Due to our proximity to the Portland Metro area, the state's housing shortage, and our community's reputation for having a high quality of life, Estacada continues to experience intense pressure to grow. While the Planning Department and Planning Commission are tasked with evaluating consistency between development proposals and applicable regulations, neither party initiates development. Development proposals come before decision makers (Planning Commission and/or City Council) when property owners decide to utilize the development capacity on their property, which is based on zoning standards. As such, the amount of development occurring in Estacada at any point in time is largely a function of market forces.
Subdivision applications are subjected to a thorough review process requiring a recommendation from the Planning Commission and final approval from the City Council. Here’s how it works:
- Public Notice and Hearing: The specific code criteria that subdivision applications must meet are identified in the public notice and are discussed during the public hearing(s). These criteria generally relate to the zoning designation of the subject property, the type(s) of housing proposed, and the transportation / utility infrastructure that must be built concurrently with the development.
- Compliance with Codes and Laws: If an application meets all the requirements outlined in the City’s code, it cannot be denied. Property owners have the right to develop their property as long as they follow the applicable laws and regulations. Denying an application that meets all requirements could lead to claims with the Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) and potential lawsuits against the City.
- Denial for Non-Compliance: If the City's findings demonstrate that an application does not and cannot comply with all applicable development code standards, the application may be denied.
- Estacada Comprehensive Plan: In addition to development code requirements, the application must also align with the applicable goals and policies of the Estacada Comprehensive Plan.
This process ensures that all new subdivisions are reviewed fairly and consistently, allowing development that adheres to adopted community standards and legal requirements.