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# City of Independence

Oregon's Story Begins Here

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-25/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In July 2026, officers engaged in 970 activities. These included 36 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Traffic Notice: Stryker Road Work Planned August 14 & 17–19](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-stryker-road-work-planned-august-14-17-19/) - Stryker Road will experience temporary traffic impacts on August 14 and August 17–19, 2026, as crews complete road widening and paving associated with a private project. Work will take place on the north end of Stryker Road between approximately 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and will require one-lane traffic through the work area, which may
- [Bicycle Chevrons Installation Planned August 10–11](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/bicycle-chevrons-installation-planned-august-10-11-2026/) - A contractor will install bicycle chevrons on several city streets the nights of August 10 and 11. Work will take place from approximately 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. and will include areas along 7th Street south from Monmouth Street, the entirety of Chestnut Street, 4th Street south from Monmouth Street, and G Street west from
- [Public Works Repairs Decades-Old Water Line](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-repairs-decades-old-water-line/) - You probably never noticed it, and that’s exactly the point. Last week, our Public Works crew repaired a broken water line at the city’s South Wellfield. The line had reliably served the community since the 1960s, but after decades of doing its job, it needed a little TLC. As infrastructure ages, repairs and replacements become
- [Independence Mourns the Loss of Councilor Marilyn Morton](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-mourns-the-loss-of-councilor-marilyn-morton/) - We are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of City Councilor Marilyn Morton. Marilyn served on the city council for nearly 25 years, including as council president, and cared deeply for the community she represented. In addition to her service on the city council, she served on several community boards, was involved with
- [EPA Tours Corvallis Road Waterline Project](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/epa-tours-corvallis-road-waterline-project/) - Earlier this week, city staff met with representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to tour the ongoing construction of the Corvallis Road Waterline project. This project is a key investment in our community’s future, replacing aging infrastructure and strengthening the reliability of our drinking water system. It also lays the groundwork for the
- [Free Water Conservation Kits Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/free-water-conservation-kits-now-available-2/) - As part of our state-mandated Water Management and Conservation Plan, the city's public works department is offering free water conservation kits for residents wanting to participate in water conservation efforts. The kits include: 1 Trigger Nozzle 1 Plastic Shut-Off Coupling for Garden Hoses 1 Rain Gauge 1 Smart Soil Moisture Meter These kits are limited
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-24/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In June 2026, officers engaged in 896 activities. These included 20 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Honoring a Champion for Safer Streets](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/honoring-a-champion-for-safer-streets/) - Last week, city staff, Mayor Schwarzler, Councilor Corr, and close family gathered for an intimate memorial unveiling at the corner of Gun Club Road and Hoffman Road in honor of Jamie Boe, a longtime Independence resident and tireless advocate for cyclist safety. Jamie spent years speaking up for safer conditions along Hoffman Road, which he
- [Public Notice: Abolishing the City of Independence Library](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-notice-abolishing-the-city-of-independence-library/) - PCIO26-327 PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE ABOLISHING THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE LIBRARY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Independence will hold two public hearings pursuant to ORS 357.621 to hear comments regarding the proposed closure of the City of Independence Library. The hearings will be held at the Independence City Hall, located at 555 S
- [Corvallis Road Waterline Work Pausing for Holiday Weekend](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-corvallis-road-waterline-work-pausing-for-holiday-weekend/) - To help make holiday travel easier, work on the Corvallis Road Waterline Project will pause beginning Wednesday, July 1, through Sunday, July 5. Construction will resume Monday, July 6. During the holiday weekend, both lanes of Corvallis Road will be open to provide easier access for travelers. Although construction activities will be paused, motorists are
- [Public Notice and Notice of Public Hearing](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-notice-and-notice-of-public-hearing/) - The City of Independence is eligible to apply for a 2026 Community Development Block Grant from the Business Oregon. Community Development Block Grant funds come from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The grants can be used for public facilities and housing improvements, primarily for persons with low and moderate incomes. Approximately
- [Students Showcase Community Design Projects](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/students-showcase-community-design-projects/) - Earlier this week, city staff and Mayor Schwarzler visited Ash Creek Elementary’s 5th Grade Open House, where students showcased the cities they designed and built as one of their final projects of the school year. Their creative city plans included everything needed to support a thriving community, from water treatment plants, libraries, museums, and restaurants
- [Construction Advances on Corvallis Road Waterline Project](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/construction-advances-on-corvallis-road-waterline-project/) - Work continues on the Corvallis Road Waterline Project, with crews making steady progress on this important infrastructure investment. Over the past few weeks, contractors have surveyed the existing waterline, sawcut the trench route, completed utility locating and potholing activities, and begun installing the new waterline. This project will replace undersized waterlines and extend service south
- [Shape the Future of Independence's Stormwater System](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/shape-the-future-of-independences-stormwater-system/) - How often do you think about the infrastructure beneath your feet? Most of it goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. Join us for Stormwater Master Plan Open House #2 on Thursday, June 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Independence Civic Center. Learn how stormwater infrastructure helps reduce flooding and protect water quality, and
- [Candidate Filing Period Now Open](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/candidate-filing-period-now-open/) - Shape the future of Independence by serving on the City Council or as Mayor. The city of Independence is accepting candidate filings for the November 3, 2026, General Election. The filing period opened June 3 and closes at 5:00 p.m. on August 25, 2026. Mayor and City Council positions are non-partisan, elected at large, volunteer,
- [Notice of Supplemental Budget Hearing](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-supplemental-budget-hearing/) - An additional public hearing on a proposed supplemental budget for the city of Independence, for the current fiscal year, will be held at City Hall (555 S. Main St). The hearing will take place on June 23, 2026 at 6:30 PM. The purpose of this hearing is to discuss the supplemental budget with interested persons.
- [Life Jacket Stations Are Ready for Summer Season](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/life-jacket-stations-are-ready-for-summer-season/) - As summer approaches, more people are heading outdoors to enjoy the Willamette River. Independence offers free life jacket loaner stations along the river to help keep recreation safe for everyone. Please exercise caution when recreating near or in the river. Currents, changing conditions, and hidden hazards can create dangerous situations, even for experienced swimmers. Borrow
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-23/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In May 2026, officers engaged in 1,073 activities. These included 31 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Notice of Budget Adoption](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-adoption-hearing/) - A public meeting of the City of Independence City Council and Urban Renewal Agency Board will be held on June 09, 2026, at 6:30 pm at City Hall, 555 S Main Street, Independence, Oregon. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2026 as approved by
- [Historic Walking Tour Brings Independence History to Life](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/historic-walking-tour-brings-independence-history-to-life/) - History and community came together during our first Historic District Walking Tour last week. This first tour highlighted homes built in the late 1800s, giving attendees a closer look at the architecture, stories, and people that helped shape our community. The strong turnout and lively conversations made the evening a success, with participants encouraged to
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: Corvallis Road Waterline Work](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-corvallis-road-waterline-work/) - Construction along Corvallis Road will begin Wednesday, June 3, 2026, and continue over the next several weeks as part of the Corvallis Road Waterline Project. The project will replace undersized waterlines and extend service south to the new Water Treatment Plant, helping improve long-term water reliability. Crews will begin with utility locating, erosion control, and
- [Summer Movies and Concerts Lineup Announced](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/summer-movies-and-concerts-lineup-announced/) - Summer nights are back at the Riverview Park Amphitheater. The River’s Edge Summer Series returns June 26 through August 28 with live music, movies in the park, vendors, tribute bands, and evenings by the river you won’t want to miss. From ABBA and AC/DC to Stevie Nicks and Taylor Swift tributes, this year’s lineup is
- [2025 Water Quality Report Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/2025-water-quality-report-now-available/) - The city's 2025 Water Quality Report is here, and we’re proud to share that Independence drinking water continues to meet or exceed all federal and state standards. Our public works department works around the clock to provide safe, dependable, high-quality water to our community. Throughout the year, the city tests for dozens of contaminants, and
- [Spring Has Sprung in Downtown Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/spring-has-sprung-in-downtown-independence/) - Spring has officially sprung in downtown Independence! Earlier this week, our Public Works crew hung the vibrant flower baskets that brighten streets and sidewalks throughout downtown. These beautiful baskets are made possible through the generous support of the Independence Downtown Association and its Walk of Hearts fundraiser, which helps support beautification efforts in the heart
- [Community Services and Parks Fee Explained](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-services-and-parks-fee-explained/) - The FY 2026-27 city budget includes a proposed Community Services and Parks Fee, based on the recommendation of a committee composed entirely of community members to evaluate the long-term sustainability of the Community Services (library and museum) and Parks departments. The proposed fees of $11.50 for Community Services and $8.15 for Parks will be reviewed
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-22/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In April 2026, officers engaged in 910 activities. These included 23 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Expanding Inclusive Recreation Along the Willamette River](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/expanding-inclusive-recreation-along-the-willamette-river/) - Yesterday, the city of Independence welcomed Travel Oregon for a site visit focused on the future of paddle access at Riverview Park and along the Willamette River. Earlier this year, the city was selected as one of the awardees of Travel Oregon’s Recreation Ready grant for the Riverview Park Willamette River Access Project. This investment
- [Budget Committee Meeting Recap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/budget-committee-meeting-recap/) - On April 22, Independence held its first Budget Committee meeting to review and discuss the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-27. At the meeting, Miranda Garrison was re-appointed chair by unanimous vote of the committee. Visitors had the opportunity to give public comment, and several community members attended to speak in favor of a proposed $20
- [Walking Tour Highlights State Funded Transportation Progress](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/walking-tour-highlights-state-funded-transportation-progress/) - Earlier this week, city staff welcomed officials from the Oregon Department of Transportation for a walking tour through Independence, offering a firsthand look at how state investments have shaped, and continue to form, our community on the ground. Moving from site to site, the group saw how these projects connect neighborhoods, improve safety, and lay
- [Regional Leaders Discuss Pathways for Economic Development](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/regional-leaders-discuss-pathways-for-economic-development/) - Yesterday, city staff and Mayor Schwarzler participated in a Polk County economic development roundtable with Oregon’s Chief Prosperity Officer, Tim Knopp. This new state-level role is focused on advancing the Governor’s priorities to grow GDP, create family-wage jobs, and support Oregon businesses. The discussion ranged from city budget constraints to improving industrial sites to attract
- [Updated Speed Zones on Corvallis Road](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/updated-speed-zones-on-corvallis-road/) - If you’ve driven Corvallis Road in Independence recently, you may have noticed updated speed signage. New signs have been installed to create more consistent speed transitions along the corridor and improve safety for all road users. If you’re heading north into town on Corvallis Road, updated speeds are: 55 mph on the south end of
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-21/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In March 2026, officers engaged in 932 activities. These included 31 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Community Diaper Drive Now Underway](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-diaper-drive-now-underway/) - We’re proud to be a collection site for the 17th Annual Diaper Drive hosted by Les Schwab Tire Centers, supporting families through Family Building Blocks. Babies need 8 to 10 diaper changes a day, and for many families, that cost adds up quickly. Access to essentials like diapers helps keep children clean, healthy, and safe.
- [Notice of Budget Meeting](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-meeting/) - Notice of Budget Committee Meeting for the City of Independence, Oregon A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Independence, Polk County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, will be held at City Hall, 555 S. Main Street. The meeting
- [From Books to Backhoes: Indy Public Works Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/from-books-to-backhoes-indy-public-works-day/) - Our public works crew booked it to the library for Indy Public Works Day! Rain didn’t stop families from touching trucks, honking horns, climbing into the driver’s seat, and connecting with the crews who keep our infrastructure running. Thanks to everyone who came out and made it a hands-on, fun-filled day
- [Wastewater Treatment Plant Upgrades Begin](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wastewater-treatment-plant-upgrades-begin/) - Our crews started work this week at the wastewater treatment plant on a waterline realignment. This is the beginning of upgrades that include a new screened headworks, which removes large debris from incoming wastewater to protect equipment, improve treatment efficiency, and help reduce odors. We are also adding aeration to the lagoons to break down
- [Wastewater Lagoon Maintenance Continues](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wastewater-lagoon-maintenance-continues/) - Public Works skimmed the wastewater lagoons this week and last week. A vacuum truck removed built-up materials, including fats, oils, grease, and biosolids, which were then hauled to a landfill. This essential work made a noticeable dent in the surface layer and may help reduce odors around town. Although not always visible, this work plays
- [Community Turns Out for Stormwater Master Plan Open House](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-turns-out-for-stormwater-master-plan-open-house/) - Last week, we hosted our first Stormwater Master Plan Open House, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to stop by, ask questions, and learn more about how stormwater moves through our community. Stormwater systems do a lot behind the scenes. They help prevent flooding, protect homes and businesses, reduce pollution in our rivers,
- [Regional Cooperative Project Award Honors Wall That Heals](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/regional-cooperative-project-award-honors-wall-that-heals/) - Last week at the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments annual award banquet, The Wall That Heals in Independence was honored with the 2025 Regional Cooperative Project Award. Bringing this traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to Oregon was a true regional effort. Over 18 months, 17 local governments, state agencies, nonprofits, and more than
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-20/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In February 2026, officers engaged in 807 activities. These included 35 arrests (adults and juveniles),
- [Key Takeaways from the City’s Annual Financial Audit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/key-takeaways-from-the-citys-annual-financial-audit/) - The city of Independence recently completed its annual independent financial audit. The report helps ensure transparency and accountability in how public funds are managed. Here are several key takeaways: Independent auditors issued a clean opinion The city received a clean audit opinion, meaning financial statements were found to be accurate and prepared according to government
- [Independence Police Connect with Students at Career Fair](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-connect-with-students-at-career-fair/) - The Independence Police department had a great time meeting students at the Criminal Justice Career Fair at Western Oregon University! It was great connecting with future public safety professionals, answering questions, and sharing what it’s like to serve the Independence community. The future of law enforcement looks bright!
- [Notice of Public Hearing - SDC Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-public-hearing-sdc-update/) - Intent to Update the City of Independence’s System Development Charge (SDC) Methodologies for Parks. The City of Independence hereby issues public notice, pursuant to ORS 223.304 (6) and (7), of its intent to change the methodology for calculating SDCs for parks. A public hearing on the new methodology is scheduled before the Independence City Council
- [Books, Laughs, and Hard-Hitting Questions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/books-laughs-and-hard-hitting-questions/) - Yesterday, we had a great time visiting Ash Creek Elementary School as part of their Guest Celebrity Reader event celebrating literacy. Mayor Kate Schwarzler and Police Chief Banuelos joined students and read some of their favorite children’s books, helping highlight the joy of reading and the important role it plays both in school and throughout
- [Temporary Lane Changes on Main Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporary-lane-changes-on-main-street/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary Lane Changes on South Main Street During Water Service WorkCrews will repair a water service line on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM) and will return on Friday, March 6, 2026 ( 9 AM - 3 PM) to pave and restore the roadway. There will be a few traffic
- [Mayor Kate Connects with Residents at Pub Talk](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kate-connects-with-residents-at-pub-talk/) - Last Thursday, Mayor Kate hosted a Pub Talk on Understanding City Revenue, bringing neighbors together for an open and honest conversation about how the city of Independence is funded and how those dollars support the services our community relies on every day. The atmosphere was laid back and welcoming, with lots of thoughtful questions, detailed
- [Community Support Powers Osprey Cam Improvements](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-support-powers-osprey-cam-improvements/) - Last Friday, we teamed up with Polk County Fire District No.1 to clean up, prepare, and upgrade our Live Osprey Camera at Riverview Park. All of the work completed on the osprey camera was fully covered thanks to the generosity of community donors. Polk Fire brought their ladder engine so crews could safely reach the
- [February: Love Where You Live](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/february-love-where-you-live/) - February is a month centered around love — and here in Independence, we have plenty of reasons to celebrate. February 14th is not just Valentine’s Day; we also get to celebrate Oregon’s birthday. It’s a good reminder of the history and pioneering spirit that shaped not only our state, but our own community. That spirit
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-19/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In January 2026, officers engaged in 865 activities, including 27 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 13
- [Senator Ron Wyden Hosts Polk County Town Hall](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/senator-ron-wyden-hosts-polk-county-town-hall/) - Mayor Kate Schwarzler joined U.S. Senator Ron Wyden at his Polk County Town Hall at Western Oregon University, where she offered opening remarks and had the honor of leading the Pledge of Allegiance to begin the event. The town hall brought community members together to hear directly from Senator Wyden about federal issues impacting Polk
- [Mayor Kate Hosts First Quarterly Town Hall of 2026](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kate-hosts-first-quarterly-town-hall-of-2026/) - Last week, residents gathered for Mayor Kate’s first quarterly Town Hall of the year. The community came together to engage in open conversation, ask questions, and learn more about the work the City Council and city staff have been doing over the past year, along with the exciting initiatives ahead. The discussion included an in-depth
- [Congresswoman Andrea Salinas Visits Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/congresswoman-andrea-salinas-visits-independence/) - Independence welcomed Congresswoman Andrea Salinas for a visit focused on collaboration and the future of our community. Congresswoman Salinas met with Mayor Kate Schwarzler and city staff to discuss what’s happening in Independence and engage in conversations spanning a wide range of topics. Discussions included the city’s infrastructure needs, ongoing projects, and exciting economic development
- [Water Meter Replacement Project Phase 3 Begins January 26](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-meter-replacement-project-phase-3-begins-january-26/) - Beginning Monday, January 26, 2026, contractors will start Phase 3 of the city’s water meter replacement project. As part of this phase, crews will be working in the general areas highlighted on the accompanying maps. These maps provide a visual overview of the neighborhoods where 3/4-inch water meters are scheduled for replacement during this phase
- [Seasonal Lagoon Turnover and Temporary Odors Explained](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/seasonal-lagoon-turnover-and-temporary-odors-explained/) - Some community members have noticed an unpleasant odor in parts of Independence over the past few weeks. This smell is coming from the city’s wastewater treatment lagoons and is the result of a seasonal lagoon “turnover” event. Here’s what’s happening: Wastewater lagoons rely on natural biological processes to break down organic material (called biosolids). Under
- [Mayor Kate to Host Town Hall](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kate-to-host-town-hall/) - Join Mayor Kate Schwarzler for a Town Hall featuring a Year in Review and a look at What’s Ahead for Independence. This event is an opportunity to hear highlights from the past year, learn about upcoming priorities, and share your thoughts on the future of our community. Residents are encouraged to ask questions, offer feedback,
- [Improving Safety and Flow at River Road & Main Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/improving-safety-and-flow-at-river-road-main-street/) - Last week, city crews completed the installation of a new 4-way stop at the intersection of Main Street and River Road, including updated signage and thermoplastic stop bars designed to improve safety and traffic flow. “New Traffic Pattern Ahead” signs will remain in place for the next 90 days to help drivers adjust to the
- [January: A New Year](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/january-a-new-year/) - Hello Community, I hope everyone had a wonderful end to the year and a chance over the holidays to enjoy time with family and friends. The start of a new year always brings a sense of reflection, and this January marks one full year since I began serving as your mayor. I honestly can’t believe
- [River Road & Main Street to Become a 4-Way Stop](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/river-road-main-street-to-become-a-4-way-stop/) - City crews will install a new all-way stop at the intersection of Main Street & River Road on Thursday, January 15, 2026, beginning around 9:00 AM. The work is expected to take approximately 2–3 hours. During construction, traffic will be slowed due to a 4-way flagging operation to keep crews and drivers safe. Motorists are
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-18/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In December 2025, officers engaged in 701 activities, including 22 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 19
- [Water Meter Replacement Prep Underway](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-meter-replacement-prep-underway/) - You may see utility crews working around water meter boxes in town this week and next week. A contractor working on behalf of the city has begun vacuum excavating meter boxes to prepare for upcoming water meter replacements. This work is expected to continue through next week as meters are prepped. Crews will return on
- [2025 | A Year in Review](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/2025-a-year-in-review/) - In 2025, the city of Independence took important steps to strengthen its foundation for the future. Through infrastructure improvements, community-focused public safety, and honest conversations about finances, the city remained committed to serving residents today while planning responsibly for what comes next. 2025 Highlights Strengthening Core Infrastructure The city is updating its Parks Master Plan
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-17/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In November 2025, officers engaged in 660 activities, including 16 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 21
- [Five Things to Know from the City’s Financial Recovery Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/five-things-to-know-from-the-citys-financial-recovery-report/) - Our Budget Reality The city of Independence, like many communities across Oregon, is facing a long-term budget challenge. The cost of providing services is rising faster than the revenue available to fund them, leaving our General Fund at its lowest point in years. Without action, this gap will continue to grow. Why It’s Happening Oregon’s
- [Independence Police Welcome Newest Officer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-welcome-newest-officer/) - We’re thrilled to welcome Officer Bella Federico to the Independence Police Department! From a young age, Bella knew that she wanted a career helping people and giving back to her community. After earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western Oregon University, Bella began her law enforcement career on patrol with Marion County, where
- [Holiday Light Display Returns to Riverview Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/holiday-light-display-returns-to-riverview-park/) - The only thing brighter than our holiday lights are the smiles of the people enjoying them! Join us for the Glow Holiday Light Display kickoff event on Sunday, November 30, 2025, at 5:30 PM in Riverview Park for an evening filled with carols, cheer, and all the festive magic of the season. Our dazzling displays
- [Leaf Pickup Program Off to a Strong Start](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/leaf-pickup-program-off-to-a-strong-start/) - During the first week of our annual Leaf Pickup Program, Public Works crews collected an impressive 374 cubic yards of leaves. That includes 16.5 dump truck loads of compacted, wet leaves in 13-yard trucks and 20 street sweeper loads that are 8 yards each. As crews continue their rounds, we’re encouraging residents to use their
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-16/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In October 2025, officers engaged in 758 activities, including 29 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 9
- [Securing Safe Drinking Water for the Next 20 Years](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/securing-safe-drinking-water-for-the-next-20-years/) - City staff and engineers are regularly surveying the site on Corvallis Road, where contractors continue clearing brush and removing trees to prepare for Independence’s new Water Treatment Plant. These early efforts mark an important step in securing safe, reliable drinking water for residents for the next 20+ years. The Corvallis Road location was selected for
- [Building the Next Generation of Civic Leaders](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/building-the-next-generation-of-civic-leaders/) - This past weekend, we partnered with Rural Development Initiatives to host our first Civic Leadership Program, an exciting new way for residents to learn how their city government works and how community volunteers and organizations help keep Independence thriving. Participants took guided tours of the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Police facilities, explored hands-on presentations
- [Work Continues on New Southwest Subdivision](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/work-continues-on-new-southwest-subdivision/) - Crews are making steady progress on infrastructure work at the Southwest Crossing development site on Talmadge Road. Ongoing work includes grading, preparing detention ponds, and laying out key underground utilities to serve future homes. Once complete, the 67-lot residential subdivision will expand housing opportunities, improve drainage and transportation connections, and strengthen the foundation for
- [Staff Participate in National Lunch Week](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/staff-participate-in-national-lunch-week/) - Last week, City Manager West and School Resource Officers Gonzalez and Preston, along with city of Monmouth and Polk County Fire District No. 1 staff, joined Central School District students to celebrate National School Lunch Week, trading in their meetings and patrols for cafeteria trays and conversations. Sharing a meal is one of the simplest
- [Strategic Finance Roundtable Recap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/strategic-finance-roundtable-recap/) - The Strategic Finance Roundtable, a workgroup of the Budget Committee, met this week to continue identifying long-term solutions to the city’s budget challenges. Meeting Highlights: The Public Safety Fee is in effect and expected to generate approximately $816,000 in the 2025–26 fiscal year. The Public Safety Fee study will be presented at a council work
- [Sidewalk Closed Temporarily on Gun Club Road](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sidewalk-closed-temporarily-on-gun-club-road/) - The west side sidewalk near the intersection of Marigold Drive and Gun Club Road will be closed for approximately seven days while crews work to improve drainage in the area. Detour signs will guide pedestrians to the east side of Gun Club Road. Thank you for your patience as we make important improvements to our
- [Independence Welcomes New Finance Director](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-welcomes-new-finance-director/) - The city of Independence is honored to introduce Amanda Carey as our new Finance Director. Amanda grew up in the Salem area and is excited to return to the Willamette Valley after spending the past decade along the Oregon Coast. She brings over 13 years of experience in government finance, along with an Associate of
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-15/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In September 2025, officers engaged in 796 activities, including 14 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 15
- [Police Show Support for Breast Cancer Awareness](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/police-show-support-for-breast-cancer-awareness/) - October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and the Independence Police Department is proud to show our support for the fighters, survivors, and families in our community impacted by this disease. By wearing pink, we stand in solidarity, raise awareness, and honor those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.
- [Work Begins on Independence’s Future Water Treatment Plant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/work-begins-on-independences-future-water-treatment-plant/) - Contractors are clearing debris and removing trees, preparing the Corvallis Road site for Independence’s future Water Treatment Plant. Engineers and contractors are performing needed preliminary engineering work on this critical project to secure safe, reliable drinking water for the next 20+ years. Independence owns a critical water right next to the Willamette River, but without
- [City Council Meeting Recap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-council-meeting-recap-2/) - City Council Meeting Recap *Due to staff sickness, we are unable to bring you a regularly scheduled video of 60-Second Council, but we can still provide a recap of what happened so our community stays informed. Mark your calendar: A public hearing has been scheduled for November 25, 2025 to consider the annexation of land
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-14/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In August 2025, officers engaged in 821 activities, including 25 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 11
- [Upcoming Public Hearings](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/upcoming-public-hearings-2/) - The city of Independence encourages residents to stay informed and take part in upcoming public hearings that help guide local growth and development: September 15 – Removal of Three Hazardous Trees in Pioneer Park – Historic Preservation Commission – 5:30 pm October 6 – Consideration of Revised Standards for Mobile Vending Units – Planning Commission
- [Never miss a City Council update—subscribe today](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/never-miss-a-city-council-update-subscribe-today/) - We just launched a new Public Meetings Portal that is easier to use and more user friendly. Subscribing for automatic email notifications takes only a few minutes: Step 1: Visit the Public Meetings Portalhttps://independenceor.portal.civicclerk.com/ Step 2: Click Sign In in the top right. New users select Sign up. Step 3: After signing in, click Subscriptions.
- [August: From Concerts to Classrooms](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/august-from-concerts-to-classrooms/) - A Note from Mayor Kate As summer winds down, I want to take a moment to thank everyone who came together to enjoy summer in Independence. From our summer concert series to the Community Fiesta, these gatherings remind us of the joy that comes from being part of a community that celebrates and has fun
- [Meet Our New School Resource Officer: Anthony Preston](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/meet-our-new-school-resource-officer-anthony-preston/) - The Independence Police Department would like to introduce the newest member of the School Resource Officer Team, SRO Anthony Preston. Officer Preston comes to the Independence Police Department with previous law enforcement and SRO experience. In addition to his work as a police officer, Officer Preston is involved in youth sports and community outreach and
- [Dedicated Staff Care for City Parks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/dedicated-staff-care-for-city-parks/) - Every park you walk through in Independence has been shaped by that attention to detail. As the City’s only parks staff member, Cliff carries the responsibility of keeping every green space ready for the community. His days range from mowing athletic fields to prepping spaces for community events, and from keeping trails clear to making
- [Independence Police Welcomes a New Academy Graduate](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-welcomes-a-new-academy-graduate/) - Last week, Officer Granite Stephenson graduated from the Oregon Department of Public Safety Standards and Training (DPSST) Public Safety Academy, joining officers from across the state in completing this milestone. The 16-week Basic Police training program equips officers with the essential skills for patrol work in Oregon, blending scenario-based training, facilitated learning, and opportunities for
- [Public Works Crews Freshen Up Intersections](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-crews-freshen-up-intersections/) - Last week, our Public Works crews were out on G Street giving the curbs a fresh coat of paint. Curb painting is a key part of keeping traffic flowing safely and efficiently. The yellow markings indicate no-parking zones, which keep intersections clear so drivers can see oncoming traffic and pedestrians have safer crossings. Fresh paint
- [Walking Tours Off to a Strong Start](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/walking-tours-off-to-a-strong-start/) - What a great start to our Walking Tours! Thank you to everyone who joined us last week as we explored the different housing types in Independence and the stories they tell about our community’s past and present. It was inspiring to see so many people come together to learn and connect. Did you miss this
- [Independence Library Hours Change Starting September](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-library-hours-change-starting-september/) - Beginning in September, the Independence Public Library will adjust its weekly schedule to better align with budgetary constraints. The library will be open Monday through Thursday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and closed on Fridays. This change will help the library maintain high-quality services, programs, and resources during its busiest days of the week.
- [Community Consortium Helps Independence Parks Thrive](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-consortium-helps-independence-parks-thrive/) - If you’ve enjoyed a beautifully maintained park or trail in Independence lately, chances are you’ve seen the quiet impact of the Community Services Consortium – CSC, a regional nonprofit that connects people to employment, education, and training opportunities. One of the ways they do this is through hands-on job skills programs, where participants gain real-world
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-13/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In July 2025, officers engaged in 738 activities, including 33 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 14
- [Independence Seeking MINET Board Applicants](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-seeking-minet-board-applicants/) - The city of Independence is accepting applications for a vacancy on the MINET Board, representing the general public. This position is open following the expiration of a prior term on June 30, 2025. The deadline to apply is 5:00 PM on September 2, 2025. The Independence City Council will consider applicants at their meeting on
- [National Night Out Brings Community Together](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/national-night-out-brings-community-together/) - National Night Out was filled with great conversations, smiling faces, and genuine community connection. We were proud to spend the evening with neighbors who make Independence such a special place. Thank you for showing up, sharing your stories, and reminding us why we love what we do.
- [Biosolids Removal Project Complete at Wastewater Plant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/biosolids-removal-project-complete-at-wastewater-plant/) - Have you noticed a fresher scent in the air lately? That’s because our biosolids removal project is officially complete. Over the past few weeks, crews have been hard at work dredging and dewatering the lagoons at the Wastewater Treatment Plant as part of our ongoing commitment to responsible and effective water management. But what is
- [Midseason Magic at the River’s Edge Summer Series](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/midseason-magic-at-the-rivers-edge-summer-series/) - Last Friday was a thriller at our River’s Edge Summer Series! As we reach the halfway point of the season, the energy just keeps building. With the riverfront as our backdrop and a perfect summer evening in the Willamette Valley, concertgoers danced the night away and enjoyed amazing local food and drink from downtown and
- [Free Water-Saving Kits Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/free-water-saving-kits-now-available/) - As part of our state-mandated Water Management and Conservation Plan, the city's public works department is offering free water conservation kits for residents wanting to participate in water conservation efforts. The kits include: 1 Trigger Nozzle 1 Plastic Shut-Off Coupling for Garden Hoses 1 Smart Soil Moisture Meter These kits are limited in supply and
- [Upcoming Public Hearings](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/upcoming-public-hearings/) - The city of Independence encourages residents to stay informed and take part in upcoming public hearings that help guide local growth and development: August 12 – City Council Meeting Consideration of a code change to require a pre-application for most new development. August 26 – City Council Meeting Consideration of annexing a city-owned property and
- [New Development Continues on South Main Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-development-continues-on-south-main-street/) - Construction continues at 478 S. Main Street on a mixed-use project led by a local builder. Originally approved by the Historic Preservation Commission and city staff in 2022, the project will bring 14 apartment units and approximately 3,000 square feet of ground-floor commercial space to the heart of Independence. The development also includes on-site parking
- [Coffee with a Cop Nurtures Community](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/coffee-with-a-cop-nurtures-community/) - Thanks to everyone who joined us for Coffee with a Cop! It was a great opportunity for residents to connect with Independence Police officers in a casual setting, ask questions, share concerns, and simply get to know the people behind the badge. A special thank you to Painted Pony Coffee and Cream for providing the
- [Students Encounter the Power of Local Government](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/students-encounter-the-power-of-local-government/) - Yesterday, we had the pleasure of welcoming students from the Central School District to the Independence Civic Center! They toured our Planning and Police departments, explored a patrol vehicle, and took a historic walking tour near downtown. They also participated in mock City Council meetings where they debated budget priorities and passed an ordinance requiring
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-12/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In June 2025, officers engaged in 713 activities, including 29 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 14
- [Support What You Love About Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/support-what-you-love-about-independence/) - You now have the option to financially support the Independence Public Library, Museum, and Parks with either with a one-time donation or by becoming a monthly supporter. Your contribution provides dedicated funding that will be used solely to support these services, helping maintain Library programs, preserve local history at the Museum, and enhance our Parks
- [Happy Independence Day!](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/happy-independence-day/) - As we gather to celebrate the spirit of freedom and community on this Independence Day, we honor the values that have shaped our great nation and our wonderful city. Independence Day is also a time to reflect on the courage and determination of those who came before us. Here in Independence, Oregon, we take special
- [Independence Police Swear-in Newest Officer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-newest-officer-4/) - Earlier this week, we proudly swore in Officer Anthony Preston as the newest member of the Independence Police Department. Originally from Portland, Officer Preston is a graduate of Western Oregon University and has spent much of his time in the Monmouth-Independence area, and he absolutely loves it. He began his law enforcement career in 2018,
- [New Administrative Office Hours Starting July 7](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-administrative-office-hours-starting-july-7/) - Beginning July 7, 2025, the administrative departments (finance, building, community development, etc.) at the Independence Civic Center will be open Monday through Thursday from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. These adjusted hours help us manage budget constraints while continuing to serve the community. The Independence Police Department will continue to operate Monday through Friday from
- [Still Time to Shape the Future of Independence Parks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/still-time-to-shape-the-future-of-independence-parks/) - https://youtu.be/p28udJfLQS8 Did you miss our latest Parks Master Plan Open House? No problem! You can still help shape the future of Independence parks by taking our online survey! Your ideas and feedback are an important part of creating a plan that reflects what our community truly wants in its parks, trails, and open spaces. The
- [Youth Coders Honored with Mayoral Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/youth-coders-honored-with-mayoral-proclamation/) - At our latest city council meeting, Mayor Kate Schwarzler read a proclamation honoring our local student team for winning 1st Place in the Technical Merit category of the national Youth Coding League competition. Competing against 46 outstanding projects, our coders rose to the top and impressed professional developer judges with their creativity, skill, and innovation.
- [Detective Jill Thissell Awarded Officer of the Year](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/detective-jill-thissell-awarded-officer-of-the-year/) - Detective Jill Thissell has been awarded Officer of the Year by the Independence Police Department! Detective Jill Thissell began her career with the Independence Police Department in 2005 as a Records Technician. Since then, she has been a Reserve Police Officer, Patrol Officer, Detective/School Resource Officer, and now our lead Detective since 2021. When selecting
- [June: Shifting Into Celebration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/june-shifting-into-celebration/) - Hello community – As we bring our proposed budget to the City Council for a vote next week, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and collaboration it’s taken to get us here. This year’s budget process has not been easy. I saw firsthand how committed our staff, budget committee, and
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-11/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In May 2025, officers engaged in 780 activities, including 35 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 11
- [Public Safety Fee to Decrease Starting July 1](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-safety-fee-to-decrease-starting-july-1/) - Starting July 1, 2025, the city's public safety fee will decrease from $20 to $17 per month as part of a planned reduction. In June 2024, the Independence City Council adopted the city’s budget, which included this new fee to support long-term community safety and law enforcement services. This dedicated funding source will generate approximately
- [Planning Commission Visits Independence Airpark](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/planning-commission-visits-independence-airpark/) - As part of a recent tour, the Independence Planning Commission had the opportunity to hear from leaders within the local aviation community and explore key areas of the Independence Airpark. Presentations were given by: Ron Singh, President of the Independence Airpark Homeowners' Association Richard Harrison, President of Experimental Aircraft Association Chapter 292 Bruce Patton, President
- [Independence Library Debuts New Book Bike](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-library-debuts-new-book-bike/) - Our books are hitting the road! The Independence Public Library is proud to debut our brand-new Book Bike, a mobile extension of the library designed to bring books, resources, and smiles straight to the community! Made possible by a $5,000 grant from the Pacific Power Foundation and handcrafted by Portland-based Icicle Tricycles, this eye-catching ride
- [Police Recognized for Policy Excellence and Accreditation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/police-recognized-for-policy-excellence-and-accreditation/) - We’re proud to announce that IPD has earned the Lexipol Connect Gold recognition for excellence in law enforcement policy management! Lexipol helps our department stay on track by providing a comprehensive platform to update policies, deliver training, and ensure we consistently meet the rigorous standards required for accreditation. This system supports our ongoing commitment to
- [Public Works Crew Beautify Downtown](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-crew-beautify-downtown/) - Spring has sprung in downtown Independence! Last week, our Public Works crew hung the vibrant flower baskets that brighten up every corner of downtown. These beautiful baskets are made possible thanks to the generous support from the Independence Downtown Association’s Walk of Hearts fundraiser, which raises funds specifically for beautifying our downtown. These flower baskets
- [City Budget Approved by Budget Committee](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget-approved-by-budget-committee/) - After extensive discussion, thoughtful questions, and exchanging ideas, the Independence Budget Committee officially approved the city budget for fiscal year 2025–26. This decision reflects the city’s ongoing commitment to transparency, sustainability, and service to the community. While the committee’s approval is a key milestone, the city still faces financial challenges. As part of the budget
- [Proposed City Budget Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/proposed-city-budget-now-available/) - The city of Independence, Oregon, has released the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26. This budget reflects months of careful planning, public input, and collaboration between city departments and leadership. It outlines how resources may be allocated to support essential services, infrastructure, and community priorities. Like many cities in Oregon, we’re facing rising
- [New Life Jacket Kiosks Installed to Enhance Water Safety](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-life-jacket-kiosks-installed-to-enhance-water-safety/) - Yesterday, the city of Independence unveiled a new and improved life jacket kiosk in Riverview Park—part of a community effort to enhance water safety along the Willamette River. This project was inspired by the tragic loss of 13-year-old Gregorio Maximiano-Solano, who drowned near the park last summer. In response, the city partnered with Oregon Corrections
- [Mayor Kate Addresses Budget Challenges](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kate-addresses-budget-challenges/) - Budget Season: Facing Challenges, Building Together First, let’s start with recognizing our hard-working staff as we celebrate Public Service Recognition Week! I’m continually impressed by their professionalism and service to our community. I deeply appreciate the work they do and hope you will join me in thanking them for all they do. On to the budget update: we’re
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-10/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In April 2025, officers engaged in 654 activities, including 27 Arrests (Adults and Juveniles), 13
- [Pure & Simple: Independence’s 2024 Water Report Is In](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pure-simple-independences-2024-water-report-is-in/) - ​The City of Independence, Oregon, has released its 2024 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report, providing residents with detailed insights into the safety and quality of their tap water. This report, also known as the Consumer Confidence Report (CCR), covers water quality data from January 1 to December 31, 2024, and is available in both English
- [Independence Celebrates Arbor Day with Tree Planting](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-celebrates-arbor-day-with-tree-planting/) - Today, we celebrated Arbor Day with a tree planting along the bank of the Willamette River Trail. City staff rolled up their sleeves to plant trees that will provide shade, improve the trail experience, and support the natural beauty that surrounds Independence. Mayor Schwarzler stopped by to lend a hand and support the efforts to
- [Independence Police Swear-in Newest Officer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-newest-officer-3/) - Last week, we proudly swore in Officer Granite Stephenson as the newest member of the Independence Police Department. Please join us in congratulating him on this important milestone! Swearing-in ceremonies are a special reminder of the responsibility, service, and heart it takes to wear the badge. We’re excited to welcome Officer Stephenson to the team
- [Touch-a-Truck Event Returns](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/touch-a-truck-event-returns/) - Rev up your engines! Touch-a-Truck is rolling back into Riverview Park on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 9 AM – 2 PM for a day packed with family fun and excitement. Get up close and personal with all your favorite vehicles, from construction behemoths to emergency service heroes. You’ll even be able to see a
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-9/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In March 2025, officers engaged in 648 activities, including 28 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile), 14
- [Independence Financial Audit Summary Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-financial-audit-summary-now-available/) - We know government finances can feel complex or hard to follow, but we also believe that you deserve to know where your money goes, how decisions are made, and what challenges lie ahead. That’s why we’re sharing key highlights from the city of Independence’s Annual Financial Audit Summary—broken down into plain language and real-world impacts.
- [Temporary Traffic Shift & Sidewalk Closure on Monmouth St](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporary-traffic-shift-sidewalk-closure-on-monmouth-st/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: City crews will be working on the 1200 block of Monmouth Street to replace two water services. Work begins Thursday, April 10, 2025, with underground drilling preparation, and will wrap up Tuesday, April 15, 2025. Traffic will be shifted into the center lane as crews drill for the new water services. The sidewalk
- [Event Center Request for Proposals (RFP)](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/event-center-request-for-proposals-rfp/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Final-Event-Center-RFP-2025.pdf" title="Final Event Center RFP 2025"]
- [Water Meter Upgrades Start This Month](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-meter-upgrades-start-this-month/) - This week, contractors will prepare city water meter boxes for the next phase of the city’s water meter replacement project. Crews will use vacuum excavation to clear space inside each meter box before the upcoming installations, scheduled to begin on April 23, 2025. This phase will focus on replacing all remaining 3/4-inch meters located between
- [Independence police enforce distracted driving](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-enforce-distracted-driving-2/) - This April, the Independence Police Department is proud to announce its participation in Distracted Driving Enforcement Month, joining law enforcement agencies nationwide in a concerted effort to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. This month, the Independence Police Department will be actively enforcing distracted driving laws to ensure the safety of all road
- [Mayor Kate's State of the City Address](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kates-state-of-the-city-address/) - I’m Mayor Kate, and it’s truly an honor to stand before you this morning in service to the community of Independence. Whether you’ve lived here for generations or just recently made Independence your home, I want to thank you for taking the time to be here. Our community is special. We are fortunate to live
- [Public Works Shines at Indy Works Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-shines-at-indy-works-day/) - Our Public Works crew had a blast at the Library’s Indy Works Day! We loved soaking up the sunshine, meeting the community, and showing off the big machines that keep our city rolling smoothly. Kids had the chance to climb aboard, honk horns, and learn firsthand about the work that goes into maintaining our streets,
- [Traffic Notice: Water Main Repair on South Main St & River Rd](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-water-main-repair-on-south-main-st-river-rd/) - Traffic Notice: Water Main Repair on South Main St & River Rd On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, our crews will perform essential repairs on a water mainline at the southeast corner of South Main St and River Rd. To ensure the safety of our workers and the public, flagging operations will be in place from
- [Temporary Road Closure on G Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporarily-road-closure-on-g-street/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: Our public works crew will be preparing a service line for replacement next week, requiring temporary road closures on G Street. On Monday, March 17, 2025, the 600 block of G Street will be closed from 9 AM to 2 PM for preparation work. The road will be closed again on Wednesday, March
- [Residents Participate in Hands-on Budget Discussions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/residents-participate-in-hands-on-budget-discussions/) - Last night, community members came together for a hands-on conversation about the city budget. Residents had the opportunity to weigh in on the services that matter most to them and explore different ways to address the city’s financial challenges. Using game chips, participants voted on priorities and potential revenue sources, sparking thoughtful discussions. One resident
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-8/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In February 2025, officers engaged in 648 activities, including 25 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile), 16
- [Boards and Commissions Seeking Dedicated Volunteers](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/boards-and-commissions-seeking-dedicated-volunteers/) - There is still time to apply for one of our boards and commissions! Applications for this quarter must be received by 5 PM on March 31, 2025. The city council will consider these applications at their April 8, 2025 meeting. Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? This is your chance to
- [City Budget Town Hall Recap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget-town-hall-recap/) - Last night, we hosted our first City Budget Town Hall, featuring a Q&A session with our Finance Director and City Manager. Residents brought thoughtful questions, sparking great discussions in a casual and open format. Did you miss the event but still have questions? You can submit them to our FAQ portal, where we’ll provide clear
- [Got City Budget Questions? Ask us!](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/got-city-budget-questions-ask-us/) - Got questions about the city budget? We want to hear from YOU! Your input helps us focus on what matters most and provide clear, easy-to-understand answers across our communication channels. Submit your questions here by March 11, 2025: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/citybudgetFAQ
- [Why We Love Indy: Resident Stories](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/why-we-love-indy-resident-stories/) - Our Love Local series is all about celebrating the people, places, and moments that make Independence special. Through heartfelt stories and community reflections, we're showcasing the many reasons why people love calling Indy home. As part of this series, we met our pal Henry, the goodest boy, who shared what makes his tail wag in
- [Help Guide Independence’s Budget Decisions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/help-guide-independences-budget-decisions/) - The city of Independence, Oregon is facing a budget shortfall in the General Fund and wants to hear from the community about what services matter most to you. Your input will help guide decisions on potential cost-saving measures and revenue opportunities. Currently, the General Fund supports city services, including the Library, the Museum, and Parks
- [Mayor's Town Hall Focuses on Budget, Public Safety, & Library](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayors-town-hall-focuses-on-budget-public-safety-library/) - Mayor Schwarzler is excited to host her next town hall on Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, at the Independence Heritage Museum, located at 281 S 2nd St, Independence, OR 97351. The session will begin with a presentation covering key topics, including: Budget: A focus on where to find information and
- [Evan Sorce Appointed as New City Councilor](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/evan-sorce-appointed-as-new-city-councilor/) - Following a new and improved application process, former City Planning Commissioner Evan Sorce has been appointed as the newest member of the Independence City Council. Evan was selected from a pool of highly qualified applicants through a transparent and structured process designed to ensure fairness and community representation. This new approach was implemented to provide
- [City Hall Closed Due to Weather](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-hall-under-2-hour-delay/) - The Independence Civic Center, Independence Public Library and Heritage Museum are closed today, February 13, 2025, due to inclement weather. Our public works and police departments continue to operate under normal hours to ensure community safety.
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-7/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In January 2025, officers engaged in 692 activities, including 24 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile),
- [Independence Police Address Federal Immigration Concerns](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-address-federal-immigration-concerns/) - The Independence Police Department is committed to protecting and serving all members of our community, regardless of immigration status. As an Oregon police agency, we abide by all applicable state laws, including those that guide our role in immigration matters. Simply put, Oregon law prohibits local police from helping to enforce federal immigration laws without
- [A New Chapter for Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/a-new-chapter-for-independence/) - Hello community – I just wanted to take a moment to say thank you. Serving as your mayor is an honor, and I’m grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me. Independence is a special place, and I’m committed to working hard to keep it that way. I also want to acknowledge and thank John
- [Mayor Kate Hosts Packed Town Hall](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-kate-hosts-packed-town-hall/) - It was a full house at Mayor Kate’s town hall on Saturday, with residents packing the room to take part in an open discussion about the city’s future. The conversation centered on three key topics: the city’s budget and its upcoming adoption process, opportunities for residents to serve on boards and commissions, an exciting announcement
- [Focused seat belt and car seat enforcement](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/focused-seat-belt-and-car-seat-enforcement-2/) - Beginning January 27, 2025, Independence police will join agencies across the state for focused enforcement of proper seat belt and car seat use. Extending through Sunday, February 9, law enforcement agencies will use federally funded overtime to educate the public about safety belt and child seat laws including a law passed in 2017 requiring children
- [Mayor Schwarzler to Host Community Town Hall](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-schwarzler-to-host-community-town-hall/) - Mayor Schwarzler is excited to continue her efforts in fostering strong community connections by hosting a town hall to engage directly with residents. On Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, she’ll be at the Independence Heritage Museum, located at 281 S 2nd St, Independence, OR 97351. The session will begin with
- [Shape Independence's Future Today](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/shape-independences-future-today/) - Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? This is your chance to shape the future of Independence and leave a lasting impact. By joining one of our boards or commissions, you can bring your voice, ideas, and heart to the table and help create positive change. We’re currently seeking dedicated individuals for
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-6/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In December 2024, officers engaged in 685 activities, including 55 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile), 21
- [Swearing-In Ceremony Welcomes New Mayor and Council](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/swearing-in-ceremony-welcomes-new-mayor-and-council/) - Last night marked a meaningful moment of transition and gratitude for our community. We officially swore in three city councilors— Bill Boisvert, Dawn Roden, and Kathy Martin-Willis—who are ready to bring their unique perspectives and dedication to serving our town. We also expressed our heartfelt thanks to departing councilor Sarah Jobe and outgoing Mayor McArdle
- [Good Neighbor Awards Honor Community Champions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/good-neighbor-awards-honor-community-champions/) - Last night, Mayor McArdle had the honor of recognizing some of Independence’s finest with the Good Neighbor Awards—a celebration of individuals who embody the spirit of kindness, collaboration, and service that keeps our community thriving. “Everybody knows what a good neighbor is. They’re the ones who lend you sugar or mow your lawn while you’re
- [Independence Police Swear-in New Leadership](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-new-leadership/) - The Independence Police Department recently celebrated a momentous occasion as it welcomed several new leaders into key roles during a swearing-in ceremony. Juventino “Tino” Banuelos was inaugurated as the new Chief of Police, bringing a wealth of experience and a dedication to fostering strong community relations. Lyle Gilbert has been appointed as the new Lieutenant, while
- [Annual Flushing Program to Begin in January](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/annual-flushing-program-to-begin-in-january/) - The city of Independence Public Works Crew will be performing their annual water distribution flushing program during the months of January and February. This program will target representative areas throughout the City of Independence’s water system to “flush” our main lines. The purpose of this procedure is to maintain optimum water quality, all while ensuring
- [A Year in Review 2024](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/a-year-in-review-2024/) - As 2024 comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on all this year has brought to our community. From improving our parks to making key infrastructure upgrades and keeping you informed every step of the way, Independence continues to move forward and thrive. We’re grateful for the passion, dedication, and collaboration that
- [(RFP) for Alcohol Concession for River’s Edge Summer Series](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/rfp-for-alcohol-concession-for-rivers-edge-summer-series/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/2025-Alcohol-Concession-RFP-1.pdf"] [pdf-embedder url="https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Alcohol-Contract-Final.pdf" title="Alcohol Contract Final"]
- [Arbor Day 2024 Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/arbor-day-proclamation/) - WHEREAS, In 1872, the Nebraska Board of Agriculture established a special day to be set aside for the planting of trees, and WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska, and WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world,
- [City Staff Give Back This Holiday Season](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-staff-give-back-this-holiday-season/) - This week, city staff became Santa's little helpers by volunteering at the Polk County Family & Community Outreach Holiday Assistance Program! We had a blast shopping for gifts and packaging boxes filled with holiday cheer for kids in our community. A huge thank you to Polk County for organizing this wonderful program and giving us
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-5/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. In November, officers engaged in 750 activities, including 24 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile), 16 check
- [Traffic Notice: Lane Closure on Hoffmann Rd](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-lane-closure-on-hoffmann-rd/) - Pacific Power will install an FAA light on a utility pole on Hoffmann Rd on Wednesday, December 18, 2024. The work will require a single-lane closure between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Traffic control measures will be in place to ensure vehicles can safely travel through the area. We appreciate your patience and understanding as
- [Update on the Indy Works App](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/update-on-the-indy-works-app/) - We want to let you know that the Indy Works app is currently disabled due to ongoing issues with our current vendor. Our team is fully aware of the situation and is working hard to bring a new and improved system online within the next few months. In the meantime, if you need assistance, please
- [Public Safety Fee Coming January 2025](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-safety-fee-coming-january-2025/) - On June 11, 2024, the Independence City Council adopted the city’s budget, which includes a new public safety fee aimed at enhancing local law enforcement services and ensuring long-term community safety. Starting in January 2025, the fee will be set at $20 per month for the first six months, before adjusting to $17 per month
- [Independence Secures EDA Grant for Water Project](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-secures-eda-grant-for-water-project/) - Independence, OR — The city of Independence has been awarded a $440,318 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) as part of the 2023 Disaster Supplemental Funding program. This significant investment will support critical planning and preliminary design work for a new water treatment plant, ensuring a sustainable water supply for the community for
- [Traffic Notice: Tree Maintenance on Main Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-tree-maintenance-on-main-street/) - Traffic Notice: Tree Maintenance on Main Street Wright Tree Service is conducting tree maintenance along Main Street until December 6, 2024. Crews are working south of the city limits, continuing past the intersection with River Road, and finishing just south of City Hall. Multiple lift trucks are in the area, and traffic is being diverted
- [THE WALL THAT HEALS is Coming to Independence in 2025](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/the-wall-that-heals-is-coming-to-independence-in-2025/) - Vietnam Veterans Memorial Replica Wall and Mobile Education Center spreads healing legacy of The Wall and educates about the impact of the Vietnam War INDEPENDENCE, OREGON– The Wall That Heals, a three-quarter scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial along with a mobile Education Center, is coming to Independence, Oregon on September 18 through 21,
- [New Water Rate Structure Coming January 2025](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-water-rate-structure-coming-january-2025/) - Beginning January 1, 2025, the City of Independence will implement a new block pricing structure for water rates. For most residents, this change means you’ll remain in the Base Block with water usage charged at the base rate of $3.70 per unit. For customers who use more than 14 units of water per billing cycle,
- [Help Shape the Future of Our Parks with the New Master Plan](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/help-shape-the-future-of-our-parks-with-the-new-master-plan/) - Last week, we held a Parks Master Plan open house at the Independence Civic Center. It was a fantastic opportunity for community members to share ideas and feedback about the future of our parks facilities. We were joined by our consulting team, who helped guide discussions and answer questions about this important process. This plan
- [Myra Russell Appointed New City Recorder of Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/myra-russell-appointed-new-city-recorder-of-independence/) - The city of Independence is pleased to announce the appointment of Myra Russell as the new City Recorder. Russell, a resident of Independence, has been with the city for over six years, starting her journey in 2018 as an accountant/payroll specialist. Since then, she has expanded her role, adding court administration to her duties and
- [Local Option Levy Rejected by Voters](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/local-option-levy-rejected-by-voters/) - As of this writing, the local option levy to fund the library, museum, and parks has not passed, and we appreciate everyone who took the time to vote and make their voices heard. The city now faces important decisions about the future of these departments, which remain funded through June 30, 2025. In the coming
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-4/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. OCTOBER 2024 In October, officers engaged in 855 activities, including 23 Arrests (Adults
- [Ribbon-Cutting Event Welcomes Sunset Meadows Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/ribbon-cutting-event-welcomes-sunset-meadows-park/) - Parks are places where the community gathers, where connections are built, and where memories are made. Yesterday’s ribbon-cutting at Sunset Meadows Park captured all of that and more. Under sunny skies, neighbors came together to explore the new nature play area, equipment, and picnic areas, celebrating our city’s newest addition. Mayor McArdle expressed pride in
- [Independence Issues Operation Green Light Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-issues-operation-green-light-proclamation/) - WHEREAS, the community of Independence has great respect, admiration, and the utmost gratitude for all of the men and women who have selflessly served our country and this community in the Armed Forces; and WHEREAS, the contributions and sacrifices of the men and women who served in the Armed Forces have been vital in maintaining
- [New Interpretive Panels Detail Independence's History](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-interpretive-panels-detail-independences-history/) - The Trustees of the Braemar Charitable Trust generously awarded a $10,000 grant to the Heritage Museum in 2021 to support the design, fabrication, and installation of five interpretive panels within the Independence Historical District. This project aimed to enrich the community’s understanding of local history by providing detailed insights into buildings that either no longer
- [Mayor McArdle Receives Hatfield Statesmanship Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-mcardle-receives-hatfield-statesmanship-award/) - Original release courtesy of the League of Oregon Cities BEND, Ore. – The League of Oregon Cities’ (LOC) prestigious Mark O. Hatfield Statesmanship Award was presented to Independence Mayor John McArdle during the LOC’s 99th Annual Conference in Bend. The award is presented to a deserving “statesman” who has provided lasting benefits to the quality
- [Public Works Team Cleans Up Ash Creek at Pioneer Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-team-cleans-up-ash-creek-at-pioneer-park/) - It’s amazing what you can fish out of a creek—spoiler alert, it’s not always fish! Yesterday, members of our public works crew teamed up with the Luckiamute Watershed Council and the Ash Creek Water Control District to clean a section of Ash Creek next to Pioneer Park. Residents alerted the city about trash, pollutants, and
- [Temporary Mid-Block Crossings Yield Impressive Data](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporary-mid-block-crossings-yield-impressive-data/) - The city of Independence recently removed the temporary crosswalks installed on Monmouth Street. The crosswalks were part of a demonstration project in collaboration with the Oregon Department of Transportation to study how many people would use the crossings if available. Detailed counts of the use of the crossings were conducted one day during the demonstration.
- [Permanent Ballot Box Now Available Outside Civic Center](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/permanent-ballot-box-now-available-outside-civic-center/) - A permanent Polk County ballot drop box is now set up outside the Independence Civic Center, ready to help you make your voice heard. Ballots for the upcoming election will start heading your way on October 16, 2024. Make sure your vote counts! Drop off your completed ballot at any Official Drop Site before 8
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-3/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. SEPTEMBER 2024 In September, officers engaged in 906 activities, including 29 Arrests (Adults
- [Southbound and Northbound Lane Closures on Gun Club Road (10/9) & (10/11)](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/southbound-and-northbound-lane-closures-on-gun-club-road-10-9-10-11/) - Please be advised that on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, a city contractor will be repairing potholes on Gun Club Road between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, resulting in a temporary closure of the southbound lane. Then, on Friday, October 11, 2024, the northbound lane will be temporarily closed for similar repairs. Flaggers will be on-site
- [Help the City Plan for Future Housing Needs](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/help-the-city-plan-for-future-housing/) - Housing affects everyone in Independence. Be part of the process and help us plan for the future. The city of Independence is asking for your help to identify the housing development needs of the community. This is what we call a Housing Production Strategy, a new legislative requirement adopted through House Bill 2003 in 2019.
- [City Addresses Customer Concerns Over Higher Water Bills as New Meter System Enhances Accuracy](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-addresses-customer-concerns-over-higher-water-bills-as-new-meter-system-enhances-accuracy/) - The city is currently transitioning its aging inventory of water meters to newer, more accurate, and more reliable meters supporting the most accurate billing for our water customers. We have experienced some challenges in this effort including technical issues translating meter readings to consumption and billing statements. The city recently installed approximately 500 of the
- [Karin Johnson Presented with OAMR City Recorder of the Year Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/karin-johnson-presented-with-oamr-city-recorder-of-the-year-award/) - Original release courtesy of Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) presented Independence City Recorder Karin Johnson, MMC, with the 2024 City Recorder of the Year award. Ms. Johnson received the award at the association’s Annual Banquet held at Wildhorse Resort and Casino in Pendleton, Oregon, on September 26, 2024.
- [Sunset Meadows Park Volunteer Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/6276-2/) - Thanks to the hard work and dedication of numerous volunteers, Sunset Meadows Park underwent a vibrant landscape transformation through the planting of hundreds of beautiful plants. It takes a village to bring projects like Sunset Meadows Park to life and we want to thank the Western Oregon University football team, Keller Associates Engineering, and Serve
- [Mayor McArdle Awarded for His Service](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-mcardle-awarded-for-his-service/) - Mayor John McArdle was honored for his 26 years of service to the City of Independence at the September 18th SEDCOR Annual Awards Luncheon. Mayor McArdle’s leadership has played a pivotal role in advancing economic development and job creation, not only within Independence but throughout the region. The event honored his enduring commitment and significant
- [Community Talks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-talks/) - Two locations. One great conversation. Join Independence City Manager Kenna West for Community Talks! Independence residents are invited to join City Manager Kenna West for an open, friendly discussion on topics of your choice—no agenda, no time limits, just honest conversation. Choose the time that works best for you: 9:00–10:00 am at Brew Coffee &
- [Bridge to Success School Program at City Hall](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/bridge-to-success-school-program-at-city-hall/) - Earlier this month, we had the pleasure of welcoming students from Central School District 13J‘s Bridge to Success program to the Independence Civic Center! The students spent their field trip diving into the inner workings of our city government. They learned how our Information Technology department plays a crucial role during emergencies, explored the Independence
- [How to Approach a Mid-Block Crosswalk](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/how-to-approach-a-mid-block-crosswalk/) - Do you know how to approach a mid-block crosswalk? Currently, there are three temporary mid-block crossings on Monmouth Street. These mid-block crossings or safety islands are intended to create an opportunity for a two-stage pedestrian crossing, helping to improve pedestrian safety while keeping traffic moving smoothly. Here’s how you should approach the temporary midblock crossings
- [Independence Police Department Monthly Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-monthly-update/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. August 2024 In August, officers engaged in 690 activities, including 16 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile),
- [Polk County Safe Routes to School Project Finished](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/polk-county-safe-routes-to-school-project-finished/) - Fantastic Update! Polk County's Safe Routes to School project is now finished, and the road is open. This initiative, funded by a Safe Routes to School grant, includes new bicycle lanes and sidewalks along Hoffman Road and Gun Club Road, as well as an upgraded pedestrian crossing at the Marigold Road and Gun Club Road
- [Honored with the Cairns-Weaver Historic Preservation Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/honored-with-the-cairns-weaver-historic-preservation-award/) - It’s often said that windows are the eyes of a house, offering a glimpse into the heart of spaces that nurture community and meaning. At the Berean Baptist Church in Independence, the windows, which once stood as a testament to the building’s history, were in need of restoration. That’s where local historic restoration expert Joseph
- [Willamette River Trail Now Open](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/willamette-river-trail-now-open/) - Exciting update! The Willamette River Trail Realignment Project is now complete, and the trail is officially open! The new alignment offers a safer and fully accessible path along Ash Creek, and we look forward to seeing this safe, beautiful, and fully accessible pathway used daily! Thank you to our community for your patience during the
- [Independence to Install Temporary Crosswalks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-to-install-temporary-crosswalks-on-monmouth-street-for-safety-evaluation/) - On Monday, August 26, 2024, the city of Independence will install three temporary mid-block crossings on Monmouth Street (OR-51) at 13th Street, the existing mid-block crossing by Central High School, and 17th Street (see the photo). These temporary crosswalks aim to improve safety for students and residents, especially those from Ash Creek Mobile Home Park,
- [Temporary Road Closure on 7th St.](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporary-road-closure-on-7th-street-for-traffic-line-maintenance/) - NOTICE: Due to unexpected rain, the road improvement project has been rescheduled for tomorrow, August 28th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Please be advised that 7th Street will be temporarily closed tomorrow, Tuesday, August 27, 2024, for traffic line maintenance. The
- [River's Edge Summer Series Wraps Up with a Bang](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/rivers-edge-summer-series-wraps-up-with-a-bang/) - The final concert of this season’s River’s Edge Summer Series was a blast, featuring the incredible La Super Sonora Dinamita and Conjunto Alegre! We want to send a massive THANK YOU to everyone who attended and made this season so special. The amphitheater was packed week after week, and the vibes were simply unbeatable. It
- [Concrete Poured on Willamette River Trail Realignment](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/concrete-poured-on-willamette-river-trail-realignment/) - Last Friday, concrete was successfully poured on the northern end of the Willamette River Trail realignment project. Later this week, the southern end of the project will receive its final layer of concrete. After the concrete is poured, it must be cured for 7 days to ensure durability and safety. Despite this necessary curing period,
- [Safe Routes to School Project Nearing Completion](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/safe-routes-to-school-project-nearing-completion/) - Polk County has made significant progress on the Safe Routes to School project, which aims to improve safety for children walking or biking to school. Last week, curbs were installed, paving began, and the contractor started work on swales and sidewalks. The project, funded through a Safe Routes to School grant, focuses on adding bicycle
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report-2/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. JULY 2024 In July, officers engaged in 909 activities, including 41 Arrests (Adults and juveniles),
- [Notice of Receipt of Ballot Title](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-receipt-of-ballot-title/) - Notice is hereby given that the City Elections Official of the City of Independence has received a ballot title for a measure related to a five-year local option levy referred by the City Council on August 13, 2024. Any voter may file a petition for review of the ballot title in the Polk County Circuit
- [Progress Made at Willamette River Trail](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/progress-made-at-willamette-river-trail/) - Last Friday, public works staff conducted a site visit at the Willamette River Trail realignment, carefully assessing the progress on this cherished Independence amenity. Significant progress is being made, with excavation, grading, and marking well underway. As a reminder, the temporary detour route will guide you along Main Street, with a right turn onto Grand
- [National Night Out Brings the Community Together](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/national-night-out-brings-the-community-together/) - We had an incredible National Night Out earlier this week! The energy, the smiles, and community-building made it an evening to remember. We express many thanks to: Monmouth Police Department, Polk County Fire District No. 1 7-Eleven Starbucks Golden Hop Saloon, and Central School District Cornerstone Church Family & Community Outreach Kona Ice Finally, a
- [Juventino Banuelos Named Next Independence Police Chief](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/juventino-banuelos-named-next-independence-police-chief/) - (Independence, Oregon) — Following an extensive search process, Independence Police Detective Sergeant Juventino Banuelos has been hired as the next Independence Police Chief. Banuelos will collaborate with current Independence Police Chief Robert Mason to ensure a smooth transition until Mason retires in December 2024. Banuelos is expected to officially assume the role on January 1,
- [C Street Sewer Line Replacement Work Restarts](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/c-street-sewer-line-replacement-work-restarts/) - You may have noticed contract work has restarted on the C Street sewer line replacement project. This decades-old line has reached the end of its useful life, necessitating improvements. The project will replace the sewer main, manholes, and laterals within public rights of way and install cleanouts at property lines. Construction will proceed in one
- [Willamette River Trail Construction Starts August 8](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/willamette-river-trail-construction-starts-august-8/) - A section of the Willamette River Trail in Riverview Park will be closed for realignment starting on August 8, 2024. The construction is expected to take three weeks. Please refer to the detour map to the right. To continue your journey, head up to Main Street and turn right onto Grand Street, leading you to
- [Independence Receives $4 Million for Wastewater Infrastructure](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-receives-4-million-for-wastewater-infrastructure/) - Original release courtesy of the Economic Development Administration Public Affairs Department. WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo announced the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $4 million grant to the city of Independence, Oregon, for wastewater infrastructure improvements to support job creation in the region. This grant will support
- [Pedestrian Safety Enforcement operations yield safety improvements](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pedestrian-safety-enforcement-operations-yield-safety-improvements/) - (Independence, Oregon) — As part of our ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety, the Independence Police Department conducted a 6-hour-long pedestrian safety enforcement operation on July 24, 2024, that focused on motorists who failed to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. As a result of this program, 24 enforcement stops were made during which 13 citations
- [Independence Police Swear-in Newest Officer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-newest-officer-2/) - Last week saw the official swearing-in of our newest Officer, Eric Alcaraz. Eric graduated from Western Oregon University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in Human Biology. While at WOU, he was part of the track and cross-country teams. After graduation, Eric decided to pursue a career in law enforcement.
- [Sunset Meadows Park Construction Moves Forward](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sunset-meadows-park-construction-moves-forward/) - Construction at Sunset Meadows Park is well underway, and the community’s vision is coming to life. The installation of boulder walls, concrete edging, ramps, and irrigation systems is progressing smoothly. Public Works is closely monitoring the progress and is excited to announce that the project is on track for completion within the next few months.
- [Mayor McArdle Speaks at US Department of Transportation Symposium](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-mcardle-speaks-at-us-department-of-transportation-symposium/) - Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Transportation hosted a Transportation and Climate Symposium, a conference where climate champions and innovative solutions were recognized. Solutions that help make transportation systems more eco-friendly and create more accessible and affordable mobility options for all Americans were highlighted. The city of Independence was one of the highlighted agencies,
- [Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation Begins July 24](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pedestrian-safety-enforcement-operation-begins-july-24/) - (Independence, Oregon) — The Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation which had been scheduled for July 10, 2024 was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances. However, it has now been rescheduled to this upcoming Wednesday July 24, 2024. As part of its ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety in the City of Independence, the Independence Police Department will
- [Free Water Conservation Kits Now Available](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/free-water-conservation-kits-now-available/) - As part of our state-mandated Water Management and Conservation Plan, the city's public works department is offering free water conservation kits for residents wanting to participate in water conservation efforts. The kits include: 1 Trigger Nozzle 1 Plastic Shut-Off Coupling for Garden Hoses 1 Rain Gauge that Measures Rainfall 1 Smart Soil Moisture Meter These
- [First Summer Concert of the Season Draws Large Crowd](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/first-summer-concert-of-the-season-draws-large-crowd/) - Last Friday, our 2024 River’s Edge Summer Concert Series hit all the right notes with an electrifying performance by the Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band, Whiskey River. Under a stunning setting sun, the amphitheater was packed with concert-goers who danced, sang, and rocked out to timeless hits like “Tuesday’s Gone” and “Freebird.” Tune in for our
- [Intermittent Parking Closures at Independence Boat Ramp](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/intermittent-parking-closures-at-independence-boat-ramp/) - From July 15 to 18, 2024, Independence Public Works will replace all the striping, crosswalks, turn arrows, and emblems at the boat ramp in Independence Sports Park. Intermittent parking spot closures will occur throughout the week, but a lane of stalls will remain available for boaters to park and access the river. The work is
- [Support Independence's Life Jacket Loaner Program](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/support-independences-life-jacket-loaner-program/) - As the hot weather continues, many people seek to cool off in the Willamette River. We urge everyone to take precautions when enjoying water activities. Riverview Park offers two lifejacket loaner stations: one near the parking lot and another by the north gravel bar. Additionally, life jackets are available at the Independence boat ramp near
- [Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation Begins July 10](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pedestrian-safety-enforcement-operation-begins-july-10/) - (Independence, Oregon) — As part of our ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety, the Independence Police Department will conduct a six (6) hour-long pedestrian safety enforcement operation that will focus on motorists who fail to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians on July 10, 2024. In 2023, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association, U.S.
- [Water Rate Adjustment Effective July 1, 2024](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-rate-adjustment-effective-july-1-2024/) - On May 28, 2024, the city council approved a water rate adjustment effective July 1, 2024. This 5.5% adjustment will result in a $2.99 increase in the average single-family monthly water bill. Additionally, the city will transition to a tiered water rate structure as part of a state-mandated Water Management and Conservation plan. This plan
- [City Budget Adopted by City Council](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget-adopted-by-city-council/) - On June 11, 2024, the Independence City Council adopted the city budget in the amount of $53.9 million, with the addition of a public safety fee included. The public safety fee will begin in January 2025 at a rate of $20/month for the first six months and then be reduced to $17/mo starting July 2025.
- [Independence Leads Discussion with Congresswoman Andrea Salinas](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-leads-discussion-with-congresswoman-andrea-salinas/) - The city recently participated in a Rural Economic Development Round Table discussion hosted by Congresswoman Andrea Salinas at the Independence Civic Center. This event brought together several small, rural cities across Oregon’s 6th district to highlight project successes and positive actions, with state and federal agencies on hand to provide technical advice and updates. The
- [Section of Willamette River Trail to Temporarily Close for Repairs](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/section-of-willamette-river-trail-to-temporarily-close-for-repairs/) - Trail Closure Notice: Please note that a section of the Willamette River Trail will be closed for essential repairs related to erosion from July 9 to September 30, 2024. During this time, for your safety, we recommend the following detour: You can walk up to Main Street and then turn onto Grand Street to continue
- [All-Way Stop on Ash & Williams Moves Forward](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/all-way-stop-on-ash-williams-moves-forward/) - Hey Jude, don't make it bad, take a sad intersection and make it better! This week, our fab public works crew made more improvements to the intersection on Ash and Williams Streets, and it’s looking a lot like Abbey Road. We've made the intersection an all-way stop—no more twisting and shouting with confusing traffic patterns.
- [Riverview Park Restrooms Closed Through Next Week](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/riverview-park-restrooms-closed-through-next-week/) - Attention Riverview Park visitors! We regret to inform you that our restrooms have been hit by a serial vandal—a true artist in the medium of TP, property damage, and, uh, "organic" materials. As a result, the city will be closing all Riverview Park restrooms for repairs through early next week. Adding to the drama, our
- [Notice: Meter Change Out Starting This Week](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-meter-change-out-starting-this-week/) - This week, a contractor for the city will begin a full-body meter changeout. The current meters have a life cycle of around 20 years for optimal efficiency, and many of our meters have reached this threshold. The city has planned a 5-year project to replace all 3/4” meters in residential and commercial buildings. Once all
- [Stay Informed on Local Elections](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/stay-informed-on-local-elections/) - During the 2024 General Election on November 5, 2024, the positions for Mayor and three Councilor positions will appear on the ballot. The filing period for interested candidates begins on June 5, 2024, and all filing requirements must be completed by 5:00 PM on August 27, 2024. The Mayor is elected for a two-year term,
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-report/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. MAY 2024 In May, officers engaged in 838 activities, including 29 Arrests (Adults and Juvenile),
- [All-Way Stop Coming to Ash & Williams Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/all-way-stop-coming-to-ash-williams-street/) - This week, public works crews performed pavement improvements at the intersection of Ash and Williams Street, which will soon become an all-way stop. Since Ash and Williams are both collector streets, higher-trafficked roads that move traffic from local streets to arterial roads, an improvement is warranted to make the area safer for drivers, bikers, and pedestrians
- [Independence Introduces New Utility Bill Layout](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-introduces-new-utility-bill-layout/) - To enhance the efficiency of city resources, the city of Independence has partnered with a new utility bill printer and mailer provider. This change will introduce a new bill layout, along with improved communication and detailed information on past utility consumption. This change does NOT affect paperless billing users. The updated utility bill format will
- [Summer Series Schedule Announced; Updates Included](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/summer-series-schedule-announced-updates-included/) - The 2024 Summer Series lineup is here! While you may notice a few changes this year, we’re committed to delivering the same high-quality, affordable entertainment you’ve come to love. To manage rising costs, and support general fund programming, we’ve had to make the tough decision to remove the movies in the park this year. Additionally,
- [Independence Celebrates National Public Works Week](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-celebrates-national-public-works-week/) - It’s National National Public Works Week, a time when we celebrate the dedicated professionals who keep our city running smoothly and safely. From maintaining streets and parks to ensuring clean water use, our public works crew is the backbone of our organization. Let’s take a moment to recognize their hard work and commitment to making
- [Independence police enforce proper seat belt use](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-enforce-proper-seat-belt-use/) - (Independence, Oregon) — Beginning May 20 through June 2, 2024, Independence police officers join agencies across the nation, including the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, for the Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement campaign, reminding drivers about the proper use of a seat belt. The national seat belt use
- [City Staff Survey Sunset Meadows Park Progress](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-staff-survey-sunset-meadows-park-progress/) - Recently, city staff conducted an on-site visit to Sunset Meadows Park, currently under construction, to assess the proposed placement of landscaping and nature play equipment. The area is marked by large mounds of dirt, indicating where grass has been removed, and primary power conduits are being installed in preparation for connection to a junction box. These power connections
- [2024 City Council Election](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/2024-city-council-election/) - At the 2024 General Election on November 5th, the positions for Mayor and three Councilor positions will appear on the ballot. The filing period for interested candidates begins on June 5, 2024, and all filing requirements must be completed by 5:00 p.m. on August 27, 2024. OPEN CITY OF INDEPENDENCE POSITIONS Mayor Currently held by
- [Proposed Public Safety Fee - FAQ](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/proposed-public-safety-fee-faq/) - To reduce the spread of misinformation, the city has provided this Frequency Asked Questions page that addresses inquiries related to the proposed public safety fee. This page will be updated if/when more questions arise. Read the FAQ here: https://www.ci.independence.or.us/proposed-public-safety-fee-faq/
- [City Budget Approved with Direction to City Staff](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget-approved-with-direction-to-city-staff/) - At the latest city of Independence budget committee meeting, the majority of the committee voted to approve an amended city budget for fiscal year 2024-25. At the June 11, 2024, city council meeting, the city council will review and further discuss the amended budget. The amended budget includes directions for staff to persist in exploring
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Stats](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-stats-3/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. APRIL 2024 In April, officers engaged in 726 activities, including 32 Arrests (Adults
- [Independence to Undergo Phone System Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-to-undergo-phone-system-update/) - Tomorrow, May 7, 2024, the city of Independence will be undergoing a phone system update. This means there's a possibility of phone system disruptions, including calls to our non-emergency line and other departments. If that happens, don't worry! Calls will be redirected to an answering service and checked regularly. This phone changeover will NOT
- [Independence & Monmouth Engage with Local High School Students](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-monmouth-engage-with-local-high-school-students/) - Yesterday, Central High School hosted a gathering of elected officials, including Independence Mayor McArdle, Monmouth Mayor Koontz, and Representative Paul Evans, who engaged with senior-level government class students. Additionally, city staff from the Community Development and Economic Development departments of both cities delivered presentations on local planning, business initiatives, and city events. Following the staff presentations, both mayors answered questions students
- [City Budget - Recommended Financial Stability Actions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget-recommended-financial-stability-actions/) - The following is an excerpt from the FY 2024-25 proposed city budget “Operational and Budget Challenges” section brought forth for streamlined public accessibility: While the influx of federal funds via the American Rescue Plan Act was welcome, these one-time funds created significant fluctuations that made it harder to see the base budget for FY 2023
- [Congresswoman Salinas Delivers $1.3 Million for Vital Infrastructure Projects](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/congresswoman-andrea-salinas-delivers-1-3-million-to-independence-infrastructure-projects/) - Last week, we were visited by Congresswoman Andrea Salinas and her staff for a tour and the delivery of nearly 1.4 million dollars for two critical infrastructure projects in our city: the replacement of a water mainline on Corvallis Road and the Chestnut Street Bridge. The two projects were part of over $14 million Congresswoman
- [Touch-A-Truck Returns](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/touch-a-truck-returns/) - Rev up your engines! Touch-a-Truck is rolling back into Riverview Park on Saturday, May 11, 2024, from 10 AM – 2 PM for a day packed with family fun and excitement. Get up close and personal with all your favorite vehicles, from construction behemoths to emergency service heroes. You’ll even be able to see a
- [Notice of Application: New Mixed-Use Building at 2nd and D Streets](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-application-new-mixed-use-building-at-2nd-and-d-streets/) - Proposed Project: The city of Independence has received an application for a proposal to Construct a Four-Story Mixed-Use Structure at 2nd Street and D Street. The structure would appear like four distinct building masses that range in size from two to four stories and would contain four dwelling units located above ground floor commercial space.
- [Temporary Road Closure on River Oak Rd.](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/temporary-road-closure-on-river-oak-rd/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: From April 22-25, 2024, the northwest corner of River Oak Road to Corvallis Road will be closed for utility maintenance. Independence public works crews will move water services from one mainline to another for an upcoming abandonment of an older water mainline. Local access for the immediate homeowners will be allowed; all other travelers will
- [Independence Water Quality Report 2023](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-water-quality-report-2023/) - [pdf-embedder url=”https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/WQR-Independence-OR-2024-Web.pdf”]
- [NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR THE URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-committee-meeting-for-the-urban-renewal-agency-of-independence-oregon-2/) - A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Independence Urban Renewal Agency, Polk County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, will be held at City Hall, 555 S. Main Street. The meeting will take place on April 22, 2024, at
- [NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR  THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-committee-meeting-for-the-city-of-independence-oregon-2/) - A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Independence, Polk County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, will be held at City Hall, 555 S. Main Street. The meeting will take place on April 22, 2024, at 6:30 pm. The
- [Sunset Meadows Park Breaks Ground](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sunset-meadows-park-breaks-ground/) - Last week marked the groundbreaking ceremony for Sunset Meadows Park, with over 60 people in attendance. The ceremony brought together a coalition of partners who helped contribute to the park’s realization, including Representative Paul Evans, officials from the office of Congresswoman Andrea Salinas, Oregon Parks and Recreation, T-Mobile, Pacific Power, and most importantly, members of
- [Independence seeks additional public input on their update to the Polk County Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-seeks-additional-public-input-on-their-update-to-the-polk-county-natural-hazards-mitigation-plan/) - (Independence, OR) – The City of Independence is in the process of updating their existing Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan (NHMP). This work is being performed in cooperation with the University of Oregon’s Institute for Policy Research and Engagement - Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience and the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) utilizing funds obtained
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Stats](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-stats-2/) - Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. MARCH 2024 During March, Officers engaged in over 713 activities, including 21 arrests (adults and
- [Independence Lifts Boil Water Notice; Water Safe to Use](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-lifts-boil-water-notice-water-safe-to-use/) - The Independence Boil Water Notice is lifted for everyone in the city, including those in the area around C Street after all water tests confirmed no contaminants in the water system. Residents no longer need to boil their water for safe use. On Thursday, April 4, 2024, the city of Independence, Oregon issued a precautionary
- [Independence Issues Boil Water Notice](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-issues-boil-water-notice/) - Independence Issues Boil Water Notice (Independence, OR) — The city of Independence, Oregon is issuing a boil water notice until further notice after a main waterline was struck by contractors performing work on C street. 4/5/2024, 9:00 AM update: WATER SAMPLES ARE TESTING; RESULTS EXPECTED TODAY: The city sent two water samples from the repaired
- [Section of Willamette River Trail Impacted by Infrastructure Work](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/section-of-willamette-river-trail-impacted-by-infrastructure-work/) - Contractors are currently engaged in upgrading the waterline infrastructure at the north end of Riverview Park located within the bark chip section of the Willamette River Trail. This work is part of the broader Polk Well #4 improvement project aimed at enhancing water access and distribution in the city. Access to the bark chip section
- [Independence police enforce distracted driving](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-enforce-distracted-driving/) - (Independence, Oregon) — This April, the Independence Police Department is proud to announce its participation in Distracted Driving Enforcement Month, joining law enforcement agencies nationwide in a concerted effort to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving. This month, the Independence Police Department will be actively enforcing distracted driving laws to ensure the safety
- [Independence Honors Vietnam Veterans with Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-honors-vietnam-veterans-with-proclamation/) - Today, Mayor McArdle joined veterans from across the region to present one of the city's most recent proclamations designating March 29 as Vietnam Veterans Day. March 29, 1973, was the day the US Armed Forces completed their withdrawal of combat troops from Vietnam. Part of the city's proclamation reads, "This anniversary presents the opportunity
- [Independence Celebrates Public Works Day at the Library](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-celebrates-public-works-day-at-the-library/) - Earlier this week, we celebrated Public Works Day at the Independence Public Library with over 250 youth in attendance. Kids got to sit, interact, and play in some of the department's most notable rigs and were also given free hot dogs. Additionally, they got a chance to meet some of the public works crew—the people
- [Season Finale of Marketing Mondays Delivers Insights from Digital Experts](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/season-finale-of-marketing-mondays-delivers-insights-from-digital-experts/) - Earlier this week saw the last Marketing Mondays class of the season, featuring an informative class that will provide valuable insights into creating a successful website for your small business. Rick Saffeels from Local Oregon Legacy Builders and Mike Peterson from Hite Digital brought their expertise in building engaging websites for customers and offered hands-on
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary Road Closure on E Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-temporary-road-closure-on-e-street/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary road closure on E Street between 2nd Street and Main Street on Thursday, March 21, 2024 - Friday, March 22, 2024 from 9 AM - 3 PM. The temporary road closure will recommence on Monday, March 25, 2024 - March 28, 2024 from 9 AM - 3 PM; local access is still
- [Statewide Tourism Group Explores Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/statewide-tourism-group-explores-independence/) - Earlier this week, city staff took attendees of the Governor's Conference on Tourism on a captivating tour of Independence's notable areas. These participants, hailing from various corners of Oregon and even internationally, engaged in discussions led by a diverse panel of speakers, including representatives from the Independence Hotel, Parallel 45 Brewing, and Tokola Properties. The
- [Oregon E-Permitting Coming to Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/fb-5169/) - Oregon E-Permitting Coming Soon The anticipation is nearly over as Oregon E-Permitting is on the verge of being launched for builders and contractors for the City of Independence Oregon. View New Building Fee Schedule Oregon E-Permitting Coming Soon The anticipation is nearly over as Oregon E-Permitting is on the verge of being launched for builders
- [Independence Staff Recognized by Central School District](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-staff-recognized-by-central-school-district/) - During the latest Central School District board meeting, Independence city staff and Mayor McArdle received commendation for their pivotal involvement during the district's recent network disruption. Our staff assisted connecting federal law enforcement agencies with the district, as well as involved Information Technology support. Superintendent Jennifer Kubista expressed gratitude, stating, "Thank you for nurturing our
- [Watch Independence's State of the City Address](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/watch-independences-state-of-the-city-address/) - Want to learn about the latest happenings in Independence? Check out Mayor McArdle's latest State of the City video, where he talks about the successes and challenges of 2023, and what the next year holds for Independence.
- [Independence Police Release Monthly Stats](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-release-monthly-stats/) - Have you been curious about what Independence police officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. FEBRUARY 2024 During February, Officers engaged in over 730 activities, including 36
- [Increased Speed Enforcement in March](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/increased-speed-enforcement-in-march/) - (Independence, Oregon) — During the month of March, Independence police join agencies across the state in providing sustained speed enforcement throughout our cities. Independence officers participate in several grant-funded traffic safety enforcements throughout the year focused on a range of concerns on the road, including seatbelt and car seat use, pedestrian safety, DUII, distracted driving,
- [Independence & Monmouth Win Regional Cooperative Project Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-monmouth-win-regional-cooperative-project-award/) - The cities of Independence and Monmouth were awarded the 2023 Regional Cooperative Project Award from the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments for their collaborative work on the MI Trolley. This award recognizes a partnership of local governments within the region for a project or initiative that enhances intergovernmental cooperation. When accepting the award, Independence Mayor
- [Officials from City of Scio Visit Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/officials-from-city-of-scio-visit-independence/) - Last week, we welcomed our friends from the beautiful city of Scio as they visited to learn more about our community's journey over the past 25 years. Focusing on our community vision plans, we shared the roadmap of our revitalization and the importance of engaging your community. As the meeting closed, we immersed in meaningful
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary road closure on Hoffman Road](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-temporary-road-closure-on-hoffman-road/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary road closure on Hoffman Road beginning tonight, February 28, 2024, at 10 PM - 5 AM and again on February 29, 2024, from 10 PM - 5 AM. Pacific Power will conduct utility pole work as part of the Safe Routes to School project. Traffic from Highway 51 and Polk, and Airport
- [Sunset Meadows Park Temporarily Closed for Construction](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sunset-meadows-park-temporarily-closed-for-construction/) - NOTICE: Sunset Meadows Park will temporarily close for construction starting March 2024 through September 2024. In 2022, the city received a $75,000 grant from the Oregon Parks & Recreation Department to complete a Nature Play Area in this park, including installing a nature play-style playground, park trees, benches, and other park amenities. For questions about
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: Temporary Road Closure on 11th and D St.](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-temporary-road-closure-on-11th-and-d-st/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: Public works crews will replace a broken hydrant tomorrow, February 22, 2024, at 11th and D St, and the road will temporarily close one block west, north, and south to help expedite the process. The road will close around 8 AM and reopen at 4 PM. The city of Independence sincerely appreciates the
- [Independence's F Street Bridge Receives Engineering Excellence Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independences-f-street-bridge-receives-engineering-excellence-award/) - In January, Independence's F Street Bridge received an Engineering Excellence Honor Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Oregon (ACEC Oregon). At the most recent city council meeting, the award was presented to the city, as well as representatives from the Oregon Department of Transportation. ODOT paid for a large portion of the
- [Experience a Date Night in Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/experience-a-date-night-in-independence/) - Trying to find the best places to take that special someone next week? Try something local! Peruse our "Date Night in Independence" itinerary and waltz your way through dinner, drinks, sweets, and even a late-night movie. And the best part of all? All our options are locally sourced amenities found only here in the Willamette
- [Local Artist Donates Painting to Civic Center](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/local-artist-donates-painting-to-civic-center/) - Earlier this week, the Independence Civic Center received a beautiful donation in the form of handcrafted artwork from local artist Pam Serra-Wenz. The painting depicts an overhead shot of Independence, with the roaring Willamette River complimenting the vibrancy of the city colors. Pam's artwork, along with rotating exhibits from over 70 local artists, can be
- [City Staff Engage in Collaborative Discussion with Local Home Builders Association](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-staff-engage-in-collaborative-discussion-with-local-home-builders-association/) - Yesterday, an insightful conversation took place between the Home Builder’s Association (HBA) of Marion & Polk Counties and Independence city staff. The primary agenda? Delving into the intricate topic of system development charges (SDCs). System Development Charges, also known as impact fees or development impact fees, are fees imposed by local governments on new development
- [Independence Water/Sewer Deposit Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-water-sewer-deposit-update/) - In November 2023, Independence city council approved amending the city utility fee schedule, specifically the section that requires deposits for those connecting to the city’s water system. This was done to increase accessibility and affordability to those seeking to establish a residency here in the city. Therefore, if your utility account is in good standing,
- [Independence Hires New Finance Director](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-hires-new-finance-director/) - Join us in welcoming the city of Independence’s new Finance Director, Rob Moody! Rob grew up in Independence and has over 35 years of government accounting experience, previously serving as a finance officer for the cities of Wilsonville, Sherwood, and The Dalles. Rob also served as a volunteer firefighter/EMT in The Dalles. Rob has spoken
- [Focused seat belt and car seat enforcement](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/focused-seat-belt-and-car-seat-enforcement/) - (Independence, Oregon) — Beginning January 29, 2024, Independence police will join agencies across the state for focused enforcement of proper seat belt and car seat use. Extending through Sunday, February 11, law enforcement agencies will use federally funded overtime to educate the public about safety belt and child seat laws including a law passed in
- [US Senator Jeff Merkley's Staff Engages with Independence Community](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/us-senator-jeffmerkley-staff-engages-with-independence-community/) - Last week, US Senator Jeff Merkley‘s staff visited Independence, sparking a meaningful dialogue on the city’s infrastructure needs and ongoing projects. The visit provided a valuable opportunity for city staff and Mayor McArdle to update the senator’s team on crucial initiatives, fostering a stronger connection between the people of Independence and their Federal delegates. During
- [Love Local Scratch-Its Return to Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/love-local-scratch-its-return/) - It's back! Independence's Love Local scratch-it program returns starting February 1, 2024. All month long, shop at any of the 19 participating businesses and receive a scratch-it with every purchase of $5 or more while supplies last. Scratch-its can be used towards your next purchase at a participating location, and every scratch-it is a winner!
- [First Marketing Mondays Class of the Season Sees Success](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/first-marketing-mondays-class-of-the-season-sees-success/) - Yesterday saw the kickoff of our latest Marketing Mondays season at the Independence Civic Center. With an exciting panel of speakers featuring Mike Peterson of Hite Digital Marketing, Tim Fahndrich of WhirLocal, Brian Kaufman, Dr. Kristine Medyanik of Shattered Glass Leadership, and hosted by Director of Local Oregon Legacy Builders Rick Safeels, attendees gained insight
- [Share Your Voice at Central Talmadge Plan Community Meeting](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/share-your-voice-at-central-talmadge-plan-community-meeting/) - What kinds of businesses, activity centers, or healthcare services would you like to see in the area near Central Plaza? As part of our Central Talmadge Plan, you can share your input at a community meeting on January 23, 2024, from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM at the Independence Civic Center. The plan will build
- [Independence Development Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-development-update/) - A mixed-use project at 478 S. Main Street recently broke ground. The project received Historic Preservation Commission and staff approval in 2022 and seeks to construct a building with 14 apartment units and roughly 3,000 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor. Parking spaces and stormwater treatment will also be included as part
- [Proclamations for MLK, Jr. Day & National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/proclamations-for-mlk-jr-day-national-law-enforcement-appreciation-day/) - Martin Luther King, Jr. Day WHEREAS. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a pivotal figure in the Civil Rights movement and received several hundred awards for his leadership in this movement; and WHEREAS, On December 5, 1955, after civil rights activist Rosa Parks refused to comply with Montgomery's segregation policy on buses, African-American residents launched a
- [Independence Public Works and Police Departments Brave Winter Storm to Ensure Safety](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-public-works-and-police-departments-brave-winter-storm-to-ensure-safety/) - In the face of the recent winter storm, the unsung heroes of our community stepped up to the challenge, working tirelessly to keep Independence safe and accessible. The combined efforts of the Independence Public Works crews and the Independence Police Department during this daunting weather event showcased their unwavering dedication to the well-being of our
- [Winter Weather Tips](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/winter-weather-tips/) - With freezing rain and snow in the forecast, we wanted to give you some tips on how to be prepared for winter weather: - Main roadways will be cleared for emergency personnel only; use extreme caution if traveling. - Keep your pets indoors. - Report any falling ice or fallen branches/power lines. - Have
- [Register for the First Marketing Mondays Class](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/register-for-the-first-marketing-mondays-class/) - Marketing your business is hard work—learn how to make it easier! Join the cities of Independence and Monmouth for Marketing Mondays, a free, easy-to-follow marketing class focused on helping you maximize your time and marketing budget. The first class will occur on Monday, January 22, 2024, from 10 AM - 12:30 PM, at the Independence
- [Tree Pruning Along Main Street & Stryker Road](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/tree-pruning-along-main-street-stryker-road/) - Altar Tree Service is currently pruning the street trees along the north side of Main Street all the way down to Monmouth Street. After that, they will start working on the trees along the east side of Stryker Road. This work will continue until next Wednesday, January 10, 2024. The purpose of this work is
- [Water SDC Report Update - Draft](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-sdc-report-update-draft-version/) - The City of Independence recognizes the importance of sustainable infrastructure growth through its Comprehensive Plan and Public Facility Plans. Funding public facilities is an integral part of this growth, facilitated by the SDC program. These charges are necessary to cover infrastructure costs required for new development. It's worth noting that the city has recently completed
- [Independence Police Department Increasing Traffic Patrol from December 2023 into 2024](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-increasing-traffic-patrol-from-december-2023-into-2024/) - The Independence Police Department will conduct high visibility traffic patrol for the remainder of December 2023, into January 2024, to discourage motorists from being under the influence of alcohol and drugs. This is in partnership with the Oregon Impact and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, intending to reduce the number of Driving Under the
- [Fall Leaf Pick-Up Program Resumes](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/fall-leaf-pick-up-program-resumes/) - NOTICE: Our leaf pick-up program is RESUMING. The city's backhoe is repaired, and we will work on removing the larger leaf piles throughout the city. The city of Independence appreciates your patience and understanding as we navigated this issue. Here are the remaining scheduled leaf pick-up weeks: December 18 January 2 Learn more about our
- [Independence Police Swear In Newest Officers](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-newest-officers/) - Yesterday, the Independence Police Department swore in two new officers at an official ceremony with family and friends, city staff, and elected officials in attendance. Colton Hiebert wanted a career in law enforcement because of his strong desire to help people. Before joining the Independence Police Department, he worked as a general manager for Best
- [Independence City Staff Go to Washington](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-city-staff-go-to-washington/) - During the last week of November, city staff ventured to Washington DC to participate in the US Department of Transportation’s Thriving Communities program, a pilot program meant to provide technical assistance, planning, and capacity-building support to disadvantaged and under-resourced communities, enabling them to advance transportation projects that support community-driven economic development, health, environment, mobility, and
- [Independence City Manager Appointed Chair of League of Oregon Cities Finance & Taxation Policy Committee](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-city-manager-appointed-chair-of-league-of-oregon-cities-finance-taxation-policy-committee/) - (Independence, OR) — City of Independence City Manager Kenna West has been duly appointed as Chair of the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) Finance & Taxation Policy Committee. Her term begins on January 1, 2024, and ends on December 31, 2025. “Receiving this appointment is an honor,” shared West. “I look forward to bringing my
- [High Water & Flooding Expected in Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/high-water-flooding-expected-in-independence/) - With heavy rains and high water throughout the Willamette Valley, please be on the lookout for localized flooding in and around Independence, especially Riverview Park. The city of Independence will keep you updated via our communications channels as streets/parks warrant closure. Additionally, if you're looking for a localized flooding solution, stop by the Independence Cinema
- [Wooden Nickel Promotion Extended](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wooden-nickel-promotion-extended/) - By popular demand, our Wooden Nickel buy two, get one free promotion has been EXTENDED until this Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 5 PM. Give the gift of Independence this holiday season with the Independence Wooden Nickel! Each nickel is worth $5 towards your purchase of $5 or more at any redemption location. Participating businesses
- [Independence trains the next generation of computer scientists with new coding program](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-youth-coding-league/) - Training the next generation of computer scientists is happening at the Independence Public Library. Thanks to a grant from the Oregon Community Foundation awarded to Indy Idea Hub and facilitated by the Independence and Monmouth Public Libraries, students from our community are gaining hands-on coding experience through the Youth Coding League, weekly classes and assignments Training the next generation of computer scientists is happening at the Independence Public Library. Thanks to a grant from the Oregon Community Foundation awarded to Indy Idea Hub and facilitated by the Independence and Monmouth Public Libraries, students from our community are gaining hands-on coding experience through the Youth Coding League, weekly classes and assignments introducing them to computer science.
- [F Street Bridge Lights Signal Project Completion](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/f-street-bridge-lights-signal-project-completion/) - Lights, cement, bridge! The F Street bridge is now officially connected to the power grid. This exciting step marks project completion on this pivotal piece of infrastructure in our city. As the only crossing on the South Fork of Ash Creek on the south side of OR-51, the city prioritized the replacement of the F
- [Vote for Local Youth Coding League Teams](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/vote-for-local-youth-coding-league-teams/) - The votes are in and we have not one, but two teams moving on! The winning Community Favorite project for the library’s Idea Hub Central 5th & 6th-grade team is “Donut Demons” and the 7th & 8th-grade team moving on is “TheLoneSnail”. Both projects are also moving forward in the Technical Merit judging. These projects now move
- [City Staff Visit Central High School](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-staff-visit-central-high-school/) - Last week, our City Planner, Fred Evander, and Communications Director, Emmanuel Goicochea, visited a Central High School government class to engage students about our upcoming Central Talmadge Plan. When asked what they desired to see in this neighborhood, they simply said, "Something to do." Students were also given an interactive map that allowed them to
- [Notice of proposed modification to the methodology for calculating  system development charges](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-proposed-modification-to-the-methodology-for-calculating-system-development-charges/) - Pursuant to ORS 223.304 (6) & (7), public notice is hereby given of the City of Independence’s intent to change the methodology for calculating System Development Charges (SDCs) for water services. A public hearing on the new methodology is scheduled before the Independence City Council on February 27, 2024. The proposed methodology will be available
- [Independence Leaf Pickup Program on Hold](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-leaf-pickup-program-on-hold/) - NOTICE: Our leaf pickup program is currently ON HOLD due to a malfunction on our machinery. The city is doing everything possible to fix the problem, but in the meantime, you can still dispose of any excess leaves using your yard debris cans like you usually would. The city of Independence appreciates your patience and
- [Independence Receives Grant for Chestnut Street Bridge Design](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-receives-grant-for-chestnut-street-bridge-design/) - The city of Independence has been awarded $320,000 by the U.S. Department of Transportation to fund the final design and engineering of the Chestnut Street Bridge. The funding comes from the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program (RTA), which is administered by the Build America Bureau. City Manager Kenna West expressed her gratitude by
- [Watch our Downtown Parking Experience Community Meeting Recap Video](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/watch-our-downtown-parking-experience-community-meeting-recap-video/) - Did you miss our Downtown Parking Experience community meeting? No worries! You can access the video recap on our YouTube channel here: ¿No pudiste venir a nuestra reunión comunitaria Downtown Parking Experience? ¡No hay problema! Puedes ver el video resumen en español en nuestro canal de YouTube aquí:
- [Support Local Businesses this Holiday Season Through New Gift Program](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/woodennickelprogram/) - This holiday season, give the gift of Independence with the Independence Wooden Nickel! Each nickel is worth $5 towards your purchase of $5 or more at any redemption location. Participating businesses will also be marked with special signage on their front doors and windows to mark redemption locations. You can purchase wooden nickels at the
- [City of Sweet Home Visits Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-of-sweet-home-visits-independence/) - Last week, members of our city staff and Mayor McArdle met with representatives from the city of Sweet Home, Oregon, to share Independence's story of success and explore the roadmap we took to get there. It was an excellent opportunity for both cities to learn from each other and strengthen their connections. Sweet Home and
- [Learn About Downtown Parking at Community Event](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/learn-about-downtown-parking-at-community-event/) - Downtown parking affects everyone in our community. Whether your parking experience is positive or negative, or you don't drive at all, your thoughts matter and hold value. Be part of the process and learn some of the findings of our Downtown Parking Experience project on Tuesday, November 14, 2023, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- [Sandbag Filling Station Available at Independence Cinema](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sand-bag-filling-station-available-at-independence-cinema/) - In case you haven’t noticed, the wet weather is back! That’s why our public works department has re-established a free sandbag filling station in the parking lot of the Independence Cinema. These sandbags can help absorb water and prevent flooding near you and your home. For extra protection, consider cleaning the leaves beside your nearest
- [Independence Communications Coordinator Wins American Public Works Association Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-communications-coordinator-wins-american-public-works-association-award/) - (Canyonville, OR) — Communications Coordinator Emmanuel Goicochea was awarded the 2023 Communication (Bulldog) Award by the Oregon chapter of the American Public Works Association at their annual Fall Banquet. "I am humbled to receive this award," said Goicochea. "This honor couldn’t have been possible without the great leadership and support fostered in Independence."
- [Independence Police Swear-in Newest Officer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-swear-in-newest-officer/) - Earlier today, the Independence Police Department swore in Officer Alberto Meza as the newest member of our team during an official ceremony that included family, friends, and city staff. Alberto comes to us from the Marion County Sheriff's Office, where he worked as a Deputy in the institutions division. His goal from the beginning was
- [Central Talmadge Plan Team Hosts Open Storefront](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/central-talmadge-plan-team-hosts-open-storefront/) - Earlier this week, city staff, along with our project consultants, staged an "open storefront" event at the Gate for our Central Talmadge Plan, a project aimed at creating a new center within the community, focused around the commercial, cultural, social, and health service activities available near Central High School. Conversations were had with community members
- [Cities of Independence & Monmouth Win Statewide Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/cities-of-monmouth-independence-receive-league-of-oregon-cities-excellence-award/) - Original release courtesy of the League of Oregon Cities EUGENE, Ore. – During its 98th Annual Conference Friday, the League of Oregon Cities (LOC) presented its 2023 Award for Excellence to the cities of Monmouth and Independence for the “M-I Trolley” program. The award recognizes progressive and innovative city operations and services. This year, the
- [Independence & Monmouth Receive AARP Livable Community Designation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-monmouth-receive-aarp-livable-community-designation/) - On October 10, the cities of Independence and Monmouth received an AARP Livable Community designation at the annual Age-Friendly Summit at Western Oregon University. Being a designated AARP Livable Community means our cities are intentionally dedicated to increasing accessibility for people of all ages in our communities. AARP Oregon State Director Bandana Shrestha said the
- [Independence Ghost Walk Draws Large Attendance](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-ghost-walk-draws-large-attendance/) - An estimated 2,000 people came to the Independence Ghost Walk this year - an astounding record-breaking number. Under the banner of a crisp and beautiful fall evening, residents and visitors flocked to downtown Independence to hear spooky stories, get interactive tours, and engage with their community. We would like to extend a great deal of
- [Independence Police Assist Oregon State University with Law Enforcement Services](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-assist-oregon-state-university-with-law-enforcement-services/) - The Independence Police Department recently entered a Memorandum of Understanding contract with Oregon State University to assist with law enforcement services during home football games. OSU covers all the costs associated with our officers, and only those not scheduled to work in Independence can participate. Moreover, our officers gain experience in crowd management applicable to
- [Independence Hosts Oregon Main Street Conference, Gathers Over 200 Attendees](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-hosts-oregon-main-street-conference-gathers-over-200-attendees/) - Ideas, networking, and success stories aplenty were present at last week's Oregon Main Street Conference, hosted in downtown Independence. Economic development gurus, downtown association members, business owners, and more gathered to learn from one another and offer personal connection during the three-day conference, which included pivotal sessions featuring Independence city staff. The conference theme this
- [Serve Your Community on a Board or Commission](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/serve-your-community-on-a-board-or-commission/) - Want to make a difference in your community and be part of the process? Consider applying for one of our open board or commission positions. Currently, we have openings on the following boards and commissions: Independence Library Board Historic Preservation Commission Parks and Recreation Board Traffic Safety Commission To apply, fill out an application, checking all
- [Independence Public Library Celebrates 20 Years  in Current Location](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-public-library-celebrates-20-years-in-current-location/) - The Independence Public Library ushered in twenty years in its current location earlier this week with a community-wide celebration that included sweet treats, raffle prizes, historical photo binders, former library employees, and remarks from Mayor McArdle and Library Director Patrick Bodily. Over 150 people came to the event. "It takes great people to make a
- [Remembering Community Leader Pat Jaffer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/remembering-community-leader-pat-jaffer/) - Community leader Patricia (Pat) Jaffer passed away on September 16, 2023, at the age of 94. After meeting and marrying her husband, Mo, in North Dakota, Pat and her family moved to Monmouth so that Mo could take a teaching position at Oregon College of Education (now known as Western Oregon University. Pat was
- [Independence and Neighboring Agencies Participate in "Recovery Process" Tabletop Training](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-and-neighboring-agencies-participate-in-recovery-process-tabletop-training/) - Last week, the city of Independence had the opportunity to partake in a tabletop exercise focused primarily on the "recovery process" after a tragic incident. Gathering with our neighboring agencies, cultivating new and established relationships, and forming a plan, were some of the key takeaways from our experience. We especially would like to thank Central School
- [Are you planning to remodel your historic home?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/are-you-planning-to-remodel-your-historic-home/) - Thanks to funding from the National Park Service, administered by the Oregon Historic Preservation Office, the city of Independence is offering FREE design assistance to help you think about how best to do the work while preserving the Historic District's character. Funds are limited, and interested individuals will be served on a first-come, first-served basis.
- [City Council Meeting Recap](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-council-meeting-recap/) - Here is a recap of the work your city council and staff completed at the September 12, 2023 city council meeting: Mayor McArdle made a proclamation recognizing September as Attendance Awareness Month. He noted the importance of a good education for our children and encouraged all children to attend school. The city council approved a
- [Independence and Monmouth Honored with SEDCOR's Community Leadership Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-and-monmouth-honored-with-sedcors-community-leadership-award/) - Last week, the cities of Independence and Monmouth were awarded the Community Leadership Award at the Strategic Economic Development Corporation's (SEDCOR) annual awards meeting at the Salem Convention Center. Mayors John McArdle and Cec Koontz were met on stage with applause to commemorate the collaboration between the two cities. Part of the award statement read,
- [Residents Donate Benches to Willamette River Trail](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/residents-donate-benches-to-willamette-river-trail/) - Marianne and Patrick Fugeman Walkability in any city is vital. So is relaxation. Luckily, you can find both in Independence with the recent addition of two new benches located along the beautiful Willamette River Trail. One is situated near the Independence dog park, and the other is just south of the Independence Sports Complex. Patrick
- [Heritage Museum Hosts Opening of New Ella Curran Exhibit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-heritage-museum-hosts-opening-of-new-ella-curran-exhibit/) - This week saw the grand opening of a new permanent exhibit at the Independence Heritage Museum, titled Ella Curran: Feeding the Community. Over 70 people attended the grand opening that featured speeches from Mayor John McArdle, Ella Curran Food Bank Director, Patty Nevue, Heritage Society board member Roxanne Beltz, and Museum Director Natascha Adams. "The
- [Help Independence Name a Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/help-independence-name-a-park/) - The city of Independence needs your help naming the park unofficially known as "Sunset Meadows." Submitted recommendations will be sent to the Independence Parks and Recreation Board which will narrow down the list to their three favorites. After considering the three options, the official name will be adopted by the Independence City Council. Share your
- [Light Pole Installations on F Street Bridge Bring Project  Closer to Completion](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/new-light-poles-on-f-street-bridge-bring-project-closer-to-completion/) - New light poles were installed on the F Street bridge this week, heralding one of the final steps toward completing this essential infrastructure project. Once the power connects, look forward to walking down F Street or driving on the bridge with these fixtures lighting your way through. While you're at it, enjoy the marvelous Inspiration
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: New stop signs placed on 7th and E street heading West](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-new-stop-signs-have-been-placed-on-7th-and-e-street-heading-west/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: New stop signs have been placed on 7th and E street heading West; stop signs heading North and South have been removed. This morning (8/16/2023), our public works crews installed two new stop signs at the intersection of 7th and E Street. This new traffic pattern intends to improve traffic safety entering 7th
- [City Staff Begin Work on Downtown Parking Experience](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-staff-begin-work-on-downtown-parking-experience/) - Consultants and city staff survey the current uses of parking in our downtown area. Last week saw the arrival of our Downtown Parking Experience consultants, outside professionals hired to help survey current and future parking needs in Independence. Our city planner, Fred Evander, joined our consultants as they inventoried parking in and around our downtown
- [What's Your Downtown Parking Experience?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/whats-your-downtown-parking-experience/) - What's your downtown parking experience? The city of Independence would like to understand your downtown parking experience and how you would like it to improve in the future. The Downtown Parking Experience project hopes to help the city anticipate current and future parking needs downtown in a way that promotes the vibrancy of Downtown Independence.
- [Central Talmadge Project Kicks Off](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/central-talmadge-project-kicks-off/) - Yesterday saw the kickoff of the Central Talmadge Plan, a project that intends to create a new center within the community, focused on the commercial, cultural, social, and health service activities available near Central High School. The project advisory committee, which includes business owners, Central School District representatives, and residents, met to discuss the project's
- [Proposed Capital Improvement Plan Modification](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/proposed-capital-improvement-plan-modification/) - Notice of Transportation Capital Improvement Plan Modification (ORS 223.309) To All Interested Persons At its meeting on September 12, 2023, at 6:30 pm, the Independence City Council will consider amending the “Roadway Projects” portion of the City’s adopted 2022-2027 Transportation Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) to amend Project R-14, OR 51-Monmouth Street/7th Street. Please
- [Independence Police Celebrate National Night Out](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-celebrate-national-night-out/) - Last night the Independence Police Department celebrated National Night Out, our annual community-building campaign in partnership with the Monmouth Police Department, Polk CERT, and Polk County Fire District No. 1. Alongside a crowd of community members, we built camaraderie with food, lawn games, a bouncy castle, and giveaways. We especially would like to
- [Large Crowd Signals Successful First Concert in the Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/large-crowd-signals-successful-first-concert-in-the-park/) - Multitudes of residents and visitors flocked to Riverview Park last Friday to welcome the first concert of our annual River's Edge Summer Series event. Under the banner of a summer sun, Eagle Eyes, an Eagle's tribute band, rocked the night away with some stellar hits as attendees listened and danced to the music. Moreover, downtown
- [Sunset Meadows Project Kick-Off](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sunset-meadows-project-kick-off/) - Last Friday saw the staff-level kick-off of Sunset Meadows Park, which included our contract engineer and landscape architect, city of Independence Public Works Director Gerald Fisher, and City Manager Kenna West. After a review of the land and the original Sunset Meadows Park Master Plan, staff discussed the opportunities and challenges to the project, such
- [Independence Building Department Welcomes New Intern](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-building-department-welcomes-new-intern/) - The Independence Building department welcomes summer intern Omar Jovanny Parroquin Cruz to the team. Omar comes to us from the Chemeketa Community College Applied Sciences Building Inspection Technology program where he is participating in a cooperative work experience internship. This internship allows students to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field while earning college credit.
- [Independence Celebrates Independence Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-celebrates-independence-day/) - Thousands gathered in Riverview Park earlier this week to usher in another exciting Independence Days celebration. Filled with stirring live music, delicious vendor treats, and community spirit aplenty, celebrating our nation's birthday doesn't get any better than in Independence, Oregon. We offer a great deal of gratitude to our volunteers, community members, and city staff
- [Exercise Caution When Entering the Willamette River](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/exercise-caution-when-entering-the-willamette-river/) - We all want a safe and happy summer season—that's why we encourage you to exercise caution when entering or recreating near the Willamette River. The Willamette River is a beautiful natural landmark that connects cities and people together throughout the Willamette Valley. However, its underwater currents can be dangerous even to the most trained swimmer.
- [Officer Thomas Fleming Awarded Officer of the Year](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/officer-thomas-fleming-awarded-officer-of-the-year/) - The Independence Police Department Officer of the Year has been awarded to Officer/Detective/SRO Thomas Fleming. As part of his recognition, his colleagues were asked to comment on some things that would make him suitable for the award. Here are some of the comments: "Thomas has been a workhorse for our department for the last couple
- [Sunset Meadows Park Update](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sunset-meadows-park-update/) - The City of Independence has begun design work for the Sunset Meadows Park improvement project located between Maple Street and Chestnut Street. The city intends to advertise for construction at the beginning of 2024 and complete construction by the summer of 2024. To stay up-to-date on all our current Public Works projects, visit our
- [Independence Opera House Receives Oregon Main Street Revitalization Grant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independenceoperahouse-receives-oregon-main-street-revitalization-grant/) - The Independence Opera House was recently awarded a $200,000 Oregon Main Street Revitalization grant to renovate and rehabilitate the upstairs of the historic building into 4 unit apartments. Theodore “Ted” Baker owns the opera house and envisions a new future for the space. “I think it could really be a model for mixed-use historic
- [Juneteenth Freedom Day Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/juneteenth-freedom-day-proclamation/) - WHEREAS, each year June 19th commemorates the emancipation from slavery of those who had been slaves in the United States and is the oldest African American holiday observance in the nation; WHEREAS, on September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the celebrated Emancipation Proclamation warning Confederate States that he would declare enslaved peoples “forever free”,
- [Independence Participates in Senior Community Listening Session](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-participates-in-senior-community-listening-session/) - Last week, a community listening session was held at the Monmouth Senior Community Center to help capture the voices of our senior-age residents about the livability of Independence and Monmouth. This is part of an initiative to pursue an AARP Age-Friendly Community designation for Monmouth and Independence, which would help create opportunities for residents of
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: Flagging Operations in Multiple Independence Locations ](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-flagging-operations-in-multiple-independence-locations/) - This week (June 12-16), Wright Tree Service will be conducting flagging operations in the following Independence locations: Stryker Rd between Bonanza Taxiway and Hoffman Rd/Polk St Monmouth St between 7th and 8th Additionally, a courtesy heads-up that they plan on flagging the following locations which appear to be outside city limits: Independence Hwy between Stryker
- [Heritage Museum to Host"Fire and Freedom: Food and Enslavement in Early America" Exhibit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/heritage-museum-to-home-fire-and-freedom-food-and-enslavement-in-early-america-exhibit/) - The National Library of Medicine produced Fire and Freedom: Food and Enslavement in Early America, along with the companion website, with guest curator, historian, author, and educator Psyche Williams-Forson, PhD (University of Maryland, College Park). It is on view at the Heritage Museum from June 5, 2023 to July 15, 2023. The traveling exhibition and
- [Summer Movies & Concerts in the Park Lineup Announced](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/summerserieslineup/) - Our River's Edge Summer Series movie & concert lineup is here! Brought to you by the City of Independence, the River’s Edge Summer Series spans seven weeks of family-friendly fun from July 13 - August 25. Spend your weekend at the edge of the Willamette River in beautiful downtown Independence, Oregon! We extend a great thank
- [Safe Exchange Zones Now Available at Independence Civic Center](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/safe-exchange-zones-now-available-at-independence-civic-center/) - Have you heard of a Safe Exchange Zone? Dallas, Monmouth, and Independence now have dedicated zones that are safe and secure (24-hour video surveillance) for residents to conduct personal exchanges, such as child custody, or e-commerce transactions, such as buy/sell/trade. Each Safe Exchange Zone has two parking spots for a buyer and seller, or two
- [Local Businesses Awarded Small Event Grant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/businesses-awarded-small-event-grant/) - Earlier this year, the City of Independence created a mini-grant program to help businesses create new or expanded events and promotions that would help bring more customers to their business. Using ARPA (American Rescue Plan) dollars, this grant program was created to help drive additional sales for our businesses, create a more robust calendar of
- [Independence Library Builds Early Learning Cottage](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-library-builds-early-learning-cottage/) - Last year, the Independence Public Library was awarded a GO Kids Grant from the Jerome S. and Barbara Bischoff Library sub-fund of the Oregon Community Foundation to create and expand an Early Learning Hub in the children’s section of the library. In 2022, funding was used to purchase two All-in-One stations and two AWE Learning
- [Longtime Heritage Museum Volunteer Shares Her Story](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/longtime-heritage-museum-volunteer-shares-her-story/) - Lois Martin moved to Independence 20 years ago and later became involved in the Independence Heritage Museum Society as a volunteer. Having been involved with the museum society for two decades, serving in various capacities, Lois has seen the museum change drastically over time. Yet, the reason she stuck around is issued in plain sight. Lois Martin moved to Independence 20 years ago and later became involved in the Independence Heritage Museum Society as a volunteer. Having been involved with the museum society for two decades, serving in various capacities, Lois has seen the museum change drastically over time.
- [Inventory of Potential Unhoused Camping Locations: City Council Work Session](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/inventory-of-potential-unhoused-camping-locations-city-council-work-session/) - WHAT: Inventory of Potential Unhoused Camping Locations: City Council Work Session WHEN: Wednesday, May 24, 2023 @ 5:45 PM WHERE: Independence Civic Center House Bill 3115 requires cities to allow community members to sleep and rest on public property — with restrictions — when no shelter beds are accessible. According to the new law, cities and House Bill 3115 requires cities to allow community members to sleep and rest on public property — with restrictions — when no shelter beds are accessible. According to the new law, cities and counties in Oregon — including the City of Independence— must review and update local ordinances, or rules, that regulate sitting, lying, sleeping, or keeping warm and dry outdoors on public property by July 1, 2023. This means the City of Independence needs to make changes to the current municipal code, which bans all camping in public spaces.
- [Ciudad de Independence Informe de Calidad del Agua](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/ciudad-de-independence-informe-de-calidad-del-agua/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Independence-WQR-2023-CM_SP.pdf"]
- [TRAFFIC NOTICE: TEMPORARY DRIVEWAY CLOSURE ON OSPREY LANE](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-notice-temporary-driveway-closure-on-osprey-lane/) - TRAFFIC NOTICE: There will be a driveway closure to the Osprey Lane public parking lot starting this week that will last for a couple of weeks while concrete is replaced. The south driveway is still open for access to the parking lot. Thank you for your cooperation. -- AVISO DE TRÁFICO: Habrá un cierre de
- [What Housing Types Best Suit Independence?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/what-housing-types-best-suit-independence/) - For the past several months, the City of Independence has assessed our community's current and future housing needs. So far, this analysis has determined that Independence: - Has become increasingly unaffordable for certain members of our community and - Will need more housing in a variety of different types to ensure that affordable
- [City of Independence Water Quality Report 2022](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-of-independence-water-quality-report-2022/) - [pdf-embedder url="https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Independence-WQR-2023-CM-Web.pdf"]
- [Independence Police Department Recognized for Excellence in Policy and Training](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-recognized-for-excellence-in-policy-and-training/) - (Independence, Oregon, 4/20/2023) – The Independence Police Department announced today that it has been recognized for excellence in policy management and training in 2022 by Lexipol, the nation’s leading provider of policy, training and wellness support for first responders and public servants. The Lexipol Connect program tracks the Independence Police Department’s performance on five
- [NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-committee-meeting-for-the-city-of-independence-oregon/) - NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR THE CITY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Independence, Polk County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, will be held at the Event Center, City Hall, 555 South Main
- [NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR THE URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/notice-of-budget-committee-meeting-for-the-urban-renewal-agency-of-independence-oregon/) - NOTICE OF BUDGET COMMITTEE MEETING FOR THE URBAN RENEWAL AGENCY OF INDEPENDENCE, OREGON A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the City of Independence Urban Renewal Agency, Polk County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024, will be held at the Event Center,
- [What Would Make a Good Community Center?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/what-would-make-a-good-community-center/) - The City of Independence is considering development of a new community center next to Henry Hill Park, the site of the former Independence community pool. The pool was constructed in 1960. In 2022 the community pool, which was owned and maintained by the city and operated by the YMCA, reached the end of its operational life
- [Inaugural Marketing Mondays Class Draws Sizable Crowd](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/inaugural-marketing-mondays-class-draws-sizable-crowd/) - Monday saw the inaugural Marketing Mondays class put together in partnership with the cities of Independence and Monmouth, the chamber of commerce, and hosted by Hey Lively Co. This month’s program featured a class all about the best practices for social media marketing.
- [Is Independence Unique In Its Housing Shortage?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/is-independence-unique-in-its-housing-shortage/) - Is Independence unique in its housing shortage? Ethan Stuckmayer, Senior Housing Planner for the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development, describes the current state of housing in Oregon.
- [Independence Popular Financial Report FY 2022](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-popular-financial-report-fy-2022/) - Check out the 2022 Independence Annual Popular Financial Report: Independence Popular Financial Annual Report 2022
- [Love Local Scratch-its Return to Independence, Oregon!](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/love-local-scratch-its-return-to-independence-oregon/) - Our Love Local scratch-it program has returned to Independence!
- [IPD Press Release: Hit-and-Run](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/ipd-press-release-hit-and-run/) - On Saturday, June 11, 2022, at approximately 8:00 AM, the Independence Police Department responded to a hit-and-run vehicle crash at the intersection of 4th and G Street.
- [Independence Police Department & Oregon State Police Apprehend Multiple Charge Suspect](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-oregon-state-police-apprehend-multiple-charge-suspect/) - Independence Police Department & Oregon State Police Apprehend Multiple Charge Suspect
- [Independence Awarded Financial Achievement Certificate](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-awarded-financial-achievement-certificate/) - Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to City of Independence for its annual comprehensive financial report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2021.
- [Community Fiesta Returns to Independence Riverview Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-fiesta-returns-to-independence-riverview-park/) - Join the IM community/Soy Comunidad for the annual Community Fiesta on Saturday & Sunday, August 20 & 21, 2022 at Riverview Park in Independence, Oregon.
- [Independence, Oregon: A Year in Review | 2022](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-oregon-a-year-in-review-2022/) - 2022 has been an exciting year for Independence. Full of infrastructure improvements, safe streets, concerts and programs in the park, and even a new trolley, this year brought back many of the things our community has come to know while also adding new ones to love. But there’s much more to be done. We look forward to serving you, and the greater Willamette Valley, in 2023.
- [MI Trolley Sneak Peek Event Draws Great Attraction](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mi-trolley-sneak-peek-event-draws-great-attraction/) - Last month, MI Trolley, the new public transit system serving the communities of Monmouth and Independence, made its debut during a sneak peek event that included Representative Paul Evans, Senator Deb Patterson, Independence Mayor John McArdle, and Monmouth Mayor Cec Koontz.
- [How can the City of Independence encourage more affordable housing options?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/how-can-the-city-of-independence-encourage-more-affordable-housing-options/) - On October 10, 2022 (from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM), the City of Independence will host a virtual panel discussion that seeks to answer the question. How can the City of Independence encourage more affordable housing options?
- [Former Mayor of Independence Passes Away](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/former-mayor-of-independence-passes-away/) - Thomas Taylor Ritchey, former mayor of Independence (1994-1998), passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, November 17, 2022, after a heroic battle with Parkinson's Disease. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Beth Ritchey, his brother Tim Ritchey and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
- [Parallel 45 Brewing Awarded Prestigious Main St. Grant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/parallel-45-brewing-awarded-prestigious-main-st-grant/) - Oregon Heritage, a division of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, awarded 28 matching grants worth $5,000,000 to Oregon Main Street Network organizations across the state for building projects that encourage economic revitalization
- [City Council Meeting to be Online](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-council-meeting-to-be-online/) - City Council Meeting to be Online
- [MINET Awarded 1.3 Million Dollar County Grant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/minet-awarded-1-3-million-dollar-county-grant/) - The Polk County Commissioners have chosen MINET as the recipient of a $1.3 million county grant with which MINET will extend its world-class fiber-to-the-home network to rural underserved areas of south Dallas (west of Kings Valley Highway and north of Falls City Highway), Clow Corner & Highway 51, and the town of Rickreall including Polk County Fairgrounds.
- [Watch the State of the City 2022](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/watch-the-state-of-the-city-2022/) - Mayor McArdle gives his annual address regarding what the City of Independence, Oregon, has been busy accomplishing and why, despite an ongoing pandemic, economic disruption, and general obstacles, our city's future is more optimistic than ever.
- [Independence Wins Regional Cooperative Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-wins-regional-cooperative-award/) - Earlier in the week, the City of Independence along with several other municipalities and individuals were awarded the 2021 Regional Cooperative Project Award presented by the Mid-Willamette Valley Council of Governments.
- [City of Independence Partners with Local Non-Profit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-of-independence-partners-with-local-non-profit/) - A partnership between Indy Idea Hub and the City of Independence has brought forth a multitude of opportunities for entrepreneurs in our region.
- [Local Non-Profit Distributes Over $1 Million Dollars Worth of Funds](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/local-non-profit-distributes-over-1-million-dollars-worth-of-funds/) - A recently dissolved non-profit charitable organization dedicated to providing housing services to families in need has been donating its funds to various programs within the Independence-Monmouth community. The organization known as Neighbors Helping Neighbors (NHN) has helped countless individuals and families find housing during its 30-year plus lifespan.
- [Water Quality Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-quality-report/) - Water Quality Report Information.
- [Local Photo Album Mystery Solved](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/local-photo-album-mystery-solved/) - A mystery surrounding a historical photo album has finally been solved and returned to its rightful owner after nearly a decade of lying dormant.
- [City of Independence Hires New City Manager](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-of-independence-hires-new-city-manager/) - After months of recruiting efforts, the City Council approved a contract with Kenna West as the new City Manager for the City of Independence. Mayor John McArdle and Independence City Council expressed their excitement about Ms. West joining the Independence team.
- [Parking to Change on Osprey Lane](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/parking-to-change-on-osprey-lane/) - NOTICE: Parking to Change on Osprey Lane. Parking will no longer be allowed on the Eastside (closest to the river) of Osprey Lane in Independence, Oregon.
- [Juneteenth Proclamation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/juneteenth-proclamation/) - Juneteenth Proclamation
- [Keep Your Fireworks Legal and Safe this Holiday Weekend](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/keep-your-fireworks-legal-and-safe-this-holiday-weekend/) - With the 4th of July holiday weekend approaching, Polk County Fire District No.1, in partnership with the City of Independence, wanted to supply you with four simple safety tips to keep in mind when lighting fireworks in our community.
- [Vietnam Veteran's Memorial Rededicated During Independence Days Celebration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/vietnam-veterans-memorial-rededicated-during-independence-days-celebration/) - During our annual Independence Days celebration, a rededication to our city's Vietnam Veteran's memorial drew a sizable crowd as they stood and listened to moving speeches from Mayor John McArdle and Billy Whisenant from the American Legion Post 33.
- [Subscribe to Our Newsletter!](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/subscribe-to-our-newsletter/) - The City of Independence has changed its monthly print newsletter (River City Briefs) into a bimonthly email newsletter. The City of Independence will still provide a few print copies of the monthly newsletter­­—in English and Spanish—available at the Independence Civic Center and the Independence Public Library. This shift allows you to receive timelier and longer format stories about what’s going on in our city.
- [Naturalization Ceremony Re-enacted During Independence Days](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/naturalization-ceremony-re-enacted-during-independence-days/) - Becoming a naturalized United States citizen is no easy feat. Applicants must have had a permanent resident card for at least five years, be able to read, write, and speak basic English, complete thorough interviews, be of good moral character, and meet a multitude of other requirements. However, those who choose to venture along this path are rewarded with a gift: the freedom of being a US citizen.
- [Subscribe to the Email Newsletter!](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/subscribe-to-the-email-newsletter/) - Subscribe to Email Newsletter
- [Oregon Lottery Showcases the "Speed of Independence"](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/oregon-lottery-showcases-the-speed-of-independence/) - Earlier this year, the Oregon Lottery, in partnership with Business Oregon, sent a video production team to our quaint river city to help tell the redevelopment story about Independence Landing, formerly known as the Valley Concrete site.
- [Five Things to Know About Independence's FY 22-23 Budget](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/five-things-to-know-about-independences-fy-22-23-budget/) - Ever been curious about what is in the City of Independence budget?
- [Independence Pilots Public River Recreation Storage Facility](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-pilots-public-river-recreation-storage-facility/) - Exploring the beauties of the Willamette River isn’t complete without stopping off to visit the cities that rest along its bank. That’s why the City of Independence partnered with Travel Oregon, the Willamette Valley Visitors Association, The Independence Hotel, and College of Engineering - Oregon State University to develop a public river recreation storage facility right on the edge of Riverview Park. Coupled with Independence’s easy access to the river and our vibrant downtown just one block away, the choice to make our city the host of this pilot program became clear.
- [Volunteers Honored at Indy Days Award Ceremony](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/volunteers-honored-at-indy-days-award-ceremony/) - Last Thursday, we celebrated all the volunteers who worked tirelessly for the success of this year's Independence Days Celebration. Gathered around the outdoor tables of Territory, our volunteers enjoyed friendly conversation and exchanged colorful stories about the event.
- [Wastewater and Transportation SDC Update, 2022](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wastewater-and-transportation-sdc-update-2022/) - Check out the 2022 Wastewater and Transportation SDC Update: 2022 Wastewater and Transportation SDC Update – DRAFT
- [Paradise of Samoa Visits Riverview Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/paradise-of-samoa-visits-riverview-park/) - Last week, the Independence Public Library hosted the Polynesian dance troupe known as "the Paradise of Samoa" to perform authentic Pacific Island routines in Riverview Park.
- [Homelessness in Independence Fact Sheet](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/homelessness-in-independence-fact-sheet/) - Polk County, in coordination with the cities of Dallas, Falls City, Independence, Monmouth, Willamina, the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, and the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency, applied for and received a $1 million grant from the State of Oregon to establish a coordinated homeless response office. The focus of this office is to prevent Polk County community members from falling into homelessness.
- [Independence's Story - Second Chance Books](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independences-story-second-chance-books/) - By popular demand, community members submitted their wish to learn more about the history, inspiration, and people behind Second Chance Books, one of the oldest downtown businesses in Independence, Oregon.
- [Local Officials Cut the Ribbon on the F Street Bridge](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/local-officials-cut-the-ribbon-on-the-f-street-bridge/) - On Thursday, September 15, 2022, the City of Independence commemorated the re-opening of the F Street Bridge by cutting a red ribbon, signaling a new era for this essential piece of our city's infrastructure. Over 30 attendees helped cut the ribbon, including Chief Ben Stange from Polk County Fire District 1, Representative Paul Evans, Senator Deb Patterson, ODOT Area 3 Manager Anna Henson, Lead Bridge Engineer from OTAK Scott Nettleton, Independence Public Works Director Gerald Fisher, and Independence City Manager Kenna West.
- [Inaugural GRO Gathering Held in Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/inaugural-gro-gathering-held-in-independence-2/) - The Oregon Parks & Recreation Department has awarded the City of Monmouth a grant for $467,550 for Phase 1 Improvements to Monmouth Recreation Park
- [Inaugural GRO Gathering Held in Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/inaugural-gro-gathering-held-in-independence/) - Last week saw the inaugural The Ford Family Foundation GRO (Growing Rural Oregon) Gathering summit, where community leaders from around Oregon met at the Independence Civic Center to discuss building up their cities through omnichannel strategies.
- [Oregon Hop Run Draws Record-Breaking Participation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/oregon-hop-run-draws-record-breaking-participation/) - Saturday, September 17, 2022, saw the return of the annual Oregon Hop Run in Independence, Oregon.
- [Independence Awarded $75,000 for Nature Play Area at Sunset Meadows Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-awarded-75000-for-nature-play-area-at-sunset-meadows-park/) - Independence, Oregon (September 22, 2022) — The Oregon Parks & Recreation Department has awarded the City of Independence a grant for $75,000 to complete a Nature Play Area at Sunset Meadows Park. The project will include installing Nature Play Equipment (currently identified as Climbing Net, Log Crawl, Stepping Logs, Small Swing set with ADA Accessible Swing, Play Canoe, Basalt Crawl, Balance Beam), and seating suitable for light picnicking by small groups such as picnic tables. A safety surface (engineered wood fiber or similar) will also be installed. The installation will include concrete work to tie the project location into the existing trail infrastructure and connect individual site elements.
- [Tree Planting Event Marks New Era in Park Life](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/tree-planting-event-marks-new-era-in-park-life/) - Yesterday, we celebrated the planting of a tree in Sunset Meadows Park, a hallmark natural area located in the newest subdivision of our city. Joined by Representative Paul Evans, Mark Cowan from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Tony Feldman from Pacific Power, Scott Altenhoff from the Oregon Department of Forestry, and over 50 other attendees, Mayor John McArdle marked the start of a new era in the park's life by shoveling the first piles of dirt back into the ground.
- [Oregon Economic Group Visits Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/oregon-economic-group-visits-independence/) - Last Friday, members from the Oregon Economic Development Association (OEDA) visited Independence, Oregon, for a presentation and tour of all the exciting things our city has been up to in the past several years.
- [Independence's Story - Inspiration Garden](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independences-story-inspiration-garden/) - Continuing with stories submitted by our community, our residents wanted to learn more about the history and "inspiration" behind Inspiration Garden.
- [Tricks and Treats Event Comes to Downtown Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/tricks-and-treats-event-comes-to-downtown-independence/) - Be part of the magic and join us on October 31, 2022, in downtown Independence 3 PM -5 PM for our Downtown Tricks and Treats event! Stop by any participating business to receive your treats, and don’t forget to check out our special entertainers performing all sorts of tricks downtown. Kids will get the opportunity to see a magician, a balloon twister, a singing clown duo who ride tall bikes, a contact juggler, a stilt walker, and more! Additionally, the Independence Public Library will be hosting a make-your-own Halloween bag for kids.
- [Independence Police Department Stands for Breast Cancer Awareness Month](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-stands-for-breast-cancer-awareness-month/) - In observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you may see our officers wearing pink IPD patches to show their support for everyone affected by breast cancer. We encourage everyone to show their support this month by wearing pink and honoring the heroes who have fought and continue to fight this disease. We stand with you this month and every month.
- [Independence City Recorder Karin Johnson Installed as 2022-2023 OAMR President](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-city-recorder-karin-johnson-installed-as-2022-2023-oamr-president/) - The Oregon Association of Municipal Recorders (OAMR) recently installed Independence City Recorder Karin Johnson, MMC, as 2022-2023 OAMR President. Ms. Johnson received the oath of office at the association’s Annual Banquet held at the Best Western Agate Beach Inn in Newport, Oregon, on September 29, 2022.
- [Watch the City of Independence Housing Needs Analysis Panel Discussion](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/watch-the-city-of-independence-housing-needs-analysis-panel-discussion/) - On October 10, 2022, the City of Independence hosted a virtual panel discussion that sought to answer the question:
- [Independence Police Department Receives Community Partnership Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-police-department-receives-community-partnership-award/) - Recently, the Independence Police Department, along with the Monmouth Police Department and Polk County Fire District No.1, was presented with the Community Partnership Recognition award by Central School District 13J.
- [Paul Reiter Recognized with Historic Preservation Award](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/paul-reiter-recognized-with-historic-preservation-award/) - The house at 360 S 3rd Street has a history in Independence that goes back almost 100 years. Built by local banker Ira Mix in 1923 after his marriage to Marie Powell, the house has since changed hands over the years and now finds itself in possession of local home improvement aficionado Paul Reiter. Paul bought the home almost 20 years ago and let it lay dormant as he worked on developing other projects throughout Independence, such as the Pink House Cafe. Once Paul discovered it was time to settle down, he finally decided to remaster the house he now calls his "retirement home."
- [Billy's Story - Veterans Day](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/billys-story-veterans-day/) - As we venerate the heroes on Veteran's Day who selflessly served our country, the City of Independence sought to highlight our community by sharing one of their stories. Billy Whisenant is a retired Vietnam War veteran who served in the Marine Corps during the Tet Offensive and was later discharged as a Sergeant.
- [Independence Officer Honored at Oregon Peace Officers Association Awards Banquet](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-officer-honored-at-oregon-peace-officers-association-awards-banquet/) - In December 2021, Officer Solberg responded to a report of a potential suicide and prevented the individual from taking their life through diligent action and compassionate and understanding speech.
- [Food Bank Hosts Successful Giveaway Event](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/food-bank-hosts-successful-giveaway-event/) - On a cold and windy day during the week of the Thanksgiving holiday, a group of volunteers from the Ella Curran Food Bank hosted a drive-through food giveaway event that helped feed over 360 families (over 1,400 people) in Independence and the surrounding areas.

## Pages

- [Home Updated](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/) - City of Independence Welcome to the City of Independence's website where you will find city-related information including agendas, hours, and more.
- [Community Newsletter](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-newsletter/) - “River City Briefs” is a bi-weekly email newsletter (every other week) sent directly to your email inbox. Please contact Emmanuel Goicochea, Communications Director, if you have a story idea for an upcoming issue. If you are looking for a hard copy of the newsletter, visit the front desk of City Hall or the Independence Public
- [Building](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/building/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Elections & Voter Services](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/elections-voter-services/) - The next Election Day is: November 3, 2026 Open Positions: Mayor and 3 Councilor positions The city of Independence City Recorder coordinates and administers the City’s municipal election activities, including receiving filings from candidates for the positions of mayor and councilors. During the 2026 General Election on November 3, the positions for Mayor and three
- [Latest News](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/latest-news/) - Independence Police Release Monthly Report Have you been curious about what our officers have been up to all month? The Independence Police Department is sharing a sample of the calls for service each month to inform and educate community members on the work we do. [...] Emmanuel Goicochea2026-08-13T12:36:00-08:00August 13, 2026| Read More Traffic Notice: Stryker
- [Library](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/library/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Calendar](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/calendar/)
- [River's Edge Summer Series](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/rivers-edge-summer-series/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Heritage Museum](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/heritage-museum/) - Facebook and YouTube channels. Event 2 Speaker Series Heritage Museum Speaker Series at The Valkyrie Wine Tavern More About The Speaker Series Every 2nd Thursday at 6 PM, Event 3 Online Event Happening Now Pages From the past: Where we share photos and stories of Independence’s history. More About Pages From The Past Event 4
- [Public Works](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works/) - The Public Works Department strives to maintain quality public facilities for the citizens of Independence.
- [System Development Charges](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/system-development-charges/) - System Development Charges, or also known as SDC fees are a one-time fee that’s charged on any new development or certain types of re-development to help pay for capacity increasing improvements to the city’s infrastructure. They’re a means of financing growth related impacts by development without impacting existing property owners and residents. Cities are authorized
- [Permit Calculator](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/permit-calculator/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Ongoing Projects](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/ongoing-development-projects/) - Projects Open For Public Comment July 14 - City Council Hearing - Code Changes associated with More Housing, Same Great Neighborhood Project At the meeting of July 14, 2026, the Independence City Council will hold a public hearing on a draft set of revisions to the Independence Development Code that would promote infill development in
- [Planning](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/planning/) - Promoting Livability and Vibrancy In Independence Striving towards the long-term vision for the future Promoting Livability and Vibrancy In Independence Striving towards the long-term vision for the future The City of Independence Planning Department works to create a long-term vision for the future growth and development of the city and to promote a livable, vibrant
- [Municipal Court](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/municipal-court/) - Judicial Branch Of The City Of Independence Government The information you need to resolve your traffic or code violation Judicial Branch Of The City Of Independence Government The information you need to resolve your traffic or code violation The Municipal Court handles parking, traffic, and city ordinance citations issued by the Independence Police Department. Traffic
- [Human Resources](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/human-resources/) - Empowering a Diverse and High-Performing Workforce Our commitment to improving job creation and enhancing the skills of our employees. Empowering a Diverse and High-Performing Workforce Our commitment to improving job creation and enhancing the skills of our employees. We are dedicated to fostering a work environment that prioritizes continuous development and encourages our employees to
- [Finance](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/finance/) - The Finance department is responsible for managing City accounts and financial services.
- [Economic Development](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/economic-development/) - Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley with easy access to Interstate 5, our creative, can-do staff are focused on finding solutions and facilitating business development.
- [Communications](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/communications/) - Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley with easy access to Interstate 5, our creative, can-do staff are focused on finding solutions and facilitating business development.
- [Community Services & Parks Fee](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-services-parks-fee/) - Visit to learn about city funding, property taxes, frequently asked questions, and additional resources about the community services and parks fee.
- [Touch-A-Truck](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/touch-a-truck/) - The City Manager’s Office ensures the City runs effectively and efficiently to achieve the City Council’s goals for the community, using the City’s available resources.
- [Glow Lights](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/glow-lights/) - Shine Bright This Holiday Season FREE Outdoor family-friendly walk around lights display from November 30, 2025 – January 11, 2026 Illuminate the Night The Glow Holiday Light Display is a festive, family-friendly event in Independence that lights up the season with beautiful, themed light installations and holiday decorations. Located in the Riverfront Park Amphitheater, this
- [Water](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water/) - Working Hard to Provide High Quality Water The Water Department of Independence is committed to providing the community with high-quality water service that is both dependable and efficient. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that the city provides residents with the highest quality water possible. Water Conservation Resources Making a Positive Impact It’s up to
- [Wastewater](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wastewater/) - Examining Wastewater: Gaining Insight into Clean Water Wastewater is a common byproduct of any community, regardless of its size. It involves used water that contains a wide variety of materials including food scraps, oils, soaps, and chemicals. From everyday activities, such as washing clothes and dishes, to flushing toilets and taking a bath, all generate
- [Stormwater](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/stormwater/) - Understanding Stormwater Runoff When rain falls in urban areas, it lands on surfaces like streets, parking lots, and roofs, creating stormwater. Since it is unable to soak into the ground, it flows off these surfaces, dragging pollutants with it and heading downhill to the nearest stream. To tackle this issue, the stormwater system incorporates catch
- [Streets](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/streets/) - Maintaining City Streets with the Help of Public Works The Public Works department is responsible for maintaining all the city-owned roads. To ensure the safety of the public, the department has implemented a proactive maintenance program that addresses issues as they arise, long before they pose a hazard. This program is financed by a road
- [Master Plans](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/master-plans/) - A master plan is a support document to the comprehensive plan that details existing conditions of infrastructure, determines population growth as outlined by Portland State University Population Research Center, and recommends improvements and upgrades to the system to support the anticipated growth of a community. Master plans should be revisited every 7 to 10 years
- [Leaf Collection](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/leaf-collection/) - Every fall the Public Works Department picks up leaves for the residents of Independence, whose property has more leaves than the Brandt’s yard recycling container can hold. This service helps prevent the impact that leaves can have on the city’s storm drains and rivers. If you want to have your leaves picked up, please follow
- [Design Standards](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/design-standards/) - The City of Independence maintains the design standard specifications and detailed drawings for construction of public facilities. All public improvements are required to follow these specifications. The Design Standard Specifications posted on this site reflect the most recent version of these documents and drawings. It is the user’s responsibility to make sure all bids, proposals,
- [Capital Improvement Plan](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/cap/) - This document is intended to serve as a financial planning tool, informing the annual budget of infrastructure/building needs. It is envisioned that the CIP will be updated annually, and presented with the annual operating budget for the City. You can also view the PDF version by clicking HERE.
- [Adopt-A-Street](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/adopt-a-street/) - The City of Independence’s Adopt-A-Street program gives businesses, families, service groups and individuals a chance to care for a specific road or trail within the city. Adopt-A-Street members participate in cleanup efforts at their adopted sites on a semi-annual basis (at least two times per year). Cleanups are scheduled by each group/individual at their convenience.
- [City Recorder](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-recorder/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [City Budget](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-budget/) - A Budget Is More than just a technical document filled with numbers and data tables, it reflects our values and provides direction for the future. It is essential for meeting present needs and achieving future goals efficiently. A Budget Is More than just a technical document filled with numbers and data tables, it reflects our
- [Public Safety Fee FAQ](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-safety-fee-faq/) - Updated July 1, 2024 On June 11, 2024, the Independence City Council adopted the city’s budget, which includes a new public safety fee aimed at enhancing local law enforcement services and ensuring long-term community safety. Starting in January 2025, the fee will be set at $20 per month for the first six months, before adjusting
- [Special Events](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/special-events/) - Fun Events For The Whole Family Concerts & Movies July – August Glow December – January Ghost Walk First of October Touch A Truck Saturday before Mother’s Day in May 4th of July – Indy Days 4th of July Looking For More Fun Things To Do? Visit Experience Indy Oregon today! Connect with neighbors, the
- [Codes, Plans & Maps](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/codes-plans-maps/) - Independence Development Code Please note: The Independence Development Code is presented below. As you prepare a project, please consult with the City of Independence to best understand the code requirements that apply. Full Development Code Code Chapters Subchapter 10. General Provisions Subchapter 11. Administrative Provisions Subchapter 12. Zone Changes & Plan Amendments Subchapter 13. Definitions
- [Reserve Officer Program](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/reserve-officer-program/) - Law Enforcement Services In Your Community You can make a significant impact while gaining valuable experience. Reserve officers often assist with community events, provide support during emergencies, and help to maintain public safety. This role is ideal for individuals who want to serve their community but may not be able to commit to a full-time
- [Vacation House Check](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/vacation-house-check/) - Online Vacation HouseCheck Application To request a Vacation Security Check, complete the online application using the link on the left. The form can be filled out and submitted directly online. If you need assistance, you can contact us during business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- [Cadet Program](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/cadet-program/) - Ensuring Future Officers Serve Their Communities With Compassion And Dedication The Independence Police Department operates a police cadet unit consisting of citizen volunteers to strengthen the police-community relationship and offer additional support for policing efforts. This initiative serves as an introduction to law enforcement for individuals considering a career in this fulfilling field. Contact Us
- [PD Careers](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pd-careers/) - The City Manager’s Office ensures the City runs effectively and efficiently to achieve the City Council’s goals for the community, using the City’s available resources.
- [Emergency Preparedness](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/emergency-preparedness/) - Receive emergency notifications Sign Up Here Who you should call if… You’re experiencing an emergency and the 911 emergency system fails: Police Dept – 503-838-1214 Fire Dept – 503-838-1510 Communication systems fail: Use or borrow a cell phone to report the communication issue to Qwest Telephone: 800-244-111 The sewer system backs up: Public Works –
- [Dog License](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/dog-license/) - Protecting A Part Of Your Family Licensing Your Dog Is Not Only A Legal Requirement, But It Also Helps Ensure Their Safety And Well-Being. Protecting A Part Of Your Family Licensing Your Dog Is Not Only A Legal Requirement, But It Also Helps Ensure Their Safety And Well-Being. Payment Options License Fees Lost Dog Contact
- [Surveillance Camera Registration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/surveillance_camera_registration/) - Surveillance Camera Registration Program Do you own a surveillance camera that records video footage and want to help the police solve crime? Register your home or business surveillance camera with the Independence Police Department. The information will help police contact you quickly to identify criminals in your neighborhood. Registration is entirely voluntary and all personal
- [Police Staff](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/police-staff/) - Police Officers Part-Time Officers, Special Teams, VIPs Support Staff Reserve & Cadet Officers Police Officers Chief Juventino “Tino” Banuelos Lt. Lyle Gilbert Sgt. Dallas Cole Sgt. Thomas Fleming Sgt. Trevor Williamson Ofc. Blake Anderson Ofc. Kobe Everett Ofc. Richard Gonzalez, SRO Ofc. Reed Chorbajian Ofc. Greg Herrera Ofc. Alberto Meza Ofc. Jill Thissell, Det Ofc.
- [Police](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/police/) - More Than Just A Badge Maintaining a Safe Community – Integrity, Excellence, Courage, Compassion More Than Just A Badge Maintaining a Safe Community – Integrity, Excellence, Courage, Compassion Juventino “Tino” Banuelos 9-1-1 (503) 838-1214 (non-emergency/business phone) (503) 838-5548 (fax) ipd.intake@ci.independence.or.us 555 South Main Street Independence, OR 97351 Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
- [Permits & Applications](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/forms-page/)
- [Historic Preservation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/historic-preservation/) - Preserving History One Building At A Time Welcome to Historic Independence, Oregon, named for Independence, Missouri where the wagon trains on the Oregon Trail started on their long journey west. If you’re a die-hard history buff or just a casual admirer of “old things,” we have something for everyone. About the Historic District The properties within the
- [Mt. Fir Park & Inspiration Garden](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mt-fir-park-inspiration-garden/) - Inspiration Garden Amenities Location Master Gardeners Welcome to Mt. Fir and Inspiration Garden Where Nature’s Wonders Come to Life Mt. Fir Park and Inspiration Garden offer a peaceful retreat in Independence, blending natural beauty with community charm. The park features open spaces for relaxation, while the Inspiration Garden showcases vibrant plants, themed sections, and educational
- [Riverview Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/riverview-park-3/) - Amenities Location Park Rules Reserve the Park Welcome to Riverview Park Premier Destination for Nature, Fun, and Community Events Riverview Park in Downtown Independence is the city’s largest and most vibrant green space, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and community engagement. Nestled along the picturesque Willamette River, the park features a scenic Willamette
- [Parks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/parks-recreation/) - Discover The Fun and Playful Side of Independence Come and experience Independence – an amazing place to live, work, and play! Discover The Fun and Playful Side of Independence Come and experience Independence – an amazing place to live, work, and play! Independence is home to a vibrant network of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces
- [Water Safety](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/water-safety/) - Staying Safe By The Water Ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience without unnecessary risks Staying Safe Near Rivers Ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience without unnecessary risks Water Warning Water Safety Life Jacket Safety Donate Water Safety Is Important Water and river safety involves wearing life jackets, understanding risks, knowing entry/exit points, and taking safety
- [Willamette River Trail](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/willamette-river-trail/) - In 2012, the City opened the Willamette River Trail, a 5k soft surface trail loop that runs from the Riverview Park Amphitheater to the North Riverfront Ballfield Complex and back. The trail passes in and out of the Willamette River’s riparian zone offering excellent birdwatching and nature viewing opportunities, and also passes the Independence Dog
- [Osprey Watch & Learn](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/osprey-watch-learn/) - #Osprey Watch & Learn 2025 City of Independence
- [Event Center](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/event-center/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Biker-Boater Campground](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/biker-boater-campground/) - Amenities Location Campground Rules Reservation Info Welcome to the Boater & Biker Campgrounds Explore, Camp, Relax: Designed for Bikers and Boaters Riverview Park in Independence features a dedicated biker and boater campground, perfectly situated along the scenic Willamette River. It serves as a convenient stop for travelers on the Willamette River Water Trail and the
- [Parks](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/parks/) - Explore The Great Outdoors In Independence Riverview Park Largest park in Independence John Pfaff Park Originally Northgate Park Mt. Fir & Inspiration Garden Home to OSU Master Gardeners Pioneer Park First park in Independence Sports Park Get out and play Willamette River Trail Walk in nature or downtown Dog Park A place to go off
- [Library Policies](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/library-policies/) - Our Mission To meet the literary, educational, and social needs and desires of the citizens of Independence, the Independence Public Library provides current information, materials, and services reflecting the multigenerational, multicultural, and multilingual diversity of our community. Our Mission To meet the literary, educational, and social needs and desires of the citizens of Independence, the
- [Rivers Edge Event Pre-Sales](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/event-pre-sales-2/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Public Works Projects](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/public-works-projects/)
- [Educational Resources](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/educational-resources/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Donation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/donation/) - Invest In What Matters Make a Difference in Your Hometown Support the places where community, culture, and nature come together in Independence. Invest In What Matters Make a Difference in Your Hometown Support the places where community, culture, and nature come together in Independence. Library The Library connects our community through learning and access for
- [Date Change for Campground Reservations](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/date-change-for-campground/) - Email Address New Check-in Date MonthMonth123456789101112 DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031 YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920 New Check-out Date MonthMonth123456789101112 DayDay12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031 YearYear202720262025202420232022202120202019201820172016201520142013201220112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986198519841983198219811980197919781977197619751974197319721971197019691968196719661965196419631962196119601959195819571956195519541953195219511950194919481947194619451944194319421941194019391938193719361935193419331932193119301929192819271926192519241923192219211920 Notes Δ
- [Boards and Commissions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/boards-commissions-2/) - Building With Future Generations in Mind Shaping Policies, Regulations, And Services That Directly Impact The Well-Being Of Residents Building With Future Generations in Mind Shaping Policies, Regulations, And Services That Directly Impact The Well-Being Of Residents To apply, complete the application form (provided below) by selecting the ones you are interested in and submit it
- [test page](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/test-page/)
- [Utility Services](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/utility-services/) - The City of Independence provides water and sewer service inside City Limits. To connect your home to one or both services, please fill out the Application for Utility Service and bring it to City Hall. To view a list of utility providers visit this page. Payment for the water and sewer service is due on
- [Pet Waste Stations](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pet-waste-stations/) - Scoop The Poop And keep our city streets, parks, and water clean Pet Station Map Scoop The Poop And keep our city streets, parks, and water clean Pet Station Map Pawsitively Clean Parks Begin Here! We love our furry friends and know you do too! To ensure our parks remain clean, safe, and enjoyable for
- [Indy Days 4th of July Celebration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/indy-days-4th-of-july-celebration/) - The City Manager’s Office ensures the City runs effectively and efficiently to achieve the City Council’s goals for the community, using the City’s available resources.
- [Sponsor Benefits](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sponsor-benefits/) - Reap the Rewards Increase your brand visibility and reputation, gain access to your target market, and display your support of the Independence community by sponsoring events your business can be proud of. You’ll find the sponsorship benefits associated with each City event below. If you have any questions, please reach out to Courtney Williams at
- [Sponsors](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/sponsors/) - Best Events On The River The City of Independence has curated 4 major events that provide families in the mid-Willamette Valley something exciting to look forward to each season. Each event focuses on a slightly different demographic, however all share a common thread; offering families an opportunity to come together, celebrate and create new memories.
- [Register](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/register/) - Staff Dashboard Registration Registration is required for all new staff accounts. If you do not have an approved account please fill out the information below. Username Email Please leave this field empty City of Independence staff only. All accounts require approval before access is granted. You will receive an email once approved. Register
- [E-Resources](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/library-e-resources/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Download and Stream](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/download-and-stream/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Library Contact](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/library-contact/) - Call The Library Give us a call any time 503-838-1811 Email Us Why not drop us an email? library@ci.independence.or.us Social Media Follow our updates on Facebook Call The Library Give us a call any time 503-838-1811 Email Us Why not drop us an email? library@ci.independence.or.us Social Media Follow our updates on Facebook Specializing in Adventure
- [Volunteer](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/volunteer/) - Embrace The World Of Volunteering Celebrating the act of helping and making a positive impact Embrace The World Of Volunteering Celebrating the act of helping and making a positive impact Volunteer Documents Frequently Asked Questions Let’s Celebrate The Essence of Volunteering Volunteering with the City of Independence is more than just an opportunity to give
- [Utility Providers](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/utility-providers/) - While Independence is a small community in terms of population it boasts big-city infrastructure, including modern water and sewer systems and a high-speed fiber-to-the-home telecommunication utility. MINET Fiber, which is owned by Independence and neighboring Monmouth, provides high-speed internet, television and phone services at a level of quality that meets or exceeds the major providers.
- [Visitor Resources](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/visitor-resources/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Community Demographics](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/community-demographics/) - General Statistics General Statistics Statistic Independence Population 10,071 Population 18 – 29 yrs old 30% Median Age 28.3 yrs Median Household Income $53,555 Job Statistics Industry Age & Income Industry Category Count Percent (%) Total Primary Jobs 214,542 100% Jobs by Worker Age Ages 29 or younger 46,947 21.9% Ages 30 to 54 119,711 55.8%
- [City Recorder Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-recorder-frequently-asked-questions/) - How may I request a public document? You must fill out a Request for Information Form. Please be as specific as possible, so we may find the document you want in the shortest amount of time. If you want a copy of the document, we will provide you with an estimated cost for copying. Do
- [The Wall That Heals 2025](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/thewallthatheals2025/) - Bringing History and Healing to Communities A replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C. is coming to Independence, Oregon September 18-21 2025. Event Schedule Wall Escort Donate Volunteer Sponsor Tours In Memory Hometown Hero Contact Us Stay This event has ended. — We are grateful to all who visited and honored our veterans.
- [Transportation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/transportation-2/) - Transportation
- [Contact Us](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/contact-us/) - X/Twitter This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Name(Required) First Last Email(Required) Message(Required) Δ City Hall 555 S Main Street Independence, Oregon 97351 Mailing Address P.O. Box 7 Independence, OR 97351 Phone: (503) 838-1212 TTY: (800)735-2900 Fax: (503) 606-3282 Public Works After Hours Emergency Phone: (503) 370-2802
- [Interactive Map](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/interactive-map/) - Homes with a History Take a step back in time and explore the rich history of our community—one home at a time. This interactive map features over 200 historic homes in the historic district that have shaped the story of our city. View the Historical District Map PDF HERE Prefer a different way to browse?
- [City Manager](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-manager/) - The City Manager’s Office ensures the City runs effectively and efficiently to achieve the City Council’s goals for the community, using the City’s available resources.
- [Ghost Walk](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/ghost-walk/) - Apparition Avenue & Ghost Walk Walk With The Restless Spirits Unearth the chilling tales and supernatural legends that linger in Independence. An evening of chilling discoveries awaits. Event Flyer Apparition Avenue & Ghost Walk Walk With The Restless Spirits Unearth the chilling tales and supernatural legends that linger in Independence. An evening of chilling discoveries
- [State Legislators Representing Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/state-legislators/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Mayor & City Council](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/mayor-city-council/) - Focusing On The Needs Of The Community Active listening, transparent communication, and inclusive practices that consider diverse perspectives Focusing On The Needs Of The Community Active listening, transparent communication, and inclusive practices that consider diverse perspectives Elected Officials Independence City Charter states the council will be comprised of six council positions, all elected ‘at-large’ for
- [Accessibility Statement](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/accessibility-statement/) - The mission of the City Recorder’s Office is to provide accurate information to the public, elected officials and city staff.
- [Library Sliders](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/fb-5816/)
- [Building in Independence](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/building-in-independence/) - Commercial Commercial building permits are applied to buildings that are spaces that are occupied by businesses that intended to be used for profit. This can include office buildings, retail spaces, warehouses, professional establishments and more. Here are the steps to apply for a Commercial permit: Step 1: Prepare Step 2: Apply Step 3: Review Step
- [Language of Budgets](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/language-of-budgets/) - Decoding the Dollars A Guide to City Budget Terms Here in Independence, Oregon, every dollar in the city budget is carefully planned to make our community thrive. From maintaining parks to funding public safety, the choices made in our city’s budget impact all of us. We know budget talk can seem complicated, but it doesn’t
- [Other Plan & Code Changes](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/plan-code-changes/) - Central Talmadge Plan The city of Independence Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Monday, December 2, 2024 (7:00 pm) to consider potential changes to the Independence Comprehensive Plan, development code, and maps that are intended to help implement the Central Talmadge Plan. The Independence City Council adopted the Central Talmadge Plan by resolution
- [Report An Issue](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/report-an-issue/) - In the City of Independence the majority of street lights, the independence bridge, and main traveled roads are maintained by different state and county groups and not Public Works. If you see a problem and it falls under one of these categories, please report it to them. Local Resources Report City Issue For streets with-in
- [What is Your Downtown Parking Experience?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/downtown-parking/) - Downtown Parking Experience Gathering insights on downtown parking experiences and desired improvements for the future. Downtown Parking Experience Gathering insights on downtown parking experiences and desired improvements for the future. Project Documents Code Changes Adopted Plan Over the last year, the City of Independence has worked to understand individuals’ downtown parking experience and how they
- [Central Talmadge Plan](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/central-talmadge-plan/) - Heart Of The Community Project Building A More Vibrant And Cohesive Hub Between Monmouth And Independence Heart Of The Community Project Shaping Policies, Regulations, And Services That Directly Impact The Well-Being Of Residents Project Documents Upcoming Events Project Overview The City of Independence, with support from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT), has worked with
- [Independence Sports Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/independence-sports-park/) - Independence Sports Park is also the northern limit of the Willamette River Trail, a soft-surface walking/jogging path that starts in Riverview Park and follows the Willamette River north to North Riverfront Park. The looped trail is approximately 5 kilometers round trip. After developing a concept plan for the property in 2008, the City entered into a
- [Historical Walking Tour](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/historical-walking-tour/) - Explore the Past and Present of Independence Explore the Past and Present of Independence Welcome to the Independence Historic District Walking Tour Digital Version. Experience the Historical Walking Tour three different ways: Imagery Enjoy the Historical Walk Tour from the comfort of your home. Interactive Map Experience the Walking Tour in the form of a
- [City Charter](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/city-charter/)
- [Inventory of Potential Unhoused Camping Locations: City Council Work Session](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/inventory-of-potential-unhoused-camping-locations-city-council-work-session/) - WHAT: Inventory of Potential Unhoused Camping Locations: City Council Work Session WHEN: Wednesday, May 24, 2023 @ 5:45 PM WHERE: Independence Civic Center House Bill 3115 requires cities to allow community members to sleep and rest on public property — with restrictions — when no shelter beds are accessible. According to the new law, cities and
- [Traffic School](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/traffic-school/) - The City of Independence Municipal Court offers a traffic school diversion program. This program is designed to allow drivers the opportunity to recognize and review their driving habits, attitudes, and behaviors. There is an additional fee involved, but the violation will not go on your driving record if you complete the program and have no
- [Pay a Bill](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pay-a-bill/) - Make a Utility Payment Make a Court Payment
- [211 System](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/211-system/) - Learn more about 211 Every hour of every day, hundreds of people need essential human services – they are looking for training, employment, food pantries, help for an aging parent, addiction prevention programs for their teenage children, affordable housing options, support groups and ways of becoming part of their community. 211 allows people to give
- [Fix-it-Ticket](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/fix-it-ticket/) - In addition to the alternatives listed on your citation, The City of Independence has a program to allow offenders to correct specific violations and have the violation(s) dismissed through the Correctable Violations Program (also called the Fix-it-ticket program) You are not required to participate in this program. This program is provided to you as an
- [Fair Housing](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/fair-housing-act/) - The Fair Housing Act (amended) states that no one may discriminate against a person based on, race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (families with children), or handicap, when renting or selling a home. Oregon includes the following additional protection categories: source of income, marital status, sexual orientation and gender identity. Also, there are
- [Pay a Ticket](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pay-a-ticket/) - Fines are due and payable when the fine is imposed. We accept cash, checks, money orders, and debit/credit cards. To pay for tickets online you will need your last name or citation number. Payments can be made in person at the front desk at City Hall, by phone, by mail, or in the after-hours drop
- [Utility Service Discontinuation Form](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/utility-service-discontinuation-form/) - Discontinuing Utility Service Step 1 of 3 33% Facebook This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. This field is hidden when viewing the form Form Type This field is hidden when viewing the form Approval Status ApprovedDeniedPending Review Service Discontinued Date(Required) MM slash DD slash YYYY (Minimum 5 Day Notice Required)
- [Pioneer Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/pioneer-park/) - Independence’s first park, included in the original town platt in the 1800’s, Pioneer Park is located at the corner of Seventh Street and C Street. The park is also located at the junction of the South Fork and Main Stem of Ash Creek and features an intact native riparian zone. The park has picnic tables,
- [Reporting to County & State](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/reporting-to-county-state/) - In the City of Independence the majority of street lights, the independence bridge, and main traveled roads are maintained by different state and county groups and not Public Works. If you see a problem and it falls under one of these categories, please report it to them. Report Street Light To report a street light
- [Youth Sports](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/youth-sports/) - Independence is home to several sports fields which are used for formal and informal athletic competitions. The web links below will take you to the two main youth sports organizations in Independence and Monmouth. Central Youth Sports Monmouth Independence YMCA
- [Dog Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/dog-park/) - Looking for a place to throw a ball for your dog and let them interact with other dogs? Conceived by a group of community volunteers in 2011, the Independence Dog Park is fast becoming “the” place to go for dog people in Independence. Totaling just over two acres, The park has separated areas for small
- [Violation Bureau](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/violation-bureau/) - If you would like to handle your citation through the Violations Bureau you must appear at 555 S. Main Street before the Court Clerk Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM. All business must be finalized no later than 4:30 PM the day before your court appearance. The clerk uses the same fine schedule as the
- [John Pfaff Park](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/john-pfaff-park/) - Originally named Northgate Park, the park was renamed in 2003 to honor John Paff, a former mayor of Independence and a community leader for over 50 years. The park is located in the Northgate subdivision on the corner of Hoffman and Gun Club Road, although it is accessed via Wild Rose Court. Amenities include a

## 3D FlipBook

- [Capital Improvement Plan](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/3d-flip-book/4511/)
- [2024 Water Quality Report](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/3d-flip-book/2024-water-quality-report/)

## Views

- [Event Pre-Sales Check In](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/event-pre-sales-check-in/)
- [Business Registration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/business-registration/)
- [Ticket Instances](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/ticket-instances/)
- [Solicitor/Peddler License](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/solicitor-peddler-license/)
- [Campground Rentals](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/campground-rentals/)
- [Parade or Road Closure](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/parade-or-road-closure/)
- [Public Works Projects](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/public-works-projects/)
- [PW Projects Dash - Staff](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/pw-projects-dash-staff/)
- [Pre-Application Meeting Request](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/pre-application-meeting-request/)
- [Vehicle Parking Notification](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/vehicle-parking-notification/)
- [Mobile Vending](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/mobile-vending/)
- [Historical Appropriateness](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/historical-appropriateness/)
- [Fence Permit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/fence-permit-2/)
- [Type III or IV](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/type-iii-or-iv/)
- [Type I or II](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/type-i-or-ii/)
- [Floodplain Application](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/floodplain-application/)
- [Subdivision Application](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/subdivision-application/)
- [Vacation House Check](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/vacation-house-check/)
- [Right of Way Permit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/right-of-way-permit/)
- [Business License Application](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/business-license-application/)
- [Public Works Project Permit](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/public-works-project-permit/)
- [Water Meter Form](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/water-meter-form/)
- [Police Records Request](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/police-records-request/)
- [Taxicab License](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/taxicab-license/)
- [Sidewalk Eating Area](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/sidewalk-eating-area/)
- [Marijuana Business](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/marijuana-business/)
- [Lodging Tax Monthly Reporting](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/lodging-tax-monthly-reporting/)
- [Lodging Tax Registration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/lodging-tax-registration/)
- [Liquor License](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/liquor-license/)
- [Permit Refund Form](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/permit-refund-form/)
- [Committee Appointment Application](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/main-office-dashboard/)
- [Trespass Letter of Consent](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/trespass-letter-of-consent/)
- [Speaking Engagement Request](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/speaking-engagement-request/)
- [Utility Services Owner-Owner](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/utility-services-owner-owner/)
- [Utility Services Owner-Rental](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/utility-services-owner-rental/)
- [Utility Services -Tenant](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/utility-services-tenant/)
- [Rental Unit Violation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/rental-unit-violation/)
- [Ride Along Request](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/ride-along-request/)
- [Utility Services Discontinuation](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/utility-services-discontinuation/)
- [New Site Address Request](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/fence-permit/)
- [Museum - Upcoming Events](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/museum-upcoming-events/)
- [Volunteer Application](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/volunteer-application/)
- [Citizen Complaint](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/citizen-complaint/)
- [Security Camera Registration](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/view/security-camera-registration/)

## FAQs

- [When do I not need a building permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-not-need-a-buidling-permit/) - Blowing insulation into existing homes. Installing storm windows. Replacing interior wall, floor or ceiling covering, such as wallboard or sheet vinyl. Putting up shelving and cabinets. Installing gutters and downspouts. Replacing or repairing siding on a wall that is three feet or more from a property line. Replacing doors or windows in an existing opening.
- [How do I know if my contractor is licensed?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/how-do-i-know-if-my-contractor-is-licensed/) - Visit the link below to search for a contractor’s license number. http://search.ccb.state.or.us/search/
- [Why do I need to check to see if my contractor is licensed?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/why-do-i-need-to-check-to-see-if-my-contractor-is-licensed/) - Checking your contractor’s license can help you as a homeowner avoid potential scams and ensure that the work your contractor is doing is done correctly and up to code. Please visit the website below for more information about finding a reliable contractor and how to avoid construction fraud. https://www.oregon.gov/CCB/homeowner/Pages/reliablecontractor.aspx
- [When do I need a fence permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-need-a-fence-permit/) - Fence permits are required for any homeowner or contractor putting up a fence. Please be sure to review the fence permit carefully as there are certain restrictions to height, placement of fence, and material that can be used.
- [When do I need a mechanical permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-need-a-mechanical-permit/) - Mechanical work on one or two-family dwellings includes work on heating, cooling, or ventilation systems, including bath vents and wood stoves. Installation, alteration, or repair of gas piping between the meter and an appliance or other equipment, including all liquefied petroleum gas piping, is also considered mechanical work. A permit is required for the following:
- [When do I not need a plumbing permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-not-need-a-plumbing-permit/) - A plumbing permit is not required in the following circumstances: When a property owner does “ordinary minor repairs” to plumbing systems on his or her own property, which means repair, replacement, or maintenance of existing accessible fixtures, parts, and appliances and their related water and drain attachments. Do not alter an existing plumbing system without
- [When do I need a building permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-need-a-building-permit/) - A building permit is required to construct, enlarge, alter, move or demolish any one-or two-family dwellings or related structures. Examples include: Adding a room. Building, demolishing, or moving a carport or shed of more than 200 square feet. Finishing an attic, garage, or basement to make additional living space. Cutting a new window or door
- [When do I need a plumbing permit?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/when-do-i-need-a-plumbing-permit/) - A plumbing permit is required for the following items: Replacing water heaters. Altering piping inside a wall or beneath a floor and for plumbing in all new installations. Repairing, altering, or replacing freeze-damaged or leaking concealed piping (if new piping exceeds 3 feet). Remodeling or adding on to your one or two-family dwelling home when
- [Do I need a permit to build a playhouse, garden or storage shed?](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq-items/do-i-need-a-permit-to-build-a-playhouse-garden-or-storage-shed/) - You do not need a permit for an uninhabitable one-story detached accessory structure used as a tool and/or storage shed for a residence as long as the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet and the walls are no more than 10 feet measured. All detached accessory structures must maintain a minimum of 5

## Categories

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## Stats Types

- [view](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/view/)
- [Chrome](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/chrome/)
- [Windows](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/windows/)
- [Safari](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/safari/)
- [iPhone](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/iphone/)
- [Android](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/android/)
- [Macintosh](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/macintosh/)
- [event](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/wpa-stats-type/event/)

## FAQ Categories

- [Building Department](https://www.ci.independence.or.us/faq_category/building-department/)