If you've read the Press Herald or the Forecaster recently, you're familiar with the issue here: a developer is contemplating a 6-story condo project that could block the views from Fort Sumner. I italicize could because no plans have yet been submitted to the city for approval and the design of the proposed building is not yet final. Needless to say, the view from the park at Fort Sumner is iconic in the city and numerous residents have contacted me to express their concerns. 

This evening, I was able to meet with the developer and other interested parties. As promised (to those who have contacted me with concerns), here is an update of where things stand at present.  

Over the past week I've not only received complaints about the odor emanating from the East End Wastewater Treatment facility, I've smelled it. That's how I know it has, in fact, been providing a little more olfactory stimulation than usual of late.

The aroma doesn't often waft its way down to my home in East Bayside, so I usually don't encounter it unless I go running or biking along the East End Trail. I do both of those things quite often, though, so I am familiar with the typical smell level of the facility. 

Some level of smell is to be expected from a wastewater treatment facility, of course, and the benefits provided to the community by wastewater treatment far outweigh the inconvenience of the smell. However, the increased odor as well as concerns from District One constituents about the potential for health risks associated with it prompted me to contact officials at the Portland Water District for information.