HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-11-17 Study Session MIN ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
STUDY SESSION MINUTES
Monday,November 17,2025
Mayor Graham called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.
Council Present: Mayor Graham, Councilors Bloom, Dahle, DuQuenne, Hansen, Kaplan, and Sherrell.
Council Absent: none
Staff Present:
Sabrina Cotta City Manager
Alissa Kolodzinski City Recorder
Johan Pietila City Attorney
Carmel Zahran Assistant City Attorney
Tighe O'Meara Chief of Police
1. Call to Order
11. Reports and Presentations
a. Review of Ordinance Language Change Set 1
Pietila presented the first set of proposed changes to the city code (see attached presentation), as
part of a comprehensive effort to clean up the code by removing inaccuracies, modernizing sections,
and reflecting current standards and practices. The presentation was organized into three tables:
Table 1 for removing redundant or outdated sections,Table 2 for minor language changes, and Table
3 for more substantive changes.
Graham established that the goal for the evening was to provide top-level guidance to staff on each
change,focusing on whether the council wanted to move forward with drafting ordinance language
for first reading or refer items for further discussion.
During the discussion of Table 1 (proposed removals):
• Councilors discussed concerns about the complete deletion of Chapter 3.08,which addresses
personnel policies. Discussion highlighted the need to balance the council's oversight with the
day-to-day management that falls under the city manager's responsibilities.
• Bloom presented his own code revisions including a revised approach to 3.08 that would
maintain council oversight without micromanagement.
• Councilors requested further review of section 2.08 regarding the City Recorder position
wanting to ensure alignment with charter provisions and acknowledging that the city
recorder's duties had changed since it became an appointed position. The charter still holds
language relevant to its previously elected status.
For Table 2 (minor language changes),the council discussed:
• Councilors discussed Section 2.04.020, regarding meeting notices, noting concerns that
changing the public notice requirement from 72 to 48 hours could inadvertently affect when
council receives agenda packets. Pietila clarified these are governed by resolution rather than
not code.
City Council Study Session
November 17,2025
Page 1 of 3
• Several councilors suggested that changes to section 2.04 should be handled
comprehensively rather than just one part at a time.
• Consideration was given to moving the public art chapter 2.29 into 2.13 with committees and
commissions for better organization. It was clarified that the process for acquiring public art
requires council oversight. It was advised to clearly distinguish the roles between the Public Art
Advisory Committee and the City Council to ensure that public art operations involve broader
city function and oversight.
For Table 3 (substantive changes), several items prompted discussion:
• Councilors considered that while the City Manager should remain responsible for creating the
council agendas,they should include collaboration with the mayor and council leadership.
• Regarding surplus property disposal, particularly vehicles, concerns were raised about losing
council oversight.This authority enables consideration of alternatives like donations to
organizations or partnerships,aligning with community goals beyond financial returns.
• Changes to tree management impacting electrical systems was discussed with notification to
property owners requested before the city prunes trees for electrical safety.
After extensive discussion,the council directed staff to form a working group composed of up to
three councilors and relevant staff to review draft code changes to sections 3.08,2.08,2.04.020,and
2.28,as well as all items on Table 3 before presenting them again to the full council.
The remaining items from Tables 1 and 2 received approval to proceed to ordinance drafting.
Two citizens addressed the council requesting an update regarding nuisance ordinance language
related to excessive dog barking during nighttime hours.
b. Update on Prohibited Camping Enforcement
O'Meara presented data (see agenda packet) on prohibited camping enforcement since the
ordinance went into effect in January 2024. He reported that 178 prohibited camping enforcement
actions had been taken through July 31,2025,with 25 of those being misdemeanor level offenses.
Approximately half of these violations occurred at the designated camping area (night lawn)
because people were not following the established rules and timeframes (7:00 PM to 7:30 AM,with
winter hours allowing setup at 4:30 PM).
O'Meara shared a GIS map showing areas where camping would be prohibited if the city did not have
a designated camping area. He explained that since the city does provide a designated camping
area, camping is prohibited in all other public spaces.
Zahran provided legal context, explaining that after the Supreme Court overturned the Johnson v.
Grants Pass case, enforcement now follows a reasonableness test under House Bill 3115. Ashland's
approach compares favorably to other cities that have faced litigation because Ashland provides
multiple supportive services and continuum of care efforts.
City Council Study Session
November 17,2025
Page 2 of 3
Meeting extended to 7:30 by unanimous agreement.
During discussion,Councilors considered:
• Roughly 48% of misdemeanors occurred at the night lawn itself, but this reflected enforcement of
established rules rather than targeting people without options.Concern was raised about the
early morning departure time (7:30 AM) being difficult for people to meet, especially when weather
prevents their belongings from drying properly.
• Councilors considered exploring a second designated camping site, such as near the water
treatment plant,to provide an alternative to the night lawn.
• Clarification was requested for what happens when the night lawn is at capacity which hasn't yet
occurred but would require further policy development.
• More detailed data broken down by time periods and information about how many unique
individuals received citations was requested
Two citizens addressed the council with concerns that the current system criminalizes homelessness
and places police in a difficult position and requested modifications to the night lawn rules to
accommodate disabilities and weather conditions.
The council gave direction to O'Meara to provide additional data requested,when resources
permit,including
• Detailed misdemeanor versus violation citation trends broken down by quarter
• Distinguish between camping and occupancy violations
• information about how many unique individuals received citations
• park expulsion data distinguishing singular locations and all parks.
III. Adjournment of Study Session
The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
City Recorder Alissa Kolodzinski Mayor Tonya Graham
City Council Study Session
November 17,2025
Page 3 of 3
CITY O E
1
i
400�ludy
Ashland Municipal Code Session
November
Updates-Set 1
City of Ashland
Presentation of Various Code Section
Opportunity for Discussion and Direction
First Session: Three Tables
PURPOSE AND POSSIBILITIES
• The purpose of this presentation is to highlight and discuss various
sections of the AMC that staff believes should be updated
• Council will have opportunity to discuss sections of the code as we go
over them, and if desired request additional study sessions to focus on
various provisions.
• Council can choose to take no action
• Council can provide direction to staff to bring back the suggested
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MC Section AMC Title
Proposed Change Reason for Change
2.04.050 M 1 Order of Business;Resolutions,Contracts,and inaREeS may he Fead by title only at CBUR6 1 FREetiRg;Redundant language.This is already stated In Article X of the
Other City Business if the qi,d*n,�-
,,,,(;I),!' :at Charter,which is referenced in the same paragraph.
lease ysinadva�MS I meeting,
2.04.090 ACommissions and Boards;Establishing Commission Remove the sentence listing the commissions and boards:Z4 a Redundant language.Specific commissions and boards are stated
and Boards in the remainder of Chapter 2(2.11-Municipal Audit,2.12-
, Planning,2.13 Advisory Committees,etc.).
�i
.04.090 F Regular Membership Removal Process "..Removal of any member of the Recreation Commission or the Typocomection.
PlanniR Commission is not subject to this section."
_ 2.08 Recorder/Treasurer Remove chapter he City Recorder is now an appointed position,rather than an
elected position.Duties should fall under 2.28 Administrative and
perating Departments(see Table 2 recommendations).
Ww
.29.020P Public Art;Definitions Remove subsection P." Identical language as AMC2.29.020(F).
inle!he Wit,andfellew thePU131_aFt _
.08 General Personnel Policies and Employee Remove chapter Responsibility for personnel policy and employee responsibilities
Responsibilities falls under City Manager and not under City Council.
6.32.030 B Application Process Remove section: No such form exists.
named an the license-application,
030-050 obacco Control;License Requirement,License Fee, Remove sections that specify the need for a local license(and Carting In 2022,the State of Oregon requires tobacco retailers to
Nontransferability of License relevant references within Chapter 6A2) et a Tobacco Retail License from the Department of Revenue.The
State oversees,administers,and enforces this program.
Table l: Staff Recommended Code Deletions
0 2.04.050(M)(1) Striking redundant language on ordinances (Art X)
0 2.04.090(A) Striking redundant language listing all boards (Chp 2)
0 2.04.090(F) Correcting typo—lists Planning but refers to Parks
0 2.08 Remove chapter
0 2.29.020(P) Remove subsection P as it is identical to F
0 3.08 Remove Personnel Policies from AMC—Duplicated in Employee
policies (HR)
o Remove section as form does not exist
o 6.42.030-050 Remove sections that specify local license—State issue
Questions? Red Flags? Discussion?
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MC Section AMC Title
Proposed Change Reason for Change
2.04.020 Meetings(A,B,C,D,and E) Reference state-statute for noticing timelines,rather than an As the State changes regulations,additional changes to AMC are not
tact time.In doing so,this would change the local requirements required;Provides more flexibility which is particularly important for
from providing at least 72-hours notice for Regular meetings, a special meeting topic that is time-sensitive but does not meet the
Special Meetings,and Study Sessions,to the state requirement of definition of an emergency meeting.
8-hours notice for a Regular Meeting and Study Session,and 24-
hours notice for a special meeting.
2.04.020 Meetings(F) Reference state-statute for noticing locations,rather than"a Asthe State changes regulations,additional changes to AMC are not
newspaper with general local circulation." required.
2.04.030EAgendas;Council Packets "Materials submitted must include author's name and address Lb Aligns with recommended practice for non-land-use public
of residence." testimony(land use has a separate set of rules for public testimony).
2.28 Administrative and Operating Departments Add new section that details the Office of the City Recorder. The City Recorder is now an appointed position,rather than an
. lected position,so is now considered a part of the Administrative
nd Operating Departments of the City.
2.29.020 6 Public Art;Definitions "EsnrmissieRr Co rnl(t 'means the Ashland Public Arts Updated language.
Advisors Committee created by AMC':.'-17.919
he GBUR511."
II reference to"commission"in Ch 2.29 should be changed to
"committee"or Public Art Advisory Committee throughout.
InF4, 1 1
cF
.29.020 K Public Art;Definitions "'Public art'means all forms of original works of art in any media that Clarification,
has been planned and executed with the specified intention of being
sited or staged 4y owned a F on orpoertr
controlled by the City of Ashland including within
mmIllic rights of usually outside and accessible to the public."
41 Public Art;Standards for the Ashland Public Art 'The City shall only acquire artworks if:1)the artist warrants that Grammar correction.
Collection &kn will not make a duplicate of the artwork,or permit others to do
without written permission by the Ciry,...'
2.54.070 Payment(Disposal of Surplus Property) Include"electronic payments"(debit/credit/EFT)In methods of Bring up•to-date with government auction website.
payment.
f, 6.04.120 Business Licenses;Temporary License "If a business activity licensed under this chapter is for a limited Consolidate fees within the annual Miscellaneous Fees&Charges
duration of not more than 30 days,afat fee will be set by resdution resolution.
regardless of the number of employees."
• 4.12.020 Electric System-Regulations;Construction and Remove specific dollar amounts and change language to"PA—is-a Consolidate fees within the annual Miscellaneous Fees&Charges
Temporary Service resolution.
ews-IZ75.00 fecsingle-phase sem ear
450:004w Offe--`�p. -,e,..F Acharge for tempo service for
- -- temporary
new constrp"ion requiring only a service..drop and meter setting WRI
14.12.050(DI Electric System-Regulations;Metering and Remove Federal Power Commission,replace with Federal Energy Modernize agency reference
Interruption of Deliveries Regulatory Commission
14.12.060(B)(11 Electric System-Regulations,Meter Testing Remove specific dollar amounts and change language to"If a Consolidate fees within the annual Miscellaneous Fees&Charges
customer requests a meter test within six(6)months after resolution.
installation or more than oncer per year,a deposit to over the
reasonable cost of the test wfll be set by resolution and will be
required of the customer'
14.12.080 A)L21 Electric System-Regulations;Electricity-Resale Change 0RS456.763 to ORS 4SSA20 Modernize ORS reference
14.16.020 Electric System-Light Funds and Rates;Transfers to 'The City Council may appropriate an amount for transfer to the Since this section of code was adopted,the State has adopted new
General Fund General Fund for other municipal purposes,as permitted by= regulations.
oe
, raftefaiug.. �
Table 2: Staff Recommended Updates
c 2.04.020 Notice: Reference State Statute (Chp 192) for consistency on
timing
0 2.04.020 Notice: Reference State Statute (Not newspaper)
0 2.04.030 Changing to reflect practice of city of residence
0 2.28 Add a new section that details City Recorder position
0 2.29.020(G) Updates language relating to committees (formerly
commissions)
0 2.29.020(K) Clarify definition of "Public Art"
0 2.54.070 Include "electronic payments" as a method of payment
Questions? Red Flags? Discussion?
Table 2: Staff Recommended Updates (Cont'd)
6.04.120 Consolidate fees with the annual Misc. Fees & Charges
resolution
o 1a.12.020 Consolidate fees with the annual Misc. Fees & Charges
resolution
0 14.12.050 (D) Modernize Agency Reference
0 14.12.060(B)(1) Consolidate fees with the annual Misc. Fees & Charges
resolution
0 14.12.080(A)(2) Correct to new ORS reference
0 14.16.020 Update to ORS 225 for current regulations
Questions? Red Flags? Discussion?
7 Table 3: Substantive Language
Changes
• These language changes are substantive changes that
are to help improve city processes, align with current
practices, and/or increase efficiencies or improve clarity.
Reminders:
• Purpose is to highlight needed change and explain the
• reasoning.
• • Any changes will be brought forward for first (and
• second) reading
• • Focus is not on specific language but on if change is
•
appropriate
r 2.04.050: Rules of Council; Order of
Business
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Include the City Manager • City Manager is
in the statement "The responsible for the
.� Mayor or presiding officer preparation of the Council
• may change the order of agenda. The flexibility to
business on the agenda. alter the agenda order will
The usual order of help the City Manager
business for regular better ensure that time-
meetings will be as sensitive city topics are
follows..." addressed.
2.04.05 (1)
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Remove requirements for • Provides flexibility to help
start and end time of ensure public hearings
.. public hearings. occur.
2.29.100 (B) Public Art; Process for
acquiring
public art
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Selection Panel.A selection panel,separate from the • Recognize general operating
Public Art EeffiFflissien Advisory Committee,eaesisting of
procedures for
administrators wil'be chosen te evaluate the proposals- establishment of a selection
Feeeived`fem artists.mQy be composed of
panel makeup includingc�
professionals may" as it has been difyicult
residents ving near the proposed site,community Y
members,Committee members.and City administrative to ensure representation as
staff.This panel will be responsible for evaluating the
I artists n r vi in codified currently; address
recommendation to the full Committee.A di ferent the lack of newspaper of
selection panel shall be chosen for each project by the
GeFAFaissiee Committee after the ellewing aeti#ieafieAs circulation; a n d
have been me Cry has placed a notice on the CitaCs general
website,and the Committee has endeavored to solicit reduce postcard mailing
participcition of property owners within 300 feet of the
praposedsite. DreiDaration and costs.
2.29.120 Public Art; Public Art on
I
Private Property
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Add a section of code that allows • The purpose of this amendment is
for public art that is privately- to create a pathway for private
owned and on private property. property owners to install and
Currently, all public art on private maintain privately owned artwork
�• property is considered 'city- that is viewable by the public, with
owned and requires that the City Cit appproval. This ensures such
is ranted access to install installations are consistent with
maintain, and remove art. the City's Public Art Program while
clarifying that the City does not
assume ownership of the artwork
and is not obli ated to maintain,
repair, or remove it.
2. 54.010 Disposal of Surplus and
Abandoned Property
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• The City of Ashland FiRa;,r:e Disposal of surplus property is handled
DepartmeRt may transfer, trade, by our Facilities and Fleet division;
auction, or sell surplus or abandoned changing language to match the
property to other City Departments, definition of surplus property"
• political subdivisions, state agencies, provided in AMC 2.54.020; increase
e-r nonprofit organizations, or the dollar value for efficiency and
eneral public.
a^�^., zT� expediency.
disposalof surplus property �aviRg
shall be subject to signatory authority
limits zatieR base on n the residual Note, this section only applies to
va a of the surplus, as adopted y personal property and does not apply
. the Local Contract Review Boar . to real property.
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2.62.030 Declaration and
Ratification of Emergency
Proposed Change Reason for Change
Add new section (Q: • Add a succession clause
If the City Manager is unable to act due within Emergency Powers in
to absence or incapacity, then the duties the event the City Manager
shall be performed in the following is incapacitated or absent.
order of succession:
1. Deputy City Manager
2. Fire Chief
3. Police Chief
4 Eergency Management Coordinator
L.6
dent Commanders "
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6.04.020 (B) Business Licenses;
Definitions
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Add definition for "kitchen" or • The purpose of this definition
cooking facility. amendment is to clearly
distinguish between full
kitchens or cookin facilities
that enable indep6ndent living
and incidental appliances or
fixtures that do not. This clarity
ensures consistent code
compliance in determining
I when a space constitutes a
I separate dwellin unit. A
similar amendment would be
made to Chapter 18.
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9.08.120 (B) Nuisances; Trees -
Hedges
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• B. No owner or person in • To empower Code Compliance
charge of property shall allow to compel removal of dead
to stand a dead or decaying trees where they are
tree that is a hazard to the determined to pose a fire
public or to persons or hazard or compel removal of
property on or near the insect infested trees that will
property, oses a fire hazard otherwise compromise the
as deterMined e Ashland health of the urban forest.
Fire Marshall or cresignee, or
ar ors insects or arseases
that constitute a potential
threat o other trees within the
ci
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9.08.170 (E) (3) Nuisances; Heat
Pumps or Mechanical Devices
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Exempt residential heat pumpsand air In urban neighborhoods with small lots,
conditioners from noise regulations if homes are ofiten in very close proximity to
they're within their 25-year operating life one another. Residentidl heat pumps and
and installed under a building permit. air conditionin units are not generalIVy
manufactured-to meet the decibel lirr)its
in the noise ordinance, and compliance is
often impractical or impossible Even with
baffled covers when houses are this close
to ether. Since residential climate control
is 2ssential during both summer heat and
winter cold,this crmendment is intended
to exempt residential heat pumps and air
conditioners from noise regulations for
the duration of their typicaT25-year
operatin life, provided they were
installed ndeP a buildin ermit,
. inspected, and continue operate as
d eli ned.
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13.16,035 Permission to Prune
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Allow trees in public planting • Empower Code Compliance
strips or public right-of-way and the Streets Division to
to be pruned without a City- compel removal of dead
issued permit for the trees where they are
purpose of maintaining determined to pose a fire
clearance requirements. hazard and to clarify that
maintaining required street,
sidewalk, and utility
clearances for branches is
4k v 6o
nr
14.12.030 Electric System -
Regulations; Permanent Service
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Remove much of the • Standards and
prescriptive language and requirements change over
replace it with a reference time and some of the
to the Electric Service current code language
Requirements (ESR) conflicts with the current
Manual. requirements.
/��ia
14.12.090 (G) Electric Systems -
Regulations; General Provisions
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• The City.t • Oregon PubliWLIC
Utili y
wil trim trees on Commission requires
rivate property if such trees, in that utilities follow the PUC
the judgement of the City, metation management rules.
create a hazard to electric se rules now include
service lines on the same or maintain minimum
adjacent roperties.-ire clearances around electric
r„-+r r"::4, infrastructure within the utility's
right-of-way.
I
i
f-r-eFn.-
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14.12.092 Location of Meters
Proposed Change Reason for Change
• Add new sentence: • The Electric Service
"Consult Electric Service Requirements Manual
Requirements Manual or provides prescriptive
contact the Electric details for meter location
Department with specific to property types
questions regarding meter (sin le family, multi-family,
locations." etc.
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1 . Clean Legislative Text AMC 3.08
EMPLOYEE RIGHTS, CONDUCT, AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY'k't
Sections:
3.08.010 Purpose
3.08.020 Equal Employment Opportunity
3.08.030 Code of Ethical Conduct
3.08.040 General Employee Responsibilities
3.08.050 Anti-Retaliation
3.08.060 Consistency With Personnel System and Collective Bargaining
3.08.010 Purpose
The purpose of this chapter is to establish foundational standards that promote fairness,
nondiscrimination, ethical conduct, and accountability throughout the City organization. These
provisions set the expectations for all employees and complement, without duplicating, the
Personnel System established in AMC 2.29 and any applicable collective bargaining
agreements. This chapter shall be interpreted in a manner consistent with the City Charter,
Council-adopted policies, and state and federal employment laws.
3.08.020 Equal Employment Opportunity
A. The City shall provide equal employment opportunity to all applicants and employees without
regard to protected class status as defined under Oregon and federal law.
B. Employment practices—including recruitment, hiring, promotion, training, compensation, and
discipline—shall be based on merit, qualifications, and job-related criteria.
C. The City shall maintain an Affirmative Action policy consistent with state and federal
guidelines and shall review such policy at least every two (2) years.
D. Retaliation against any employee or applicant for exercising rights under this section is
prohibited.
3.08.030 Code of Ethical Conduct
A. All City employees shall conduct themselves with honesty, integrity, professionalism, and
fairness in the performance of their duties.
B. Employees shall avoid conflicts of interest, or the appearance of such conflicts, and comply
with Oregon Government Ethics Law (ORS Chapter 244).
C. Employees shall use City resources, property, and information only for authorized public
purposes.
D. Employees shall maintain confidentiality of protected or sensitive information as required by
law.
E. Violations of this section shall be addressed through the Personnel Rules or applicable
collective bargaining agreement.
3.08.040 General Employee Responsibilities
A. Employees shall comply with all federal, state, and local laws, the City Charter, the Ashland
Municipal Code, Council-adopted policies, and all applicable administrative rules.
B. Employees shall perform their duties with diligence, courtesy, respect, and in a manner that
supports a positive and safe working environment.
C. Employees shall promptly report suspected violations of law, misuse of public funds, safety
hazards, or unethical conduct to their supervisor, Human Resources, the City Attorney, or the
City Manager.
D. Supervisors shall ensure fair and consistent application of policies, including corrective
action processes.
3.08.050 Anti-Retaliation
A. The City shall not retaliate against any employee who reports, in good faith, suspected
violations of law, policy, or ethical standards.
B. Reports may be made confidentially to Human Resources, the City Attorney, the City
Manager, or directly to the Mayor or Council Chair.
C. Allegations of retaliation shall be investigated promptly and, where appropriate, reviewed
with the City Council in executive session consistent with ORS 192.
3.08.060 Consistency With Personnel System and
Collective Bargaining
A. This chapter does not supersede the Personnel System in AMC 2.29 or any collective
bargaining agreements established under ORS Chapter 243.
B. If a conflict arises, negotiated agreements shall govern for represented employees and AMC
2.29 shall govern for non-represented employees.
C. Nothing in this chapter limits the authority of the City Council under the Charter to set policy
or to ensure accountability and fairness in the administration of the City.
2. Table Why Each Retained Element
Should Stay
Retained Section Why It Should Stay (Legal, Charter, and Policy Rationale)
Purpose Establishes policy intent; frames employee expectations;
harmless and stabilizing.
Equal Employment Required by federal law (Title VII), Oregon law (ORS 659A), and
Opportunity best practice; preserves nondiscrimination expectations.
Code of Ethical Aligns with ORS 244; preserves public trust obligations; avoids
Conduct embedding operational rules.
General Employee Charter-consistent expectations on conduct; not operational;
Responsibilities clarifies baseline duties without directing management tactics.
Anti-Retaliation Strengthens compliance with ORS 659A.199-230; fits within
Council's oversight role; complements whistleblower protections
in 2.29.
Consistency Clause Prevents conflict with 2.29 and CBAs; provides legal clarity;
protects City from grievances or PERB issues.
High-level takeaway:
These sections describe values and protections, not management procedures, and therefore
belong in Title 3. They create a stable policy foundation without interfering with City Manager
operations or contradicting the Charter.
3. Table Sections Removed + Why They
Should Be Removed
Removed Former Section Why Removal Is Appropriate/ Legally Sound
Classification Plan (old Fully moved to the new AMC 2.29; classification is
3.08.050) operational and properly under Personnel System.
Affirmative Action Procedures The policy remains (in 3.08.020); the procedures belong
(old 3.08.060) in Personnel Rules or HR Admin Manual, not Code.
Pay & Compensation Rules Overlaps with budget law, CBAs, and 2.29; should not
(old 3.08.070) be in Title 3 to avoid bargaining conflicts.
Benefits Administration (old Purely administrative; legally must be consistent with
3.08.080) CBAs and external law; better placed in Personnel
Rules.
Variances (old 3.08.090) Unnecessary and too process-specific; creates
procedural traps; better to eliminate entirely.
Detailed Discipline/Discharge High-level framework now lives in 2.29; detailed items
(old 3.08.100) belong in Personnel Rules to avoid due process
conflicts.
Detailed Grievance Procedures Process belongs in Personnel Rules or CBAs;
(old 3.08.110) code-level detail conflicts with state bargaining law.
Hours & Outside Employment Administrative; handled in Personnel Rules;
(old 3.08.120) unnecessary for code.
Promotions/Demotions (old Should not be codified; belongs in merit rules and HR
3.08.130) policies.
Leave Policies (old 3.08.140) Must flex frequently due to state/federal law changes
(e.g., OFLA, FMLA); should not be in code.
Termination Rules (old Legal risk if codified; better left to Personnel Rules and
3.08.150) HR/Legal oversight.
High-level takeaway:
Everything removed is procedural, operational, or HR-administered, not policy-level. None
are required by the Charter. None strengthen Council oversight. Removing them is legally safer
and cleaner.
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D'i [0, v/t -�locrq
TITLE 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS
(Reserved Chapter(Unreserve) —Modernized Framework)
CHAPTER 1 .01 - CODE GOVERNANCE
1.01.010 Purpose and Authority
A. The Ashland Municipal Code ("AMC") is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the City
Council under the City Charter and the Constitution and laws of the State of Oregon.
B. The AMC serves as the codified body of all duly enacted ordinances of the City of Ashland.
C. The provisions of this Code must be interpreted consistent with the City Charter. Where
conflict exists, the Charter governs.
D. The Council retains full legislative authority unless expressly limited by the Charter or State
law.
1.01.020 Codification and Biennial Maintenance
A. The City Recorder shall maintain the official versions of the Ashland Municipal Code, Council
Resolutions, and Administrative Rules.
B. The AMC shall be reviewed and updated on a biennial cycle aligned with the City's biennial
budget process.
C. Departments may identify outdated, conflicting, or obsolete sections and submit
recommended changes to the City Attorney and City Recorder.
D. The City Attorney may prepare a modernization report for Council review identifying
technical corrections, conflicts, recommended repeals, and harmonization needs.
E. Ordinances adopted by Council shall be codified within sixty (60) days of adoption unless
otherwise directed by Council.
1.01.030 Administrative Rules and Council Review
A. The City Manager may adopt administrative rules necessary to implement ordinances,
provided such rules do not establish new fees, penalties, programs, obligations, or policy
choices reserved to the Council.
B. Administrative rules shall be consistent with the AMC, the Charter, and Council-adopted
policies.
C. Newly proposed or amended administrative rules shall be transmitted to the City Council in
writing at least thirty (30) days prior to taking effect.
D. The Council may rescind or modify an administrative rule by motion before the effective date
if the rule is found inconsistent with or in violation of State law, the City Charter, or
Council-adopted ordinances or resolutions.
E. Administrative rules shall be publicly posted and maintained in a central online repository by
the City Recorder.
1.01.040 Interpretations
A. Where ambiguity or conflict arises in the AMC, the City Council is the final interpreter of
municipal law unless otherwise directed by State statute or the City Charter.
B. Departments may issue internal operational guidance, but such guidance is not binding and
may not modify or reinterpret the AMC.
C. Requests for formal interpretation may be submitted to the City Recorder by any elected
official, department director, or member of the public.
D. Formal interpretations issued by Council shall be recorded and maintained with the AMC.
1.01.050 Publication and Version History
A. The City Recorder shall publish the Ashland Municipal Code, Council Resolutions, and
Administrative Rules online in a searchable, publicly accessible format.
B. Historical versions of ordinances, resolutions, and administrative rules shall be maintained to
ensure transparency and legal traceability.
C. Amendments shall be clearly marked with the adopting ordinance or resolution number and
effective date.
D. The Recorder shall ensure that the most current and authoritative versions of the AMC,
Council Resolutions, and Administrative Rules are publicly available.
1.01.060 Continuity of Existing Powers
A. All enforcement authority existing prior to the adoption of this Chapter remains in effect
unless expressly modified or repealed by ordinance.
B. Municipal Court jurisdiction is preserved and continues uninterrupted.
C. The City Manager shall continue to administer and enforce ordinances during and following
code modernization.
D. Nothing in this Title may be construed to diminish powers granted to the Council or Mayor
under the City Charter.
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COUNCIL-READY ARGUMENT AGAINST
DELETION OF AMC 3.08
1 . The proposal relies on an overly broad interpretation of
City Manager authority
The City Attorney's proposal assumes that because the City Manager supervises employees
(Charter Article V111-A, Section 4.4), all personnel policy belongs exclusively to the City Manager.
This is not legally supported.
Two distinct categories exist under the Charter:
A. Governance-level personnel policy — Council authority
• Establishing a personnel system
• Rulemaking processes
• Classification frameworks
• Compensation structures tied to the budget
• Grievance structures
• Oversight, reporting, and transparency standards
• Whistleblower protections
• Non-represented employee appeal rights
These fall under Article VIII, Section 1, which vests all powers of the City in the Council unless
expressly stated otherwise.
Nothing in the Charter removes personnel policy from the Council.
B. Operational personnel management — City Manager authority
• Hiring
• Supervision
• Daily discipline
• Evaluation
• Workplace management
• Implementation of personnel rules
These are the City Manager's domain under Article Vlll-A, Section 4.
Deleting 3.08 collapses these two legally separate roles into one, contrary to Charter
division of powers.
2. The Charter explicitly gives Council the authority to
create personnel structures
Article XIII — Appointive Officers Clause
"The Mayor, with confirmation by the Council, shall appoint a City Manager, a City
Attorney, and such other officers as the Council deems necessary."
This clause is the legal foundation for:
• defining the Personnel System
• designating officers
• placing HR/Risk under Legal
• structuring personnel oversight
• establishing systems for reporting and accountability
Personnel policy is clearly within the scope of governance contemplated by Article XIII.
Eliminating the chapter removes Council's Charter-granted discretion to define essential officer
structures.
3. Deleting the chapter transfers legislative authority to
the City Manager — which is prohibited
Article VIII, Section 1
All powers belong to the Council unless expressly delegated.
Article IX, Section 1
Council enacts and maintains ordinances governing City operations.
Article VIII-A, Section 4.3
The Manager administers and enforces ordinances— but does not create policy.
By deleting 3.08 entirely:
• Personnel governance is no longer defined in ordinance
• Personnel rules become purely administrative edicts
• There is no mechanism for Council oversight
• Personnel rulemaking timelines disappear
• Grievance pathways disappear
• Transparency requirements are removed
This would allow administrative rules to become de facto laws, which contradicts the Charter's
separation of powers.
4. Eliminating personnel policy contradicts state and
federal compliance requirements
Cities must maintain systems that ensure compliance with:
• Oregon civil service principles
• Oregon Pay Equity Act
• BOLI rules
• FLSA
• ADA
• Title VI
• OSHA requirements
• Whistleblower protections
These obligations require codified procedural safeguards, not informal administrative
practice.
Deleting the chapter removes the legal framework necessary for compliance.
It increases risk of:
• labor law violations
• pay equity challenges
• discrimination claims
• whistleblower retaliation allegations
• wrongful termination suits
Council has an affirmative duty to avoid these risks.
5. Deleting the chapter creates legal and operational
instability
Eliminating AMC 3.08:
• Leaves no personnel rule adoption process
• Eliminates grievance structures
• Removes protections for employees
• Leaves pay equity and classification plans unanchored
• Confuses the hierarchy between Council policies and administrative rules
• Creates ambiguity over reporting and accountability
This creates a system where:
each new administration may rewrite internal policy without public process, notice, or
Council knowledge.
That is the opposite of what the Charter intends for municipal governance.
6. The deletion undermines accountability by removing
transparency structures
Current and proposed modernization structures (such as in your rewritten 2.29):
• require public posting of rules
• mandate reporting timelines
• ensure grievance and disciplinary transparency
• require Council notification of rule changes
• formalize employee protections
• standardize processes
Deleting the chapter removes every one of these systems.
The City Attorney's proposal yields:
• less transparency
• less oversight
• less consistency
• fewer safeguards
• more administrative discretion with no checks
This is the opposite direction of modernization.
7. A Charter-consistent pathway already exists: move
personnel governance into 2.29
You are already proposing:
• Moving personnel governance to a new Chapter 2.29
• Eliminating obsolete operational language from Title 3
• Keeping only governance-level provisions in Code
• Preserving City Manager authority while reinforcing transparency
This is precisely the Charter-compliant approach.
It achieves modernization without deleting critical personnel policy.
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AMC 2.04 CITY COUNCIL
2.04.010 Authority
A. Oregon Revised Statutes, the City Charter, the Ashland Municipal Code, and the Council's
adopted Rules and Procedures govern the meeting requirements and actions of the Council.
B. These operating policies and procedures are established and adopted under the authority
granted in the Ashland City Charter, Article VIII, Sections 1 and 3.
C. Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised shall be the authority for deciding any questions on
meeting requirements and actions not covered by this chapter, Council Resolution, or Oregon
Revised Statutes.
D. Failure to strictly follow the rules in this chapter or Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised
shall not be cause to void or otherwise disturb a decision or action of the Council.
E. Charter provisions may be suspended or repealed only by a vote of the people. Rules on
meeting procedures in Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, the Ashland Municipal Code,
and Council Resolutions may be suspended temporarily upon a motion that is seconded and
passed by a two-thirds vote. Such a motion is not debatable or amendable.
2.04.020 Meetings of the Council
A. The City Council shall hold regular meetings at least twice monthly at times and places
established by Council resolution.
B. Meetings may be conducted in person, electronically, or in hybrid format, provided public
access and participation are preserved consistent with Oregon Public Meetings Law.
C. Special meetings may be called by the Mayor, the City Manager, or any three Councilors
with at least twenty-four (24) hours' notice, except in emergency circumstances.
D. All meetings shall be recorded and posted publicly within seven (7) business days of
adjournment.
E. Special presentations shall be reserved for Study Sessions only.
2.04.030 Agenda Preparation and Council Requests
A. The City Manager shall prepare the agenda in consultation with the Mayor and Council
leadership.
B. Any two (2) Councilors may jointly request in writing that an item be placed on a future
agenda within thirty (30) days of submission.
C. Any three (3) Councilors may jointly request in writing that an item be placed on the next
regularly scheduled meeting agenda.
D. The City Manager shall provide written justification for deferring or declining any requested
item, which the Council may override by majority vote.
E. Agendas and packets shall be publicly posted no fewer than five (5) business days prior to
the study session or business meeting respectively, unless otherwise authorized for
emergencies.
F. All relevant information, staff reports, and presentations related to agenda items must be
included in the published packet.
G. If a presentation or report will not be completed in time for publication, the City Manager
shall inform the full Council in writing of the reason for delay. The presentation may be
distributed when completed but must be provided to the Council and posted publicly at least
twenty-four (24) hours before the public meeting. If this deadline cannot be met, the related
agenda item shall be postponed to a later meeting.
2.04.040 Conduct of Meetings
A. Quorum
As provided in Article VIII, Section 4 of the City Charter, four (4) Councilors, or the Mayor and
not less than three (3) Councilors, constitute a quorum. If the Council members present do not
constitute a quorum, the members present may adjourn or a majority of the members in
attendance may direct staff to notify the absent members—except those known to be
unavoidably detained—that their presence is required to enable the Council to proceed with
business.
B. Rules and Decorum
B. The Council shall adopt Rules of Procedure by resolution consistent with this Title and
Oregon Public Meetings Law.
C. Members shall maintain decorum, professionalism, and respect during all proceedings.
D. Repeated violations of decorum may result in censure by majority vote of the Council.
E. The presiding officer shall maintain order, ensure equitable participation, and manage public
input consistent with adopted Rules of Procedure.
F. The Council shall not impose time limits on Council deliberation except by unanimous
consent of the Councilors present.
G. Public forum shall be limited to fifteen (15) minutes unless extended by unanimous consent.
The presiding officer may manage speaker order and time allocation within the fifteen-minute
period to ensure broad participation.
C. Public Hearings and Ordinance Readings
H. Public hearings shall be conducted consistent with Council Rules of Procedure and
applicable law.
I. Ordinances may be read by title only if consistent with Article X of the City Charter.
2.04.050
(Stricken)
2.04.060 Identification of Fiscal Impact of Policy
Decisions
A. When the City Council adopts a program or policy, it shall indicate how it expects that
program or policy will be funded. If the Council cannot reasonably identify a potential funding
source, it shall so indicate.
B. "Program or policy with significant revenue implications" includes an ordinance or resolution
in which implementation may entail expenditures in excess of 1.5% of the City's annual General
Fund budget and may require increased or new taxes or fees.
C. This section does not apply to extraordinary expenditures necessitated by public
emergencies.
2.04.080 Conduct with City Employees
A. Councilors may make inquiries of staff to increase understanding. Requests requiring
significant staff time (two hours or more) shall be directed to the City Manager and must be
approved by the Mayor, City Manager, City Attorney, or by majority vote of the Council.
B. Written information distributed to any member of the Council, Mayor, City Manager, City
Attorney, or staff shall be shared with all Councilors with notation of who requested it.
C. Councilors shall respect the separation between policy-making and administration.
Councilors shall not direct or pressure staff, interfere with work performance, undermine
supervisory authority, or limit Council options. This does not limit Council's authority to evaluate
the City Manager or City Attorney.
D. The Mayor and Councilors should strive not to criticize any person in public meetings or
public electronic communication. Disagreements should focus on policy content. Nothing limits
the right to report wrongdoing.
E. Concerns about staff performance shall be directed to the Mayor, City Manager, or City
Attorney.
2.04.090 Commissions and Boards
A. The City Council may establish commissions, committees, and boards by ordinance or
resolution.
B. Unless otherwise provided, all advisory bodies are governed by AMC 2.13.
C. The list of individual commissions shall be codified within their respective chapters in Title 2.
D. Removal of members shall follow the standard removal process applicable to all committees.
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AMC 2.28 CITY MANAGER AND
ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION
2.28.010 Purpose and Scope
A. This chapter establishes the executive and administrative organization of the City, including
the authority of the City Manager, the creation and governance of administrative departments,
and the appointment, oversight, and accountability of Department Directors.
B. This chapter shall be interpreted consistent with:
1. AMC Title 1 (Code Governance and Administrative Rulemaking),
2. AMC 2.04 (City Council),
3. AMC 2.29 (Personnel System), and
4. The City Charter, including Articles VIII (Council), VIII-A (City Manager), IX (Special
Powers of the Council), X (Ordinances), and XIII (Appointive Officers).
C. Executive powers established herein shall be exercised to faithfully implement City Council
policy while maintaining transparency, accountability, public accessibility, and the Council's
ultimate legislative authority.
2.28.020 Office of the City Manager
A. The City Manager is the chief administrative officer of the City and is responsible for
executing the policies, ordinances, and directives adopted by the City Council.
B. The City Manager shall supervise and administer all City departments, employees, and
operations except where the Charter or this Code assigns supervision elsewhere.
C. The City Manager shall not establish, revise, or supersede public policy. Legislative and
policy-making authority is reserved exclusively to the City Council under Charter Articles VIII
and X.
D. The City Manager shall comply with the rulemaking, publication, and review requirements of
AMC 1.01.030 and shall maintain a publicly accessible administrative rule registry in
coordination with the City Recorder.
2.28.030 Powers and Duties of the City Manager
A. Enforce and administer all ordinances, regulations, administrative rules, and contracts of the
City.
B. Prepare and submit to the City Council:
1. The proposed biennial budget and long-range financial projections;
2. An annual State of City Administration Report within ninety (90) days of fiscal year
end;
3. Quarterly written reports addressing operations, finances, performance metrics,
interdepartmental initiatives, and administrative rule activity.
C. Ensure all administrative rules are transmitted to the Council for potential modification or
rescission under AMC 1.01.030.
D. Appoint, discipline, and remove City employees in accordance with AMC 2.29 (Personnel
System).
E. Provide timely responses to public inquiries and maintain transparent communication
consistent with Title 1.
F. The City Manager shall not create, eliminate, or reorganize City departments without City
Council approval by ordinance or resolution.
2.28.040 Administrative Departments
A. Administrative departments shall be established by ordinance or resolution to perform
governmental and operational functions.
B. The following are core departments of the City:
1. Police Department
2. Fire and Rescue Department
3. Public Works and Engineering Department
4. Community Development Department
5. Innovation and Technology Department
6. Legal and Human Resources Department
7. Finance Department
C. Department Directors shall be appointed by the City Manager and confirmed by the City
Council unless otherwise provided by this chapter or the Charter.
D. The Legal and Human Resources Department shall be led by the City Attorney, who is
appointed by and reports directly to the City Council under Charter Article XII I.
1. The Human Resources Division shall operate under the supervision of the City Attorney.
2. The City Manager shall not interfere in personnel investigations, disciplinary
proceedings, or labor relations conducted under the authority of the City Attorney.
E. The Finance Director is a Council-appointed officer who reports directly to the City Council
and shall provide independent financial oversight consistent with Charter Articles VIII and XIII.
F. Each Department Director shall implement Council policy and administer day-to-day
operations consistent with the Charter, the AMC, and administrative rules adopted pursuant to
Title 1.
2.28.050 Director Appointments, Removal, and
Recruitment
A. The City Manager may remove or discipline a Department Director for cause and shall notify
the City Council immediately in writing.
B. All appointments and removals shall comply with the Charter, Council policies, and
employment laws.
C. Director recruitment shall be competitive, publicly posted, merit-based, and consistent with
equal-employment requirements.
D. The City Manager shall notify the City Council immediately upon appointing an Interim
Director.
E. An Interim Director may be appointed permanently only after an open recruitment process,
unless the City Council approves permanent appointment by majority vote.
F. Council confirmation is required as a safeguard to ensure qualifications, ethics, and suitability
for public service.
2.28.060 Interdepartmental Coordination
A. Departments shall collaborate in implementing City objectives, including emergency
management, sustainability, economic development, and public communication.
B. The City Manager shall coordinate interdepartmental initiatives and report significant actions
to the City Council.
C. Departmental coordination shall align with Title 1 transparency, reporting, and publication
requirements.
2.28.070 Reporting and Accountability
A. Each Department Director shall submit quarterly reports to the City Manager addressing:
1. Operations and service levels;
2. Staffing and training;
3. Expenditures and variances;
4. Progress toward Council-adopted goals;
5. Policy recommendations requiring Council consideration.
B. The City Manager shall compile and present a consolidated administrative report to the City
Council at least semi-annually.
C. The Finance Director shall prepare two-, four-, and six-year financial forecasts and provide
them as part of the biennial budget and at Council direction.
D. The City Council may require additional reports, audits, or reviews by motion or resolution.
2.28.080 Council Oversight and Performance
Evaluation of the City Manager
A. The City Council shall conduct an annual performance evaluation of the City Manager in a
format established by Council resolution.
B. Evaluation criteria shall include leadership, communication, fiscal stewardship, adherence to
Council direction, and administrative management.
C. The Council may conduct special performance reviews by majority vote.
D. Evaluation sessions shall comply with ORS 192 regarding executive sessions.
E. Final actions, including any changes to compensation or contract terms, shall occur only in
public session.
2.28.090 Council—Staff Communications
A. Councilors shall request information or staff support through the City Manager or through a
City Manager-designated liaison.
B. The City Manager shall ensure timely and complete access to staff expertise and information
with no unreasonable delay.
C. No individual Councilor may direct staff except by Council action or through the City
Manager.
2.28.100 Temporary Absence or Vacancy
A. During temporary absence or disability, the City Manager shall designate an Acting City
Manager in writing and notify the City Council.
B. If the office becomes vacant, the City Council shall appoint an Interim City Manager within
thirty (30) days, with authority defined by Council resolution.
C. No Acting or Interim City Manager may adopt, amend, or repeal administrative rules or make
permanent personnel changes without City Council approval.
2.28.110 Ashland Parks and Recreation
Department
(This section preserves the structure and content of the 2025 reforms but integrates them into
this chapter.)
All provisions of AMC 2.28.600-2.28.660 shall remain in full force and are incorporated by
reference as the Parks and Recreation governance framework. The Parks Director, Parks
Commission, and all associated operational and strategic relationships shall function consistent
with those adopted provisions, the City Charter, and the requirements of this chapter.
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AMC 2.29 PERSONNEL SYSTEM
2.29.010 Purpose and Scope
A. A personnel system is hereby established to ensure fair, transparent, and merit-based
employment practices for all City employees consistent with Oregon law, the City Charter, and
Title 1 of the Ashland Municipal Code.
B. This chapter governs recruitment, selection, classification, compensation, performance
evaluation, discipline, grievance procedures, personnel rulemaking, and workforce
accountability.
C. Nothing in this chapter shall infringe upon collective bargaining rights under ORS Chapter
243 or supersede provisions of any collective bargaining agreement.
2.29.020 Administration of the Personnel System
A. The City Manager shall administer the personnel system subject to Council oversight under
this chapter.
B. The Legal Department, under the supervision of the City Attorney, shall oversee Human
Resources and Risk Management functions to ensure compliance with state and federal
employment law, protection of personnel confidentiality, and independence from managerial
conflicts of interest.
C. The City Manager and City Attorney shall coordinate on personnel investigations,
disciplinary matters, and legal compliance, without diminishing the City Manager's appointing
authority under the Charter or AMC 2.28.
2.29.030 Personnel Rules
A. The City Manager shall prepare and maintain written Personnel Rules consistent with this
chapter, Council policy, and applicable law.
B. The Personnel Rules shall be adopted by Council resolution and publicly posted.
C. Amendments to the Personnel Rules shall take effect thirty (30) days after notice to Council
unless rescinded or modified by Council motion during the notice period.
D. The Personnel Rules shall include, at minimum:
1. recruitment and hiring procedures;
2. equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination policies;
3. classification and compensation procedures;
4. performance evaluation standards;
5. progressive discipline guidelines;
6. grievance and appeal procedures;
7. workplace safety, conduct, and training requirements;
8. whistleblower and anti-retaliation protections.
2.29.040 Classification and Compensation
A. The City Manager shall maintain a comprehensive classification plan for all non-represented
positions.
B. Any changes to classification structures, salary schedules, or benefit policies with fiscal
impact shall require Council approval as part of the biennial budget or by separate resolution.
C. Pay equity and market comparability analyses shall be conducted at least once every six (6)
years and summarized in the biennial budget presentation.
D. The Personnel Rules shall include procedures for reclassification requests, position audits,
and salary adjustments.
E. The City Manager shall publish, as part of the annual Workforce Accountability Report, an
organizational structure and headcount summary comparing staffing to budgeted positions and
citywide operational needs.
2.29.050 Recruitment and Hiring
A. Recruitment and selection shall be based solely on merit, qualifications, and job-related
criteria.
B. Job announcements shall be publicly posted, and recruitment efforts shall strive for diversity,
equal opportunity, and broad applicant outreach.
C. All employment offers shall be made in writing and identify the position title, salary range,
and reporting structure.
D. Background, reference, and credential checks shall be conducted consistent with applicable
law.
2.29.060 Performance Evaluation
A. Each employee shall receive at least one written performance evaluation annually.
B. Evaluations shall include clear goals, performance metrics, and professional development
plans.
C. Department Directors shall certify completion of evaluations to the City Manager.
D. The City Manager shall report annual evaluation completion rates to the Council as part of
the State of City Administration Report.
2.29.070 Discipline and Grievance Procedures
A. Discipline shall be applied consistently and progressively based on the nature and severity of
misconduct.
B. Employees shall receive written notice of the grounds for proposed disciplinary action and an
opportunity to respond before final action is taken.
C. Grievances may be appealed through procedures established in the Personnel Rules or
applicable collective bargaining agreement.
D. Final grievance decisions for non-represented employees may be reviewed by a neutral
hearing officer as provided in the Personnel Rules.
E. The Council may review grievance outcomes only for policy compliance and legal sufficiency
and only in executive session consistent with ORS 192.
2.29.080 Whistleblower and Retaliation Protections
A. The City shall not retaliate against any employee who reports suspected violations of law,
misuse of funds, gross mismanagement, or other misconduct.
B. Reports may be made confidentially to the City Manager, Human Resources, the City
Attorney, or directly to the Mayor or Council Chair.
C. Retaliation allegations shall be investigated promptly, and findings shall be reported to the
Council in executive session consistent with ORS 192.
D. Confidentiality protections and reporting procedures shall be detailed in the Personnel
Rules.
2.29.090 Workforce Accountability Reporting
A. The City Manager shall prepare an annual Workforce Accountability Report summarizing:
1. staffing levels, organizational structure, and headcount;
2. turnover, retention, and diversity statistics;
3. training and professional development activity;
4. the number and general outcomes of grievances and disciplinary actions;
5. personnel policy changes and compliance audits.
B. The report shall be presented to the Council in public session and posted on the
City's website.
2.29.100 Employee Records and Confidentiality
A. Personnel records shall be maintained consistent with ORS 652, ORS 192, and applicable
federal law.
B. Access to personnel files shall be limited to authorized individuals in accordance with the
Personnel Rules.
C. All records shall be retained, stored, and disclosed consistent with City records retention
schedules and public records law.
2.29.110 Relationship to Collective Bargaining
Agreements
A. For represented employees, negotiated collective bargaining agreements govern where
conflicts arise between this chapter and contract terms.
B. Where this chapter provides greater transparency or procedural safeguards, the City shall
honor the collective bargaining agreement while ensuring compliance with State law.
SPEAKER REQUEST FORM
Study Session
Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior
to the discussion item.
1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak
2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone
3) Limit your comments to the time allotted
4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary
5) speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement
Date:
Name: (Please Print)
V
Ashla Resident:
YES NO City:
Agenda Topic/Item Num erg
Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the
directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are
loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be
requested to leave.
Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public
Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene,
vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow
procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be
requested to sit down or leave the building.
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SPEAKER REQUEST FORM
Study Session
Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior
to the discussion item.
1)You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak
2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone
3) Limit your comments to the time allotted
4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary
5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement
Date:
► I- 1� - 35
Name: (Please Print)
Ashland Resident:
YES ❑ NO City:
Agenda Topic/item Number:
Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the
directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are
loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be
requested to leave.
Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public
Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene,
vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow
procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be
requested to sit down or leave the building.
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City Council Study Session
November 17, 2025, 5:30 p.m.
Good evening,
We are Susan and Joseph Peck and we live within the city limits. We would like to
recommend an amendment to the municipal code.
Under 9.08.170 Nuisances/Unnecessary Noise, General Provision B 2 and 3 cite
how noises in a residential area may cause "unreasonable disruption" when its
occurrence is "unusual in time". Also cited in this ordinance unreasonably loud animal
noises in General Provision D 2 as a violation. D 9 cites noises in residential areas
between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. which disturb the quiet of reasonable persons with
ordinary sensitivities.
Under another ordinance, 9.16.070 Nuisance - Dogs, Public Nuisances, General
Provision A 8 notes excessive barking as a public nuisance unless the barking is
caused by presence of cats or predatory animals. The time of day is not noted in this
provision, allowing for the dog to excessively make noises which would include the
middle of the night when most citizens sleep.
Our recommendation is to amend 9.16.170 Section A 8 to note that while it is
understood the typical behavior of a dog is to bark at a cat or predator, we believe the
verbiage of"between the hours of 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m." as noted in D 9 of 9.08.170
should also be applied here so there would be no ongoing barking to disturb peace and
comfort of the residential area when most citizens sleep.
Thank you for your time.
A e u
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SPEAKER REQUEST FORM
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Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior
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2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone
3) Limit your comments to the time allotted
4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary
5) speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement
Date:
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Agenda Topic/Item Number:
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requested to leave.
Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public
Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene,
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procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be
requested to sit down or leave the building.
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SPEAKER REQUEST FORM
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2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone
3) Limit your comments to the time allotted
4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary
5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement
Date: l- 25. -1 Q 6 OL e— 01
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YES NO City:
Agenda To i Item Minn e :(/� on Yb t l
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Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the
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loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be
requested to leave.
Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public
Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene,
vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow
procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be
requested to sit down or leave the building.
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SPEAKER REQUEST FORM
Study Session
Submit this form to the meeting Secretary prior
to the discussion item.
])You will be called forward when it is your turn to speak
2) State your name and speak clearly into the microphone
3) Limit your comments to the time allotted
4) Provide any written materials to the meeting Secretary
5) Speakers are solely responsible for the content of their statement
Date:
Name: (_Please Prin�t)f,, ,
Ashland Resident:
`0_ YES NO City:
Agenda Topic/Item Number:
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Please respect the order of proceedings and strictly follow the
directions of the presiding officer. Behavior or actions which are
loud or disruptive are disrespectful and offenders will be
requested to leave.
Disclaimer: By submitting this request to address the Public
Body, I agree that I will refrain from the use of any obscene,
vulgar, or profane language. I understand that if I do not follow
procedure my speaking time may be terminated, and I may be
requested to sit down or leave the building.
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