In a recent meeting of the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners, community members voiced strong opposition to the proposed rezoning of Mackenzie Meadow Village, a project that aims to develop 180 homes in Sisters, Oregon. The developers tout the project as a necessary addition to the community, claiming it will provide affordable housing options. However, many residents argue that the project fails to address the pressing need for truly affordable homes in the area.

One resident highlighted the stark reality of housing costs in Sisters, where the median income is approximately $993,000, and the cheapest apartments range from $1,475 to $2,500 per month. With wages for many workers, such as teachers, hovering around $15 an hour, the proposed homes would remain out of reach for those who need them most. Critics argue that the development would cater to an exclusive market, neglecting the hundreds of unhoused individuals living in the nearby Deschutes National Forest.

Christina Meyer, another resident, raised concerns about the timing of the rezoning request, stating it undermines the ongoing urban growth boundary (UGB) expansion process. Meyer emphasized that the Mackenzie Meadows parcel is classified as a lower priority for development and should not be considered until higher priority lands have been exhausted. She warned that advancing this property could set a dangerous precedent, allowing developers to bypass established land use regulations.

Environmental concerns were also a significant theme during the meeting. Several speakers pointed out that the proposed development lies within a wildland urban interface, an area at high risk for wildfires. They argued that increasing housing density in such a location would jeopardize both residents and first responders, contradicting the county's wildfire resilience goals. Additionally, the land is home to sensitive wildlife habitats and rare plant species, which would be threatened by the proposed development.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners were left to weigh the passionate testimonies against the backdrop of a community grappling with housing shortages and environmental preservation. The future of Mackenzie Meadow Village remains uncertain, as residents hope their voices will influence the decision-making process and protect the integrity of their community.