SALEM, Ore. (AP) - The Oregon Legislature has approved a compromise that would end a long conflict over the urban growth boundary in Washington County.
The measure would validate part of the boundary extension adopted by Metro, the Portland area’s regional planning agency. The extension has been tied up in court.
The Senate approved the measure unanimously on Friday, sending it to Gov. John Kitzhaber. The compromise passed the House without opposition last week.
Proponents say it will result in more land for housing and employers in fast-growing Washington County. They say it will ensure that designated farmland is protected from future development.
The compromise is backed by interest groups representing farmers, developers and conservationists as well as local governments. It would not affect disputed land in Multnomah and Clackamas counties.
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