Measure 37: What's Next For Oregon?
On Friday, March 23 Representatives Larry George (R-Sherwood, District 13) and Greg Macpherson (D-Lake Oswego, District 38) join City Club for a look at the implementation of Ballot Measure 37, and the changes that may lie ahead in land-use law. Measure 37, controversial since it was enacted in 2004, has figured prominently in debates about the rights of property owners versus the public’s right to enforce environmental and other land-use regulations.
The law enacted by the measure allows property owners whose property value is reduced by environmental or other land-use regulations to claim compensation from state or local government. As of February 2007, over 7,000 claims have been filed, covering in excess of 500,000 acres and potentially costing state and local governments tens of millions of dollars.
George and Macpherson will report on the work of the Joint Special Committee in Land Use Fairness — on which they both serve — and will discuss proposals coming out of the Legislature, including Senate Bill 505, which would place a temporary hold on most Measure 37 claims while the Legislature considers amendments to the land-use system.
George has a history of advocating for property rights, including serving as executive director of Oregonians In Action, the nation’s largest property rights organization. In addition, George has served as the president of the Oregon Family Farm Association, a grassroots organization that supports Oregon’s small farmers and ranchers. He is also the former host of the radio programs “Daybreak with Larry George” and “Oregon Crossfire.”
Macpherson has spent the last twenty-five years working as an employee benefits attorney with the firm Stoel Rives LLP. His civic experience includes serving as the chair of the Multnomah County Planning Commission, as a board member for the Lake Oswego School District Foundation, and Trustee for Trillium Family Services.
Join us for this Friday Forum to voice your questions about Measure 37 and the future of land-use laws in Oregon.
