City highlights DPW improvements, library construction and Fruitridge bridge work

Commissioners used the Sept. 8 meeting to highlight public works and infrastructure projects across the city.

Commissioner DeShane reported positively on the NextGen Academy and praised the Department of Public Works for its facilities and demonstrations to academy participants. The city manager said the city is planning a departmental restructuring to create a Department of Public Services that will bring DPW and engineering services under one umbrella; details were described as forthcoming and the manager said a proposal would likely be presented in about two weeks.

Staff noted a staff recognition event scheduled “on the 24th” to honor DPW work; the manager described recently completed break-room remodels at DPW and City Hall and small equipment upgrades. The manager said the DPW break room includes new chairs and matching microwaves.

The city manager provided a construction update for the new library, saying steel is going up and that glue-laminated (glulam) roof beams will be installed starting next week. He also said a new driveway by the police department requires the center drive to be closed, which has altered access to court and required additional signage. Officials said adjustments have been made and traffic has been flowing with temporary changes in place.

The commission also praised a recent MDOT bridge pour on Fruitridge and noted the addition of a non-motorized crushed-gravel path that will improve connectivity to the Fred Meyer Trail. The manager credited State Senator Huizinga and the Chamber of Commerce as advocates for the project funding.

No formal votes were taken on these matters during the meeting; the items were reported as informational and preparatory for future staff actions.