The 2022 Community Report shows that most City Council priorities are underway and several major initiatives are complete including passage of the 2022 Community Improvement Bond, the Our Salem comprehensive plan update, and the launch of the City’s new website.  These and other priorities will be the focus of the City Council Work Session on November 21, 2022.  The Community Report is one input into the City Council’s annual workplan – the City Council Policy Agenda – which provides direction to the organization and informs the City’s budget. 

One of the City’s top priorities is to respond to Salem’s sheltering crisis.  Construction is underway at the Salem Housing Authority permanent supportive housing project at Sequoia Crossings, with 60 units, and is nearing an end at Yaquina Hall, with plans to open another 52 units this winter.  Also opening this winter, the low barrier 50-bed Navigation Center and the young adult micro-shelter village serving those 18-24 years old.  Salem launched the seven-member SOS Response Team to respond to public health and safety concerns by being active in the community, providing referrals, responding to criminal complaints, collecting garbage, and removing waste. 

Through its annual Policy Agenda, City Council makes its priorities for action clear to staff and the community and provides direction on aligning resources towards the Strategic Plan Policy areas through the City’s budgeting process.  For this year, Council Policy Agenda priorities are concentrated in four areas: (1) responding to our sheltering crisis; (2) planning for our future; (3) engaging our community; and (4) sustaining infrastructure and services.

Each fall, City Council develops a framework for its policy priorities and considers community feedback, and progress and updates on major initiatives.  At their November 21 Work Session, Salem City Council will consider adjustments to priorities in preparation for developing the 2023 Policy Agenda.  Staff will return with proposals for how to achieve City Council priorities at the January 17, 2023 City Council Work Session.