The idea of creating a neighborhood association had been talked about for many years by members of the Nye Beach community. An initial set of by-laws, intended to start the process, was submitted to the City of Newport in 2018. This prompted a request to the city attorney to determine requirements for considering the establishment of Neighborhood Associations in Newport. Formal requirements and standards were drafted and accepted in 2019 by the Newport City Council.
During the summer of 2020, a group of 10-12 neighbors reinvigorated discussions about the need for Nye Beach residents and businesses to have a greater voice with the city. The group recognized needs for social opportunities and events, beautification projects, opportunities to learn about the history of the area, and other goals. The group began having regular meetings as an Organizing Committee, and in October 20 decided to move forward to formally establish a neighborhood association.
The Organizing Committee utilized these city standards to develop by-laws and policies. A first general meeting of the NNA was held on Feb. 5, 2021, and attended by 19 individuals. Around this time the group began meetings and communications with city officials to finalize the group’s proposal to be recognized by the city. On August 2, 2021, the Newport City Council voted unanimously to formally recognize the NNA and to confer standing to be the voice of the neighborhood.
In its first year NNA has become a registered non-profit corporation, sponsored and participated in beach and neighborhood clean-ups, increased the email list to well over 120 people, hosted meetings with the Newport Mayor and City Manager, the Newport Community Development Director and the city’s landscaper. A Board of Directors, consisting of five members, was chosen with president, treasurer, and secretary positions filled.
Currently meetings have been in person, as well as on Zoom, taking place every 2-3 months at the Newport Performing Arts Center. Our second Holiday Party, held in December at the Visual Arts Center, was attended by many members. Funding from the City of Newport, up to $10,000, was granted to the NNA to help with communications and business expenses, to support activities within the community such as the Nye Beach Banner Project, and for supplies for projects and events.
The NNA is developing plans for 2023 and appreciate all input regarding ideas and priorities of projects, issues, and concerns from all those interested in the Nye Beach neighborhood.