The council commenced the meeting by honoring Core Fitness and Performance as the city’s Business of the Year. The fitness center, a family-owned establishment, was praised for its comprehensive programs catering to adults, seniors, and children. The representative from Core Fitness emphasized the center’s role in boosting the local economy through hosting events that draw visitors to Newport, thereby benefiting nearby businesses such as the North Pole and Clover Leaf.

Following the recognition, the council listened to a presentation on the Newport Community Garden, which has been a staple since its establishment in 2011. Representatives Susan Lindu and Marge Maroneus recounted the garden’s relocation in 2017 to a new site at the corner of 4th Avenue and 15th, chosen for its suitability for long-term use and potential for protective fencing. The garden’s innovative soil improvement techniques, including the use of augers and cover crops, were highlighted as solutions to the site’s hard pan soil issues. The representatives proudly reported a record donation of over 3,000 pounds of produce to the Friends in Need food shelf.

The council also received a presentation on the Newport Community Garden’s role in addressing the rising demand at the local food shelf, which now serves approximately 550 clients every two weeks. The speaker underscored the importance of community involvement, noting an increase in volunteers and encouraging further participation. The council was reminded of the garden’s “giving garden” initiative, which dedicates half of its plots to growing food for the food shelf.

In matters of infrastructure, the council discussed the Washington County project for pavement preservation on County State Aid Highway 38. The project entails resurfacing and trail improvements over a four-mile stretch, with construction set to commence in mid-summer 2026. The council addressed concerns about the detour plan for eastbound traffic, which will reroute vehicles onto local streets, including High Street and 10th Avenue. A council member expressed concerns about the detour’s impact on traffic flow, prompting assurances from the engineer that proper signage and communication strategies would be implemented.

The meeting further tackled the County Road 74 improvements project, a comprehensive reconstruction plan with a city cost participation of $248,570 over five years. The council approved a cost-share agreement with Washington County, which includes maintenance responsibilities for a new trail along the corridor. Additionally, the council approved extended work hours for the project, acknowledging the need to meet tight construction schedules.

The council also adopted numerous updates to the city’s land use regulations and zoning ordinances. These updates included a streamlined land use table and clarified processes for site plan reviews and minor subdivisions. The zoning ordinance revisions involved a shift towards more inclusive language, the removal of a supermajority vote requirement for zoning amendments, and the expansion of the B2 district to include additional uses. The updates were part of a broader effort to align the zoning code with Newport’s vision and statutory requirements.

A public hearing on the zoning code updates allowed residents to share their concerns, including property tax implications and the preservation of certain zoning areas. The council acknowledged the value of public input in shaping the updates and emphasized the collaborative process behind the planning efforts.

Finally, the council deliberated on the environmental assessment worksheet (EAW) for the Bailey Farms Business Park, a 36-acre project involving industrial, multifamily, and commercial developments. The EAW process involved consultation with various agencies, which provided feedback on environmental considerations and infrastructure coordination. The council adopted a resolution declaring that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was unnecessary, based on the findings and agency comments received.