Our Mission

Provide prompt and efficient legal services to Council, Mayor, City Manager, all City Departments, Planning Commission, and Columbia Gateway Urban Renewal Agency.

The Legal Department:

• Provides general counsel services;
• Performs legal research to inform City decision-making;
• Manages City compliance with the Oregon Public Records Law;
• Maintains and tracks the City’s active agreements;
• Drafts resolutions and ordinances implementing Council policy and Staff direction;
• Enforces The Dalles Municipal Code;
• Represents the City in administrative hearings and land use proceedings;
• Ensures the City’s compliance with the Oregon Public Meetings Law;
• Coordinates with the City’s insurer to manage the City’s legal defenses;
• Engages special counsel when necessary to protect the City’s interests;
• Negotiates real property transactions and other City dealings;
• Prepares deeds, easements, agreements, and other legal instruments;
• Reviews pending legislation and relevant judicial opinions to confirm the City’s legal currency; and Investigates complaints and liabilities impacting the City’s legal interests.