City staff explains how House Bill 4,037 changed notice and appeal rules for housing

A City of West Linn staff member said the Oregon Legislature’s House Bill 4,037 took effect July 1 and altered how cities must review housing development proposals. "1st, a new state law known as House Bill 4,037 took effect July 1," the staff member said, noting the statute narrows notice and appeal rights for projects.

According to the staff member, the law limits mailed or posted notice to property owners within 100 feet of a development or within 500 feet for developments of more than 20 units. The speaker also said cities cannot hold a public hearing before making a decision on housing and that only an applicant may appeal a Planning Commission decision to City Council or to the state. The staff member framed these as procedural changes required by state law and advised residents how those changes affect public participation on local projects.