Residents raise water-billing dispute and local safety concerns; council discusses surplus properties

Two members of the public spoke during the Feb. 10 public-comment period, and councilors used the mayor-and-council portion of the meeting to discuss surplus properties and follow-up actions.

Resident Andrew Radinovich told the council he purchased a neighboring property that was unlivable and said he is being charged on his water bill for service he believes should not apply while repairs are made. He also said a trailer behind his home shares the same water meter as his house and that he should not be billed for both services. Councilor Chris Labhart asked the council to follow up on Radinovich's concern; Councilor Bradley Hale suggested reviewing the matter and, if needed, amending an existing resolution rather than creating a new one. Mayor Sherrie Rininger cautioned that amending the current resolution could jeopardize funding for the wastewater treatment plant.

Resident Louis Provencher raised maintenance and safety concerns, reporting a leaning railing along the north sidewalk across from City Hall on Main Street, exposed rebar stakes along the riverside trail and accumulated garbage in the alley between 3rd and NW 4th Avenue.

On surplus property, Councilor Chris Labhart asked that the greenhouses and the building next to the church be considered for sale with a listing through a realtor; he said an appraisal could be obtained at no cost. Mayor Rininger said those properties have conditions attached that complicate sale but noted there has been recent interest. Councilor Hale asked for a future agenda item to explore potential productive uses for the greenhouse property, including the possibility of a swimming pool; City Manager Melissa Bethel said past efforts faltered because of high operating costs.

The council did not take formal action on Radinovich's billing dispute or on surplus-property disposition during the Feb. 10 meeting; staff and councilors discussed follow-up steps.