Committee flags access and safety concerns at local green spaces, asks staff to monitor damage and deterrence

Troutdale's Public Safety committee discussed recurring issues in local green spaces, including damaged barricades and unauthorized vehicle access, possible encampments near Beaver Creek, and concerns about off-road dirt-bike activity on trails. Committee members said recent barricades intended to prevent vehicle access had been cut and that a roadside barrier off Jordan Road appeared to have been removed after a fire. One committee member said they had seen people apparently taking apart a guardrail overnight and later saw a vehicle fire in the area. Members also reported seeing people in and out of creekside trail areas and said those locations vary in safety depending on the exact spot. Members emphasized deterrence by increased legitimate community use of green spaces. One participant said encouraging residents to walk, bike and otherwise use the trail discourages people from settling there. The committee discussed proactive measures to deter vehicle entry (bollards or controlled access) and described recent bollards and barricades that had been installed and in some locations subsequently removed or cut. No formal enforcement action was taken. The committee asked staff to monitor the sites, continue coordination with county and ODOT where appropriate, and encourage volunteer or organized community use of the parks as a non-enforcement deterrent. The committee also noted the sheriff's office will respond when incidents are reported, but said some issues occur and dissipate before deputies can locate subjects.