LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
We're not going to give you a template to use. Form letters don't communicate your thoughts. Instead, we're going to give you
some suggestions of things that you might want to include in your letter.
These are just a few points (pick and choose!) worth bringing out - although there are many more! :
- Measure 49 has never had a public hearing
- Measure 49 only guarantees 1 lot outside of the UGB (maximum 3); and 0 inside the UGB!
And this is for the total of all the lots in your application put together!
- Measure 49 does not allow you to apply for more that 3 lots if you are inside "high value' farm/forest.
This ignores the fact that almost all building in Oregon is on high value farm forest!
It then expands the definition of high value, beyond what is in the ORS!
It adds all areas in wine appellations, irrigated non-high value, etc.
- To apply for more than 3 houses, you LOSE your right to 3 houses (90 days to apply, or lose!).
You must then use the financial formula, which has been proven will not work.
- Measure 49 not only makes it easier to be sued (by anyone in the State); but also eliminates
your rights to recover legal costs - even if you win!
- Measure 49 is supported by special interest environmental and conservation groups - who do not want to see anyone build!
- The wine industry alone has funded this bill for over $465,000 to protect low real estate prices!
- "The Big Look" founded by the Governor to report proposed land use changes in Oregon to the
legislature is now the "Little Peek"; one of the legislatures last bills was to take away all the
funding for this now inactive group.
While you are sending those letters to the editor; don’t forget to contact your legislator -
Republican or Democrat. Be sure and request that Measure 37 reform (including transferability) be on the February 2008 agenda; as well as funding for the Big Look!
Click here to find your legislator