City Council: Plaza, transit, new assistant manager

City Manager Matthew Klebes said, “This project is about creating a space that truly serves the community.”

The city staff hopes to complete the planning phase by mid-2025, with construction beginning in early 2026. Funding for the project will come from a mix of urban renewal funds, state grants, and private donations, Klebes said.

The “River City” concept features a shade structure, porch swings, a splash pad, and a bike hub designed to attract cyclists traveling the Historic Columbia River Highway Trail.

The “Basalt” design offers canopy structures for shade, movable seating, and a public gathering space.

“One of the key discussion points was making sure that whatever goes into the transportation building has an active use that contributes to the plaza,” Klebes noted.

As previously reported in Columbia Gorge News, an open house took place Feb. 12 at Freebridge Brewery to gather public feedback before a final design is selected.

“This is a long-term investment in our downtown,” said Mayor Rich Mays. “We want to make sure we get it right.”

While the plaza concept has been well received by many local business owners and residents, the loss of street parking remains a significant worry for some.

“The biggest concern I’ve heard is the loss of parking spots in an already limited downtown area,” said Councilor Dan Richardson. “We need to make sure that we’re supporting local businesses by ensuring customers can still access them.”

In response, Klebes noted that parking studies are being conducted to assess how nearby lots and side streets can absorb displaced vehicles.

Another major discussion point was the potential impact on events. While Federal Street Plaza is designed as a flexible community space, officials were mindful that it should not compete with Lewis and Clark Festival Park, the city’s larger event venue.

“This plaza should complement existing event spaces rather than replace them,” said Klebes. “It’s meant for smaller, more intimate gatherings that bring people downtown.”

Gorge Transit report focuses on accessibility

The council received an update on the Gorge Transit system, which serves the bi-state rural region spanning five counties. Kathy Kirkpatrick, speaking on behalf of the regional transit initiative, outlined recent expansions, including the introduction of a $40 annual Gorge Pass for unlimited regional rides.

“We gave 200,000 rides last year, and ridership is only increasing,” said Kirkpatrick.

Transit officials highlighted several key initiatives:

Bike and Bus Program: Riders can now take bicycles on all transit routes, facilitating outdoor tourism and commuter access.

Equity Fund: For every Gorge Pass purchased, $1 is allocated to provide free passes for low-income residents.

Emergency Shelter Access: The Link now offers free rides to the Gloria Center emergency weather shelter, so unhoused individuals can reach safety during extreme weather events.

The system, which connects riders from The Dalles to Portland, Hood River, and Goldendale, continues to grow. “Many of our riders are going to work, to medical appointments, or to higher education,” Kirkpatrick said.

She encouraged council members and residents to attend the April 10 Gorge Transit Summit to discuss future projects.

New assistant city manager position

The council voted to replace the Human Resources Director position with a new assistant city manager (ACM)/HR role, aimed at improving workforce management and distributing leadership responsibilities.

“The city of The Dalles is growing, and we need to ensure strong HR services while also managing increased administrative demands,” said Klebes.

The ACM will oversee:

• Human Resources (employee benefits, union negotiations, recruitment)
• IT and Facilities Management
• Risk and Safety Compliance
• Library Operations

The position will come with a salary range of $113,519–$139,614, an increase of approximately $6,500 annually compared to the previous human resources director role.

Klebes emphasized that The Dalles has 11 direct reports under the city manager, exceeding the best-practice limit of seven.

Councilor Dan Richardson framed this role as “an evolution of an existing position to something that’s more fitting, than a brand new position.”