Statement:
The passage of Measure 37 has raised issues regarding future development
pressures which may occur on lands within Ashland's Urban Growth Boundary,
but outside the city limits, and beyond the jurisdiction of the City. Prior
to Measure 37, urban levels of development were only allowed after urbanization,
with specific land use controls from both Jackson County and the City.
Initial efforts by Jackson County regarding Measure 37 indicate that they
may not be as sensitive to the issues of development on lands slated for
future urbanization as would the City of Ashland. Therefore, we are recommending
that the City Council take action to request that an agreement be developed
between the City of Ashland and Jackson County to allow the City to handle
Measure 37 claims within the urban growth boundary.
There are many issues of concern to the city, of which a partial list follows:
Urbanization
The City has made a conscious effort not to expand the UGB further onto county
lands. It is imperative that we manage those remaining acres in the UGB in
the best interest of the long- term urbanization of the city. Without efforts
to control small ranchettes and larger rural homesites in close proximity
to the city, we may lose opportunities for efficiently accommodating future
population growth.
Affordable Housing
UGB lands are the most likely source for accommodating future affordable
housing on a scale that can truly make a difference in the issue. If we allow
certain vacant properties that are designated for multi-family development
(or possible re-zonings) to be lost through a Measure 37 claim, the future
housing mix of the community may be negatively impacted for many years to
come.
Transportation
Several transportation facilities (streets, bike paths, trails) are located
on lands within the UGB and are important links or extensions of our current
efforts. We will need to be closely involved in development applications
to ensure that our previous investments are not negated due to the inability
to complete a facility.
Environmental Resources
There are wetlands, riparian areas, and other significant environmental resources
located within the UGB, and failure to adequately address their value to
the community will not only result in degradation of the resource, but perhaps
in lost opportunities for passive (or active) open spaces and wildlife habitats.
Long Range Planning
Ashland has long been a leader in the County (and the State) regarding the
development of long range plans for the livability of future generations.
It is important that we not just react to claims, but take into account the
cumulative effect of the Measure 37 decisions. Who better can take on that
task other than the jurisdiction most impacted? Properties within the UGB
are important to the long-range vision of the community and Measure 37 claims
in this area should be under the management of the City of Ashland. |
