Anyone who has paid attention to the land use battles in Washington County realizes the struggle over urban growth expansion is a real war. The lands along Hillsboro’s NW boundaries are the battlefield now. Governor Kotek, Senator Janeen Sollman, City Officials, landowners, and those with options looking to make a massive profit tried to bring 1,700 acres of beautiful farmland into the Urban Growth Boundary. The reasons? More land for high-tech. The problem is that high tech is not expanding in Washington County right now, and Hillsboro has plenty of industrial space. The arguments fell flat, and in the end, the super powers given to Kotek under Senate Bill 4 expired.
Today, many groups that worked hard to win that battle have their eyes on the War. The same influences and people are already hard at work in Salem, making new plans for expansions- whether needed or not, they want massive land expansions ready to go. Beyond that, they want to pass laws to put down people like the citizens of North Plains when the dozers are prepared to roll, and they dare raise their heads and say “NO”—shame on any Oregonian or town that won’t let Salem do what it wants.
These topics and others will be discussed and presented today at a fun educational event at Eagle’s Nest Reserve- one of the most beautiful places in Washington County. If you love the Tualatin Valley and the beauty and lifestyle we enjoy, this is the event for you and the groups you want to get to know. People always ask me what they can do to help. Getting involved is the first step, and this event is great for getting started!
For the Love of the Land
- When: TODAY, Sunday, March 2, from 4-6 pm
- Where: Eagle’s Nest Reserve. 12995 NW Bishop Rd., Hillsboro, OR 97214
- What: This is a free event with a movie at 4:15 and a presentation starting at 5 p.m. There will be no host wine bar, and snacks will be available to share (feel free to contribute to the snack table!).
