The end of the year is also the end of the current City Council cycle. In January, we will have a new City Council with two additional seats, and we will work together to set goals for the next two years. Before looking forward, though, I want to take this opportunity to share the progress we’ve made on our current goals.
Reducing Houselessness
We’ve made meaningful progress in supporting our unhoused neighbors. Recently, the City Council updated the Time, Place, and Manner ordinance based on community and staff feedback, balancing public needs with compassionate solutions. Our Safe Parking Program, fully funded and with its first site opened at City Hall in September, provides a secure overnight parking option for individuals experiencing houselessness. Additionally, we welcomed a City/County Liaison dedicated to enhancing efforts to support houseless individuals in Southeast Washington County.
Addressing Climate Change
Tigard remains committed to sustainability. Alongside Tualatin and 15 other regional cities, we secured a $15 million federal grant to install new electric vehicle chargers across Northwest Oregon. Locally, we’ve also expanded programs like the Backyard Habitat Conservation Program to encourage wildlife-friendly home gardens. Through our Heat Pump Cash-In Program, we’ve provided energy-efficient heat pumps to 22 Tigard households. Our new Seed Library saw nearly 200 patrons borrow over 680 seed packets to foster local gardening.
Improving and Modernizing City Services
In October, we launched a new utility bill payment system, offering a simpler, more secure, and eco-friendly experience for our residents. This update includes features like online access to billing history, convenient options to start and stop water service, and reminder emails—all designed to meet today’s digital expectations while reducing paper waste.
Enhancing Community Safety and Access
Community safety remains a top priority. Hall Blvd. was recommended to the state legislature for a jurisdictional transfer, paving the way for more efficient road management and future improvements. Additionally, our Public Safety Renewal levy passed with overwhelming support, ensuring we can continue providing essential services. We’ve also stationed a dedicated officer downtown to address increased calls for service and support a vibrant and safe environment.
Happy Holidays!
I am asked regularly what my favorite part of Tigard is, and it’s YOU, our community. So, this holiday season, I want to share that I’m thankful for our Tigard community.
I’m constantly in awe of our diverse array of community members who show up and give of their time and skills to make Tigard a better place. Whether it’s helping by serving on our Tigard Boards and Committees, clean-ups in your neighborhood or city parks, or the many small daily acts of kindness that go unrecognized – we are better because of you. Thank you for all that you do.
This season, my hope is that you are able to take the time and space needed to celebrate what is meaningful for you. I hope you’ll join us in one of our holiday celebrations, or we would love to share celebrating your traditions. You can invite the whole Council to your event by reaching out to us at councilmail@tigard-or.gov or me directly at heidil@tigard-or.gov.
