The way we use and care for land has a tremendous impact on livability in Oregon. With Oregon's population protected to grow steadily for at least another generation, the decisions that we make today about land use and the design of our community, have a tremendous impact on the future. Our faith traditions have much to say about land and its relationship to justice and the care of all God's creation. EMO has been involved in maintaining Oregon's statewide land use laws for many years. In the Portland Metro Region, EMO was a co-founder, and is a member of, Coalition for a Livable Future (CLF). CLF's purpose is to "protect, restore, and maintain healthy, equitable, and sustainable communities, both human and natural, for the benefit of present and future residents of the greater metropolitan region" To learn more, go to www.clfuture.org .
EMO's Environmental Ministries Committee has been studying land use issues in the wake of Measure 37. It provided testimony to the 2007 Legislature that encouraged modifying Measure 37 to prevent large developments on farm and forest land. A write up of the EMO's September 2006 field trip to explore land use issues in Hood River Valley can be found the Winter 2007 issue of The Voice.
In June, the Legislature referred recommendations to modify Measure 37 to the voters of Oregon. The result is Measure 49, which comes before voters on November 6, 2007. View a statement by EMO in favor of Measure 49.
Two important resources for action are "Yes on 49" and the Envision Oregon project of 1,000 Friends of Oregon.
A Message from “Yes on 49.” Measure 49 is our one opportunity topreventoverdevelopment of farm and forest lands into subdivisions, strip malls, big box stores and gravel pits that resulted from Measure 37. Measure 49 does not repeal Measure 37, but it does fix its flaws; it will deliver on the promises made to small individual property owners while preventing the most egregious abuses of huge housing subdivisions, commercial and industrial development, destruction of prime farmland and forests, and threats to water supplies that families depend on. To give your support to Measure 49, stay informed, volunteer, tell a friend, host a house party or give a presentation to your congregation. Contact campaign offices around Oregon and find out how to pick up your area's campaign literature to distribute around your community or neighborhood. Bumper stickers are also available.
Envision Oregon offers tools for Oregonians to learn about, discuss and affect the issues that will shape the future of our state and communities. Last year, over the course of many town hall forums in communities across the state, 1,200 Oregonians came together to identify common values and develop a vision for the future. This year, the discussion continues as we refine the vision and begin the exciting work of making it a reality. Come and share your opinion on questions such as these: How do we maintain the character of our communities? How would Measure 37 impact our local economy and quality of life? Is Measure 49 the right way to ensure fairness? The events are free, and meals are available to order in advance for $10. Or you may bring your own. Envision Oregon is a citizen-driven effort to shape our shared future. Ecumenical Ministries of Oregon is a co-sponsor. Reserve your spot using one of the online registration pages. E-mail questions to info@envisionoregon.org. Upcoming events: Hillsboro: September 6. Portland: September 8. Oregon City: September 11. Pendleton: October 23. Baker City: October 25.
