The city of Philomath wants to hear from community members through an online survey to help identify mixed-use climate-friendly areas, a requirement put into motion through adopted climate goals from the state.
The city in partnership with the Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments recently hosted a public meeting to present potential Climate Friendly Area locations, or CFAs. The meeting consisted of a presentation on the proposed areas from OCWCOG representatives and a public input forum to gather community feedback on the potential sites.
To accompany the public meeting, an online questionnaire has been posted to provide another opportunity for comments.
To help provide residents with more housing and transportation choices and meet Oregon’s climate goals, cities must reduce barriers for local builders who want to build traditional, more walkable development types.
City Manager Chris Workman said the “climate friendly areas” are intended to be places where people can meet most of their daily needs without having to drive by having housing located near a mix of jobs, businesses and services.
The state adopted a Climate Friendly and Equitable Communities program in July 2022, which directs 15 communities to identify potential climate-friendly areas.
The first phase of the process is to study and determine potential locations of climate-friendly areas by the end of 2023, Workman said. The second phase is to adopt development standards for these areas and amend the official zoning map as needed by the end of 2024.
The Climate Friendly Areas process requires centering voices of underserved populations and working toward equitable outcomes. While some may see Climate Friendly Area designation as a benefit, others may fear gentrification-caused displacement, Workman said. State standards require specific analysis of the issue and adoption of anti-displacement measures.
For more information or to request a presentation at a meeting or event, or to schedule a one-on-one meeting, contact Workman at 541-929-6148 or chris.workman@philomathoregon.gov.