It has started. Measure 37 claims have begun rolling in, and eight waivers have been granted in Yamhill and Jackson counties. County commissioners have approved the least problematic applications, but what’s next?
Many Oregonians live here and love their state because of the quality of life. Our quality of life results in large part from Oregon’s system of land use planning. Having grown up in a small coastal town near San Francisco, I have come to appreciate the benefits of intelligent and rigorous land use planning. Half Moon Bay is made up of farmers, ranchers and fishermen, as well as urbanites who value the sanctuary outside of the city. Area residents value the quality of life in the town and have presented only rare challenges to the town’s land use laws. As a result, the town has retained its small-town charm and historic character.
Ten miles to the east, lack of land use planning has created a different landscape. Along Highway 101, single family homes, fast food restaurants, and industrial complexes mingle to create a jumble of development that stretches for miles. No one wants Oregon to resemble a California suburb.
The passage and potential abuse of Measure 37 presents this possibility. With every Measure 37 waiver, Oregon’s quality of life is slowly eroded. The few large, corporate landowners that funded Measure 37 should not be permitted to take our way of life away.
Erin Ganahl
School of Law