Utility rates and the wastewater plant
Where it standsUtility rates for 2027 and 2028 are set, and the council has approved a contracting method for the city's largest capital project, the wastewater oxidation ditch.
What's on the tableHow the city pays for water and wastewater infrastructure and whether it partners with nearby cities.
- On March 16, 2026 the council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-4018, setting utility rates effective January 2027 and January 2028; the rate review committee had recommended 5% for water, 4.1% for wastewater, 4.5% for stormwater and 4% for the transportation fee. Newsberg · Mar 20, 2026 ↗
- On September 21, 2026 the council voted unanimously for Resolution 2026-4044, making findings to use the CM/GC contracting method for the wastewater oxidation ditch project, which city documents describe as the city's largest capital improvement project. Newsberg · Sep 28, 2026 ↗
- The council passed Resolution 2026-4033 on June 15, 2026, authorizing a 3.74% rate increase requested by Waste Management. City of Newberg · Jun 15, 2026 ↗
Employment land and the urban growth boundary
Where it standsThe council began the one-time SB 1537 urban growth boundary expansion process in May 2026, and a council hearing on site selection was expected in October.
What's on the tableWhether and where to add industrial and commercial land, and how to use existing sites such as the former mill property.
Flagpole memorial policy
Where it standsThe council voted 3-2 on September 21, 2026 for an amendment requiring materials to be removed when a gathering disperses; the amended resolution has not been adopted and the city attorney will review it.
What's on the tableWhat rules apply to memorials, vigils and protest displays at city flagpoles.
- The 30-day removal policy for memorials at municipal flagpoles was created in September 2025 and clarified in a January 29, 2026 city statement. Newsberg · Sep 28, 2026 ↗
- Under the amendment, no materials may be attached to the flagpole, and materials not removed by participants would be disposed of by city employees or residents. Newsberg · Sep 28, 2026 ↗
Illinois Street and Main Street intersection
Where it standsThe council voted 5-1 on July 6, 2026 to reopen the intersection and refer a long-term solution to the Traffic Safety Commission.
What's on the tableWhat long-term safety design the city adopts for the intersection.
City property tax rate
Where it standsIn June 2026 the council kept the property tax rate at $3.0748 per $1,000 of assessed value.
What's on the tableWhether to raise the rate by up to 3% a year toward the maximum assessed rate.