March 23 Council Preview

Update on Efforts to Address Substance Use

The Salem City Council will hear an update on efforts to address substance use through prevention, treatment, and enforcement during its meeting on Monday, March 23, at 6 p.m. at Loucks Auditorium. Salem Housing Authority will also meet.

Substance use remains a major concern for the community, affecting health, safety, and livability.

The City has launched a strategy to assess and improve services by working with community partners. This includes mapping resources, identifying service gaps, and clarifying roles in prevention, treatment, and enforcement. Early findings show gaps in enforcement capacity and highlight the need for partnerships, as treatment services fall outside the City's main responsibilities.

An assessment tool has been created to guide this work, and the City is collaborating with Marion County and other regional partners to align resources, improve coordination, and avoid duplication. Staff will continue outreach and return to the Council with recommendations for a coordinated plan.

Public Hearing: Contracting for Franzen Reservoir Liner and Cover Replacement

Salem City Council will also hold a public hearing to seek an exemption from competitive bidding. They are seeking a Construction Manager At Risk alternative contracting method for the Franzen Reservoir Liner and Cover Replacement Project. This process allows contractor involvement during the design phase to provide critical input on cost, schedule, material procurement and other elements that improve design.

Housing Authority Public Hearing: Contracting for Glen Creek Apartments

Salem Housing Authority will hold a public hearing about a request to waive standard competitive bidding rules under Oregon law. This request is for the redevelopment of Glen Creek Apartments, an affordable housing property. The exemption would allow the use of a construction manager/general contractor during the design phase. This approach aims to reduce costs and improve amenities. The contractor will be chosen through a competitive request for proposals process.

Other Items on the Agenda:

• Proclamations on Child Abuse Prevention Month, Mayor's Monarch Pledge and Arbor Month
• Presentation on Tree City of the Year Award
• Federal Aviation Administration grants
• 2025 Annual Tree Report

You can stream live on YouTube.