Astoria, OR — The Astoria City Council has decided to hold off on making updates to the city’s system development charge (SDC) program, which was first implemented in 2023 to help offset the cost of expanding public infrastructure as the city grows. At a meeting on Monday night, city leaders had been scheduled to review a proposed increase in the wastewater system development charge and conduct a one-year review of SDC unit rates. However, the council opted to delay these changes.
The SDC program was designed to ensure that developers contribute to the cost of expanding critical infrastructure—such as wastewater systems, water supplies, roads, and stormwater management—necessary to accommodate new construction and population growth. The wastewater charge, in particular, has been a focal point for city leaders, as it helps fund upgrades to the city’s aging infrastructure to support future development.
While no immediate changes to the rates were made, the council discussed the importance of ensuring that the SDC fees accurately reflect the true costs of infrastructure expansion. Council members expressed a desire to gather more information and continue evaluating the program before making any decisions that could impact developers and taxpayers.
The proposed increase to the wastewater SDC has been a point of concern for developers, who argue that rising charges could further drive up the cost of construction in the area. On the other hand, city officials maintain that the adjustments are necessary to keep pace with the growing demand for public services and infrastructure, which must be expanded as new homes, businesses, and developments are built.
As the city continues to grow, the SDC program is expected to play a central role in funding the infrastructure required to support that growth. Council members indicated they would revisit the issue in the coming months after further review and consultation with stakeholders.
The delay in updates reflects the city’s commitment to ensuring that the SDC program remains fair and effective while balancing the needs of both developers and the community.
