CASCADE LOCKS —The Cascade Locks City Council finalized its newest Community Development Code, regulating temporary retail structures, at its April 22 meeting.
After Councilor Denise Emmerling-Baker moved to approve the code, and Councilor Pete Happy seconded, discussion ensued. The proposed rules limit “temporary retail structures,” typically food trucks, to a 360-day permit. Though public comment brought up concerns about the lack of specific regulations of noise, smell and sight, other local business owners testified that encouraging temporary retail operators is a great way to nurture small businesses.
Councilor Butch Miller objected to the new rule, saying that the rules only apply after the businesses are in place, and that this particular code doesn’t go far enough and is “inviting trouble.” Mayor Cathy Fallon weighed in, agreeing that they need permanent code with specifics, but pointing out that this is better than what exists currently, which is nothing. It takes one to two years to develop detailed, permanent code.
Emmerling-Baker pointed out that the retail structures must still abide by existing code covering waste and noise. Happy welcomed the chance to nurture new economic development, even if it’s very small, and suggested that the community’s crime rate decrease may be related to its economic development increase. The code passed by a vote of 5-1-1, with Councilor Eric Keller abstaining and Miller voting no.
Cascade Locks’ yard debris collection program continued to draw attention as it faces numerous challenges. The city’s insurer requires city staff to be on-site during burn times; the cost of hauling it away is high; burning it had threatened to shutter one local event and is generally unhealthy; and topmost, the town burn pile has very little space left for additional ashes. City Administrator Jordon Bennett provided options such as hauling one’s own debris to Stevenson or paying Hood River Garage to remove the town’s debris. Following discussion, council members directed Bennett to track the actual amount of debris brought to the burn pile over the next year, as well as tracking the number of personal burn permits issued. After gathering this data, the council will have a clearer estimate of the cost of having it removed instead of burned. Council agreed to keep the current, once monthly program in place, with residents able to drop yard debris on the last Thursday of the month, 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Final issues included a brief discussion about opting-in to state-provided insurance coverage for recreational immunity. The city charter review has faced canceled meetings due to scheduling and other conflicts.
Finally, council members recognized National Volunteer Month, and offered thanks for all the volunteers who serve the community of Cascade Locks. The Cascade Locks City Council, composed of all volunteers, meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month, excepting holidays.
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