The City Manager’s Report showcases current events facing the City externally and internally since the last Council meeting, while highlighting City accomplishments.
Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Code (R-327)
City Council, the Wildfire Safety Commission and City staff have been working towards the development of ordinances to implement building material standards to improve the ability of residential structures to withstand fire events. The purpose of R-327 is to provide minimum standards for dwellings and their accessory structures located in or adjacent to vegetated areas subject to wild-fires, to reduce or eliminate hazards presented by such fires.
The timeline for the projected R-327 Adoption: February 18, 2021 - Public Information Meeting (Zoom)
March 15, 2021 - Council Study Session
Present overview of the proposal, summary of feedback received at the public information meeting and request initiation of code adoption.
April (6 or 19) 2021 - Council Business Meeting
Presentation of amendments to Chapter 15 and first reading of an ordinance that adopts R327.4 for implementation to residential construction within Ashland city limits.
May 4, 2021- Council Business Meeting – Public Meeting
Second reading of an ordinance that adopts R327.4 for implementation to residential construction within Ashland city limits.
City Vegetation Task Force
City Staff have put together an interdepartmental staff team to continue to improve its management and actions relating to vegetation fuels reduction on City and Parks owned properties. A recent article in the Daily Tidings provided an excellent overview of the work of the Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission in fuels reduction in the hundreds of acres they manage. https://ashlandtidings.com/lifestyle/park-views/heres-how-we-maintain-city-open-spaces
With coordinated efforts of Parks, Public Works, Fire and Community Development staff, the task force is using GIS mapping applications to improve vegetation data, needed fuels removal, timing of removal and overall level of risk. This will improve the efficiency of vegetation removal in many key areas within the community.
Looking Ahead
This is a draft of the next Council meetings agenda and is subject to change.
February 1 - Study Session
Wastewater Treatment Plant National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit (NPDES) Presentation
Wastewater Treatment Plant UV System Upgrade Update
February 2 - Business Meeting
Annual Presentation by the Transportation Commission
Approval of Banner Request for Oregon Fringe Festival
Approval of a Professional Services Contract for Improvements to the Community Center and Pioneer Hall
Interim Fire Chief Appointment and Contract Approval
This month's edition of the City Source includes an introduction to financial funds by Finance Director Melanie Purcell, information on the COVID-19 pandemic, application information on Ashland's Low Income Energy Assistance Program, a call for tree of the year nominations, how to keep Ashland fire safe and more.