Rahim Harji

The council discussed upcoming legislative changes regarding land use and housing production. The meeting focused on new state statutes that mandate procedural shifts for housing applications, specifically the prohibition of public hearings for certain application types and the impact on local decision-making authority. Council members explored concerns regarding transparency, public engagement, and the procedural complexities associated with these state-level mandates, particularly regarding residential development projects and potential impacts on zoning map modifications.

The City Council meeting focused on discussing upcoming land use legislation and housing amendments. Staff provided an overview of state legislative changes intended to reduce barriers to housing production, including the prohibition of public hearings for certain residential land use applications. Council members discussed the impact of these changes on community engagement, the potential for reduced public input, and the procedural complexities regarding future zoning map updates. It was determined that staff would provide a future update once there has been sufficient experience with the new procedures.

The council received a post-legislative session update focusing on state budget challenges, transportation funding, and economic development. Key discussion topics included the impacts of federal tax law changes on Oregon revenues, the status of referred ballot measures, and the passage of bills related to transportation, housing, and homelessness. Furthermore, the meeting covered state legislation regarding federal immigration enforcement response, data privacy for law enforcement, and the implementation of tools for urban growth boundary expansions. Upcoming work groups and task forces related to economic development were also addressed.

The City of Hillsboro's Housing Production Strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to address current and future housing needs through 22 city-led actions. Key strategic areas include regulatory actions to expand housing capacity, land-based initiatives, partnerships, incentives, and direct investments. The plan specifically aims to promote housing production, affordability, and choice, with a strong focus on achieving fair and equitable housing outcomes, mitigating displacement, and increasing housing stability for vulnerable populations and protected classes.

This document reviews the City of Hillsboro's Readopted Housing Production Strategy (HPS). The HPS outlines 22 city-led actions across regulatory, land-based, partnership, incentive, and investment categories. It addresses identified housing needs, emphasizes public engagement, and details strategies for achieving fair and equitable housing outcomes. These strategies aim to increase housing production, affordability, and choice, while mitigating displacement and promoting housing stability for diverse populations, including those in vulnerable areas and protected classes.