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Date ArticleType
7/24/2018 Member News

HBA lends support to cities for Urban Growth Boundary management adjustments

As Metro Council moves toward a decision in September on the four local proposals for UGB expansions, the HBA submitted a statement to Metro, making it clear they should be doing everything possible to add more housing to our short supply.

The HBA submitted the following to Metro to be included in the public record regarding metro council’s upcoming decision: 

“As you know, our region has fallen far behind in meeting its housing needs and providing diverse housing types across all income levels. As such, the HBA supports Beaverton, Hillsboro, King City and Wilsonville and their modest community-based urban growth boundary expansion proposals. Each city has demonstrated their ability to service these areas, and their need for additional housing and commercial areas. They have also demonstrated their commitment to meeting the six desired outcomes that Metro has adopted for the region.

Oregon continues to face a crisis that touches upon residents and housing of all types— these proposals will help address these needs. While the cost of housing includes many factors, it is undeniable that the cost of land is the number one cost-driver in our region. Adding to the buildable land supply by approving these thoughtful expansions will directly address the pressure on the housing market.

We ask that Metro approve the Beaverton, Hillsboro, King City and Wilsonville plans to enhance social and economic mobility for individuals across the region. Combing new suburban buildable land with additional, realistic urban density is the best approach to address the current housing crisis.

Thank you for considering our requests and comments. The HBA looks forward to our continued partnership with Metro and regional partners in addressing the housing crises head on.”

A recent article published in the Portland Tribune elaborates the process with which Portland is considering expansions to the UGB: https://pamplinmedia.com/pt/9-news/400977-296550-metro-mulls-boundary-expansion-requests

As we to navigate this housing crisis as an industry, the HBA will continue to illustrate the need for our local government leaders to take every possible action to provide more housing and housing types.