Happening now: Metro 20-year growth update
Metro has convened local governments and business and community organizations to help understand the success and barriers in strategically managing the region’s growth. 1000 Friends is participating.
Major threat in Washington County: North Plains UGB expansion
On Tuesday, September 5, at around 11:00 pm, the North Plains City Council voted 6–1 to more than double the size of the town’s urban growth boundary onto high-quality farmland despite the majority of testimony opposing the expansion. We have the latest update for you.
From corn dogs to land use: An Oregon State Fair to remember
1000 Friends of Oregon joined partner land use organizations to represent a cause that proved to be a unifying force for Oregon State Fair visitors: strengthening our unique land use planning system. Our on-the-ground highlights are sure to make you smile and join us next year.
1000 Friends of Oregon named in the 2023 National Cohort of Vanguard fellows
Each year, NextCity convenes land use planning and development leaders as part of a multi-day Vanguard Conference to build strength around smart land use decisions that shape the lives of Americans across our nation. This year, we see a familiar face.
LEGAL WIN | LUBA rejects Hillsboro's inflated growth projections
Their projections could have allowed them to seek an unwarranted UGB expansion and threaten valuable surrounding farmland. The ruling is a win for the careful way we set our urban growth boundaries so that our communities don’t sprawl onto the irreplaceable lands that feed our region and support our economy.
Two staff promotions celebrating our land use advocates Greg and Brett!
These promotions recognize years of hard work, dedication, and ongoing commitment to a strong and healthy land use planning program. Greg will now be our Working Lands Director, and Brett will fill the role of Transportation Director and Legislative Manager. Please join us in congratulating Brett and Greg, and read on to learn what these changes mean for us at 1000 Friends.
Q&A with our 2023 Gerhardt Intern, Cassie Wilson
Our 2023 Gerhardt Intern, Cassie Wilson, is already hard at work researching Oregon’s last big transportation package, House Bill 2017, and its impacts – with the goal of making recommendations to lawmakers for the next state transportation package anticipated for the 2025 legislative session.
Welcome Meriel Darzen and thanks to Christine Rontal for outstanding service
Last month, 1000 Friends of Oregon welcomed Meriel Darzen to our board of directors and thanked outgoing board member Christine Rontal for her outstanding service.
Millersburg renews efforts to expand UGB into critical farmland area
After recent advocacy from the Linn County community helped save 163 acres of prime farmland in Millersburg, the city is now renewing its effort to convert the productive land to industrial use in a UGB land swap – this time taking their application straight to DLCD.
Despite concerns, $1 billion in general funds allocated to Interstate Bridge replacement
Oregon lawmakers passed significant funding for the I-5 Bridge Replacement Program, diverting general fund dollars that support critical programs like higher education and affordable housing. While we support replacing the bridge with a seismically safe structure that expands transportation options, the funding passed at the end of session creates just as many questions as answers.