Planning Commission Meeting – August 25, 2025

The Lake Oswego Planning Commission held a work session to discuss the Foothills District Plan Update (PP25-0005), the third work session on this project. The meeting began with approval of the August 11, 2025, minutes and concluded with a review of the fall schedule.

Consent Calendar

• Approved the minutes of the August 11, 2025, meeting unanimously (motion and second, all ayes, no opposition).

Discussion Items

• Foothills District Plan Update – Work Session #3 Long-range planning manager Eric Olson introduced the project team from First 40 Feet (Will Grimm and Jason Graff) along with subconsultants ACO Northwest, Apex Engineering, DHM, Booking Group, and DCW. The team presented a draft public involvement strategy for the two-year planning effort. Key elements included:

  • A stakeholder identification matrix to engage underrepresented groups (youth, low-income households, renters) through tailored outreach methods such as one-on-one meetings, pop-ups, and surveys.
  • Formation of a 15-member Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) with two youth members (ages under 18) and two nonvoting members (Commissioner Najak and Mayor Buck). The resolution to appoint members is scheduled for City Council on September 2, 2025.
  • A Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to be established later in September, including representatives from TriMet, the trolley consortium, and other agencies.
  • Three engagement phases: project initiation (opportunities and constraints), concept plan alternatives, and framework plan refinement. The first phase will use DHM for focus groups and surveys to gauge community values and concerns.
  • Emphasis on building on the 2012 plan while addressing new factors such as the relocation and downsizing of the Tryon Creek Wastewater Treatment Facility (from 13 to approximately 8 acres), which opens up development space.
  • Messaging focused on creating a transit-friendly, inclusive neighborhood with a mix of housing types, walkability, and connectivity across Highway 43. Commissioners discussed the need to learn from past resistance and ensure transparency.
  • Commissioners asked about maintaining engagement over two years; the team mentioned newsletters, QR codes, demonstration projects (e.g., a traffic garden), and continued outreach through community liaisons.

• Other Business Planning Manager Jessica announced a one-time virtual focus group in September for members of boards and commissions to provide input on tree regulation amendments. Commissioner Jim volunteered to participate.

• Schedule Review Upcoming meetings:

  • September 8: Hearing on comprehensive plan amendments for fair housing policy.
  • September 22: Work session on rezoning for housing project.
  • October 13: Hearing on home occupation standards.
  • October 27: Work session on updates regarding exemptions from mandatory adjustments under Senate Bill 1537.

Key Outcomes

• The Commission unanimously approved the August 11, 2025, meeting minutes.
• The CAC appointments will be presented to City Council on September 2, 2025, with the TAC expected to be formalized later in September.
• The public involvement strategy for the Foothills District Plan Update was discussed and received input from commissioners; no formal vote was taken.
• A volunteer was identified for the tree regulation focus group.
• The fall schedule was confirmed, with several hearings and work sessions planned.