The Roseburg Planning Commission convened on November 4, 2024, to discuss a significant proposal regarding the expansion of the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) to include Sunshine Park, a city-owned property currently outside city limits. This move aims to enhance public access to park facilities and align zoning designations with the city’s comprehensive plan.

The proposal, which is framed as a single request despite involving multiple actions, seeks to amend the comprehensive plan designation for the park property to a public/semi-public designation. This change is essential for the city to apply a public reserve zoning designation to the park, facilitating its development and use as a community resource.

Commission members emphasized the importance of public input throughout the process. The city council has already expressed support for the initiative, and the commission's recommendation will be forwarded to them for final approval. The county planning commission will also review the proposal, ensuring that both local governing bodies are involved in the decision-making process.

One notable aspect of this proposal is its size; at just under 50 acres, it qualifies for a streamlined review process compared to larger UGB expansions. This means that while there will be opportunities for public comment and potential appeals, the criteria for approval are less stringent than those for larger projects.

The discussion highlighted that Sunshine Park is the only property affected by this UGB expansion, as it is already designated as a park by the city but currently holds a county zoning designation. The planning commission is tasked with reviewing the application in detail over the next month, allowing ample time for community members to engage with the proposal.

As the city moves forward with this initiative, it reflects a broader commitment to enhancing public spaces and ensuring that residents have access to recreational areas. The outcome of this meeting could pave the way for improved park facilities and increased community engagement in Roseburg.