A pivotal moment for the City of Sisters
How will this beloved town choose to grow?
The City of Sisters recently launched its Comprehensive Plan Update, which will shape how the beloved town develops through 2040 and beyond.
This is a key moment for the City of Sisters. Will we look back in 20 years and regret what we have lost? Or will the plan for growth reflect the values of the community and make Sisters even more livable?
Cities in Oregon are required to use population projections to update their Comprehensive Plans by detailing how they will accommodate that growth while meeting the statewide land use goals. Sisters is going through that process now. The City must first determine how much land capacity is needed for 20-years of growth. Next, they analyze how much of that capacity exists within the current UGB. Finally, if needed, they will decide how much land to add to the UGB.
We support more housing that protects waterways and wildlife and creates complete neighborhoods for future Sisters residents. The Comprehensive Plan committee and decision-makers can achieve this vision by allowing for vibrant infill development within Sisters' current UGB. It has ample land to accommodate most of the anticipated residential development over the next 20 years, but only if the new plan provides housing types that are more affordable.
Looking toward innovative solutions.
What is a complete neighborhood?
The term refers to a housing area that meets the needs of people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. This means safe, convenient access to goods and services - like grocery stores, quality public schools, open space - and accessible transportation options.
LandWatch recommends the committee take into consideration how existing housing supply and land capacity could be enhanced to provide for more needed housing within the city's current boundary. For example, Sisters could choose to join other cities in implementing HB 2001 and allow for the development of duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes (even though cities smaller than 10,000 people are not required to implement the bill).
This would allow the committee to protect more of Sisters' natural surroundings by reducing the number of acres needed for expansion. We envision housing that accommodates for growth, enhances vibrant walkable neighborhoods, and protects surrounding wildlife habitat and open space.
LandWatch will work alongside the Central Oregon community throughout this planning process. Stay in the loop here for upcoming events and action alerts regarding the Sisters Comprehensive Plan as it develops.