City Of West Linn Receives 2026 Good Governance Award (Photo) - 04/30/26
WEST LINN, OR – April 30, 2026 – The City of West Linn is proud to announce it has been honored with the League of Oregon Cities’ (LOC) 2026 Good Governance Award in recognition of its Waterfront Community Vision Plan. The award was presented during the LOC Local Government Spring Conference in Pendleton, Oregon.
The Good Governance Award highlights progressive and innovative city operations and services across Oregon. West Linn was selected for its comprehensive and community-driven approach to long-term planning along the Willamette River.
“We’re very honored to accept this award on behalf of the City of West Linn,” said Senior Planner Darren Wyss. “A special thanks goes out to the West Linn community, our partners, and our stakeholders. Their involvement is what made this plan possible.”
Wyss noted the breadth of engagement that shaped the plan: “We held seven in‑person engagement events with roughly 700 participants, convened 18 meetings with property owners, stakeholders, and tribal representatives, attended 40 civic group meetings, and saw more than 3,200 visits to the project website when the draft plan was released. Two online surveys also received more than 800 responses. The time‑tested act of meeting people where they are really worked for us.”
Waterfront Community Vision Plan
The Waterfront Community Vision Plan represents a multi-year effort to engage the community in shaping the future of approximately 275 acres of riverfront. The plan integrates land use and zoning strategies, multimodal transportation improvements, and creative financing approaches to guide development.
A central goal of the plan is to reconnect residents with their riverfront while honoring the area’s rich Indigenous and industrial heritage. The initiative also advances environmental stewardship alongside economic vitality, ensuring sustainable growth for future generations.
Public participation was a cornerstone of the process. The City prioritized transparency, accessibility, and education through a wide range of engagement opportunities, including open houses, neighborhood meetings, civic presentations, and online surveys. This inclusive approach helped ensure that community voices were reflected throughout the planning process.
About the League of Oregon Cities
Founded in 1925, the League of Oregon Cities is a voluntary association representing all 241 of Oregon’s incorporated cities. The LOC supports city governments through legislative advocacy, policy development, intergovernmental relations, training, technical assistance, and publications.
For more information about the Waterfront Community Vision Plan, visit yourwestlinn.com/waterfront-community-vision
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