Beaverton Community Development Department outlines growth strategies and housing initiatives

The Beaverton City Council held a special meeting on April 8, 2025, focusing on the operations and initiatives of the Community Development Department (CDD). The meeting featured Lee Crabtree, the Community Development Director, who provided an overview of the department's eight divisions and their roles in facilitating development and construction within the city.

Crabtree emphasized that the CDD is dedicated to supporting various community needs, including first-time homebuyers, minority-owned businesses, childcare providers, and affordable housing initiatives. He outlined the department's commitment to customer service and collaboration, highlighting the Development Review Process (DRP) as a critical function that ensures new developments align with city goals and policies.

The presentation detailed the long-range planning efforts of the CDD, which include projects like the Milliken Way improvements and the housing production strategy. Crabtree noted that the current planning section handles a range of land use applications, from simple permits to complex amendments, and stressed the importance of pre-application conferences to guide applicants through the process.

Crabtree also discussed the economic development initiatives, including partnerships with local organizations to support small businesses and promote downtown events. He highlighted the success of the Oregon Startup Center and the Beaverton Downtown Association in fostering economic growth and community engagement.

The meeting concluded with Crabtree reiterating the CDD's role in enhancing livability and supporting sustainable growth in Beaverton. He expressed pride in the department's contributions to the community and the ongoing efforts to attract diverse businesses and investments.

Overall, the meeting underscored the CDD's multifaceted approach to development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community engagement in shaping Beaverton's future. The council is expected to continue discussions on these initiatives in upcoming sessions.