Community Development
ABOUT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
The City of West Linn's Community Development helps cultivate thoughtful, safe places where residents can experience a sense of belonging, live well and gather. The department partners with the city, its residents, and businesses, in purposeful planning and to guide current and future development for a vibrant and more connected community that feels like home. Trusted with Planning, Building and Economic Development services, the dedicated team works collaboratively alongside City Council and Planning Commission to uphold community standards, lead sustainable growth and protect investment while advancing the values and vision of West Linn.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF
Steve Koper, Community Development Director
Steve has an extensive background in local government, with nearly 20 years of experience shaping vibrant communities in Oregon. He worked most recently for the City of Tualatin as Assistant Community Development Director, having previously worked for Clackamas County and the City of Happy Valley. He holds a Juris Doctor from Lewis & Clark Law School, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and an American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification from the American Planning Association (APA). In his free time, Steve enjoys being outdoors – skiing, hiking, and exploring with his family – and indoors – doing crosswords, puzzles, and word games.
Lynn Schroder, Community Development Management Analyst
Lynn is a Management Analyst supporting the Community Development Department, focused on translating community goals into effective land use, housing, and economic development outcomes. She coordinates planning activities, public meetings, and community outreach, and helps manage projects, grants, and budgets to ensure City programs are transparent, efficient, and responsive to residents. With a background in environmental consulting and government relations, Lynn brings 12 years of experience working with Oregon municipalities. Lynn loves community development because it’s about helping shape places where people can truly live well and feel connected. When it’s done right, the benefits show up in everyday moments—safer streets, easier commutes, welcoming places to gather, and neighborhoods that feel like home.
Taryn Finley, Community Development Administrative Assistant
Taryn brings more than 15 years of experience in client service, public relations, integrated communications and business administration. She previously served in both agency and corporate roles leading multi-channel program strategies, public relations campaigns, brand storytelling, product launch strategies, messaging development, crisis communications and thought leadership programs for start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. In her current role supporting Community Development (Planning and Building) and Public Works/Engineering, she thrives on connecting with others, facilitating cross-department workflow efficiencies and cultivating strong community relationships. Taryn holds a bachelor’s degree in Cognitive Science and a minor in Law & Society from the University of California, San Diego.
