February 19th e-mail newsletter from Kathryn Harrington

February 19, 2010

Dear Friend,

On behalf of the Metro Council, I am pleased to report that Metro and Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties have produced final proposals for urban and rural reserves that will shape how our region grows for up to 45 years.

This is one of the most important and challenging decisions our region has faced. The proposed designation of more than 271,500 acres of rural reserves will guarantee the protection of valuable farmland, forestland and natural areas for current and future generations to enjoy. Urban reserves, which would amount to about 28,100 acres across the region, will provide for the future opportunity to create good jobs and housing in safe and pleasant neighborhoods that complement existing communities.

The proposals are the result of unprecedented partnerships and participation from local governments, advocacy organizations and thousands of residents. They represent a collaborative road map that no other region in the United States has achieved.

The proposals rest on the foundation of the 2040 Growth Concept, which calls for focusing development in city and town centers, along transportation corridors and near employment areas. While that plan reflects a regional agreement about what we want the future to look like, the land use decisions we are poised to make and the region's recent transportation choices represent a concerted effort to decide how we are going to get there.

And let's be clear. Our continued success will revolve around a single imperative: investing in our communities to secure the future the people of the region desire. This means we must invest existing dollars strategically, focus investments for maximum impact, and deploy public resources in a way that supports private investment. Only if we do all these things can we ensure a strong economy, a healthy environment and communities that serve the needs of all.

I urge you to view the proposed agreements, map and other information on Metro's web site. Each of three county boards of commissioners and the Metro Council will consider the proposed intergovernmental agreements the week of Feb. 22.

www.oregonmetro.gov/reserves

Please stay involved as together we take important steps to invest in our communities and make our region the greatest place to live, work and raise a family.

Regards,

Kathryn Harrington
Metro Councilor, District 4