During a recent meeting of the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners, urgent discussions centered on addressing the housing crisis in Sisters, Oregon. The community is facing a significant shortage of affordable housing, with estimates indicating that nearly 1,800 new homes will be needed over the next two decades to meet current and future demands.

Key stakeholders, including local residents and representatives from organizations like Sisters Habitat for Humanity and the Sisters Opportunity for Unified Living (SOUL), voiced their support for the Mackenzie Meadow Village project. This initiative aims to amend zoning regulations to facilitate the development of affordable housing within the city’s urban growth boundary (UGB). Advocates emphasized the importance of this project in providing stable housing for various community members, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as essential workers such as teachers and healthcare staff.

Tina Minceyde, representing SOUL, highlighted the necessity of expanding the UGB to include priority lands that can support affordable housing. She noted that many individuals with disabilities are currently forced to relocate to other areas, severing their connections to family and community. Similarly, Morgan Greenwood, a member of the UGB steering committee, stressed the urgency of the housing crisis, urging the commissioners to consider the long-term implications of their decisions on housing availability.

Peter Hoover, executive director of Sisters Habitat for Humanity, pointed out that the organization has been a primary provider of affordable homes in the area but is running out of land to develop. He urged the commissioners to support the Mackenzie Meadows project, which includes a commitment to ensure that 30% of the new homes will be affordable.

The meeting also featured testimonies from local residents who shared personal experiences regarding the challenges of finding housing in Sisters. Many expressed concerns that the rising cost of living is driving away potential residents and essential workers, threatening the community's sustainability.

As the commissioners deliberate on the proposed zoning changes, the discussions reflect a broader commitment to addressing the pressing housing needs in Sisters. The outcomes of this meeting could significantly impact the community's ability to provide affordable housing options and retain its workforce, ultimately shaping the future of Sisters for years to come.