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Date ArticleType
12/6/2024 Member News

Action Alert: Sherwood West UGB Expansion Approved by Metro Council– A Major Win for Housing and Economic Growth!


After two years of dedicated advocacy, the Metro Council yesterday approved the expansion of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) for Sherwood West, marking a significant milestone for the region's housing and economic future. The 6-1 vote opens up approximately 1,300 acres of land in Washington County for new development, including between 3,100 and 5,600 new homes and 4,500 jobs, alongside hundreds of acres of parks and natural spaces.

For more than two years, HBA staff, members, and our board have played active roles in the planning and advocacy efforts that made this expansion possible. This includes participation on key committees such as the Sherwood Technical Advisory Committee, Metro’s Technical Advisory Committee (MTAC), and a new UGB/Urban Growth Report Stakeholder Roundtable. In the months leading up to the vote, HBA and our partners worked together to organize testimony and lobbying efforts, emphasizing the connection between the need for more land and the ongoing housing crisis in our region.

The Sherwood West Concept Plan, developed after years of planning, reflects the city’s priorities of balanced growth. The plan focuses on three primary areas: housing, jobs, and natural resources. A variety of housing types are included, ranging from middle housing options such as townhouses and triplexes to cottage clusters. This planned housing mix is designed to meet the needs of a diverse population, offering housing choices for families, young professionals, and retirees alike.

The expansion also prioritizes job creation, with 4,500 new jobs expected from employment-focused districts in the northern area, supporting industrial, manufacturing, and commercial development. A hospitality zone in the southwest will create opportunities for businesses in the wine industry, including wineries, hotels, and boutique shops, diversifying the local economy. Additionally, the plan preserves Sherwood’s natural beauty, incorporating large parks, creek corridors, and connected trails. This focus on sustainability and green spaces will enhance residents' quality of life by providing access to nature and outdoor recreation.

Looking ahead, the City of Sherwood will hire a consultant to help them develop a Comprehensive Plan for more detailed planning. Legal challenges to this decision may be filed with the state’s Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA), as the plan now moves to review by Department of Land Conservation and Development. HBA will continue to monitor any legal actions to ensure the successful defense of this crucial decision.

We encourage members to stay engaged as this process unfolds. The Sherwood West expansion is a unique opportunity to provide much-needed housing and support economic growth in the region. HBA will continue working on behalf of the industry to ensure that this expansion can be fully leveraged to meet the needs of our growing communities. To learn more about how you can support this effort, contact HBA’s Government Affairs team.