Public Works

In the past, Sandy had some of the lowest wastewater rates in our area.  In fact, in many years over the past decade, billing rates did not increase at all even though system costs continued to rise.  That meant the City had a lot of ground to make up to make the system's finances sustainable. 

With the new increased rates, Sandy is about average relative to other cities in Clackamas County.  View a graph comparing monthly charges for a typical single-family household on the Water Systems Improvement page.

The City Council approved an assistance program to help lower-income individuals afford their utility bills.  Those who meet the income threshold can have the wastewater portion of their bills reduced by 50%.  For more information, visit the customer assistance program page. 

Also, during the COVID-19 response the City has made the decision to suspend late fees and water shut-offs for non-payment.  We understand this is a difficult time and we are mindful of the financial difficulties being experienced by our fellow residents.

Only fences in excess of seven (7) feet in height require a building permit.

We hope to have the 362nd & Bell Street project complete by the beginning of next year's school year (fall/winter 2023).

Yes.  A Sandy home owner may work on their property between the hours of 7:00 AM and 10:00 PM on weekdays, and from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends.  Please click on the following link for the official City of Sandy policy on construction hours.

Yes. ORS 244.040(2) provides a list of financial benefits that may be received. These include: 

• Official compensation 
• Reimbursement of expenses 
• Honorarium 
• Unsolicited awards for professional achievement 
• Contributions to a legal expense trust fund 
• Some gifts 

Please note, all of these items have specific definitions, and in order to be lawfully received, the financial benefit must meet the definition of the allowable item.

Some volunteers are public officials. By some estimates, there are up to 50,000 volunteer public officials in the State of Oregon. A volunteer is a “public official” if they meet one of these three criteria: 

1. The volunteer is elected or appointed to a governing body of a public body. 
2. The volunteer is appointed or selected for a position with a governing body or a government agency with responsibilities that include deciding or voting on matters that could have a pecuniary impact on the governing body, agency or other persons. 
3. The volunteer position includes all of the following: 
   1. Responsible for specific duties 
   2. The duties are performed at a scheduled time and designated place. 
   3. Volunteer is provided with the use of the public agency’s resources and equipment. 
   4. The duties performed would have a pecuniary impact on any person, business or organization served by the public agency.

For purposes of ORS Chapter 244, volunteers are not public officials if they perform such tasks as picking up litter on public lands, participating in a scheduled community cleanup of buildings or grounds, participating in locating and eradicating invasive plants from public lands and other such occasional or seasonal events.

Yes, Sandy's utility payment system does allow you to pay online as well as set up paperless billing. You will need your eight digit account number (00-0000-00), email and phone number to register.  Sign up or login here.

If it's a result of the city’s infrastructure failing then.. Yes.

If the water is determined to be the result of groundwater or an adjacent property shedding water onto yours, the City would not be involved.

AntFarm

AntFarm’s vision is to see all people healthy, live with purpose, and contribute to community well being. Their mission is to provide life-changing learning experiences for young people which create and connect a healthy, purposeful, and compassionate community.

Physical Address (location of their offices and cafe):

39140 Proctor Blvd

Sandy, OR 97055

Rental Assistance Team and the COVID Support Team: 

(503) 668-7962 Monday - Friday 9am -5pm for help and questions. 

Cafe and Youth Services Team:  (503) 668-9955

Axis Learning Center (Tutoring & more!):

13 computers are available for student or community use– to create and facilitate learning and access to information. We coordinate with our volunteer tutors for one-on-one support for students.

Community Connect: 

Community Connect is a volunteer program that provides services like mowing, yard maintenance, etc. for free for local seniors and community members who are not able to perform property maintenance due to age or disability. Call AntFarm at (503) 668-9955 to learn more and see if you are eligible.

YouthCore:

Our YouthCore employs young people to work on a variety of labor tasks with both personal homeowners, local farms and larger contracting agencies. Further developing the work skills of local youth.

https://antfarmyouthservices.com/
 

Todos Juntos

Todos Juntos is a local nonprofit with two sites here in Sandy. Their goal is to connect youth and their families with resources that will help them be successful in their communities and in school. Services include after school clubs, parenting resources and classes, homework help, and more.
 

Sandy Grade School Site:

http://www.todos-juntos.net/sandy-grade-school.html

Contacts:

Early Childhood Director:

Shawna Johnson: 503-341-3381

Email: shawnaj@todos-juntos.net

Early Childhood Coordinator:

Shara Sala: 541-797-8558

Email: Sharas@todos-juntos.net

Family Resource Coordinator:

April Dobson(bi-lingual English/Spanish): 503-320-0937

Email: aprild@todos-juntos.net 

Cedar Ridge Middle School Site:

http://www.todos-juntos.net/cedar-ridge-middle-school.html

Contacts:

Site Manager

Michelle Emery: 503-756-4931 

Email michelleemery2@gmail.com

Sandy’s Helping Hands

Sandy’s Helping Hands’ goal is to connect local volunteers with families and individuals in need. They also have a Sandy Emergency Assist Program to help families with urgent needs. Contact them directly by email, phone or Facebook for assistance.

Contact Information:

503-710-1082

Email

https://www.facebook.com/sandyshelpinghands

Second Home

Second Home matches volunteer host homes with unaccompanied high school students experiencing homelessness. By ensuring that the students have stable housing and ongoing support, they can focus on completing their secondary education and realize their full potential.

Contact:

Phone: (503) 221-1054

Email: brodrigues@emoregon.org

 secondhome@emoregon.org

https://emoregon.org/second-home/

The Living Room

The Living Room works with youth to support belonging, leadership, and engagement through Peer Support Services, drop-ins, access to resources, and community events. The Living Room strives to be a safe place for all to come and be accepted as they are.

Contact:

PO Box 332

Gladstone, OR 97027

Phone/SMS: (503) 825-2535

Email: info@thelivingroomyouth.org

Instagram

https://www.thelivingroomyouth.org/

Job Corps

Job Corps is a residential career training program with several locations within Oregon and Washington, including its Springdale Campus near Sandy. Job Corps students have access to room and board while they learn skills in specific training areas for up to three years. In addition to helping students complete their education, obtain career technical skills and gain employment, Job Corps also provides transitional support services, such as help finding employment, housing, child care, and transportation. Job Corps graduates either enter the workforce or an apprenticeship, go on to higher education, or join the military.

https://www.jobcorps.gov/

Developmental Programs Clackamas County

The Developmental Disabilities Program serves eligible adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities that live in Clackamas County. Services include service coordination, abuse investigation, intake and eligibility, and program development.

We strive to respect and maintain the health, safety, and dignity of the people we support.

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/developmental.html

Oregon Health Plan

The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) provides health care coverage for low-income Oregonians from all walks of life. This includes working families, children, pregnant women, single adults, seniors and more.

To apply or check on your application for OHP status, you can call or go online to fill out an application.

Contact Information:

OHP Customer Service – 800-699-9075

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/OHP/Pages/Apply.aspx

Khara Hillis, khara@konell.net, 503-519-3780

Our community is made of wonderful people with all different kinds of abilities and neurodiversity. For families and individuals it can sometimes be a challenge to find the support and services you need - here are some local resources that may be able to help:

DD & MH Provider of Oregon

"DD & MH Provider of Oregon is a small family owned Medicaid Agency in Sandy Oregon that has over twelve years of experience in the field. We provide Employment Supports, In-Home, and Community Inclusion Supports, Services and Life Skills for people with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities in order to obtain their self-directed goals. They strive to provide as many opportunities for volunteering, social events and building lifetime friendships. They believe that everyone can contribute to building a healthy and strong community."

Location and Contact Information:

39084 Proctor Blvd. Suite C

Sandy, OR 97055

Phone: 503-757-2884 or 503-427-8448

Open Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm

(Office currently closed to the public - please call to check in about services)

http://www.oregonprovider.com/

Developmental Programs Clackamas County

"The Developmental Disabilities Program serves eligible adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities that live in Clackamas County. Services include service coordination, abuse investigation, intake and eligibility, and program development.

We strive to respect and maintain the health, safety, and dignity of the people we support."

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/developmental.html

Clackamas County Family Caregiver Support Program

"We are focused on you, the Family Caregiver. We offer information. We can connect you with other programs. We can talk with you about services available to help YOU in your caregiving role.

You may be eligible for this program ff you are an unpaid caregiver caring for someone who is:

• any age and has Alzheimer's disease or other dementia
• at least 60 years old or older
• a child 18 years of age or younger and the caregiver is an older relative (not parent) who is 55 years of age or older
• an adult with a disability and the caregiver is a parent or an older relative who is 55 years of age or older

Call: 503-650-5622 to talk with someone from the Clackamas County Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) about the Family Caregiver Support Program."

If you want to use email, you can write to: clackamasadrc@clackamas.us. 

Clackamas County Behavioral Health Division

Clackamas County Urgent Mental Health Walk-Center and Crisis Line:

"We can connect you to urgent mental health and crisis care, as well as long-term support, counseling, safety screenings and more. 

Crisis services are available to anyone living in Clackamas county regardless of ability to pay or insurance plan and include:"

• 24-hour phone crisis intervention
• phone screening and referral to appropriate provider(s) based on insurance/payment source
• emergency (same day) or urgent (within 48 hours) intake appointments
• brief treatment sessions (3–6) for crisis stabilization
• community consultation, information and referral to other agencies or services
• The crisis program also consults with families, outpatient clinic staff and community members, law enforcement and local service providers who are involved with individuals in mental health crisis

Crisis services are also embedded in the Clackamas County Jail to help with release planning.

Phone: 503-655-8585

Hours:

Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday closed

*Please call ahead before coming to Clackamas MHC. You can reach us at 503-655-8585. You can also reach us through our front office line at 503-722-6200, where you can leave a message.

Location:

Ross Center near Clackamas Town Center.

11211 SE 82nd Ave. Suite O
Happy Valley, 97086

Non-Urgent Mental Health Services:

"If you are a Clackamas County resident in need of mental health services, we can help. We serve children, youth, families and adults who are experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties.

Services are available to Oregon Health Plan members or residents who don't have insurance."

Services:

• assessments or evaluation to help decide what services you need
• office-based counseling for individuals
• groups focusing on mental health conditions, life skills and symptom management
• medications for mental health conditions
• hospital care for mental illness
• job services for people managing severe mental health conditions
• in-home services for adults experiencing severe mental health conditions
• peer services and supports

Youth and families:

• skills training for parents and children
• community-based services for children and families experiencing severe mental health conditions

Phone: 503-742-5335

Oregon Health Plan

"The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) provides health care coverage for low-income Oregonians from all walks of life. This includes working families, children, pregnant women, single adults, seniors and more.

To apply or check on your application for OHP status, you can call or go online to fill out an application."

Contact Information:

OHP Customer Service – 800-699-9075

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/OHP/Pages/Apply.aspx

Residential accessory structures that are non-habitable, 200 square feet or smaller and no higher than 10 feet measured from the finished floor to the top of the top plate do not require a building permit.

Important Note: Garages, carports or like structures that have the ability to contain a motor vehicle require a building permit regardless of the size or height of the structure.

No. There are occasions when a public official engages in conduct that may be viewed as unethical, but that conduct may not be governed by Oregon Government Ethics law. Without an apparent statutory violation, the following are some examples of conduct by public officials that are not within the authority of the Commission to address:

• An elected official making promises or claims that are not acted upon.
• Public officials mismanaging or exercising poor judgment when administering public money.
• Public officials being rude or unmannerly.
• Public officials using deception or misrepresenting information or events.

While the conduct described above may not be addressed in Oregon Government Ethics law, public agency policies and procedures may prohibit or redress the behavior. Please contact the Commission staff if you need further clarification regarding how the Oregon Government Ethics law may apply to circumstances you may encounter.

No. Public officials who are relatives can be employed by the same public body at the same time, or serve on the same governing body of a public body at the same time. However, there are provisions prohibiting a public official from participating in the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, firing, or discharge of a relative to/from a paid position as a public official. Another statute prohibits a public official from directly supervising a relative who holds a paid position as a public official.

No. In general, public officials may obtain employment with a private employer or engage in private income producing activity of their own. However, they must not use the position they have as a public official to create the opportunity for additional personal income. They must also ensure that when they are engaged in personal income producing activities, there is a clear distinction between the use of personal resources and time and the use of the public body’s time and resources.

Yes we do.  Click on the following link for our "Dwelling Handrails" handout.

Yes. ORS 244.025 limits a public official, and relatives and household members of the public official, to each accepting no more than $50 worth of gifts in a calendar year, from each source that has a legislative or administrative interest in the official position of that public official.

However, if the source of the offered gift does not have a legislative or administrative interest in the official position, then the public official and his relatives and household members may accept unlimited gifts from that source. In addition, there a number of items that ORS 244.020(6)(b) excludes from the definition of a gift, and in the specific circumstances listed, those items can be accepted without limit.

Yes, the city removes volunteer trees, knocks down invasive species, and trims the grasses in most stormwater detention ponds. 

Domestic and sexual violence, child abuse, and elder abuse affect thousands of people every day.

If you or someone you know are experiencing abuse, or are unsure if they are experiencing abuse - there is hope. There are many different local organizations where you can find support, services, and healing.

Please Note: while all agencies listed provide confidential services - only some are able to provide completely confidential services as certain agencies may be required by mandatory reporting laws to report situations of abuse to law enforcement.

Your safety is most important - if it isn't safe to have your situation reported to law enforcement, or if you are not sure whether or not you want to make a report yet, Clackamas Women's Services can provide completely confidential services regardless of whether or not you want to involve law enforcement. Their advocates, by law, cannot report situations of abuse to law enforcement unless they have the consent of the survivor. (Information about mandatory reporting and confidentiality is listed here to ensure transparency and to support survivors in having as much control over their situation as possible).

Clackamas Women’s Services (CONFIDENTIAL SERVICES)

"We provide compassionate, confidential, and expert support to survivors experiencing and healing from these types of violence:

• Domestic Violence
• Sexual Violence
• Stalking
• Elder Abuse
• Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking

We work with survivors currently experiencing abuse to help establish safety, as well as survivors healing from abuse experienced in the past. All services are offered to the community are free of charge and confidential. Since we know violence can often cause displacement, people do not have to reside in Clackamas County for us to connect."

Reach us at our 24-hour Crisis and Support Line: 1-888-654-2288

Office located at:

A Safe Place Family Justice Center

256 Warner Milne Road

Oregon City, OR 97045

Office Phone: 503-655-8600

https://www.cwsor.org/

*Survivors: your computer and phone use can be monitored by an abuser. If this is a concern, please find a safer (public) computer or phone. 

A Safe Place Family Justice Center

"Since 2013, A Safe Place Family Justice Center has been helping individuals and families by providing support and safety planning for anyone experiencing family violence, sexual violence, stalking, or abuse against older adults and people with disabilities. Their trained and compassionate professionals from over nine agencies are available to meet with you by appointment or by walking into A Safe Place.*

Now able to offer limited in-person services to include protective orders and video court. Please call us at (503) 655-8600 to see if in-person or remote services work best for your situation."
 

Contact:
Monday – Thursday 8am – 4pm and Friday 8am – 1pm

Phone: (503) 655-8600

Confidential advocates are also available 24/7: (503) 654-2288.

*Due to COVID Appointments are necessary.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

https://www.asafeplacefjc.org/

*Survivors: your computer and phone use can be monitored by an abuser. If this is a concern, please find a safer (public) computer or phone. 

Children’s Center

"Our mission is to work with the community to end child abuse and neglect through assessment, treatment, and prevention.

For children who have experienced abuse, Children’s Center can provide trauma-informed, expert medical examinations; forensic interviews; family support services; and provides prevention and education in the community at large."

Contact:

Phone: 503-655-7725

Location:

1713 Penn Lane

Oregon City, OR 97045

https://www.childrenscenter.cc/

Oregon Abuse Hotline:

"If you think someone is being hurt or is in danger, call 911 immediately.

Report child abuse or elder abuse to the Oregon Abuse Hotline by calling: 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).

The Oregon Abuse Hotline receives calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This toll free number allows you to report abuse of any child or adult to the Oregon Department of Human Services. You can also report child abuse by calling a local police department, county sheriff, county juvenile department, or Oregon State Police."

Victim’s Rights Law Center

"The Victim Rights Law Center provides free, comprehensive legal services for sexual assault victims with civil legal issues in Massachusetts and Oregon. Our attorneys harness their knowledge from representing survivors to train professionals nationwide to improve the response to sexual violence."

Oregon Office:

Phone: (503) 274-5477
Toll Free: (855) 411-5477
Legal assistance intake line: x6

Live intake hours: 

Mondays 11:00 am – 1:00 pm (English and Español) 

Tuesdays 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm (English)

Wednesdays 2:00 – 4:00 pm (English and Español)

Fridays 9:00 – 11:00 am (English)

Location (may be able to meet remotely or more locally):

520 SW Yamhill, Suite 430
Portland, OR 97204

https://www.victimrights.org/

Reporting Abuse and Neglect of People with Developmental Disabilities:

Anyone that sees, hears, suspects, or has been told about abuse or neglect of someone with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability can make a report.

If you believe that abuse, neglect or financial exploitation may be occurring, you can call the statewide abuse reporting line: 1-855-503-SAFE

Reports will be screened to see if they meet criteria for investigation and reported to law enforcement when a suspected crime has been committed. Protective services assistance may be offered to alleged victims by Service Coordinators, Personal Agents, or other individuals that help provide support to protect health and safety.

Clackamas County abuse investigators provide training to individuals who experience intellectual or developmental disabilities, their families, and staff on how to identify and report abuse and neglect."

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/ddabuse.html/

The Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office - Victim Assistance Program 

"The Victim Assistance Program provides support to individuals who have suffered physical, emotional, and/or financial harm as a result of the commission of crime that is being investigated and/or prosecuted by police/District Attorney's office.

If you are a victim of crime, you can fill out the Victim Rights Request Form and return the form to our office 707 Main St., Suite 201, Oregon City, OR 97045. You may also fax it to 503-650-3598 or email it to victimsassistance@clackamas.us.  An advocate from the District Attorney’s Office will contact you to provide appropriate information or services during the process of your case.

To speak to someone before completing the form, please contact the Victim Assistance office for more information at: 503-655-8616."

Sewer lines are maintained by jetting (cleaning), enforcement of our FOG (fats, oils and grease) Program, CCTV and visual inspections, flow monitoring for inflow and infiltration, outreach of what is safe and what isn’t safe to flush or put down the drain. All these things help the city protect and maintain the sewer system for years to come. 

Simple food coloring dye can be dropped into a pipe opening. This should determine where the drain leads. The city can also perform smoke testing to determine if pipes are connected to the proper city infrastructure.

Inspections should be scheduled one of the following ways: Online: BuildingPermits.Oregon.gov; by Phone: 1-888-299- 2821; or, by Downloading the ORinspect app. 

Please note: the ePermittlng system is maintained by the state and any questions or issues should be directed to them. For assistance, contact 503-373-7396 or //Oregon.epermltting@oregon.gov/">Oregon.ePermltting@oregon.gov. 

Please refer to the City of Sandy's website here:  https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/publicworks/page/street-lights

After a storm, if limbs and debris will not fit in your yard debris container, the City has a free chipper rental program.

Click on the following link for more information about "How to Reserve the Chipper": https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/publicworks/page/how-reserve-chipper

The treatment plant was upgraded in 1998. It is capable of treating 1.25 million gallons per day during dry weather and up to 4 million gallons per day during wet weather. An activated sludge process is used followed by effluent filtration. Ultraviolet (UV) light is used to disinfect the treated wastewater eliminating chlorine disinfection, which tends to harm beneficial aquatic species.

Residential Standards:

1. Fences on corner lots. Any fence or retaining wall, constructed upon or adjacent to any property line that abuts two or more intersecting streets, shall not exceed 30 inches in height within the clear vision area.

2. Fences in a required front yard. The height of a fence or retaining wall in a required front yard shall not exceed 4 ft.

3. Fences - side and rear yards abutting streets. The height of a fence or retaining wall in a required side or rear yard abutting a public right-of-way shall not exceed 6 ft.

4. Fences - side and rear yards abutting other lots. The height of a fence or retaining wall in a required side or rear yard abutting other lots shall not exceed 8 ft.

5. Sight Obscuring Hedges. Trees or shrubs that form a sight-obscuring hedge shall comply with the same height requirement as a fence within the clear vision area. Deciduous trees separated by at least 15 ft. may grow to any height.

6. Front Yard Fences for Existing Dwellings on Major Arterials. The height of a fence in a required front yard for an existing dwelling (constructed prior to July 1, 1996) facing a major arterial shall not exceed a height of 6 ft. outside the clear vision area.

7. Fences on Through Lots. Gates are required in rear-yard fences on through-lots since it remains the property owners’ responsibility to maintain the area from the curb or edge of pavement to a proposed fence.

The city can come out to determine who the responsible party is.  Private drainage systems located from the curb to the house, are usually the homeowners responsibility. There are some public drainage systems in our community that will be the city's responsibility.

No.  The City will not remove a fallen tree, limb, or branch from a private owner's property or structures in most situations.  The property owner is responsible for debris cleanup, tree removal, and repair of damaged structures.  

If any structures were damaged, you may need a building permit for repairs. Please reach out to our Building Division at: building@ci.sandy.or.us

NO!! FOG's (Fats, Oil and grease) poured down kitchen drains accumulates inside sewer pipes.  As the FOG's builds up, it restricts the flow in the pipe and can cause sewer wastewater to back up into homes and businesses. Sanitary sewer backups result in high costs for cleanup and restoration. FOG's can also impact the city’s side of the sewer system, manholes can overflow into parks, yards, streets, and storm drains, allowing FOG to contaminate local waters, including drinking water. Exposure to untreated wastewater is a public-health hazard. It is in violation of SMC Sec. 13.12.080.

There is no fee to get a street tree removal permit but there is an application that can be submitted online at the following link: Online Street Tree Removal Application  OR you can fill out a hard copy application that can be found on our  Street Tree Removal webpage. 

Mental health and well being is important for everyone in our community, which has been highlighted even more during the pandemic.

Whether you are looking to talk to a therapist for the first time, are in a mental health crisis, or struggling to support someone you love who is dealing with mental illness, there are many different local resources that may be available to help:

Mental Health Services - Clackamas County

"If you are a Clackamas county resident in need of counseling services, we can help. We serve children, youth, families and adults who are experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties.

Services are available to Oregon Health Plan members or residents who don't have insurance."

Services:

• assessments or evaluation to help decide what services you need
• office-based counseling for individuals
• groups focusing on mental health conditions, life skills and symptom management
• medications for mental health conditions
• hospital care for mental illness
• job services for people managing severe mental health conditions
• in-home services for adults experiencing severe mental health conditions
• peer services and supports

For youth and families:

• skills training for parents and children
• community-based services for children and families experiencing severe mental health conditions

Non-emergency: 503-742-5335

https://www.clackamas.us/behavioralhealth/services.html

Urgent Mental Health Walk-In Center - Clackamas County

"Our Crisis Response Team consists of trained crisis clinicians who are able to respond to people in need of crisis services. Our response may include everything from telephone intervention to coordinating a same-day, emergency mental health assessment. Crisis services are available to anyone living in Clackamas county regardless of ability to pay or insurance plan and include:"

• 24-hour phone crisis intervention
• phone screening and referral to appropriate provider(s) based on insurance/payment source
• emergency (same day) or urgent (within 48 hours) intake appointments
• brief treatment sessions (3–6) for crisis stabilization
• community consultation, information and referral to other agencies or services
• The crisis program also consults with families, outpatient clinic staff and community members, law enforcement and local service providers who are involved with individuals in mental health crisis

https://www.clackamas.us/behavioralhealth/urgentmentalhealth

Location:

Ross Center near Clackamas Town Center.

11211 SE 82nd Ave. Suite O

Happy Valley, 97086

Monday - Friday 9am - 7pm

Saturday 10am - 7pm

Please call ahead before coming to Clackamas MHC - you can reach us at: 503-655-8585. You can also reach us through our front office line at: 503-722-6200, where you can leave a message.

We're still available 24/7 for crisis phone support through the Clackamas County Crisis and Support Line: 503-655-8585.

Please call or check this website for future updates.

Mental Health Connection - Clackamas County

"Hope and connection are important in these trying times. Our Crisis and Support Line phone number is available 24/7. This number is not just a crisis line… the staff there can provide support for anyone who might be worried or anxious about what is going on.

Clackamas County Mental Health Center is now open with reduced hours (10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday). We are scheduling telephone and video meetings only at this time (no in-person appointments). Please call 503-655-8585 to schedule if you are in need of urgent mental health support."

Call: 503-655-8585. We’re here for you.

https://www.clackamas.us/mentalhealthconnection

National Alliance on Mental Illness of Clackamas County (NAMI Clackamas)

"NAMI Clackamas is a grassroots organization by and for people impacted by mental illness, whether in themselves or a family member.​ Most of our services are provided by peers...that is, people who have "been there" and "done that".​

Everything we offer is available at no cost to the individual.​"

NAMI HELPLINE:  

503-344-5050 or text "NAMI" to 741741

Location:

10202 SE 32nd Ave., Suite 501

Milwaukie, OR 97222

Office hours: 10am - 6pm

Online Support Group information: https://www.namicc.org/

No hablan ingles? 

latinxoutreach@namicc.org

Folk Time

"Folk Time is a monthly community meeting (pre-COVID), where members decide on activities for the coming month. It creates space for socializing with others to help people with mental health diagnoses prevent relapse and have a higher level of life satisfaction. 

Rural Outreach Social Program offers programs to Clackamas County in the cities of Sandy, Molalla, and Estacada. The Rural Outreach Program meets regularly by coordinated events within the community."

Hours of operation: Tues 10:00am-1pm Thurs 2pm to 5pm Fri hours and outings vary

Address: Locations vary based on participant engagement.

Contact: Social Programs Lead, TaMara Edens:tedens@folktime.org"> tedens@folktime.org

https://folktime.org/social-programs/

Veterans Crisis Line:

"Are you a Veteran in crisis or concerned about one?

Connect with the Veterans Crisis Line to reach caring, qualified responders with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Many of them are Veterans themselves. This service is free, confidential and available 24/7, 365 days a year. Anyone who is a Veteran, all Service members, National Guard and Reserve, and their family members and friends can access this line."

Contact Information:

Call: 1-800-273-8255 and press 1

Text: 838255

You can also chat online with responders via their website:

https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/

Senior Companion Program

"Senior Companion Program (SCP) offers support to homebound seniors and adults with disabilities in Clackamas County. There is no charge for services. Our program helps individuals live independently for as long and safe as possible.

Trained Senior Companion volunteers help individuals in need of assistance. Our volunteers become companions for seniors to address certain needs, such as:"

• help clients get to critical appointments and services
• assist with household needs
• participate and encourage social activities
• help clients maintain independence

https://www.clackamas.us/socialservices/companions.html

Oregon Health Plan

"The Oregon Health Plan (OHP) provides health care coverage for low-income Oregonians from all walks of life. This includes working families, children, pregnant women, single adults, seniors and more.

To apply or check on your application for OHP status, you can call or go online to fill out an application."

Contact Information:

OHP Customer Service – 800-699-9075

https://www.oregon.gov/oha/HSD/OHP/Pages/Apply.aspx

https://www.namicc.org/

Online Support Group information: https://namior.org/nami-oregon-online-support-groups/

Many factors can lead to different taste characteristics.

Seasonal algae blooms in source water and chlorine residual levels are just a few examples of things that can lead to taste variations.

This application was approved through the Development Services Department (Planning).  File No. 22-003 FSH can be found at the below path:

Planning File No. 22-003 FSH

The city can remove the contaminants with it's vacuum truck.

No.  The property owner is responsible. Property owners may legally prune encroaching tree limbs and branches back to their property line but cannot  do so in such a way that will remove more than 25 percent of the tree canopy.

In addition to the monthly fee increases, new commercial and residential development projects will pay their fair share for the required sewer investments. System Development Charges, which are paid by new development, were increased from $1,834 to $4,889 for each new home in 2020, and are proposed to increase to $5,157 in 2021.  View the Wastewater System Improvements page.

• The mayor of a city signs a contract obligating the city to pay for janitorial services provided by a business owned by a relative of the mayor. 
• A city treasurer signs a city check payable to an office supply business that is owned by a relative. 
• A city billing clerk alters water use records so that the amount billed to the clerk’s parents will be less than the actual amount due. 
• A volunteer firefighter borrows the fire district’s power washer to prepare the exterior of the volunteer’s personal residence for painting. 
• A county public works employee stores a motor home that is owned by the employee’s parents in a county building used for storing heavy equipment. 
• An employee of a state agency has a private business and uses the agency’s computer to advance the business by promoting, corresponding and managing the activities of the private business. 
• A school district superintendent approves and signs her own request for reimbursement of personal expenses the superintendent incurred when conducting official business.

As defined earlier, public officials become public officials through employment, appointment, election or volunteering. ORS 244.040(1) prohibits every public official from using or attempting to use the position held as a public official to obtain a financial benefit, if the opportunity for the financial benefit would not otherwise be available but for the position held by the public official.

The prohibited financial benefit can be either an opportunity for gain or to avoid an expense.

Each public official is prohibited from using the position as a public official to receive certain financial benefits. In addition, each public official is prohibited from using or attempting to use the official position to obtain financial benefits for a relative or a member of the public official’s household, or for a business with which the public official, a relative, or a member of the public official’s household is associated.

There are a variety of actions that could be a prohibited use or attempted use of an official position. The use of a position could be voting in a public meeting, placing a signature on a government agency’s document, making a recommendation, making a purchase with government agency funds, or conducting personal business on a government agency’s time or with a government agency’s resources such as computers, vehicles, heavy equipment or office machines.

Oregon Government Ethics law identifies and defines two types of conflicts of interest: actual conflict of interest and potential conflict of interest.

The difference between an actual conflict of interest and a potential conflict of interest is determined by the words “would” and “could.”

A public official is met with an actual conflict of interest when the public official participates in action that would affect the financial interest of the official, the official’s relative or a business with which the official or a relative of the official is associated.

A public official is met with a potential conflict of interest when the public official participates in action that could affect the financial interest of the official, a relative of that official or a business with which the official or the relative of that official is associated.

Operation and maintenance of the sewer system. Making sure the wastewater reaches the treatment plant.

In brief, a conflict of interest when an official action by the public official could or would result in a financial benefit or detriment to the public official, a relative of the public official or a business with which either is associated.

A matter is a statutory conflict of interest when both of these conditions are met: 

1. The official act will cause a personal monetary gain or monetary loss 
2. The monetary gain or loss will be to the public official, a relative of the public official, or a business with which the public official or the relative is associated.

Stormwater detention in the designed control of stormwater runoff. Detention facilities regulate the discharge rate of water and in some cases allow for permeation or evaporation.

It could be a sewer manhole or a storm manhole. Both systems are not always located in the road. Sewer and storm systems work off gravity, so via a utility easement. 

A manhole may be in your back yard due to the engineering and design to achieve gravity flow to the next manhole.

Call Public Works 9am-5pm at (503)-668-5310, if after hours, please call (503) 972-8193. 

*Please provide the location of the manhole and any other helpful information.

Please click on the following link for more information on tree pruning: https://www.ci.sandy.or.us/sites/default/files/fileattachments/public_works/page/6251/22735.pdf

The city uses a pavement management program that is calibrated every few years and assesses a value to every roadway.

Sandy strives to keep the average across all roadways above a value of 80. Every budget cycle, money is allocated to re-pave or re-surface a select number of streets to help maintain our roadway management average.

Oregon DEQ has mandated that Sandy discontinue wastewater effluent to Tickle Creek. Sandy is exploring all options for treatment and discharge of wastewater in it's effort to find the most fiscally responsible option.

In winter, treated water is returned to Tickle Creek (which goes into the Clackamas River). Higher winter flows from rain and snow increase the creek’s capability to accept treated wastewater without harming aquatic life. During the summer, the city produces highly treated “recycled water” that is used to irrigate plants at a nearby nursery. The city is proud to be conserving water resources through this longstanding, successful water recycling program. The effluent treated water meets DEQ permitted requirements when it is discharged into Tickle Creek.

“Public official” is defined in ORS 244.020(14) as any person who is serving the State of Oregon or any of its political subdivisions or any other public body as defined in ORS 174.109 as an elected official, appointed official, employee or agent, irrespective of whether the person is compensated for the services. 
You are a public official if you are:

• Elected or appointed to an office or position with a state, county or city government.
• Elected or appointed to an office or position with a special district.
• An employee of a state, county or city agency or special district.
• An unpaid volunteer for a state, county or city agency or special district.
• Anyone serving the State of Oregon or any of its political subdivisions, such as the State Accident Insurance Fund or the Oregon Health & Science University.

Please reach the Planning Department at planning@ci.sandy.or.us to assist in determining if a tree is a street tree.  Please include your address along with a picture of the tree and where it's located, if possible.

Please refer to Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) for questions related to the state highway. You can also click on the Trip Check website here:  https://tripcheck.com/

Ryan Wood ~ Rwood@ci.sandy.or.us
Matt Degner ~ Mdegner@ci.sandy.or.us
OR
PW@ci.sandy.or.us
Phone: 503-668-5310

Please contact our Utility Clerk at:  503-668-7449 to discuss your water bill.

If a property has unsafe or damaged concrete surfaces, including the curb and sidewalk, it's the homeowners responsibility to make necessary repairs.

The sanitary lateral is a shared line. The homeowner owns and maintains the segment from the home to the right-of-way. The City owns and maintains the portion from the mainline to the back of the right-of-way.

Uncertified woodstoves burn about 70 percent dirtier than certified woodstoves. They also burn far less efficiently and require more fuel than newer, certified stoves. These older, polluting stoves can remain in service for dozens of years. Removing them from service would help Oregon's efforts to restore and preserve healthy air and save homeowners money.

The most likely scenario is that a downstream pipe is blocked.  Certain stormwater catch basins are designed with no outlet and only have an inlet. These catch basins fill up and are designed to convey rainwater down the curb gutter to the next catch basin.

Multiple factors can lead to an elevated water bill. The utility bill you receive is split into different sections. Water is billed from what is captured through your services water meter (billed at the nearest 100 cubic feet). Wastewater is billed based on the amount of water that went through the meter and then presumably down a connected drain. A leaking toilet or pipe fitting are among the most common reasons why a water bill will rise.

*Call 503-668-7449 to discuss your water usage with our utility clerk.

**Remember to carefully irrigate in the growing months, irrigation systems that over water will cause a rise in your bill also.

To place a hold, go to lincc.org. Click the Place Hold button for any item after performing a search.  If you are not already logged into lincc.org, you will see a login screen when clicking on the Place Hold button. Please enter your library card number and PIN, then click the Log In button.

Yes.  The website indexes web pages as well as PDFs, Microsoft Office documents, and text documents.

Residential accessory structures that are over 200 square feet or over 10 feet high measured from the finished floor to the top of the top plate need a building permit.

• Because of its deteriorated condition, the existing pool would require extensive repairs to meet the community’s future aquatic needs.  In September 2019, City consultants estimated that it would require $9.5 million to repair and restore the existing pool facility for 15-20 years of additional service - the cost estimate would be higher in today’s dollars. 

• Regardless of the repair cost, the existing pool cannot meet the long-term aquatic needs of the community due to its configuration. 

  It doesn't make sense to invest millions into a pool that can't meet our long term needs.

  As stated in the PETF report, “the existing natatorium and pool vessel [...] does not provide a separate recreation pool as desired by the PETF for more robust aquatics programming.”  Seniors and families with children in the community prioritize a separate recreation pool because, as the report states, “the combination of shallow water and warm temperature in a recreation pool provides opportunities for a wide range of community programming including water fitness classes, swimming lessons, therapy, and interactive water play.”  Such amenities could not be offered in the existing pool facility.  This led the PETF to instead recommend construction of a new pool facility with separate recreation and competition pools that can appropriately serve the whole community.

• Proceeding with demolition now is the prudent thing to do.  Because it's clear that the old pool facility cannot meet Sandy's aquatic needs anymore, proceeding with demolition now, rather than waiting any longer, is the most responsible use of taxpayer dollars.  Demolition costs will only grow more expensive in the future.

To renew materials, go to lincc.org. Log in at the top of the screen, click My Account, and then click the Checkouts tab. Check the boxes next to the items you wish to renew by clicking on the square to the left of the item title. Click the Renew button.

• You may renew everything at once by checking the box next to the word "Select All" before clicking the Renew button.
• Most items will renew 5 times if no one else has placed a hold on the item.

Yes.  Please click on the following link for our Design Criteria handout.

On June 3, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution 2024-11 which allows up to 570 ERUs. This resolution has the effect of adopting a new moratorium and repealing the existing moratorium, rather than being an extension of the existing moratorium, because state law requires a new moratorium be adopted in order to make any modifications to the moratorium terms. On December 2, 2024, the City Council adopted Resolution 2024-24 which extends the moratorium adopted with Resolution 2024-11 by another six months. 

This new moratorium could last up to two (2) years if extended. The City also has the ability to replace the current moratorium with a new moratorium if necessary.

• If the homeowner/seller has an uncertified woodstove device in any building on the residential property being sold, he or she must remove and destroy it before the close of sale.
• The seller must also give you, the buyer, the seller's disclosure form indicating whether there is a wood burning device on the property.
• It is the seller's responsibility to remove the uncertified wood burning device unless you and the seller agree that you, the buyer, will be responsible for removing the stove. If so, you must remove and destroy the uncertified wood burning device within 30 days after the closing date of sale.
• The buyer must also:
  • Get a receipt indicating you have destroyed the stove.
  • Submit the notification form to DEQ.

For more information on removal of woodstoves please visit the State of Oregon Website or contact them by phone at 503-229-5696

The pool is severely deteriorated and is no longer in a safe condition. 

In 2019 after the initial Community Campus community center planning project did not go forward,  the City asked our consultant for a cost estimate to renovate just the pool (not including any other buildings on the campus site).  The estimate provided to the City in 2019 for renovating the old pool was $9.5 million.   

It doesn't make sense to spend such a large amount of money to renovate a pool that would not meet the long-term needs of the community anyway, because it is not a large enough facility to include a warm water recreation pool in addition to a lap swim pool. 

Yes.   You can exclude words by using the minus sign (-).   In order to find the results of all pages that have alarm in the result but not permit, you would search for alarm -permit.

That’s generally true, but this is a special case.  Under Oregon law, (ORS 197.505 to 197.540), cities may impose a moratorium on development when they can demonstrate that a “shortage of public facilities” exists, provided they comply with a number of specific requirements established under the statute.

The large cost of constructing a new indoor pool would require new property taxes.  

The new pool proposal recommended by the PETF was estimated (in 2021 dollars) to cost $26.6 million to construct.  If the City had tried to construct the project, the necessary bond would have cost a typical Sandy homeowner $425 more on their property tax bill.  It's important to remember that the City has a much smaller tax base than the school district which previously owned the pool, meaning that the cost burden on each taxpayer is relatively higher.   

Pools also have extremely high operating costs. Even with full programming, a pool would not generate enough revenue to cover its expenses.  If the City was operating a pool like the one recommended by the PETF, it would require a $1 million operating subsidy from the General Fund in each biannual budget.  The City currently does not have the capacity to provide such a subsidy without substantial cuts to other areas of the General Fund (which pays for services like Police and Parks), or raising new operating revenue through some other means.

In addition to taxes and operating subsidies, pool users would still need to pay some level of fees for admission, program registration, and/or rentals to make the budget balance. 

A potential solution to the funding challenge could involve the citizen-led formation of a new special district with its own taxing authority and dedicated revenue, which would require voter approval.

Clackamas County conducts an “homelessness count” every two years to help communities understand the current state of homelessness throughout the county. 

COVID-19 has presented difficulties in getting an accurate count for 2020, but looking at the January 2019 count tells us that:

• The number of people experiencing homelessness within Clackamas County was 1,166, a 9% increase from 2017
• Of this count, 48 adults were recorded here in Sandy
• There was a significant decrease in the number of unsheltered people counted, likely because Clackamas County operated more warming shelters during the winter of 2018-19. (The count includes anyone who doesn’t have permanent, stable housing.)
• Even with the decrease in unsheltered count, our county has still seen a 48% increase in how many people are struggling with chronic homelessness since the 2017 count.

Some facts about the current situation of homelessness in our county:

• Unaffordable rent, unemployment, eviction, interpersonal conflict (such as domestic violence) and mental or emotional health issues were the most common problems faced by those who told us what caused them to leave their last living arrangement
• People of color are disproportionately experiencing homelessness in our county
• The majority of those surveyed have been Clackamas County residents for two or more years, and primarily live in Oregon City, Clackamas, Molalla, Milwaukie, Sandy, Estacada or Canby

Any recreational court may be enclosed by a wire fence not exceeding 12 ft. in height provided that no part of the court fence is within 20 ft. of any street.

A swimming pool, hot tub or other man-made outside body of water, which has a depth greater than 18 inches shall be enclosed with a fence not less than 4 ft. and not more than 8 ft. in height. If located on or surrounded by a deck, the deck shall be enclosed with a railing with a height of not less than 4 feet and not more than 8 feet. The fence or railing shall not have any openings, holes or gaps larger than three inches square, except for doors or gates. Any gate shall be equipped with a selfclosing, self-latching device. A dwelling unit and/or accessory building may form part of the enclosure.

Exception: This regulation does not apply to wetland areas and storm water detention facilities. However, fencing requirements may be imposed through the design review process.

There are a variety of resources available for individuals who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of experiencing homelessness. 

2-1-1 is a great source of information about local resources and services in our area that is completely confidential. They keep up to date information about what services are available and can connect you to expert, caring help and support for your particular needs.

There are three ways you can connect with 211:

• Call 2-1-1 or (503) 222-5555
• Text your zip code to 898-211
• Search for resources online on the 2-1-1 website

A more complete list of local resources is available here.

Homelessness affects our whole community in many different ways and the City is committed to finding positive solutions for everyone. Below is some information about who to call and what to expect from the City in response to reports about camping in undesignated areas:

Campsites on Public Property:

If you come across a campsite in an undesignated area or trash that needs to be cleaned up, please call the Sandy Police Department non-emergency dispatch line at 503-655-8211 or use the MySandy app to report the issue.

If the camp is inhabited, please do not engage or make contact with those camping. This is for your safety and for the safety of those camping.

Once a report has been received, the Sandy Police Department will then determine next steps for handling the situation in line with current legal requirements. These next steps could include:

• Site visit from the Sandy Police Department Homelessness Liaison Officer
• Problem-solving the issue with the campsite occupants and referral to relevant social services
• As a last resort, possible enforcement actions such as posting a site for cleanup, and citations for trespassing, littering, etc.

What does it mean to "post" a campsite?

When we post a campsite for cleanup, a formal notice is issued to the occupant(s) that camping at that particular location is prohibited. This process gives the person(s) a chance to clean up and leave the site on their own.

After the time period of the "post" has expired, the site is revisited by the police department and the occupants are required to leave at that point if they have not already.

PLEASE NOTE: In locations that belong to ODOT, the City must follow ODOT camp posting requirements which allow for cleanup of belongings no sooner than 10 days and no later than 19 days from the date the site is posted for cleanup. There are some exceptions that would allow for cleanup within 24 hours, but those are reserved for severe situations.

If there is an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1

Absolutely.  The increased rates are necessary for the City to secure the financing necessary to make the required system improvements, which are already underway.  We’ve already invested over $30 million into rehabilitating the sewer collection system and upgrading the treatment plant.  That said, we are pursuing all possible opportunities for grant funding and alternative financing to keep rates as low as possible for customers.  We’ve secured $16 million in state and federal grants and over $40 million in low interest loans so far for Sandy Clean Waters, we've been accepted for a Federal Water Infrastructure and Financing Act (WIFA) loan with low interest and favorable terms.

Homelessness affects our whole community in many different ways and the City is committed to finding positive solutions for everyone. Below is some information about who to call and what to expect from the City in response to reports about camping on private property.

Campsites on Private Property:

If you come across a campsite on your private property please call the Sandy Police Department non-emergency dispatch line at 503-655-8211 or use the MySandy app to report the issue.

If the camp is inhabited, please do not engage or make contact with those camping. This is for your safety and for the safety of those camping.

Once a report has been received, the process for the Sandy Police Department looks different than with camping issues on public property:

• The police department can trespass and remove camp site occupants without a 24 hour waiting period
• The department will still try to provide assistance and resource referrals to those experiencing homelessness

If there is an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1

Fill out the online volunteer application.

If you have any questions about volunteering, please contact Elaine Russell at the Sandy Library by phone at (503) 668-5537 or by email at erussell@ci.sandy.or.us.  

No electrically charged or sharp-pointed fencing such as razor wire (other than barbed wire fencing) shall be constructed or maintained within the city limits.

Water conservation is always a good practice.  In addition to reducing flows to the treatment plant, conserving water helps the environment and lowers your monthly utility bill.  The Regional Water Providers Consortium has water conservation tips and advice available on their website at https://www.regionalh2o.org/water-conservation.

Proctoring is offered at the Sandy Public Library when space and staff time are available Mondays through Fridays from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.  Weekend proctoring is unavailable.
Procedure

• Scheduling is dependent upon when a staff member responsible for administering the exams is on duty. Arrangements must be made ahead of time, so that there is adequate time for delivery of the exam to the Library. Library staff will determine whether they have the available resources to proctor an exam and may decline, at any time, if they do not have the staff available or the exam does not meet the guidelines listed here.
• To schedule a time to have your exam proctored, fill out the online form.
• We require at least one (1) week notice prior to the desired testing date; more lead time is preferred.

The student must:

• Have a LINCC library card to receive proctoring services.
• Make all arrangements with the institution giving the exam.
• Contact his/her institution to be sure that Library staff proctoring exams meet criteria set by the institution.
• Arrange for delivery of the exam. Library staff cannot make these arrangements for you.
• Contact the Library to verify exam information has been received and to make final arrangements for the exam date.

The Library Staff member will:

• Ensure that the person taking the exam meets all requirements, such as verifying ID and whether the student has any accompanying materials.  Exams may be written on paper or taken online.
• Provide a computer to use for online testing. Personal laptops are permitted, depending upon the institution’s requirements. 
• Discard exams not taken by the student within one month..

Other local proctoring options:
The online service www.ProctorU.com, where you can have tests proctored via webcam.

"Sit-lie" policies have been used in the past to try and prevent people from sitting or lying on public sidewalks. Such policies were ruled unconstitutional by a US District Court decision in Anderson v. City of Portland.

If the addition doesn’t necessitate modifications to your sanitary sewer connection that would increase flows into the sewer system then the moratorium should have no effect on your plans to expand your house. Please contact the Building Division at building@cityofsandy.com or at (503) 489-2173 to discuss permit requirements.