Local Candidates

Local Candidates Answer Your Questions

As members of the Stafford Hamlet Board, we represent the residents that live within the boundary of the Stafford Hamlet in unincorporated Clackamas County. We are interested in learning the views of nearby candidates about the future of the Stafford Hamlet. Since we are such close neighbors—bordered by West Linn, Lake Oswego and Tualatin— each city’s decisions about numerous issues impact the Hamlet.

Lake Oswego Mayor

Question:

What are your thoughts on development and growth in general – as well as how it relates to the existing urban growth boundary and the current IGA (Intergovernmental Agreement) between the cities of Lake Oswego, West Linn and Tualatin and Metro and Clackamas County.

Joe Buck

Response:

I am grateful the Hamlet is involved in this race.  As we both know there is much at stake in the outcome.

I was a strong supporter of the adoption of the current IGA. I believe it represents a good path to preserving what’s special about the Hamlet, an important ecological buffer between the cities as well as important and unique semi-urban farm land, while looking towards limited smart, low density growth down the road in appropriate areas (as well as potential commercial development closer to I205). There is much to consider, though, before that all occurs, and the role of the Hamlet in the discussion with the three cities, Clackamas County and Metro is imperative.  The 10 year moratorium provides an opportunity for further study of what infrastructure needs would look like for the jurisdictions, and it is a long trajectory I support.  I will stand up to lawsuits fighting the thoughtful path ahead.

In general I believe growth should occur in a thoughtful way that works to preserve open space and natural areas while concentrating housing near employment and transit.  The UGB is an important tool in ensuring our urban areas meet the density requirements needed to support a growing population.  I believe there is improvement needed to ensure those requirements are in fact being met.  It is a fact that our metro area is under built.  Damaging open space and farmland, however, is not the answer.  Nor does providing housing far from employment, transit and services support other overarching goals of environmental stewardship and increasing the quality of life for all in our communities.

Theresa Kohlhoff

Response:

I was a supporter of both the 5 party and 3 party agreement because it set off the near future development of Stafford, if at all.  I understood that Charlotte Lehan proposed Stafford for urban reserves because the cost of infrastructure was so high, it would be unlikely to be developed.  That point continues to be missed by those who are very anxious to begin development.  There is generally speaking no real support for developing it at all in Lake Oswego or West Linn.  However, when and if it were to be then I would want Lake Oswego to be a leader as it would maintain higher standards than I think would be the case with Tualatin.

I understand the argument about the UGB and how if it is extended there could be more affordable housing.  I am not a great fan of this argument as I think ecologically greater density with greater utilization of present infrastructure is better.  More importantly it saves farm land which is of the utmost importance to me.  It is my supposition that the drive to develop Stafford now is to plan for low density, single family homes which is not the trend we want to see, especially in areas that are known for being white enclaves.

Finally there are now further troubles ahead, one being the tolling of I-205 and of course, the frailty of the Abernathey bridge.  There is an argument that planning should be started now for these traffic impacts.  I think that is a ruse to start development prematurely and especially so since we need transit, transit, transit —not more roads.

John LaMotte

Response

Thank you for your inquiry about my position regarding the Stafford areaMy campaign opponents and a former LO City Councilor could not be more wrong when they try to label me as pro-development and wanting Lake Oswego or any other city to pay a guess-estimated $2.6 billion dollars for new infrastructure for the area. A lot of fear mongering is going on.  I am a professional City Planner who is only for “planned growth” of our region, our Stafford Area and our cities.

 

Stafford is the first place my wife and I drove through when coming to Lake Oswego. It is a green gateway into our city as well as Tualatin, West Linn and Clackamas County. It is a beautiful example of Oregon with its hills, rivers, streams, cliffs, farms and fields.

 

As a professional City Planner, and since serving on the LO Plan Commission, I have advocated for a true comprehensive and sensible master plan that finally sets a land use and transportation direction for Stafford. The following is what is outlined in my campaign website for both the Foothills district of Lake Oswego and the Stafford area:

 

Advocate Proactive/Sensible Planning for Foothills and Stafford
The plan for Foothills is sitting on a shelf and the proverbial can continues to get kicked down the road regarding the future of the Stafford area. As Lake Oswego Mayor and as a professional planner I will continue to advocate for proactive, sensible planning for both Foothills and Stafford, especially to address traffic impacts. If not now… then when?
 
The underdeveloped Foothills area adjacent to the Willamette River and Downtown Lake Oswego is an opportunity for the City to increase its tax base, provide a range of housing products and reinforce Downtown as a vibrant, pedestrian oriented hub.
 
The Stafford Hamlet is a beautiful green gateway into our City and critically needs a master plan that sets land use, zoning, infrastructure, transportation, open space, natural resource protection, community design and governance direction for the coming years. Traffic is a critical issue in the area as is the future of the I-205 expansion. Over the past decades, Metro, Clackamas County, local cities, residents, land owners and civic leaders have spent more time on Stafford in lawsuits and courts than addressing its future through comprehensive, coordinated planning.
 
Traffic continues to get worse, the I-205 widening project is being designed without input on area growth and Frog Pond is planned for 2,000 units at the south end of Stafford. And yet, Metro, Clackamas County, our cities and Stafford residents and land owners have not gotten together to truly address the Hamlet’s future. As Mayor with expertise in City Planning and experience as a Civic Leader I will advocate to bring diverse people and groups together to build consensus on a sensible, positive direction for Stafford.
 
It is time… if not now… then when?
 
If anyone would lke to discuss this further. I can be reached at 971-263-8272.
 

Thank you… Councilor John LaMotte

Lake Oswego City Council

Questions:

  1. How familiar are you with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet?
  2. The Hamlet sits in a sensitive interface between rural property and urban cities. One vision for our area is to promote local agriculture, involving partners from local governments, school districts, conservation groups and youth programs like 4H and FFA. How do you view the Stafford Hamlet, its vision and its relationship with your city?
  3. What is your assessment of the $2.7 billion cost estimates identified by local professional planners for the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet?
  4. In what way do you see the three-party IGA resolving future expansion pressures?
  5. What do you see as the top three challenges your city is facing?
  6. What value do you think Luscher Farm adds to your city?

Emma Burke

Response: Not received.

Melissa Fireside

Response

  1. The vision of the Stafford Hamlet is something I have learned more and more about over the past 18 months or so. These guiding goals are a great framework for advocacy:
    • Safeguard clean air and groundwater;
    • Maintain our secure and serene environment;
    • Minimize additional traffic and infrastructure impacts;
    • Educate regional communities and Hamlet members about the area’s heritage, importance and potential; and
    • Expand small farm possibilities.
    While each of these goals directly impacts City development and seems to seek to restrict what we can do with vital spaces throughout the south side of Lake Oswego, I believe they are a starting off point for us each to understand more about how the Stafford Hamlet adds value. We have to decide if we want that to continue with smart, strategic investment and acquisition of land and we need an active seat at every table decisions are being made. I would also like to add that we need transparency in the process; strong-arming or political games cannot be acceptable with the seriousness of this issue and the impacts on people and our community’s well-being.
  2. From my perspective, the Stafford Hamlet is a beautiful gateway and entrance to our city that must be protected and must be reimagined into working farmland and active agriculture. This investment from my perspective is invaluable, and is in-fact sustainable. We need collaborative leaders that actually see the value of open land and see that we are going to get one shot at doing this well and ensuring that this area remains a beautiful entrance to our city, actively farmed, and provides vast learning opportunities for each of the cities involved in the IGA. Sprawl is inevitable, we each cannot deny that; however, I do not see this particular area as being ripe for opportunity but something we will look back on and think, “oh we should have done more.” Meanwhile, family farms and generations of investment in the actual land are gone forever, let’s not do that!
  3. My assessment has and always will be that, the Stafford Hamlet development is antithetical to climate change. It is not in the interest of the City, our environment, nor in the best interests of the community to commit and fund mass housing and development in the area. While my stance is a never develop one, I think it goes beyond that in the sense that it should not be done so on the backs of working farms, precious lands, working families, and taxpayers for the sake of making money. This is not a housing crisis issue, this is a money and power issue, and using this area as a means to an end does not sit well with me at all.
  4. There is so much drama in association with the three-way IGA and with such contentious races going on in West Linn, Tualatin, and Lake Oswego right now I am not sure I can effectively answer this. I would argue that we need a grassroots movement, education, and vital support from all citizens in all three cities to put pressure on elected officials to do what’s in the best interest of everyone and really think about removing pressures on both sides. The public, not just special interests need to start to care about this and be engaged but the process has been derailed. It really depends on how those elected view this document, and to this point, they’ve seen it as a means to make money, undermine working folks, and dominate. Let’s see if we can move that perspective at all and actually work towards something sustainable and palatable for everyone.
  5. Racism, misogyny, and discrimination; climate change and our climate crisis; and small business stability and investment/development in our business base.
  6. I think Luscher Farm is a community gem. I believe that it brings people together, provides learning and vast opportunities for health, activity, and civic engagement, and it also is a beautiful space to gather.

Massene Mboup

Response: Not received due to family emergency.

Aaron Rapf

Response: Not received.

Rachel Verdick

Response:

  1. I have been receiving emails from the Stafford Hamlet for a number of years and I have reviewed the Stafford Hamlet website.
  2. I support the Stafford Hamlet’s vision and believe the Hamlet is an important asset to the surrounding Cities and the County that will help ensure the sense of place the Stafford triangle offers is maintained while strategically and thoughtfully assessing and implementing possible areas of growth.
  3. 2.7 billion dollars is an incredible amount of money. And, at this time, I do not agree with the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet. Areas around Borland Road may be worth considering for development, but this will have to be done strategically to maintain the sense of place in the area.
  4. The three-party IGA provides a forum that would not otherwise exist. It creates a formal structure for the three cities – Lake Oswego, West Linn, and Tualatin – to work together, with the input of the Stafford Hamlet, to address the future of the Stafford Triangle. By working together, the cities will better understand each other’s needs and concerns and have the opportunity to collaborate to find solutions.
    • Working with our local business to survive the impacts of COVID-19 and thrive;
    • Developing appropriate local zoning and plans to maintain our sense of place while meeting the requirements of House Bill 2001;
    • Ensuring our city enhances its livability by maintaining and improving our parks and trails and doing everything possible to address and fight climate change, and achieving our city’s diversity, equity, and inclusion goals;
  5. Luscher Farms is an incredible asset to our community. It offers a place for our citizen to garden, to learn, and to come together as a community for various activities. It provides a unique experience for our community to reflect and understand our history and learn more about agriculture.

Tualatin City Council

Questions:

  1. How familiar are you with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet?
  2. The Hamlet sits in a sensitive interface between rural property and urban cities. One vision for our area is to promote LOCAL agriculture, involving partners from local governments, school districts, conservation groups and youth programs like 4H and FFA. How do you view the Stafford Hamlet, its vision and its relationship with your city?
  3. What is your assessment of the $2.7 billion cost estimates identified by local professional planners for the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet?
  4. In what way do you see the three-party IGA resolving future expansion pressures?
  5. What do you see as the top three challenges your city is facing?
  6. Are you interested in replicating the Luscher Farm Model in or near your city?

Alex Thurber

Response: Not received.

Valerie Pratt

Response: Not received..

Christen Sacco

Response:

  1. I am familiar with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet. I am aware of the infrastructure needs and areas within the hamlet have limitations to development. I understand the resident’s desire to preserve the “Stafford Character” whilst recognizing the need for development utilizing a fair and meaningful approach.
  2. I value local agriculture, conservation efforts, and youth engagement. I am endorsed by the Oregon League of Conservation Voters, which endorses candidates dedicated to protecting air, water, and public lands. My values closely align with those of the Stafford Hamlet. As a native Oregonian, I have witnessed the growth of this area firsthand. I am saddened by some of the development choices that have taken place and wish Oregon would have done better. We cannot change the past, but we can focus on the future. I am running for the city council to serve the community. I am here to listen with an open mind and make ethical decisions based on facts and needs, without compromising my values. I am aware the decisions Tualatin makes impact surrounding areas, and it is important to have open dialog. I hope to connect with the Stafford Hamlet on important issues.
  3. I have not had much exposure to these cost estimates since I have not yet held a seat on City Council. From what I have found through research, I have more questions than answers at this time. I hope to have the opportunity to gain clarity if elected.
  4. Communication is key. All parties should consider the human aspect of the Stafford Hamel residents. Decisions made will have a profound impact on homeowners, their children, and future generations. We need to take a holistic ethical approach to resolve these pressures.
    • Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: There are barriers in our community, and if there are barriers for our community members to participate and be heard, then our community is incomplete.
    • Health and Safety: as we move through the phases of Covid I will ensure we are doing everything to ensure the safety of our community.
    • Affordable Housing: I will encourage the development of a wider variety of housing types in Tualatin, identify strategies to support affordable housing, and identify redevelopment opportunities. I understand this will require additional planning in other areas, such as sewage and transportation. I don’t want to compromise one area for the sake of affordable housing, instead apply creative solutions to maximize our resources.
  5. I adore Luscher Farms. If/when the opportunity and resources become available, I would support replicating the Luscher Farm Model.  I am currently the Vice-Chair of the Tualatin Parks Advisory Committee and served on the Tualatin Parks Master Plan Committee. Parks and Recreation is a priority of mine. I am aware of the funding challenges our parks currently face. If funding was not a barrier at this time, I would actively advocate replicating this model.

Cyndy Hillier

Response: Not received.

West Linn Mayor

Questions:

  1. How familiar are you with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet?
  2. The Hamlet sits in a sensitive interface between rural property and urban cities. One vision for our area is to promote LOCAL agriculture, involving partners from local governments, school districts, conservation groups and youth programs like 4H and FFA. How do you view the Stafford Hamlet, its vision and its relationship with your city?
  3. What is your assessment of the $2.7 billion cost estimates identified by local professional planners for the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet?
  4. In what way do you see the three-party IGA resolving future expansion pressures?
  5. What do you see as the top three challenges your city is facing?
  6. Are you interested in replicating the Luscher Farm Model in or near your city?

Andrew Mallory

Response

Many thanks for inviting me to complete responses to your recent email.
 
I would like to be transparent with you folks and let you know that I have only lived in West Linn for the past four years and as such have no detailed knowledge on this project.
 
Of course I am aware that West Linn has been opposed to things or at a minimum seemingly to have little or no interest. I would consider supporting this project depending upon the benefits that West Linn would acquire as a result.
 
I would very like to be included in any further meetings or discussions and take a closer look at areas of mutual benefit.
 
Sincerely,
 

 

Andrew Mallory

Robert McCarthy

Response: Not received.

Jules Walters

Response: Not received.

Richard Sakelik

Response:

  1. I really appreciate the extensive community building efforts the Stafford Hamlet  members undertook in 2009 to  develop the Stafford Hamlet Community Vision and Values  Plan and to keep it relevant by updating it this year. This is important to West Linn so I have it saved where I can find it.
  2. As a former owner of an alpaca ranch, I know how valuable it is to have a good place to raise farm animals and grow vegetables. West Linn has always strongly been in favor of protecting Stafford’s rural character. We need to work together to do everything we can to preserve and protect as much local agricultural land as possible before it disappears.
  3. Another good argument NOT to urbanize Stafford.I have been a strong proponent /advocate to keep the Stafford Hamlet rural for the last 25 years when I first heard about it in 1992 when I first moved to Oregon. Fast forward to my involvement in West Linn Governance as a citizen first and Councilor for the last 5 years and I have shown by my actions that I TOTALLY support what the Hamlet wants …you folks should be the ones to determine what you want…I will continue to advocate that position..I have never wavered from that stance. You can always count on me!
  4. It was reassuring to hear LCDC’s 9/25/20 discussion about West Linn, Tualatin and Lake Oswego’s three-party IGA and their 4-0 vote to adopt the compelling position that an IGA is not land use.
  5. I’ll give 5…
    • Police reform
    • Convincing ODOT to abandon the I-205 tolling plan
    • Educating and engaging members of our community in the State mandated comprehensive HB2001 HB2003 rulemaking and adoption process for middle housing
    • Completing multiple transportation, parks and City-owned facility projects funded by West Linn’s 2018 GO Bond
    • Finding a permanent solution to keep US Post Office in West Linn
  6. Yes, I would like to explore that as a possibility. We need to thoroughly look at this to determine what makes sense.

West Linn City Council

Questions:

  1. How familiar are you with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet?
  2. The Hamlet sits in a sensitive interface between rural property and urban cities. One vision for our area is to promote LOCAL agriculture, involving partners from local governments, school districts, conservation groups and youth programs like 4H and FFA. How do you view the Stafford Hamlet, its vision and its relationship with your city?
  3. What is your assessment of the $2.7 billion cost estimates identified by local professional planners for the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet?
  4. In what way do you see the three-party IGA resolving future expansion pressures?
  5. What do you see as the top three challenges your city is facing?
  6. Are you interested in replicating the Luscher Farm Model in or near your city?

Ken Pryor

Response

  1. I’ve lived in West Linn for 15 years and have attended a number of Hamlet meetings, over the years. A transplanted Californian the thought of, El Segundo, Hawthorne, Gardena, Cerritos, Torrance, Carson sends chills up my spine. Our grandsons love the Fiala Farm and everything that grows there and knowing corn doesn’t come from Safeway.

  2. Personally, it reminds me of the open markets and truck farms that rim many urban cities. Married a woman from farming culture, California’s rural San Joaquin valley, FFA Queen no less. I’m reminded daily of a world that’s not engulfed in Kardashians, white wine and cheese plates. Diversity is not just skin color, it’s appreciating a way of living and relating to the physicality of planting, nurturing and harvest. It’s understanding stewardship and responsibility to the land that sustains us, making those connections and realizing those priorities/mind sets may differ from ours but no less valid.
  3. Please show me the last project that came in on time and under budget. Coming from California I’m well aware SDC’s don’t cover everything. Spending $2.7 billion for densification is one matter; what is the value of the environmental damage? Growth and jobs are a good things; I’d like to understand the cost to the quality of life before making such a large investment.

  4. The three-party IGA is a masterful way of creating a platform to get engagement of Lake Oswego, Tualatin, and West Linn and foster collaboration for the general welfare.
  5. Police Reform/Oversight-Equity Diversity Inclusion, Support of local business centers, affordable housing development that compliments overall quality of life city-wide.
  6. Luscher Farms is a great example of sustainability and stewardship; as above, it provides a bit of grounding in reality and the connection to nature so conveniently accessible it becomes foundational and ingrained as a part of your belief system. You can lose that surrounded by asphalt and concrete all your life. 

Mary Baumgardner

Response

Hello Friends, 
 
I wanted to send a few thoughts and invite people to reach out 
to me if they have questions.  Sorry for the delay, I think there were some 
missed emails here.  Mea culpa.  
 
Growing up on a small farm in the Stafford area; Mountain Road specifically,
I have a close association with agriculture and the importance of land and 
rural life conservation.  
 
I will do everything in my power to not only protect but to enhance the presence
and importance of the Stafford Hamlet that your community has worked so
hard to achieve.  CSAs like Luscher Farms benefit everyone involved in them
and I would love to encourage more in our area.  There is lots of untapped 
potential in the hamlet for this as we learn more about the relative small 
acreage needed if restorative and biodynamic practices are utilized.  
 
I have attended many small farms conferences, sponsored by Oregon Tilth and
also been actively involved with Friends of Family Farmers in their work to support
local, regional agriculture and to educate people about the importance and need
for small family farms.  
 
I applaud your work and look forward to meeting and speaking with your members.
 
Mary Baumgardner

 

503-577-3713

Rory Bialostosky

Response

  1. I spoke with Mayor Axelrod (I’m proud to have his support in this race) about the Hamlet’s vision to get up to speed on the latest information about the most recent discussions regarding the Hamlet’s vision, and I read through the Community Vision Plan to read the specifics that the Hamlet would like to see down the line. I am supportive of the vision for small scale agriculture and a thoughtful approach that keeps Stafford rural during my term on City Council. I am also committed to including the Hamlet in any discussions that take place on the topic of urbanization. It is great to see that community members in the Hamlet are engaged and I look forward to working with them and learning from them in the future.
  2. I view the Hamlet as an important group that will be involved in the discussions surrounding the future of their land. As the real landowners and residents, the Hamlet’s perspective is really important to me. I am very open to the idea of partnering with the Hamlet to promote local and small scale agriculture among other things. I would encourage anyone interested in discussing this to reach out to me on my website as I am very eager to listen and learn more about the possibilities of partnership.
  3. My first thought is where is that money going to come from? That is a ton of money that far exceeds our city budget. I don’t think it’s the kind of investment that the cities should move towards. We can’t put it on the taxpayers or homeowners within the Hamlet to build cities or cover development costs. We’ve got our own projects to work on within our City, and our roads can’t handle that sort of growth right now.
  4. I see the three-party IGA as a vital document that provides a network for cities to work together to make reasonable, respectful decisions on the issue of development. Thankfully, the cities will determine the destiny for the land rather than the state. I spoke with Mayor Axelrod who tells me that there isn’t pressure to grow right now, so I don’t see legitimate expansion pressures being thrust upon us during my term on the City Council.

  5. Here are some of my priorities for West Linn in my mind (I’m listing four!): 

     

    1. Addressing potential impacts of tolling on I-205; 

    2. Enacting policies to promote police accountability in response to recent revelations of misconduct.

    3. Rebuilding our reputation with regional partners and advocating with them to support our shared community interests.

    4. Electing councilors (like myself) who want to represent the entire community and make community-based decisions in a fiscally responsible and transparent manner.

  6. Yes, I’m interested in this idea as I know Luscher Farm is a great place! I’m eager to discuss this with the members of the Hamlet and look forward to talking to you all soon!

Kim Bria

Response

I strongly support preserving the rural character and vision of the Stafford Hamlet.

Growing up in the rural Midwest as a 4H member and FFA meetings in our high school, promoting local agriculture and involving partners from local governments, school districts, and youth programs is the biggest hope for the future of local farms. COVID-19 quickly demonstrated the supply chain interruption and, for a time, the best places to get fresh meat, eggs, and produce were independent farms and farmers markets. These partnerships provide community resiliency, connection to our food, and land stewardship.

In the assessment of the $2.7B cost estimate by planners for urbanization, the proposal puts around 40% of the expense on cities without a way to recover those costs. My priority is not urbanizing it, and shifting this burden to city budgets is a non-starter.

The three-party IGA between Lake Oswego, Tualatin, and West Linn allows the cities to be in control of the future of the Stafford Hamlet. Our cities, working together with the Hamlet residents, will share information moving forward for the best solutions together.

The top three challenges facing West Linn is transportation, police accountability and transparency, and economic/community development. Transportation and housing affordability have been greatly impacted by area growth.

Replicating the Luscher Farm Model in or near West Linn is in alignment of my values in land stewardship and community connection. This model is a great example of a rural/urban interface which connects more people to the importance of agriculture, CSAs, and education. 

Kari Johnsen

Response: Not received.

Jenny Koll

Response:

I hope you and your loved ones are doing well. Thank you for reaching out to me, it is an honor to run for West Linn City Council and represent my hometown. Please see my answers below to your questions and feel free to share my email address should neighbors wish to reach out for further information: [email protected]; Facebook: @JennyKollforWestLinn; website: www.jennyforwestlinn.com.

  1. As a West Linn resident for 20 years, I have decent familiarity with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet. I appreciate the drive of Stafford Hamlet residents in creating a united body to guide their self-determination in face of the tides of development. I greatly appreciate the Stafford Hamlet’s vision encapsulating the idea that change is inevitable while respect for landowners, for the environment, and for the character of the Hamlet are paramount to any potential development in the Hamlet.
  2. The Stafford Hamlet provides a reprieve from the condensed urban areas of West Linn, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. The Hamlet acts as a gateway to my hometown of West Linn, setting the tone for our community in its natural beauty and small-town feel. The Hamlet acts as a literal fresh breath to our area with its open fields, walkable and accessible trails, and beautiful scenery. The Hamlet provides neighbors with a unique use of the land space, offering educational, recreational, and tourism opportunities unique to our area, including spaces such as Fiala Farms in West Linn, Luscher Farm of Lake Oswego and Oswego Hills Vineyard & Winery in West Linn. I desire to see more programming integration of the Hamlet into urban communities such as more educational opportunities, community outreach, and city government partnerships. The Stafford Hamlet is a point of pride for West Linn, as the Hamlet preserves traditions with 100+ year old farms and environmental protections for wildlife and the Tualatin River. The Hamlet is a needed and welcomed balance, one that I continue to support to thrive.
  3. Urbanization of the Hamlet will be a massive undertaking, requiring support and cooperation from many governmental, private, and public stakeholders. In my opinion, what jumps out upon first glance of the Metro 2018 report is the vast fiscal need to invest in public works and infrastructure, should urbanization proceed. This includes complicated negotiations with adjacent cities on provision of sewer and water services to the new developments, to say the least.

    The 2018 Report lacks clear fiscal provisions for and logistical analysis of the need to increase roadway capacity of Rosemont Road, Salamo Road, and Hidden Springs Road. These three roads were specifically identified in the report as those that will face impact from additional traffic due to urbanization, as stated in the Report ( “Stafford Urban Reserve Area,” Urban Growth Report: 2018 Growth Management Decision, Metro, December 2018, Appendix 7, pg. 6). With the push for I-205 Tolls by Metro, the Hamlet will face great stress on its existing infrastructure due to traffic diversion onto our small streets. This report is out-of-date on the subject of neighborhood congestion and roads due to the likely increase in congestion caused by proposed tolling along I-205, pushing ever more cars and vehicles onto the Hamlet’s roads as well as those entering West Linn from the Hamlet. A more updated assessment of the main access roads leading into and out from the Hamlet will be critical to understanding the fiscal toll urbanization will place upon our community. This updated assessment must also include impact assessments of I-205 tolls.

    Additionally, I desire to see more integration of the Hamlet’s community vision into the proposed urbanization plan, specifically, the designation of the Borland area as Urban Reserve while the area north of the Tualatin River (plus the Halcyon neighborhood) be “undesignated” or non-Urban, as voted upon by Hamlet residents. In reading the Metro report, I see no mention or assessment focusing on the Borland area as area to develop; instead, the report looks at the whole of the Hamlet as potential for development, overshadowing the rights and desires of the property owners and community as they stand.

  4. The IGA is a strong start to cover all potential areas of conflict arising from expansion pressures on the Hamlet. Not included as a signee in the IGA of June 2017 is the Board of the Stafford Hamlet. In not being given a seat at the decision-making table, I fear there will be gross disconnect between the actions of the signees of the IGA and the desires of the Stafford Hamlet residents and its direct neighbors. I see that without the inclusion of the Stafford Hamlet Board, resolution of future expansion pressures may not truly reflect the needs and desires of the Hamlet community. To resolve this, the IGA needs an amendment to include the Hamlet Board as a signee, as provided in the IGA under Section 11.

    The IGA includes a provision in Section 3 for Citizen Involvement, with all city signees agreeing to involve citizens of the Hamlet, in addition to other stakeholders. This broad statement, while well intended, does not provide specific metrics for measuring “citizen involvement,” as a few voices may satiate that requirement of the IGA. Amending the IGA to include the Stafford Hamlet Board is necessary to provide for a broader inclusion and understanding of the desires of the Hamlet citizens and decrease potential future conflict.

    One provision within the IGA that could assist in alleviating external pressure for urbanization is Section 2, titled “Completion of a City Concept Plan.” This section includes development that is “consistent with community values” (2.c.) as well as coordination for plans with community stakeholders (2.b.). These two statements fall in line with the community vision of the Hamlet and, if enacted, will reduce possible future tensions. The responsibilities for pace and timing of the urbanization of the Hamlet are also given to the city(s) that must annex that portion of the Hamlet first. This sets up conversations between the city desiring annexation of the Hamlet and the Hamlet itself, ensuring cohesion in how the decisions will be made regarding urbanization of the Hamlet.

  5. West Linn is facing potential devastating economic effects due to COVID-19 and needs to support its small businesses, providing opportunities for economic investment and development of existing entities. West Linn needs to join neighboring cities and unincorporated Clackamas County to push back against unfair I-205 tolls in a unified voice. West Linn needs to invest in reforms across all levels of city governance and leadership, including police oversight and reform as well as diversity, equity, and inclusivity programming and policy for city government.
  6. I live not too far from Luscher Farm and appreciate the value it adds to the area. I am open to the idea of a similar site in West Linn and would be curious to know the opinions of current private landowners within the Stafford Hamlet adjacent to West Linn as to the feasibility and desire to replicate. I believe West Linn needs to invest more in existing sites that promote West Linn history and heritage, including the McLean Park and House as well as our neighboring small family farms.

Vicki Olson

Response:

The Stafford Hamlet was created by the community to preserve the character of the area and the rights of property owners. The people in this area do not want to be left out of growth and development discussions that will have an impact on their community.

The Stafford Hamlet is an important part of the West Linn community with its beautiful pastures and endless views bringing the county lifestyle close to the city. Having access to local produce and farm raised eggs is something that others city do not have available at our back door.

I support the Stafford Hamlet Community Vision Plan.

Future Farmers of America is an important organization in helping develop leadership skills in our youth. During the 2019 session, Representative Barreto sponsored HB 2444 which directed department to establish grant program for the purpose of funding FFA during summer months. Because I work for Rep. Barreto, I was able to witness firsthand the drive and determination of the FFA students. They came to the Capitol to testify in support of the bill and made appointments with legislators to encourage their support for HB 2444. The FFA students came from all over the state and with the help of the FFA team, HB 2444 passed both chambers and was signed by the Governor.

I believe elected officials should not impose their will but should connect and advance the communities they serve for the benefit of all. This principle will guide me.

In our community, we are blessed with a great resource – you, the people who call West Linn home. Many of you are vested in this community and desire the best for your neighbors. Beyond anything else, we are united on that front.

On other issues that I might not fully understand I would lean on the Stafford community for information and guidance.

Three challenges for the City of West Linn would be the tolling for I 205, Police reform that takes responsible and reasonable steps that hold people accountable and bringing businesses to the city. Another one that is important is governance. We need to define or review roles and responsibilities for Mayor, Council and City Manager. They should not overstep their responsibilities because this causes confusion for staff and results in a lack of productivity and dysfunction. Communication is key.

I would like to bring to your attention HB 2001 (2019) and its possible adverse effects on our community. It would permit the development of a duplex on each lot in residential-zoned areas that allow for detached single-family homes. It would require certain localities to allow for the development of at least one type of “middle Housing” per lot, in areas zoned for single-family dwellings within their UGBs.

HB 2001 (2019)

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2019R1/Measures/Overview/HB2001

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2019R1/Downloads/MeasureAnalysisDocument/48758

Thank you for reaching out.

Alex Juarez

Response: We were unable to find a campaign page or contact information for this candidate.

Leslie Hwa

Response: We were unable to find a campaign page or contact information for this candidate.

Tom Meier

Response: Not received.

Oregon House District 37

Questions:

  1. How familiar are you with the vision of the Stafford Hamlet?
  2. The Hamlet sits in a sensitive interface between rural property and urban cities. One vision for our area is to promote local agriculture, involving partners from local governments, school districts, conservation groups and youth programs like 4H and FFA. How do you view the Stafford Hamlet, its vision and its relationship with HD37?
  3. What is your assessment of the $2.7 billion cost estimates identified by local professional planners for the urbanization of the Stafford Hamlet?
  4. In what way do you see the three-party IGA resolving future expansion pressures?
  5. What do you see as the top three challenges HD37 is facing?

Rachel Prusak

Response:

Thank you for all that you do for your community, and for giving me the opportunity to speak to the critical issues that impact the Stafford Hamlet. My answers are below:

  1. The Stafford Hamlet was established to advise on issues and concerns of the residents and I trust and respect that. It is crucial we include the Stafford-area residents when discussing issues that affect or impact their neighborhoods Additionally, I will honor the Stafford Community Vision Plan and fight to help the Stafford community protect what makes it unique. I also championed a bill in 2020 that was a priority for the Stafford Hamlet to secure funding for the Oregon Agricultural Heritage Program (OAHP.) The bill advanced to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means but did not advance further in the legislative process. Securing funding for OAHP will continue to be a legislative priority, as farmland protection has never been more urgent. Oregon has a great land use system that keeps growth contained so we can preserve farmland and the natural spaces that make us all want to live here.
  2. When it comes to urbanization of Stafford, the residents are the ones who would be impacted, and they should have a voice on whether or not it is right for their community. I 100% support the vision of the people who live there. The cloud map from the recent town hall shows that their open spaces matter to people in the Stafford area. I reviewed the studies completed by one of the students at PSU Urban Studies master programs. I believe that all of their premises should be reviewed. Property owners in the Borland area are working to get Tualatin to annex the area. I would love to have future talks with property owners, Stafford Hamlet and Metro to find creative solutions. A potential solution could be Metro purchasing several acres on Borland, and converting it into micro-farms, and becoming a national model, where farms provide food to the surrounding community with a CSA-type model.
  3. The $2.7B estimate presented by Fregonese Associates, the land use consultants hired by the pro-development folks, is their estimate of costs to develop the developable parts of Stafford infrastructure. Given that 40% of the cost –over $1 billion — would be borne by the people of the cities that get developed, I don’t support the plan. Cities are struggling now to make ends meet as is and should not bear the cost of someone else developing and profiting off land sale.
  4. The good thing about the 3-party IGA is that it requires West Linn, Tualatin and Lake Oswego to inform each other of their plans for development. When they disagree, they will work it out. This will create a more equitable approach to Stafford’s future. If development happens at some point in the future, it must be based on the needs and desires of the three cities as well as the residents of the Hamlet.
    • Transportation infrastructure: I was elected to represent the residents of House District 37, and bring their issues to Salem. I’ve heard loud and clear that our community cares deeply about investments in transportation projects, but it’s fundamentally unfair to toll our community’s roads years before the rest of the region. I agree! In my first session I stood up against ODOT’s plans to toll the roads in our district, even when that meant challenging my own party. There is a 261% increase in vehicles entering the HWY from Stafford road from 2008-2018. The intersection of I-5 and I-205 is in the heart of House District 37; this includes Abernathy Bridge, a major bottleneck of statewide concern. A toll there could mean the residents of HD 37 will bear the burden of these statewide problems and that is not acceptable. I fought to fix the Abernethy bridge by using our tax dollars better, and I am still working to stop the tolling plans and advocating for fair plans. We need to use our existing assets more wisely.
    • Healthcare: Every person in Oregon should have equal access to comprehensive, equitable, affordable, high-quality healthcare that includes access to reproductive, mental, and addiction care. I work on the frontlines of the global pandemic as a nurse practitioner. I am fighting everyday for access to healthcare, and in 2021 I will be prioritizing access to telehealth.
    • Economic recovery: In this challenging time, we need to support our small businesses and keep people housed who have been put out of work .

Kelly Sloop

Response: Not received.