Media Advisory

August 5, 2008

PDC Board Votes to Join City of Portland in Luba Appeal

The Portland Development Commission (PDC) Board approved a resolution Friday, August 1 to intervene on behalf of the City of Portland to defend two City Council- approved amendments to the River District Urban Renewal Plan. While the City Attorney’s office will lead the effort to defend the amendments, PDC will be able to participate in oral arguments and provide briefs on the intricacies of urban renewal law and practices.   

During the appeal process, some projects may be delayed.  The PDC is currently working with key stakeholders to discuss affected projects and how to mitigate impacts.

“The challenge to this amendment jeopardizes our ability to invest in Old Town Chinatown, where most of the projects are located,” said PDC Executive Director Bruce Warner. “Fulfilling our goals of providing good housing where quality services can be provided to Portland's homeless population is one of our top priorities. In order to complete the Homeless Resource Access Center, as well as address remaining areas of blight in the River District, it is essential we join the City Attorney’s Office in this effort.”    

On July 15, a small group of private citizens filed a notice of intent to appeal these plan amendments to the State of Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA). As a result, PDC may need to suspend activity on projects within this amendment area pending the LUBA ruling. The LUBA is expected to issue a decision in seven to nine months.

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PDC was created by Portland voters in 1958 to serve as the city’s urban renewal agency as laid out in Chapter 15 of the City’s Charter. PDC provides comprehensive housing, development and economic development programs within the Portland region.

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