Understanding the Petition
FAQ: Will this initiative raise my taxes or cost taxpayers more money?
No. This initiative does not create a new tax, fee, or assessment, and it does not increase property taxes. It simply allows voters to decide whether qualifying Rural Heritage Park properties should receive additional protections that honor donor intent and preserve their historic character.
Creates "Rural Heritage Park" designation for certain District properties.
Should certain District properties be designated as "Rural Heritage Parks" to restrict the use and development of designated properties?
This ordinance creates a new "Rural Heritage Park" designation for certain properties owned by the Chehalem Park and Recreation District (the "District").
District property would receive the “Rural Heritage Park” designation if the property meets requirements related to size, location, historical use, and the manner in which the District obtained the property.
Designated “Rural Heritage Park” properties would be distinguished from developed recreational facilities by characteristics such as historic use, agricultural use, equestrian use, or open space features.
Use of designated “Rural Heritage Park” properties would be limited to agriculture, equestrian, certain community events, and specifically defined pedestrian use. Existing uses inconsistent with the limits of the ordinance will not continue.
This ordinance immediately prohibits commercial, industrial, intensive development, or other incompatible uses impacting the property's open space character.
A "yes" vote creates a “Rural Heritage Park” designation for properties that qualify and directs the District Board to administer the designation. The ordinance would take effect after voter approval is certified.
A "no" vote means the “Rural Heritage Park” designation would not be created.