This was a relatively quiet week for council, which does not normally hold work sessions during the first week of the month. We did convene an Executive Session regarding the status of the land swap with the county. A public work session on that topic will be scheduled in the new year.
On Wednesday, the Green Lane Sustainable Business Network and the City hosted the finalists for the Mayor’s Bold Steps awards at Sam Bonds on E. 8th. George Rode Auto repairs, Good Clean Love, and Summit Bank were recognized for their commitment to the Triple Bottom Line –People, Planet and Prosperity. I will announce the winner of the 2018 Award at the State of the City address on January 4th.
Next week will bring a couple of big conversations to council. On Monday night, we will consider the council’s possible response to the ballot initiative for an independent auditor; review the proposed disbursement of funds as part of the supplemental budget, and have brief conversations on winter strategies for the homeless, and the city’s response to the proliferation of rats, particularly in south Eugene.
Next Wednesday will be the final council meeting for 2017 which will offer an update on the riverfront development and a briefing and review of the Housing Policy Board’s recommendation that the city consider creating a Construction Excise Tax on new development that would fund investment in affordable housing.
Between now and then, I will attend the Human Rights Celebration at the Arts and Technology Academy, Dec. 10th, 4-6:30. This feels particularly important this year and I look forward to seeing a big crowd.