Looming Decisions are Tough, but Must be Made

Whether you agree with Metro’s 2040 plan or not, you have to admit, it’s doing what it was created to do, which is to manage growth in our region and protect our rural assets from urban sprawl. The goal is admirable, but it comes at a price.

When growth is restricted to a limited area, it puts tremendous pressure on the area’s infrastructure. As a result, our roads are more congested and our region’s sewer system is near full capacity. Milwaukie and its regional partners are working together to address these infrastructure concerns; projects that have been talked about for over fifteen years including the regionalization of sewer treatment facilities, improvements
to Harmony Road, and the addition of light rail. We’ve put off making decisions on these major projects for many years. Why have they been “put off until tomorrow?” My guess is because these projects:

• Have impacts that are not all positive.
• Require compromise.
• Are controversial.
• Are very expensive.
• Require an outlook of what’s in the best interest of everyone, not only now but in the future. • Require public agencies to work together in true partnerships.
• Require a tremendous amount of trust and commitment.

It’s time for our community to come together and make a decision on how we are going to move forward in addressing these needs. The cost of these projects grows more expensive as time goes by and even though the changes are still just as controversial, the improvements are needed now more than ever. Milwaukie’s future will be shaped by these decisions
so don’t be shy. Let your ideas, thoughts and opinions be known because tomorrow has arrived.

This month’s Councilor Column is written by Councilor Joe Loomis. To contact Joe call (503) 786-7514 or send her an email at loomisj@ci.milwaukie.or.us.