachary asked the council for flexibility on a mandatory sidewalk renovation that the city said is required under current standards. The family says a contractor abandoned their home renovation, leaving them short of funds to complete a new sidewalk that must meet a 2% maximum grade standard.

What the speakers said: Eli Zachary, representing his mother Bonnie, said their contractor stopped work and would not provide documentation the family needs for permitting and inspections. He said the family — a single retired homeowner living on Social Security — faces a quoted cost of about $11,000 to bring sidewalk sections to the required grade. The transcript shows the family believed earlier city guidance had allowed sidewalk work to be deferred until sale of the property; they found a taped warning notice on the door in June and then learned their understanding had been incorrect.

City response: The mayor asked the interim city manager to direct staff to reach out to the family and discuss options. City staff agreed to contact the Zacharys and explore next steps and any available administrative flexibility or payment/permit options.

Ending: City staff said someone will follow up with the family to discuss the notice and the required steps, and how and when the sidewalk work may be completed.