Hillsboro, known for its diversity across age, income, and ability, is actively shaping its future through housing initiatives that respond to the varied needs of its residents. Early last year, the city undertook a comprehensive analysis to bolster housing production, aiming to provide a mix of housing types and affordability levels. This plan materialized into the Housing Production Strategy, finalized in December 2024, tailored to address requirements laid out by the 2023 Housing Needs Analysis Report.
However, after its adoption by the Hillsboro City Council in December 2024, the strategy hit a roadblock. The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) reviewed the plan and demanded modifications. Specifically, the DLCD took issue with the strategy's action to explore residential land expansion beyond city limits without clear implementation timelines that matched the housing needs identified, according to the official strategy document.
The city and a consultant funded by a state grant are now navigating the process of addressing these concerns. This collaboration aims to prepare the strategy for the Council's readoption. A revised version is scheduled for Council consideration in a work session slated for October, with aspirations to have the final strategy ready for readoption in December 2025.
In an ongoing effort to surpass obstacles and fine-tune the strategy, the City of Hillsboro is engaging with the DLCD. The adjustments must pinpoint accurate timelines and ensure alignment with the community's housing needs, which were earlier pinpointed. The full details and ongoing updates about the Housing Production Strategy are available on the City’s website.
