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Board approves ENA 1 that could include Western ballfield for Ocean Park workforce housing; public warns of irreversible land loss
Summary
Following executive session under ORS 192.660(2)(e), the board approved entering an ENA that could presumptively include the Western ballfield in initial Ocean Park developer discussions; public speakers and a designer warned that selling school land is irreversible and urged benefits for students.
After an executive session to negotiate real property transactions under ORS 192.660(2)(e), the Bandon School District board returned to open session to consider motions related to the Ocean Park workforce housing proposal.
A motion to terminate discussion of the development failed. The board then approved, by motion, to presumptively include the Western ballfield as part of ENA 1 (earnest negotiation agreement) discussions with prospective developers. Board members clarified that ENA 1 is nonbinding and does not obligate the district to consummate any sale or to select a developer; if the board becomes supportive of a project iteration, it would still have to comply with public contracting rules and land-use hearings.
Members of the public, including a local designer, argued that school property is an "irreversible loss" if sold and urged any development to provide direct benefits to district students and the community. A parent and other commenters said workforce housing targeted to 80—to 120% of area median income may not serve the most urgent housing needs and questioned sacrificing athletic fields.
Board members directed staff to include a public survey and public engagement as part of future discussions. The ENA vote passed by board voice vote after clarification on the nonbinding nature of the agreement.
