HomeMy WebLinkAboutApplication APPLICANT 5/30/2013 • •
,City of Springfield SPRINOFIELD
Development Services Department
225 Fifth Street
Springfield, OR 97477 1St alp
Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagram
Required Project Information 1 (Applicant: complete this section)
Applicant Name: eircea �e1s\noweSehcov PLiw 'e Phone: 54). 73k-4052.
Company: VVinAhnaIahc- Park avttct Retreat-eat fist • Fax: 511 .732- 1043
Address: 250 S 37nA Sl, Spt-fn•�CI-etc OR 97`f76
Applicant's Rep.: J Phone:
Company: Fax:
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Property Owner: Pebe-tKe-efcr� ptv-in t Phone:51 1. 73&- 4002_
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ASSESSOR'S MAP NO: VAXitM5 TAX LOT NO(S): Sex. c ppLrcal-tom
Property Address: Z.So 5. 32-"'—d St
Metro Plan Designation: Refinement Plan Designation:
Size of Property: Acres ❑ Square Feet ❑
Description of If you are filling in this form by hand, please attach your proposal description to this application.
Proposed Attach additional sheets if needed.
Amendment: pietist Sec-c- et.{ L G apft1 Ucei- PIA1
Refinement Plan 1
to be Amended: P9'rk OM cI- Rc.&rc a-b'erVI Cbrn pve1- hsv 1e- Pl a%v.i
Si' natures: Please si•n and •rint our name and date in the a!•_•ro•riate box on the next •a•e.
Required Project Information (City Intake Staff: complete this section)
Associated Applications: Signs: '` �' \n'
Case No.:Ty 1)4 1 �J' 00003 Date: 5/301 3 Reviewed by: "t
Application Fee: $ —CJ agict Technical Fee: $ Postage Fee: $
TOTAL FEES: $ /� PRO]ECT NUMBER:
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Date Received:
MAY 302013
Revised 12.10.08ddk 1 of 4
Original Submittal
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Signatures
The undersigned acknowledges that the information in this application is correct and accurate.
Applicant: E�
.51249 Signature
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If the applicant is not the owner, the owner hereby grants permission for the applicant to act in his/her behalf.
Owner:
Date: 5 17-8113
Signature
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Date Received:
MAY'3 0 2013
Original Submittal__—
Revised 12.10.08ddk 2 of 4
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Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagram Submittal Requirements
Checklist
NOTE: If you feel an item does not apply, please state the reason why and attach the
eexlanation to this form.
Application Fee - refer to the Development Code Fee Schedule for the appropriate
fee calculation formula. A copy of the fee schedule is available at the Development
Services Department. The applicable application, technology, and postage fees are ^�;
collected at the time of complete application submittal. Fee ini ,oh, held Un+1 L. ad&-icw
Z1 *\Dtt4,4 6ludtd • a
Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagr m Application Form 4,41-- inovv-4 .
❑7 A Statement Containing Findings of Fact Addressing the Criteria of Approval
found in the Springfield Development Code (SDC) 5.6-100.
NOTE: In order for the Planning Commission and the City Council to consider an
Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagram, there must be Findings of Fact
submitted by the applicant. The Findings of Fact must show reason for the request
consistent with the Criteria of Approval. If insufficient or unclear information is submitted
by the applicant, the request may be denied or delayed.
The application must include requirements for addressing specific statewide goals that the
Oregon legislature has said must be part of the amendment analysis. In particular,
Statewide Planning Goal 9 Economy and Goal 10 Housing must be addressed for impact on
buildable lands inventories, and a Goal 12 Transportation analysis must address criteria
contained in OAR 660-012-060(1) and (2) of the Transportation Planning Rule (TPR).
Goals 9, 10 and 12 are three of several "Applicable State-Wide Planning Goals"that must
be specifically addressed in criteria (C) of the Springfield Development Code (SDC 5.6-
115). These specific items must be included in the application submittal to be considered
a complete application.
In reaching a decision on these actions, the Planning Commission and the City Council
shall adopt findings which demonstrate conformance to the following:
The Metro Plan;
IV,_,/Applicable State statutes; and
L( Applicable State-wide Planning Goals and Administrative Rules.
❑ A map to scale depicting the existing and proposed diagram change. (If
applicable).
Date Received:
MAY'302013
Original Submittal
Revised 12.10.08ddk 4 of 4
Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagram Application Process
1. Applicant Submits an Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or Diagram
Application to the Development Services Department
• Applications initiated by the public shall be limited to twice per year. Applications
shall be submitted to the Development Services Department on or before January
5th of each year or July 5th of each year.
• The application must conform to the Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or
Diagram Application Submittal Requirements Checklist on page 4 of this application
packet.
• Planning Division staff screen the submittal at the front counter to determine
whether all required items listed in the Amendment of Refinement Plan Text and/or
Diagram Submittal Requirements Checklist have been submitted.
• Applications missing required items will not be accepted for submittal.
2. City Staff Conduct Detailed Completeness Check
• Planning Division staff conducts a detailed completeness check within 30 days of
submittal.
• The assigned Planner notifies the applicant in writing regarding the completeness of
the application.
• An application is not deemed technically complete until all information necessary to
evaluate the proposed development, its impacts, and its compliance with the
provisions of the Springfield Development Code and other applicable codes and
statutes have been provided.
• Incomplete applications, as well as insufficient or unclear data, will delay the
application review process and may result in denial.
3. City Council Reviews the Application, Holds a Public Hearing, and Issues a Decision
• This is a Type IV decision and thus is made after a public hearing.
• A notice is posted in the newspaper, and notice is mailed to property owners and
occupants within 300 feet of the property being reviewed and to any applicable
neighborhood association. In addition, the applicant must post one sign, provided
by the City, on the subject property.
• Written comments may be submitted to the Development Services Department
through the day of the public hearing or comments may be provided in person
during the public hearing.
• Applications are distributed to the Development Review Committee.
• After a public hearing, the City Council issues a decision that addresses all
applicable approval criteria and/or development standards, as well as any written or
oral testimony.
• Applications may be approved, approved with conditions, or denied.
• The City mails the applicant and any party of standing a copy of the decision, which
is effective either on the date the decision is made or 30 days after the decision is
made if there is no emergency clause in the adopting Ordinance.
• The decision issued is the final decision of the City but the City Council's decision
may be appealed within 21 calendar days to the Land Use Board of Appeals.
Revised 12.10.08ddk 3 of 4
• •
May 29, 2013
REFINEMENT PLAN AMENDMENT APPLICATION
Willamalane 2012 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan
APPLICANT
Willamalane Park and Recreation District
250 South 32nd Street
Springfield Oregon 97478
Contact: Rebecca Gershow, Senior Planner
Phone: 541/736-4052
E-mail: rebeccag @willamalane.org
REFINEMENT PLAN TO BE AMENDED
Willamalane 2004 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan
PROJECT BACKGROUND
Willamalane Park and Recreation District (the Applicant) (Willamalane) requests
Refinement Plan Amendment application approval to amend the 2004 Park and
Recreation Comprehensive Plan with the new 2012 Park and Recreation
Comprehensive Plan (Plan, 2012 Plan, 20-year Plan). It will replace the 2004 Park and
Recreation Comprehensive Plan.
The Willamalane Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan is a Refinement Plan of the
Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan (Metro Plan).' In 1980, the City
Council and Lane County Board of Commissioners adopted the Willamalane Park and
Recreation District Comprehensive Plan (Refinement Plan). The City Council and Lane
County Board of Commissioners amended the Plan in 2004 with the adoption of the
2004 Willamalane Park and Recreation District Comprehensive Plan.
The Plan details the park and recreation needs of the greater Springfield community
and describes programs and facilities that Willamalane has developed or is developing
to meet those needs. Similar to other long-range planning documents, the Plan is
designed to be updated periodically. Proposed action 11.17 in the 2012 Plan (p. 76)
states, "...update the district's Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan every 5-10
years to respond to changing needs." These periodic updates and the revisions they
contain are processed as Refinement Plan Amendment applications and reviewed
under a Type IV procedure in accordance with the requirements and criteria at
Springfield Development Code (SDC) 5.6-100 through 5.6-115.
Willamalane is a special service district with responsibility for providing park and
recreation facilities and services for the Springfield community. A 1995
Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City and Willamalane requires the two
Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan(Metro Plan). Metro Plan Appendix B, Refinement
Plans, Function Plans, and other Planning Documents. 2001. Date Received:
MAY-3 0 2013
1� Original Submittal
•
agencies to collaborate in planning for the parks, recreation, and open space needs of
the city and its urbanizable area. The IGA designates Willamalane as the agency
responsible for preparing and updating a comprehensive plan for meeting those needs.
The IGA specifies that the comprehensive plan shall be adopted as a refinement to the
Metro Plan.
The Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan provides a framework for community
wide decision-making over 20 years regarding the acquisition, development, and
management of Springfield's park, recreation, and open-space system. The goal of the
Plan is to contribute to the quality of life of area residents by ensuring that the long-term
supply of parks, recreation, and natural areas within Springfield's urban growth
boundary and Willamalane's service boundary is adequate, in terms of quantity and
quality, to meet the community's needs.
The 2012 Plan includes updates to each element of the 2004 Plan. The 2012 Plan
includes significant changes to the Strategies and Actions and Capital Improvement
Program sections, as follows:
• Removal of certain projects (mainly those that have been completed since 2004);
• Addition of projects (primarily based on the Community Needs Assessment, but
also from city refinement plans, district site master plans, and new opportunities);
• Revision of existing projects (based on a variety of input).
During the past eight years, Willamalane has implemented strategies and actions in the
2004 Plan, including:
• Renovation of the EWEB riverfront bike path;
• Construction of outdoor park improvements at Lively Park;
• Construction of a new community recreation center and administrative offices
(Willamalane Center for Sports and Recreation) to replace the Memorial and
Administration buildings;
• Construction of three new neighborhood parks (Rob Adams, Jasper Meadows,
and Volunteer);
• Renovation of Royal Delle Park;
• Construction of a sports park with synthetic turf fields (32nd Street Community
Sports Park);
• Construction of a new playground at Willamalane Park;
• Construction of the Middle Fork Willamette River Path (to be completed in Fall
2013).
Willamalane began the process of developing the Plan in 2010, with the development of
a Community Needs Assessment (CNA). The CNA included extensive community
involvement activities, a demographic analysis, and a technical analysis of parks,
facilities, programs, and finances. Findings from the CNA are the foundation for the
strategies and actions included in the 2012 Plan. The CNA is included in the proposed
2012 Plan as Appendix A (Exhibit A).
Date Received:
MAY302013 2
Original Subn'±ittat.._.._--- -
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There are seven key elements of the proposed 2012 Plan:
• Core values -- the values that all of Willamalane's services are based upon;
• A vision that describes Willamalane's preferred future in the community;
• A mission that describes the business of what Willamalane does;
• Goals that describe the outcomes to be produced by implementing the proposed
Refinement Plan;
• Strategies and actions that describe how Willamalane will achieve its vision
over the next 20 years;
• A Capital Improvement Plan that provides a financing and phasing strategy for
implementing the proposed Refinement Plan; and
• Performance measures that measure success of implementing the Plan.
In September 2012, in a series of meetings, Willamalane presented the draft 2012 Plan
to the Springfield Planning Commission, Springfield City Council, Lane County Planning
Commission and Lane County Board of Commissioners for review and comment. In
June 2012, meetings were held with Springfield Public Schools staff and Board of
Directors, as well as an open house for the general public to review and comment on
the draft 2012 Plan. The Willamalane Board of Directors unanimously adopted the
proposed Refinement Plan on October 10, 2012, after a two-plus year planning process,
and input from over 2,000 area residents.
CRITERIA OF APPROVAL
The Willamalane 2012 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan is a Refinement Plan
of the Metro Plan and is designed to amend the 2004 Plan. Amendment of adopted
refinement plans may be initiated by the Director, the Planning Commission, the City
Council, or a citizen (SDC 5.6-105.B.).
Adoption or amendment of a refinement plan is reviewed under Type IV procedure
(SDC 5.6-110). SDC Section 5.6-115 contains the criteria to be used in reaching a
decision to amend an adopted refinement plan. The Lane County Board of
Commissioners and the Springfield City Council shall each adopt findings that
demonstrate conformance to the following.
(1) The Metro Plan
(2) Applicable State statutes
(3) Applicable Statewide Planning Goals and Administrative Rules.
Date Received:
MAY302013
Original Submittal 3
1. THE METRO PLAN
Metro Plan Fundamental Principles and Specific Elements are written in bold, relevant
approval criteria are summarized in italics, followed by findings of fact in normal text.
All Metro Plan policies were evaluated in relation to their applicability to the 2012 Plan
and the following policies were found to be applicable to the request. The findings
demonstrate how the 2012 Plan is consistent with, and in fact supported by the policy
directions contained in the Metro Plan. The 2012 Plan meets the criteria as a
Refinement Plan to the Metro Plan as follows:
Metro Plan Diagram/Land Use Designations
The Metro Plan designation "Public and Semi-Public" includes a sub-category "Parks
and Open Space." The Parks and Open Space designation is the one relevant land use
designation related to the proposed Refinement Plan.
Public and Semi-Public
Parks and Open Space
This designation includes existing publicly owned metropolitan and regional-scale
parks and publicly and privately owned golf courses and cemeteries in
recognition of their role as visual open space. This designation also includes
other privately owned lands in response to Metro Plan policies, such as the
South Hills ridgeline, the Amazon corridor, the "Q"Street Ditch, and buffers
separating sand and gravel designations from residential lands.
Where park and open space is designated on privately owned agricultural land,
those lands shall be protected for agricultural use in accordance with Metro Plan
policies.
Where park and open space is designated on forest lands inside the UGB, other
values have primary importance over commercial forest values and those park
and open space areas shall be protected for those primary values.
Where park and open space is designated on forest lands outside the UGB,
commercial forest values shall be considered as one of many primary values.
In addition to those not shown at a neighborhood scale but automatically
included in the gross allocation of residential acres, them is a need for public
facilities and open space at a non-local level, such as regional/metropolitan
parks. Several are shown on the Metro Plan diagram. Those not yet in public
ownership are based on environmental constraints, such as excessive slopes or
assets, such as unique vegetation associations. They should be preserved, if
possible, through,public acquisition or tax relief programs. If that is not possible,
Date Received:
4
MAY302013
Original Submittal__---
development should be required to respond to their unique conditions through
clustering in areas of least value as open space, locating circulation and access
points in a manner that will result in minimal disturbance of natural conditions and
other similar measures particularly sensitive to such sites. (P. II-G-9)
Willamalane's existing, metropolitan-scale parks appear on the Metro Plan Diagram with
the Parks and Open Space land use designation. These include Island Park,
Willamalane Park, and Lively Parke (classified as community parks in the proposed
2012 Plan); Dorris Ranch and Clearwater Park (special use parks); Eastgate
Woodlands (natural area park); Guy Lee Park, Bob Artz Park, and the 32nd St
Community Sports Park (sports parks); Willamalane Center for Sports and Recreation
(community recreation facility); and EWEB Path, By-Gully Path, and portions of the
Middle Fork Path (linear parks). Other existing non-metropolitan-scale parks do not
consistently appear on the Plan Diagram because they function at the neighborhood
level, as the Metro Plan notes above.
The 2012 Plan's proposed new parks, facilities, and trails that are not already in public
ownership (Exhibit A, Map 2) do not appear on the Metro Plan Diagram, because the
2012 Plan does not intend to be specific as to their locations, which is consistent with
previous refinement plans. The proposed 2012 Plan maps depict only their
approximate locations.
If, in the future, Willamalane develops metropolitan-scale parks or facilities on property
with land use designations not consistent with park use, plan amendment applications
will be submitted for land use designation changes at that time, as has been done in the
past (most recently with the 32nd Street Community Sports Park).
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Metro Plan
Diagram and applicable land use designations.
A. Residential Land Use and Housing Element
This element addresses the housing needs of current and future residents of the
metropolitan area. Relevant findings include:
Finding 4: There is sufficient buildable residential land within the existing UGB to
meet the future housing needs of the projected population ...
Finding 5: Undeveloped residential land is considered unbuildable and removed
from the supply if it is within ... the floodway ... wetlands larger than 0.25 acres in
Springfield or buffers around Class A and B streams and ponds ... some of the
2 The majority of Lively Park is designated Parks and Open Space. The northern portion is outside the
urban growth boundary and designated Agriculture. Park improvements are subject to special use
permit approval from Lane County. Willamalane obtained Special Use_P�rrpit m rpvj frpm Lane
County in 2009 for planned improvements to Lively Park. '-'°' hC CSI ea
MAY302013 5
Original Submittal
S •
buildable residential land has development constraints such as slopes,
floodplain, hydric soils and wetlands. Development potential is reduced in
Springfield on floodplain areas ...due to moderate constraints that can support a
less intense level of development.
Finding 8: In the aggregate, non-residential land uses consume approximately
32 percent of buildable residential land. These non-residential uses include
churches, day care centers, parks, streets, schools, and neighborhood
commercial.
Relevant policies include:
Policy A.3: Provide an adequate supply of buildable residential land within the
UGB for the 20-year planning period at the time of Periodic Review. (Metro Plan,
Ill-A-5)
In June 2011, the City of Springfield adopted an ordinance amending the Metro Plan to
adopt the Springfield 2030 Refinement Plan Residential Land Use and Housing Element
and to establish a separate Springfield Urban Growth Boundary pursuant to ORS
197.304.3 The ordinance included the Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs
Analysis, adopted as a technical supplement, which is an "analysis of land supply and
housing demand prepared for the City of Springfield by ECONorthwest that incorporates
input from citizens, stakeholder groups, commissions, and elected officials received
throughout a multi-year citizen involvement process that included a Residential Lands
citizen advisory committee, online public surveys, community workshops, work
sessions, open houses and public hearings."
According to the Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis, Springfield
has a 378-acre surplus of Low Density Residential land, a 76-acre surplus of Medium
Density Residential land, a 28-acre deficit of High Density Residential Land, and a 300-
acre deficit of Parks and Open Space Land.4 In regard to parks and open space land,
the technical analysis states:
"The Parks and Open designation has a deficit of 300 acres. This need does not
imply that the City should expand the UGB for parks and open space. The City
has a surplus of buildable lands in the low and medium density residential
plan designations that can provide land for future parks within those
designations, consistent with the objectives of the adopted Park and Recreation
Comprehensive Plan. A portion of the parks and open space need can also be
met on residentially designated land that has constraints and therefore is not
counted as buildable acres (e.g. ridgeline trail systems). Since no surplus of land
designated for high density residential uses exists, the 21-acre high density
3 City of Springfield. Ordinance 6268. June 11, 2011.
° Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis. ECONorthwestnT�abe -5 Reconciliation of
land need and supply;Springfield UGB 2010. April 2011. LJ T
MAY302013 6
Original Submittal
• •
residential plan designation deficit has been increased by (7) acres to provide for
parkland immediately adjacent to the proposed high density residential district"5
(Emphasis added.)
As discussed above, the technical analysis identifies a deficit of land in the Parks and
Open Space designation and includes an estimate of future land needs. The estimate
of lands needed for parks and open space uses a parkland standard of 14 acres per
1,000 persons based on the level of service standard established in the 2004 Parks and
Recreation Comprehensive Plan, which projected need for parkland in Springfield
between 2002 and 2022.6 Based on the level of service standard, an additional 357
acres of parks and open space land is needed by 2030.'
The Community Needs Assessment to the 2012 Plan (Exhibit A. Appendix A) also
includes an estimate of the needed acreage for park and recreation lands through the
year 2030 and includes the following key finding:
"The District's proposed overall standard for parkland is 14.00 acres per 1,000
residents, which is the same standard as [used] in [the] 2002 [Community Needs
Assessment], and similar to the average standard for comparable cities/districts."
Based on 14.00 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents, 160 acres of parkland (in
addition to all existing acres) are currently needed. By 2030, an additional 364 acres
will be needed. In addition to acquiring more parkland, Willamalane will also need to
renovate and develop existing parks."
The estimates of parks and open space land needs in the Springfield Residential Land
and Housing Needs Analysis and 2012 Plan are consistent (357 acres and 364 acres,
respectively). The projected deficits of 357 acres in the Springfield Residential Land
and Housing Needs Analysis and 364 acres in the 2012 Plan fall within the estimated
surplus of buildable land remaining in the UGB for residential use in Springfield by 2030.
In addition, Statewide Planning Goal 8 allows cities and park districts to acquire land for
park uses outside of urban growth boundaries. Willamalane's service district boundary
and planning area extend outside the Springfield UGB in some areas. However, the
majority of future parkland is expected to come from areas within the UGB that are
residentially designated land, a portion of which is land that has constraints and
therefore is not counted as buildable acres.
Based on these findings, the 2012 Plan is consistent with the Residential Land Use and
Housing element of the Metro Plan.
5 Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis. ECONorthwest. Page v. April 2011.
6 Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis. ECONorthwest. Page 66. April 2011. The
analysis was completed prior to completion of the 2012 Plan. The parkland level of service standard of
14 acres per 1,000.persons is consistent in both the 2004 Plan and 2012 Plan. zQ
Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis. ECONorthwest. Pape E9e`m C01Ved:
ai r� 7
MAY'3 0 2013
Original Submittal
• •
B. Economic Element
The focus of this element is on broadening, improving, and diversifying the metropolitan
economy while maintaining or enhancing the environment (Metro Plan, III-B-3). There
is one relevant policy:
Policy 8.3: Encourage local residents to develop job skills and other educational
attributes that will enable them to fill existing job opportunities. (Metro Plan, 111-8-
4)
One of the Goals of the proposed 2012 Plan is to "support community economic
development" as follows:
"Community health and vitality are essential to attract and regain employees and
businesses and to fuel the local economy. Diverse cultural and recreational
opportunities appeal to employers and employees. Willamalane Park and
Recreation District will provide attractive parks, facilities and programs to enhance
quality of life in Springfield." (2012 Plan, p. 11)
The 2012 Plan as a whole embodies Willamalane's strategies for building cultural and
recreational opportunities and the facilities needed to implement its stated goal of
supporting community economic development. The 2012 Plan includes strategies that
focus on collaboration with the City and other partner agencies. Specifically, strategy
F8 is directed at collaboration with the City and other agencies, as provided below:
"F8. Continue collaboration with the City and other agencies in implementing
community-wide objectives, such as downtown and Glenwood redevelopment,
planning for new development, neighborhood refinement planning, and citywide
planning for tourism, open space, wetlands, stormwater, trails and bikeways, and
other efforts focused on improving quality of life." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
Additional strategies and tasks in the 2012 Plan address Willamalane's role in
community economic development:
"F36. Stay competitive in the job market in order to attract and retain quality
employees. (2012 Plan, p. 75)
"Task 11.7: Increase community awareness about Willamalane's employment
opportunities for youth; work with LCC, UO, and SPS to expand internship
opportunities at Willamalane." (2012 Plan, p. 75)
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Economic
Element of the Metro Plan.
Date Received:
MAY 302013 8
Original Submittal
• •
C. Environmental Resources Element
The Environmental Resources Element addresses natural assets and hazards in the
metropolitan area. There is significant correlation between the first two goals of this
element and the proposed 2012 Plan:
Goals
•
1. Protect valuable natural resources and encourage their wise management,
use, and proper reuse. (Metro Plan, 111-C-6)
2. Maintain a variety of open spaces within and on the fringe of the developing
area. (Metro Plan, 111-C-6)
The following Metro Plan policies relate to 2012 Plan goals, objectives, and strategies:
Policy C.5: Metropolitan goals relating to scenic quality ... open space, and
recreational potential shall be given a higher priority than timber harvest within
the urban growth boundary. (Metro Plan, Ill-C-5)
Policy C.21: When planning for and regulating development, local governments
shall consider the need for protection of open spaces, including those
characterized by significant vegetation and wildlife. Means of protecting open
space include but are not limited to outright acquisition, conservation easements,
planned unit development ordinances, streamside protection ordinances, open
space tax deferrals, donations to the public, and performance zoning. (Metro
Plan, 111-C-12)
Willamalane currently manages approximately 783 acres of land in 37 parks and three
undeveloped properties, including two parks classified as Natural Area Parks.
"Environment" and "Stewardship" are two of Willamalane's Core Values (2012 Plan, p.
8). Two goals in the 2012 Plan specifically address nature and the environment, as
provided below:
"Provide opportunities to enjoy nature"
"Willamalane's parks, programs and facilities offer unique opportunities to enjoy
nature, view wildlife and develop a sense of well-being that grows from a deep
relationship with nature and a connection to the natural world." (2012 Plan, p. 10)
'Preserve the natural environment"
"Our community looks to Willamalane to be the stewards of our natural resources.
Willamalane will provide leadership in conserving these resources, and look for new
and better ways to be environmentally responsible. Willamalane will provide parks
and natural areas that offer close-to-home access to recreational opportunities, while
preserving and enhancing important natural resources." (2012 Plan, p. 11)
Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 9
Original Submittal
•
One of the "General Parks and Natural Areas Strategies" in the 2012 Plan supports the
goals and policies in the Environmental Resources Element of the Metro Plan.
"A7. Work with interested parties to acquire and preserve natural areas for future
generations." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
Four "Natural Area Park Strategies" in the 2012 Plan support the goals and policies in
the Environmental Resources Element of the Metro Plan.
"A39. Acquire and develop a system of natural-area parks that protects, conserves
and enhances elements of the natural and historic landscape that give the region its
unique sense of place." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A40. Develop comprehensive natural resource management plans for natural
areas as a basis for making acquisition, development and restoration decisions."
(2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A41. Provide opportunities for nature-based recreation, such as wildlife viewing,
fishing, hiking, bicycling, nature play, etc." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A42. Protect and enhance a variety of habitat types within Willamalane's park and
open space system, including upland and wildlife communities such as oak
savannah, wetlands, upland prairie and riparian forest." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
In addition, the 2012 Plan includes ten actions specifically related to acquiring and
developing Natural Area Parks, included below:
Project 3.1 Harvest Landing
Project 3.2 Weyerhauser McKenzie Natural-Area Park
Project 3.3 Georgia-Pacific Park
Project 3.4 Booth-Kelly/Mill Pond Park
Project 3.5 Agnes Stewart Mill Race Park
Project 3.6 Jasper Meadows Wetland Park
Project 3.7 South Jasper-Natron Wetlands Park
Project 3.8 Thurston Hills Ridgeline Park (West)
Project 3.9 Thurston Hills Ridgeline Park (East)
Project 3.10 MoutainGate Ridgeline Park
Based on these findings, the 2012 Plan is consistent with the Environmental Resources
Element of the Metro Plan. The findings at Goal 5: Open Spaces, Scenic and
Historic Areas, and Natural Resources are incorporated by reference herein as
further demonstration of consistency.
Date Received:
• MAY.3 0 2013
10
Original Submittal
D. Willamette River Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway Element
The goal of this element is to protect, conserve, and enhance the natural, scenic,
environmental and economic qualities of river and waterway corridors. (Metro Plan, Ill-
D-3)
Relevant policies from this element include:
Policy D.2: Land use regulations and acquisition programs along river corridors
and waterways shall take into account all the concerns and needs of the
community, including recreation ... (Metro Plan, 111-0-4)
Policy D.3: Eugene, Springfield, and Lane County shall continue to cooperate in
expanding water-related parks and other facilities, where appropriate, that allow
access to and enjoyment of river and waterway corridors. (Metro Plan, 111-0-4)
Policy D.4: ...Springfield's efforts to improve the scenic quality of its Millrace
should be encouraged. (Metro Plan, 111-0-4)
Policy D.8: Within the framework of mandatory statewide planning goals, local
Willamette River Greenway plans shall allow a variety of means for public
enjoyment of the river, including public acquisition areas ... (Metro Plan, Ill-D-5)
Policy D.9: Local and state governments shall continue to provide adequate
public access to the Willamette River Greenway. (Metro Plan, 111-0-5)
The City of Springfield is bordered by two rivers, thus river access and river corridor
protection, conservation, and enhancement are key elements of the proposed 2012
Plan. Willamalane currently operates three parks along the main stem of the Willamette
River. Three additional parks are located along the middle fork of the Willamette River,
and one park is located on the McKenzie River. In addition, Willamalane is currently
completing construction of the Middle Fork Willamette River Path, a 4-mile long multi-
use path extending from Clearwater Park to Dorris Ranch in Springfield. The project
includes river access points and areas of riparian restoration and enhancement.
Findings from the Community Needs Assessment (Exhibit A. Appendix A) indicate that
Springfield residents feel strongly about river access. When asked what types of
outdoor recreation features are needed in Willamalane's parks, "riverfront access
points" was a top priority. As noted above, many of Willamalane's riverfront park
facilities and access points are along the Willamette River or its tributaries.
The following actions in the 2012 Plan support Metro Plan Willamette River Greenway,
River Corridor, and Waterway Element goals and policies:
"Action 5.4, Clearwater Park Master Plan Implementation: Over the planning period,
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Willamalane will implement the improvements identified in the Draft Clearwater Park
Master Plan. Clearwater Park is located on the Middle Fork of the Willamette River,
and has been undergoing significant changes in the last few years, including
development of the new inlet for the Springfield Mill Race, and a new boat landing.
Additional improvements identified in the master plan include an accessible fishing
pier, archery range, disc golf course, nature play area, additional waterfront trails,
and native plant demonstration garden. While most of the improvements are not
directly water-related, they will improve the value and use of this large riverfront
park." (2012 Plan, p. 17)
"Action 4.11, McKenzie River Connector: Willamalane will work with the city on
development of a multiuse path from the existing McKenzie Levee Path to 52nd
Street, between Hwy 126 and the McKenzie River. This project was previously
identified in TransPlan and Willamalane's 2004 Comprehensive Plan. It is a critical
east-west connection north of Main Street for bicyclists, and would open up access
to the McKenzie River—much of which is hidden behind fences, or only visible from
speeding vehicles." (2012 Plan, p. 17)
"Actions 4.16, 4.17, 4.18, Mill Race Path: These three actions combined would build
the Mill Race Path from the future Booth-Kelly Mill Pond Park in downtown
Springfield, to its connection with the Middle Fork Path in Georgia-Pacific Park.
Together with the Middle Fork Path and the on-street bikes lanes on South Second
Street, Mill Race Path development would make an 8-mile loop, the majority along a
waterway. The Mill Race Ecostystem Restoration Project has improved the habitat in
and along the Mill Race, and the Mill Race Path will open up this resource to
Springfield residents and regional visitors alike, who until then will only have minimal
access to this historic waterway." (2012 Plan, p. 17)
"Action 3.2, Weyerhauser McKenzie Natural-Area Park: Work with the city to
develop a natural-area park at the Weyerhaeuser McKenzie Natural-Area site,
consistent with the city's McKenzie River Oxbow Natural-Area Master Plan." (2012
Plan, p. 40)
"Action 3.4, Booth-Kelly/Mill Pond Park: Continue to work with the city to develop a
natural-area park at the Booth-Kelly/Mill Pond site, with an emphasis on outdoor
education." (2012 Plan, p. 40)
In addition, the following strategies have relevance to Metro Plan policies related to the
Willamette Greenway:
"A45. Protect riparian areas and floodplains along creeks and rivers within
Willamalane's park and open space system." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A48. Orient riverfront parks to the rivers and their natural resource values; support
water-related recreation activities where appropriate." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
Date Received:
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Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Willamette River
Greenway, River Corridors, and Waterway Element of the Metro Plan. The findings at
Goal 15: Willamette Greenway are incorporated by reference herein as further
demonstration of consistency.
E. Environmental Design Element
The Goals of the Environmental Design Element are to:
1. Secure a safe, clean, and comfortable environment which is satisfying to the
mind and senses. (Metro Plan, 111-E-1)
2. Encourage the development of the natural, social, and economic environment
in a manner that is harmonious with our natural setting and maintains and
enhances our quality of life. (Metro Plan, Ill-E-1)
3. Create and preserve desirable and distinctive qualities in local and
neighborhood areas. (Metro Plan, Ill-E-1)
Relevant Metro Plan policies include:
Policy E.1: In order to promote the greatest possible degree of diversity, a broad
variety of commercial, residential, and recreational land uses shall be
encouraged when consistent with other planning policies. (Metro Plan, 111-E-2)
Policy E.4: Public and private facilities shall be designed and located in a
manner that preserves and enhances desirable features of local and
neighborhood areas and promotes their sense of identity. (Metro Plan, 111-E-3)
Policy E.5: Carefully develop sites that provide visual diversity to the urban area
and optimize their visual and personal accessibility to residents. (Metro Plan, Ill-
E-3)
The Environmental Design Element of the Metro Plan sets broad goals and policies for
the desired qualities of life in the Eugene-Springfield area. Several strategies in the
2012 Plan address environmental design considerations, including accessibility,
connectivity, educational and interpretive elements, public art, and sustainability, as
provided below:
"A8. Work with the City and other public and private partners, as appropriate, to
ensure safe convenient access to parks and recreation facilities, including access for
persons with disabilities, bicycles, pedestrians and other users of public
transportation." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
Date Received:
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"A9. Look for opportunities to improve bicycle/pedestrian circulation, vehicular and
visual access at existing parks in order to improve park safety, recreation utility and
connectivity to the surrounding neighborhood." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"Al2. Provide a variety of educational features in parks, such as examples of
preferred street trees, native plant gardens and interpretive signage." (2012 Plan, p.
27)
"A13. Include public art in park design, whenever feasible, to encourage unique and
memorable park experiences." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"A17. Use environmentally sustainable park development and management
practices." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
In the context of parks and recreation, the following 2012 Plan strategies are also
relevant:
"C9. As improvements are made, bring all parks and facilities up to current ADA and
safety standards." (2012 Plan, p. 63)
"F8. Continue collaboration with the city and other agencies in implementing
communitywide objectives, such as downtown and Glenwood redevelopment,
planning for new development, neighborhood refinement planning, and citywide
planning for tourism, open space, wetlands, stormwater, trails and bikeways, and
other efforts focused on improving quality of life." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
"F14. Design future parks and community facilities to minimize their impacts on
adjacent development, including impacts of noise, traffic and lights." (2012 Plan, p.
73)
"F15. Coordinate location and site design of parks and recreation facilities with
schools, fire stations, libraries and other public facilities where possible to effectively
and efficiently provide service." (2012 Plan, p. 74)
"F16. Balance long-term, communitywide interest with the interests of
neighborhoods and individuals when planning the district's park, recreation and open
space system." (2012 Plan, p. 74)
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Environmental
Design Element of the Metro Plan.
F. Transportation Element
The Transportation Element addresses surface and air transportation in the
metropolitan area. "TransPlan, the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area
Transportation Plan, provides the basis for the surface transportation portions of this
element ..." (Metro Plan, Ill-F-1). The first goal of the Transportation Element is to:
Date Received:
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Provide an integrated transportation and land use system that supports choices
in modes of travel and development patterns that will reduce reliance on the
automobile and enhance livability, economic opportunity, and the quality of life.
(Metro Plan, Ill-F-2)
The components of the Transportation Element most relevant to the 2012 Plan are the
sections on bicycle and pedestrian system improvements, including:
Policy F.26: Provide for a pedestrian environment that is well integrated with
adjacent land uses and is designed to enhance the safety, comfort, and
convenience of walking. (Metro Plan, Ill-F-11)
The 2012 Plan is consistent with bicycle and pedestrian projects identified in TransPlan.
Map A-7 Existing and Planned Multi-Use Paths and Bikeways (2012 Plan, Appendix A)
includes "planned" projects that appear in TransPlan. All TransPlan off-street bicycle
and pedestrian projects within the Willamalane planning area also appear as actions in
the 2012 Plan (2012 Plan, Table 4, p. 45-48 and Map 2-4). Relevant strategies
addressing multi-modal transportation system improvements include:
"A9. Look for opportunities to improve bicycle/pedestrian, vehicular and visual
access at existing parks in order to improve park safety, recreation utility and
connectivity to the surrounding neighborhood." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"A60. Work with partner agencies to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety,
especially on streets that connect to paths, parks and recreation facilities." (2012
Plan, p. 45)
"F11. Work with appropriate agencies to integrate Willamalane's pedestrian and
bicycle network with other city, metropolitan, and regional plans." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
"F12. Work with Lane Transit District to provide convenient transit access to existing
and future district parks and recreation facilities." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
Following are actions from Table 4 (2012 Plan, p. 45-48) that are relevant to the
Transportation Element (numbers in brackets refer to the TransPlan project number):
Action 4.3a EWEB Bike Path Extension [731]
Action 4.5 Lyle Hatfield Path [759]
Action 4.7 Gamebird Park Path [734]
Action 4.9 By-Gully Across Pioneer Parkway to 5th St [812]
Action 4.11 McKenzie River Connector [753]
Action 4.13 Glenwood Riverfront Linear Park A [851]
Action 4.14 Glenwood Riverfront Linear Park B [854]
Action 4.16 Lower Millrace Path [840]
Action 4.17 Mill Race Connector Path [859]
Action 4.19 Middle Fork Willamette Path Phase 3 Ri]
ate eceived:
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Action 4.22 Booth-Kelly Road [921]
Action 4.23 Springfield-Mount Pisgah Connector (Bridge) [960]
Based on the above findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the
Transportation Element of the Metro Plan.
G. Public Facilities and Services Element
This element provides direction for the future provision of urban facilities and services to
planned land uses within the Metro Plan boundary. Parks and recreation facilities and
services are among those discussed in the Element's introductory section, however
they are addressed in detail in the Parks and Recreation Facilities Element. One area
of correlation in the Public Facilities and Services Element relates to joint school/park
use:
Finding 33: Combining educational facilities with local park and recreation
facilities provides financial benefits to the schools while enhancing benefits to the
community. (Metro Plan, Ill-G-10)
Policy G.21: The use of school facilities for non-school activities and appropriate
reimbursement for this use. (Metro Plan, Ill-G-11)
The 2012 Plan is the product of extensive public participation and interagency
collaboration. Interagency coordination and collaboration is at the center of the 2012
Plan's strategy for implementation. "Collaboration" is highlighted as one of
Willamalane's highest priorities. The 2012 Plan states:
"One of the Comprehensive Plan's goals is to strengthen and develop community
partnerships. Willamalane recognizes the importance of collaboration in maximizing
resources and delivering the greatest benefit to the community. In this plan,
Willamalane will continue to rely on collaboration to meet community needs.
Willamalane is an important partner in TEAM Springfield, a cooperative effort
between City of Springfield, Springfield Public Schools (SPS), Willamalane, and
Springfield Utility Board (SUB).
Willamalane relies on all TEAM Springfield partners to meet community park and
recreation needs, but particularly with SPS. Elementary schools play a critical role in
meeting day-today park needs in Springfield, especially in those areas underserved
by neighborhood parks. Willamalane and SPS also have a history of collaborating to
ensure that all Springfield children have safe, supervised settings for play and
learning after school and on no-school days." (2012 Plan, p. 14)
School District/Willamalane coordination is a key element in the 2012 Plan. The
"Highlights of Improvements — Collaboration" section of the 2012 Plan (p. 14) expresses
the importance of Willamalane's collaboration with other Springfield agencies. The
Date Received:
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following excerpt from that section describes the relationship between Willamalane and
the School District:
"Willamalane proposes to expand and strengthen this partnership through a number
of strategies and actions. One strategy is to expand the number of school/park
projects in order to help meet Springfield's neighborhood park needs. This
collaboration may vary widely, depending on mutual benefit and individual site
constraints and opportunities. Possibilities range from joint use to shared
maintenance and coordinated master planning, such as at Douglas Gardens
school/park, Page school/park, and Maple Elementary.
In addition to existing school sites, this plan proposes jointly developing and co-
locating a school and neighborhood park to meet the educational needs of students
and maximize recreational opportunities in the growing Jasper-Natron area (Action
1.18, Jasper-Natron School/Park). By working collaboratively, SPS and Willamalane
will expand the quality and quantity of recreation opportunities available, while
minimizing costly land acquisition." (2012 Plan, p. 14)
The following actions specified in the 2012 Plan further reinforce Willamalane's
commitment to collaboration with the School District and SUB.
"A15. Work with School District 19 when siting and developing future parks and
schools to create school/park facilities best suited to meet the community's needs,
where consistent with the goals and standards of this Plan." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"A23. Work with Springfield Public Schools to create school/park complexes where
parks abut schools and to optimize the use of other school sites, or former school
sites, for public recreation, especially in areas that are underserved by neighborhood
parks." (2012 Plan, p. 28)
"A55. Connect schools, parks, and other community destinations with linear parks,
bikeways and off-street paths, where feasible." (2012 Plan, p. 45)
"F17. Continue to coordinate with Springfield Utility Board regarding joint use
opportunities on Willamalane and SUB properties, as appropriate." (2012 Plan, p.
74)
Table 1: Neighborhood Park Actions (2012 Plan, p. 29-32) lists 15 different types of
proposed school/park coordination projects:
Project 1.1 Pierce Park Expansion
Project 1.4 Gamebird Park Expansion
Project 1.5 Centennial School/Park
Project 1.8 Rainbow Drive Neighborhood Park
Project 1.10 (Former) Brattain School/Park
Project 1.13 Maple School/Park Date Received:
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Project 1.15 Riverbend School/Park
Project 1.17 Hamlin/Moffitt School/Park
Project 1.18 Jasper-Natron School Park
Project 1.20 Ridgeview Elementary School Park
Project 1.21 Thurston Elementary School/Park
Project 1.27 South Jasper Road Area Access Improvements
Project 1.28 Agnes Stewart MS School/Park
Project 1.29 Douglas Gardens Elementary School Park
Project 1.32 Mt. Vernon Elementary School Park
Based on these findings, the proposed 2102 Plan is consistent with the Public Facilities
and Services Element of the Metro Plan.
H. Parks and Recreation Facilities Element
The Goal of the Parks and Recreation Facilities Element is to provide a variety of parks
and recreation facilities to serve the diverse needs of the community's citizens. (Metro
Plan, Ill-H-4)
Relevant Metro Plan policies include:
Policy H.2: Local parks and recreation plans and analyses shall be prepared by
each jurisdiction and coordinated on a metropolitan level ... (Metro Plan, 111-H-4)
Policy H.6: All metropolitan area parks and recreation programs and districts
shall cooperate to the greatest possible extent in the acquisition of public and
private funds to support their operations. (Metro Plan, 111-1-1-5)
Willamalane is a special district whose boundaries include all of Springfield's planning
jurisdiction. The district boundary includes land outside of the Springfield UGB,
however the district is entirely within the Metro Plan Boundary. The City of Springfield
does not operate a parks and recreation department. Willamalane provides a variety of
parks and recreational services to the citizens of Springfield and Lane County. The
mission of Willamalane Park and Recreation District is:
"Deliver exceptional parks and recreation to enrich the lives of everyone we serve."
(2012 Plan, p. ii)
The 2012 Plan is being adopted as Springfield's comprehensive plan for park and
recreational services in conformance with both the Metro Plan and Statewide Planning
Goal 8. The Planning and Development Strategies section of the 2012 Plan (pg. 73-74)
lists several strategies that are relevant to the Park and Recreation policies discussed
herein. These strategies are also cited in findings at the Metro Plan E. Environmental
Design Element. Those findings are incorporated by reference herein. Following are
strategies and actions in the 2012 Plan that emphasize coordination and collaboration in
the provision of parks and recreation facilities:
Date Received:
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"F6. Coordinate efforts with other appropriate agencies related to "Rivers to
Ridges," the Metropolitan Regional Parks and Open Space Study." (2012 Plan, p.
73)
"F7. Emphasize coordination with TEAM Springfield and other agency partners
when developing new public resources, such as parks, schools and public spaces."
(2012 Plan, p. 73)
"F8. Continue collaboration with the city and other agencies in implementing
community-wide objectives, such as downtown and Glenwood redevelopment,
planning for new development, neighborhood refinement planning, and citywide
planning for tourism, open space, wetlands, stormwater, trails and bikeways, and
other efforts focused on improving quality of life." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
"F10. Work with the city to assure Willamalane's compliance with applicable
statewide planning goals." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
In addition, there is one relevant action:
"Action 11.17, 20-Year Plan: Assess community needs and update the district's Park
and Recreation Comprehensive Plan every 5-10 years to respond to changing
needs."
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Parks and
Recreation Facilities Element of the Metro Plan.
I. Historic Preservation Element
The goal of the Historic Preservation Element of the Metro Plan is to preserve and
restore reminders of our origin and historic development as links between past, present,
and future generations (Metro Plan, 111-1-2).
Relevant Metro Plan policies include:
Policy 2: Institute and support projects and programs that increase citizen and
visitor awareness of the area's history and encourage citizen participation in and
support of programs designed to recognize and memorialize the area's history.
(Metro Plan, 111-I-2)
Willamalane owns and operates Dorris Ranch, a 258-acre living history park on the
National Register of Historic Places. Relevant strategies in the 2012 Plan include:
"A60. Provide special-use parks that support specific recreation activities, and/or
that have unique features, such as viewpoints, boating and fishing facilities, scenic
areas, and historic sites." (2012 Plan, p. 51)
Date Received:
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"A61. Work with partner agencies, such as the City of Springfield and Lane County,
to protect and enhance important scenic and historic sites." (2012 Plan, p. 51)
"A63. Develop and manage Dorris Ranch as a unique, historic natural area and
recreational resource." (2012 Plan, p. 51)
"C5. Emphasize restoration of historic resources for historically and culturally
sensitive parks and facilities." (2012 Plan, p. 63)
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Historic
Preservation Element of the Metro Plan.
J. Energy Element
The first goal of the Energy Element of the Metro Plan is to maximize the conservation
and efficient utilization of all types of energy (Metro Plan, 111-J-3). There is one policy
relevant to the proposed 2012 Plan:
Policy J.8: Commercial, residential, and recreational land uses shall be integrated to
the greatest extent possible, balanced with all planning policies to reduce travel
distances, optimize reuse of waste heat, and optimize potential on-site energy
generation. (Metro Plan, 111-J-5)
A focus of the 2012 Plan is strategies and actions aimed at energy efficiency, energy
conservation, and sustainable development. The following strategies are relevant to the
Energy Element:
"A17. Use environmentally sustainable park development and management
practices." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"C7. Install or update building control systems throughout the district to improve
efficiency, e.g. lighting, security, access, HVAC." (2012 Plan, p. 63)
"C8. Strive to replace aging systems with energy efficient upgrades when making
park and facility improvements." (2012 Plan, p. 63)
"C[10]. Upgrade to resource-efficient irrigation systems." (2012 Plan, p. 63)
The 2012 Plan has one action that is relevant to the Energy Element:
"Action 9.3, Energy Efficiency Program: Develop energy-efficiency programs at
District facilities to minimize consumption and utility costs." (2012 Plan, p. 69)
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Energy Element
of the Metro Plan.
Date Received:
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K. Citizen Involvement Element
The goal of the Citizen Involvement Element of the Metro Plan is to continue to develop,
maintain, and refine programs and procedures that maximize the opportunity for
meaningful, ongoing citizen involvement in the community's planning and planning
implementation processes consistent with mandatory statewide planning standards.
(Metro Plan, Ill-K-2, 3)
The following Metro Plan policy is relevant to the 2012 Plan:
Policy K.3: Improve and maintain local mechanisms that provide the opportunity for
residents and property owners in existing residential areas to participate in the
implementation of policies in the Plan that may affect the character of those areas.
(Metro Plan, Ill-K-3)
Willamalane initiated the 2012 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan planning
process with the Community Needs Assessment in June of 2010 to identify future needs
for parks, open space, recreation facilities, programs, and services in the Springfield
area within the Metro Plan boundary. The 2012 Plan responds to those identified
community needs and provides an action plan to ensure the most effective use of
community resources. Strategies and actions were developed with additional input from
a broad spectrum of community members, through such means as those described
below.
With regard to Citizen Involvement, the 2012 Plan states:
"Community involvement was a critical part of the Community Needs Assessment.
Feedback was solicited from district stakeholders and residents regarding their
needs and preferences related to parks, natural areas, recreation facilities and
programs over the next 20 years. Activities were planned to ensure the participation
of a diverse cross-section of the population. Community involvement activities
included the following:
• July 2010: A Comprehensive Plan booth at Springfield SummerFair (316
participants completed a questionnaire, and over 600 children voted for their
favorite park activity);
• September-October 2010: An on-line and print Community Survey (completed by
approximately 1,060 people);
• October 2010: A Spanish-language version of the Community Survey (completed
by approximately 31 people); and
• January 2011: Three Teen Workshops (with approximately 77 participants).
Over 2,000 participants were included in the planning process, including children
and youth. In addition, the Spring 2010 Recreation Survey included input from 728
residents." (2012 Plan, p. 3)
Date Received:
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Additional citizen input that went into the development of the 2012 Plan includes:
• An Open House in June 2012 for the public to review the work to date on the
2012 Plan. Approximately 100 people attended, and 64 questionnaires were
completed.
• A display and questionnaire in July 2012 showing the highlights of the Draft 2012
Plan at the Springfield SummerFair. Approximately 12,000 people attended the
three-day event, and 108 questionnaires were completed.
In addition to input from the general public, Willamalane solicited technical input from
staff from City of Springfield, Lane County and Springfield Public Schools.8 During the
Community Needs Assessment and Plan development process, Willamalane solicited
input from elected and appointed officials from Springfield Public Schools, Lane County,
City of Springfield and the Willamalane Board of Directors.9 The Willamalane Board of
Directors held public meetings on the 2012 Plan seven different times.
•
The general public was able to review copies of the Draft 2012 Plan at Willamalane
Center and on the Willamalane web site (www.willamalane.org). The Draft 2012 Plan
was completed in early September 2012. In response to input received from the public
and community officials, changes were made to the Draft Plan in early October 2012.
The Willamalane Web Site was then updated with the final draft of the 2012 Plan. On
October 10, 2004 the Willamalane Board of Directors held a public hearing and
approved the 2012 Willamalane Park and Recreation District Comprehensive Plan.
The 2012 Plan also lists several strategies that are relevant to the Citizen Involvement
Element:
"F20. Continue to involve the public in planning and design of parks and facilities."
(2012 Plan, p. 74)
"F23. Continue to promote volunteerism to involve individuals, groups, and
businesses in the maintenance and operation of park and recreation facilities."
(2012 Plan, p. 74)
"F26. Increase efforts to inform residents about the benefits of parks and recreation
and the value of district natural, historic and recreation resources." (2012 Plan, p.
74)
8 Springfield and Lane County staff meetings (5.5.2011 and 1.12.2012); Springfield Public Schools staff
meetings (4.12.11 and 1.5.12). In addition, smaller meetings and phone calls were held with staff
groups during the process.
9 Springfield Board of Education (6.27.2011); Springfield Board of Education Executive Committee
(6.20.2012); Springfield Planning Commission (6.7.2011 and 9.5.2012); Springfield City Council
(6.13.2011 and 9.17.2012); Lane County Planning Commission (6.21.2011 and 9.18.2012); Lane
County Board of Commissioners (6.2.2011 and 9.19.2012). Date Received.
MAY 3 0 2013 22
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"F27. Emphasize inclusivity and ethnic diversity in district communications,
programs, and policies." (2012 Plan, p. 74)
"F28. Increase efforts to inform Spanish-speaking residents of district programs and
services." (2012 Plan, p. 74)
Based on these findings, the proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with the Citizen
Involvement Element of the Metro Plan.
This criterion is satisfied.
2. APPLICABLE STATE STATUTES
Applicable state statutes are those authorizing and implementing the state and local
park planning administrative rule, and those allowing park uses in exclusive farm use
zones.
Authorizing statutes for Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) Chapter 660, Division 034,
State and Local Park Planning, are Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) Chapter 183, ORS
Chapter 195, and ORS Chapter 197
Statutes implemented by OAR Chapter 660, Division 034, State and Local Park
Planning, are the following:
ORS Chapter 195 (Local Government Planning Coordination) section 120 (Rules
and planning goal amendments for parks required; allowable uses; application of
certain land use laws) through section 125 (Existing uses in state parks; approval
by local governments); •
ORS Chapter 197 (Comprehensive Land Use Planning Coordination), Section
040 (Land Conservation and Development Commission -- Duties of Commission;
rules); and section 225 (Goals Compliance —Preparation; adoption) through
section 245 (Commission amendment of initial goals; adoption of new goals); and
ORS Chapter 215 (County Planning; Zoning; Housing Codes), section 213 (Uses
permitted in exclusive farm use zones in counties that adopted marginal lands
system prior to 1993)
ORS Chapter 215 (County Planning; Zoning; Housing Codes), section 213 (Uses
permitted in exclusive farm use zones in counties that adopted marginal lands
system prior to 1993)
The discussion and findings in the preceding section of this application demonstrate that
the 2012 Plan is consistent with the Metro Plan. The following section includes
discussion and findings demonstrating consistency with applicable Statewide Planning
Goals and administrative rules. Since the Metro Plan, the Goals, and the administrative
Date Received:
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rules all specifically implement the authorizing statutes, this application, therefore, also
demonstrates that the 2012 Plan is consistent with applicable state statutes.
This criterion is satisfied.
3. APPLICABLE STATE-WIDE PLANNING GOALS AND ADMINISTRATIVE RULES
Statewide planning goals are written in bold, and relevant approval criteria is
summarized in italics, followed by proposed findings of fact in normal text.
Goal 1: Citizen Involvement
To develop a citizen involvement program that insures the opportunity for
citizens to be involved in all phases of the planning process.
From inception the 2012 Plan has been grounded and shaped by citizen involvement.
The proposed 2012 Plan's Public Involvement Program (PIP) met and exceeded the
requirements of Springfield's Citizen Involvement Program, the Metro Plan, and Goal 1.
Requirements under Goal 1 are met through adherence to the citizen involvement
processes required by the Metro Plan and implemented by the Springfield Development
Code Sections 5.14-100 and 5.2-100, and the Springfield Citizen Involvement Program
and by noticed public hearings prior to final adoption by the Lane County Board of
County Commissioners and Springfield City Council.
The findings in the Metro Plan K. Citizen Involvement Element provide additional
details on the citizen involvement efforts for the 2012 Plan that ensures compliance with
Statewide Planning Goal 1. The findings in Goal 2: Land Use Planning detail the
process for updating the refinement plan. These findings are incorporated by reference
herein.
The above findings demonstrate that Willamalane has provided extensive opportunities
for citizens to be involved in all phases of the planning process. Therefore, the
proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 1.
Goal 2: Land Use Planning
To establish a land use planning process and policy framework as a basis
for all decision and actions related to use of land and to assure an
adequate factual base for such decisions and actions.
Guiding land use processes and policy framework for the City of Springfield exist within
the Metro Plan, adopted Refinement Plans, and the Springfield Development Code
(SDC). The proposed Refinement Plan Amendment will not infringe upon their capacity
as adequate factual based tools for land use decisions and actions.
Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 24
Original Submittal
• •
Goal 2 focuses on the requirements for developing and adopting local land use plans.
Willamalane underwent a deliberate and thorough process of updating it's
comprehensive plan in accordance with the IGA Regarding Coordinated Planning and
Urban Services with the City of Springfield and its approved Citizen Involvement
Program, in order to ensure compliance with the Metro Plan and Goal 2.
An initial element of the 2012 Plan was the Community Needs Assessment (CNA)
(Exhibit A. Appendix A). The CNA development process included extensive community
involvement opportunities as well as technical analysis of facilities, programs, and
finances. Part of the technical analysis included a detailed inventory of parks and
facilities, a demographic analysis, community profile, and summary of related planning
efforts.
The findings of the CNA were the foundation of the 2012 Plan's Strategies and Actions
section (Chapter 4). The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) in Chapter 5 details a three-
phase implementation strategy, with cost estimates and funding projections developed
for phases one and two of the Comprehensive Plan. The projects included in the CIP
are derived from the Action Tables in Chapter 4. The 2012 Plan includes an identified
action (11.17 on page 76), which commits Willamalane to "assess community needs
and update the district's Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan every 5-10 years to
respond to changing needs."
The findings in the Metro Plan K. Citizen Involvement Element and Goal 1: Citizen
Involvement provide additional details on the citizen involvement efforts and process
used for updating the refinement plan that ensures compliance with Statewide Planning
Goal 2. These findings are incorporated by reference herein. Based on these findings,
the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 2.
Goal 3: Agricultural Lands
To preserve and maintain agricultural lands.
Goal 3 does not apply within adopted, acknowledged urban growth boundaries. The
City of Springfield has an adopted and acknowledged urban growth boundary. The City
of Springfield does not have any agricultural zoning districts. Outside of the urban
growth boundary, within the Metro Plan boundary, there are five existing Willamalane
properties that are partially designated as agriculture in the Metro Plan. OAR 660-034-
0040 addresses local park use on agricultural land. By reference, this administrative
rule lists a number of uses that may occur on parks located on agricultural land,
including but not limited to picnic shelters, play structures, recreational trails and
interpretive facilities (OAR 660-034-0035).
The rule provides that a local government is not required to adopt an exception to
Statewide Planning Goals 3 or 4 for [these uses] on agricultural or forest land within a
local park provided such uses, alone or in combination, meet all other statewide goals
Date Received:
MAY302013 25
Original Submittal
• •
and [are] described and authorized in a local park master plan that has been adopted as
part of the local comprehensive plan (OAR 660-034-0040(4)(a)).
Proposed uses for these five existing Willamalane properties are described in the 2012
Plan in Chapter 4 Strategies and Actions (p. 35, 40, 51, 52):
Project 2.5 Lively Park Development
Project 2.6 Lively Park/Springfield School District Coordination
Project 3.1 Harvest Landing
Project 3.3 Georgia-Pacific Natural Area Park
Project 5.4 Clearwater Park
Project 5.7 Wallace M. Ruff Jr. Memorial Park
These uses are consistent with those allowed on agricultural land, therefore no goal
exception is necessary. Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are
consistent with Goal 3.
Goal 4: Forest Lands
To conserve forest lands by maintaining the forest land base and to protect
the state's forest economy by making possible economically efficient
forest practices that assure the continuous growing and harvesting of
forest tree species as the leading use on forest land consistent with sound
management of soil, air, water, and fish and wildlife resources and to
provide for recreational opportunities and agriculture.
According to OAR 660-006-0020, Statewide Planning Goal 4 is not applicable within
urban growth boundaries. The City of Springfield has an adopted and acknowledged
urban growth boundary. The City of Springfield does not have any forest zoning
districts. Willamalane district boundaries extend outside the Springfield UGB.
Willamalane does not operate or maintain any current or proposed parks or facilities
with a Forest Land designation in the Metro Plan. Therefore, the proposed
amendments are consistent with Goal 4.
Goal 5: Open Spaces, Scenic and Historic Areas, and Natural Resources
To conserve open space and protect natural and scenic resources.
The following Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR 660-023-0250) is applicable to this
post-acknowledgement plan amendment (PAPA) request:
OAR 660-023-0250
(3) Local governments are not required to apply Goal 5 in consideration of a
PAPA unless the PAPA affects a Goal 5 resource. For purposes of this
section, a PAPA would affect a Goal 5 resource only it
Date Received:
MAY302013 26
Original Submittal
•
•
(a) The PAPA creates or amends a resource list or a portion of an
acknowledged plan or land use regulation adopted in order to protect a
significant Goal 5 resource or to address specific requirements of Goal
5;
(b) The PAPA allows new uses that could be conflicting uses with a
particular significant Goal 5 resource site on an acknowledged
resource list; or
(c) The PAPA amends an acknowledged UGB and factual information is
submitted demonstrating that a resource site, or the impact areas of
such a site, is included in the amended UGB area.
The proposed amendments do not create or amend a list of Goal 5 resources, a plan or
a land use regulation adopted in order to protect a significant Goal 5 resource or to
address specific requirements of Goal 5, and do not amend the acknowledged urban
growth boundary. Therefore, it is clear that the proposed amendments do not trigger
the need to consider Goal 5 pursuant to OAR 660-023-0250(3)(a) or 3(c). Some
analysis is required to determine whether OAR 660-023-0250(3)(b) triggers the need to
further consider Goal 5 requirements. Subsection (3)(b) asks whether '[t]he PAPA
allows new uses that could be conflicting uses with a particular significant Goal 5
resource site on an acknowledged resource list."
Goal 5 focuses on the resources that need to be inventoried by local governments in
order to "adopt programs that will protect natural resources and conserve scenic,
historic, and open space resources for present and future generations." Significant
Goal 5 resource sites and acknowledged lists are documented in the Springfield Natural
Resources Special Study and the 1978 Goal 5 Inventory and Metro Natural Assets &
Constraints Working Papers.
The Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between Willamalane and City of Springfield
states, the "District shall be responsible for preparing, maintaining and updating a •
comprehensive parks, recreation and open space refinement plan for the area within its
boundaries, including the City of Springfield and adjacent urbanizable area, for the
purposes of meeting statewide Planning Goal 8 requirements and ensuring long-range
public parks, recreation, and open space facilities/services."
As the IGA directs, Willamalane's responsibility is in meeting Goal 8 requirements, and
the City of Springfield is responsible for meeting Goal 5 requirements. However,
recreation-related open spaces are addressed in the Park and Recreation
Comprehensive Plan, per the direction of the Metro Plan.
The Metro Plan notes in the Environmental Resources Element (Metro Plan, Ill-C-1),
"open space can also be a park ... examples of regional Parks (sic) that provide
significant public open space areas for metropolitan residents include ... Willamalane
Park and Recreation District's Clearwater Park, Eastgate Woodlands, and Dorris
Ranch." The Metro Plan goes on to acknowledge in the Environmental Resources
Date Received:
MAY302013 27
Original Submittal
• •
Element (Metro Plan, III-C-5) "open space provides many benefits in an urban area,
including ... provision of recreation opportunities."
The Springfield Natural Resources Special Study, adopted in 2005, includes an
inventory locally significant upland, riparian and wetland resource sites. A number of
Willamalane's existing park sites are included on that inventory, including Dorris Ranch,
Willamette Heights, and the Eastgate Woodlands. The development of natural area
park facilities is subject to the Goal 5 program of protection. These protection measures
allow for limited recreational use including, but not limited to multi-use paths and low
impact passive recreation.
Two of Willamalane's core values are "Environment" and "Stewardship" (2012 Plan, p.
9) as listed in Chapter Two of the 2012 Plan. Willamalane elaborates on these relevant
core values in two supporting Plan Goals included below:
"Provide opportunities to enjoy nature--Willamalane's parks, programs and facilities
offer unique opportunities to enjoy nature, view wildlife and develop a sense of well-
being that grows from a deep relationship with nature and a connection to the
natural world." (2012 Plan, p. 10).
"Preserve the natural environment--Our community looks to Willamalane to be
stewards of our natural resources. Willamalane will provide leadership in conserving
these resources, and look for new and better ways to be environmentally
responsible. Willamalane will provide parks and natural areas that offer close-to-
home access to recreational opportunities, while preserving and enhancing
important natural resources." (2012 Plan, p. 11).
The 2012 Plan defines a Natural Area Park as an "area managed for both recreational
use and natural values. Provides opportunities for nature-based recreation such as
wildlife viewing, hiking, jogging, bicycling, and nature photography." (2012 Plan, Table
A-1) Chapter 4 of the Plan includes a list of 14 "Natural Area Parks Strategies." These
strategies are relevant to Goal 5 and are listed below:
"A39. Acquire and develop a system of natural-area parks that protects, conserves
and enhances elements of the natural and historic landscape that give the region its
unique sense of place." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A40. Develop comprehensive natural resource management plans for natural
areas as a basis for making acquisition, development and restoration decisions."
(2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A41. Provide opportunities for nature-based recreation, such as wildlife viewing,
fishing, hiking, bicycling, nature play, etc." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
Date Received:
MAY`3 0 2013 28
Original Submittal
• •
"A42. Protect and enhance a variety of habitat types within Willamalane's park and
open space system, including upland and wildlife communities such as oak savanna,
wetlands, upland prairie and riparian forest." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A43. Work with others, as appropriate, to acquire significant natural areas.
Priorities include sites that: are large; provide uninterrupted corridors that link parks,
schools, habitats and natural-resource areas; have high outdoor recreation potential;
serve as greenbelts or urban buffers; protect water resources; and provide
significant views." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A44. Work with other agencies and providers to support conservation and
acquisition of nearby key regional natural-resource areas, consistent with the Rivers
to Ridges Metropolitan Regional Parks and Open Space Study." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A45. Protect riparian areas and floodplains along creeks and rivers within
Willamalane's park and open space system." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A46. Explore the feasibility of a wetland mitigation banking program at district park
sites." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A47. Work with other agencies and providers to encourage the development of
appropriate recreation amenities in nearby natural areas where appropriate." (2012
Plan, p. 39)
"A48. Orient riverfront parks to the rivers and their natural resource values; support
water related recreation activities where appropriate." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A49. Acquire, develop and manage parks and facilities to protect and enhance
wetlands, waterways and water quality, and to take advantage of their natural
amenities and recreation values." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A50. Incorporate natural resource enhancement into plans for park and facility
development where appropriate." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A51. Work with the city and developers to coordinate park and open space
planning with planning for stormwater, wetlands mitigation/protection, multipurpose
trails and natural resource conservation, as appropriate." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"A52. Continue to participate in the TEAM Springfield-sponsored Mill Race
Ecosystem Restoration Project, representing public recreation and education
interests." (2012 Plan, p. 40)
The connection between the purpose of Goal 5 and the core values and the Natural
Area Parks strategies expressed in the 2012 Plan are mutually supportive and overlap
in many instances.
Date Received:
MAY'3 0 2013 29
Original Submittal
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 5.
Goal 6: Air, Water and Land Resources Quality
To maintain and improve the quality of the air, water and land resources of
the state.
Goal 6 addresses waste and process discharge from development, and is aimed at
protecting air, water, and land from impacts from those discharges. The 2012 Plan
does not amend the metropolitan area's air, water quality, or land resource policies.
Goal 6 is primarily concerned with compliance with federal and state environmental
quality statutes, and how this compliance is achieved as development proceeds in
relationship to air sheds, river basins and land resources.
The 2012 Plan lists strategies for protecting air, water and land resources in the context
of General Park and Natural Area Park management. Three of these strategies are
relevant to Goal 6 and are included below:
"A16. Coordinate with the city on implementing stormwater Best Management
Practices to assist in meeting state and federal water-quality standards and
Endangered Species Act requirements." (2012 Plan, p. 27)
"A51. Work with the city and developers to coordinate park and open space
planning with planning for stormwater, wetlands mitigation/protection, multipurpose
trails and natural resource conservation, as appropriate." (2012 Plan, p. 39)
"F9. Continue collaboration with the city and other agencies in implementing
communitywide objectives, such as downtown and Glenwood redevelopment,
planning for new development, neighborhood refinement planning, and citywide
planning for tourism, open space, wetlands, stormwater, trails and bikeways, and
other efforts focused on improving quality of life." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 6.
Goal 7: Areas Subject to Natural Disasters and Hazards
To protect life and property from natural disasters and hazards.
Goal 7 requires local governments to adopt comprehensive plans to reduce risk to
people and property from natural hazards such as floods, landslides, earthquakes,
tsunamis, and wildfires. The City of Springfield protects people and property from
natural hazards through various land use and building code requirements. The 2012
Plan does not alter these protective provisions nor does it propose development in
areas identified to be unsuitable for development.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 7.
Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 30
Original Submittal __.,
Goal 8: Recreational Needs
To satisfy the recreational needs of the citizens of the state and visitors
and, where appropriate, to provide for the siting of necessary recreational
facilities including destination resorts.
Goal 8 requires local governmental agencies to plan for recreation areas, facilities, and
opportunities. Goal 8 ensures the provision of recreational facilities to Oregon citizens
and is primarily concerned with the provision of those facilities in non-urban areas of the
state.
The purpose of the proposed 2012 Plan is to "meet statewide Planning Goal 8
requirements and ensure long-range public parks, recreation, and open space
facilities/services (1995 Intergovernmental Agreement Regarding Coordinated Planning
and Urban Services)." Goal 8 states that recreational needs, "now and in the future,
shall be planned for by governmental agencies having responsibility for recreation
areas, facilities and opportunities: (1) in coordination with private enterprise; (2) in
appropriate proportions; and (3) in such quantity, quality and locations as is consistent
with the availability of the resources to meet such requirements.
(1) in coordination with private enterprise;
Chapter 3 of the 2012 Plan discusses the importance of collaboration with public
agencies and with the private sector "to promote community economic development and
leverage public funds with private dollars." The following projects are identified actions
listed in the 2012 Plan that illustrate the importance of collaboration with the private
sector to provide needed park and recreation services and facilities:
"Action 1.3, Pacific Park Subdivision Neighborhood Park is cited as an example of
how Willamalane proposes to work with the city and property owners of the Pacific
Park subdivision to acquire and develop a neighborhood park for area residents.
The existing privately owned park is run-down and beyond repair. Willamalane
pledges to continue partnerships with both public and private sectors to maximize
the benefits delivered to residents for each dollar of public investment." (2012 Plan,
p. 15)
"Actions 4.13 and 4.14, Glenwood Riverfront Linear Park A and B: As the Glenwood
area of Springfield is redeveloped, Willamalane has an opportunity to work with
public and private partners to develop a riverfront linear park and multiuse path, and
expand the popular Willamette River path system." (2012 Plan, p. 15)
"Action 1.26, Glenwood Neighborhood Park Blocks: Willamalane intends to work in
collaboration with the city and private partners to pursue development of
neighborhood park blocks in Glenwood." (2012 Plan, p. 15)
Date Received:
• MAY302013 31
Original Submittal
I
Additional strategies in the 2012 Plan focus on collaboration and partnerships with the
private sector, as provided below:
"A25. Develop partnerships with other public agencies, developers and property
owners to help meet neighborhood park needs in served, as well as underserved,
areas." (2012 Plan, p. 28)
"F13. Encourage collaboration with private landowners and the development
community to advance joint goals of park, recreation, and open space acquisition
and development." (2012 Plan, p. 73)
(2) in appropriate proportions; and(3) in such quantity, quality and
locations as is consistent with the availability of the resources to meet
such requirements.
The Community Needs Assessment (CNA) included a park and facility analysis to
document the type, number, and condition of parks and recreation facilities available to
District residents today and the analyzed the ratio of facilities to population (current level
of service), assess current and future needs. This analysis provided a basis for the
development of strategies and actions sections of the plan. (2012 Plan, p. 21)
The CNA used a variety of methods to assess current and future park and recreation
facility needs:
• "Public Involvement: A comprehensive public involvement program involved over
2,000 people, including children and youth, in assessing needs." (2012 Plan,
CNA Appendix A-2, A-3, and A-4)
• "Park and Facility Inventory: District parks, community recreation facilities, and
indoor and outdoor recreation facilities were inventoried." (2012 Plan, CNA
Table 4 and Table 8)
• "Park and Facility Classifications and Definitions: Based on the District's current
inventory and commonly used classification systems, such as those used by the
National Recreation and Park Association, a classification system of parks and
facilities was developed in 2002. The same classification system is proposed.
(2012 Plan, CNA Appendix A-1)
• "Park and Facility Assessment: All District parks and facilities were visited, and
input from key staff was gathered to assess their current condition and develop
an understanding of the system of parks and facilities available to residents."
(2012 Plan, CNA Appendix A-5)
• "Geographic Distribution Analysis: Maps were created to illustrate current park,
recreation and open space resources and their distribution throughout the
planning area." (2012 Plan, CNA Maps 1-5)
Date Received:
MAY302013 32
Original Submittal
• •
• "Standards Analysis: Standards are minimum - not maximum - goals for service.
To establish standards for Willamalane, the current level of service provided was
compared to standards of other agencies and historic NRPA standards.
Community demand was considered and standards for Willamalane were
proposed for both parkland (Table 5) and recreational facilities." (2012 Plan,
CNA Table 9)
Willamalane conducted a thorough and deliberate process to develop and adopt the
2012 Plan. The 2012 Plan does not involve the siting of destination resorts.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 8.
Goal 9: Economic Development
To provide adequate opportunities throughout the state for a variety of
economic activities vital to the health, welfare, and prosperity of Oregon's
citizens.
Goal 9 is intended to address the land use needs (inventory) for employment
opportunities in commercial and industrial sites, and correlates with one of the goals in
the 2012 Plan, which is to "Support community economic development." The 2012 Plan
states:
"Community health and vitality are essential to attract and retain employees and
businesses and to fuel the local economy. Diverse cultural and recreational
opportunities appeal to employers and employees. Willamalane Park and Recreation
District will provide attractive parks, facilities and programs to enhance quality of life
in Springfield." (2012 Plan, p. 11)
The 2012 Plan does not affect commercial or industrial lands inventories, nor does it
limit access or other services to such sites. The 2012 Plan recognizes the role of
recreational services and facilities as a support for community efforts to retain
businesses and employees and attract new businesses to the area.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 9.
Goal 10: Housing
To provide for the housing needs of citizens of the state.
Similar to Goal 9, Goal 10 is intended to protect residential lands inventories and require
implementation measures that promote housing opportunities in a variety of economic
ranges and densities. Goal 10 requires that communities plan for and maintain an
inventory of buildable residential land for needed housing units. The findings from the
Metro Plan Residential Land Use and Housing Element are incorporated by reference
Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 33
Original Submittal
• •
herein. The findings contain a detailed discussion of why the 2012 Plan will not
negatively affect the residential land inventory.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 10.
Goal 11: Public Facilities and Services
To plan and develop a timely, orderly and efficient arrangement of public
facilities and services to serve as a framework for urban and rural
development.
The emphasis of Goal 11 is on key urban services other than parks and recreation, and
the focus is on the need for a 20-year public facilities and services plan (PFSP). The
proposed amendments do not affect the City's arrangement of public facilities and
services. The findings from the Metro Plan Public Utilities, Services, and Facilities
Element are included by reference herein. Those findings contain a detailed
explanation of why the 2012 Plan is consistent with that Element and, therefore,
Statewide Goal 11.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 11.
Goal12: Transportation
To provide and encourage a safe, convenient and economic transportation
system.
The Transportation Planning Rule (TPR), as defined by Oregon Administrative Rule
OAR 660-012-0060, implements Goal 12. The focus of this goal is on the development
of a transportation plan and compliance with mobility standards. TransPlan is the
adopted metropolitan-area transportation plan. The findings from the Metro Plan
Transportation Element are incorporated by reference herein and include a detailed
explanation of why the 2012 Plan is consistent with TransPlan, and therefore consistent
with Goal 12.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 12.
Goal 13: Energy Conservation
To conserve energy.
Goal 13 requires that land and uses developed on the land shall be managed and
controlled so as to maximize the conservation of all forms of energy, based upon sound
economic principles. Goal 13 is directed at the development of local energy policies
and implementing provisions and does not establish any requirements with respect to
other types of land use decisions.
Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 34
Original Submittal
Goal 13 is intended to require local jurisdictions to include energy consequences during
decision-making. The 2012 Plan calls for "Develop[ing] energy-efficiency programs at
District facilities to minimize consumption and utilities costs (2012 Plan, p. 61, Action
9.3). The findings from the Metro Plan Energy Element are incorporated by reference
herein and include a detailed explanation of why the 2012 Plan is consistent with that
Element, and therefore consistent with Goal 13.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 13.
Goal 14: Urbanization
To provide for an orderly and efficient transition from rural to urban land
use.
The focus of Goal 14 is on urban growth boundaries, their establishment and change,
and to a lesser degree, the treatment of land within and outside of urban growth
boundaries.
The Willamalane Park and Recreation District is designated in the Metro Plan as the
park and recreation service provider for Springfield and its urbanizable area, including
Glenwood. The current District boundary includes the area within Springfield's city
limits, as well as some areas outside of the city limits and within the urban growth
boundary (UGB), and some areas extending outside of the UGB. (2012 Plan, Map 2)
Any newly developed areas annexed by the City of Springfield are automatically
annexed to the District.
The planning area for the proposed 2012 Plan includes the area of potential
development over the next 20 years, and therefore, is broader than the current District
boundary. The planning area generally covers the entire area within the Springfield
UGB or the District Boundary, whichever is greater, and properties owned by
Willamalane Park and Recreation District within the Metro Plan Boundary.
The 2012 Plan will not hasten, slow down or otherwise influence the transition of rural
land to urban land use; therefore it is consistent with Goal 14.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 13.
Goal 15: Willamette River Greenway
To protect, conserve, enhance and maintain the natural, scenic, historical,
agricultural, economic and recreational qualities of lands along the
Willamette River as the Willamette River Greenway.
Goal 15 aims to protect, conserve, enhance, and maintain the natural scenic, historical,
agricultural, economic, and recreational qualities of lands along the Willamette River.
Willamalane has a number of current and proposed parks and properties within the
Date Received:
•
35
MAT 302013
•
Original Submittal
Willamette River Greenway. The findings from at Metro Plan D. Willamette River
Greenway, River Corridors and Waterways Element are incorporated by reference
herein. These findings include a detailed explanation of why the 2012 Plan is consistent
with that element, and therefore consistent with Goal 15.
Based on these findings, the proposed amendments are consistent with Goal 15.
Goal 16 Estuarine Resources, Goal 17 Coastal Shorelands, Goal 18 Beaches and
Dunes, and Goal 19 Ocean Resources
These goals do not apply to the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area.
Compliance with Applicable Administrative Rules of Chapter 660, Division 034,
033, and 023
Applicable administrative rules are those establishing policies and procedures for the
planning and zoning of state and local parks in order to address the recreational needs
of the citizens of the state (OAR Chapter 660, Division 034, Section 0000), and
secondarily, those implementing the requirements for agricultural land as defined by
Goal 3 (OAR Chapter 660, Division 33, Section 0010), and those implementing the
requirements for open space as defined by Goal 5 (OAR Chapter 660, Division 023,
Section 0220).
OAR 660-034-0040(1) refers to requirements for implementing "local park master plans"
as part of the local comprehensive plan. There is no definition for "local park master
plans" in Division 34. In preparing the 2004 Plan, Willamalane staff spoke with Bob
Rindy at DLCD for clarification. According to Mr. Rindy, language referring to "local
park master plans" and "local park-plans" pertain to site-specific park master plans (i.e.,
a master plan for a new or existing park), not for community-wide park and recreation
comprehensive plans, such as the proposed 2012 Plan. Sections (1)(a) and (1)(b) of
660-034-0040 only apply if one is adopting a site-specific park master plan. Since the
proposed Refinement Plan is a comprehensive, system-wide plan for parks and
recreation, and not a site-specific park master plan, the rule does not apply.
Even if one were to assume that the proposed 2012 Plan was synonymous with the
definition of a "local park master plan" in Division 34, the proposed 2012 Plan would be
consistent with the intent of the Rule. The relevant text is below:
OAR 660-034-0040
(1) ... If a local government decides to adopt a local park plan as part of the
local comprehensive plan, the adoption shall include:
(a) A plan map designation, as necessary, to indicate the location and
boundaries of the local park; and Date Received:
MAY 3 0 2013 36
Original Submittal
• •
A plan map designation is not necessary for proposed parks, as they are not site-
specific and are not necessarily metropolitan-scale. As discussed in the section on the
Metro Plan Diagram/Land Use Designations, it is consistent that the proposed 2012
Plan's proposed parks, facilities, and trails that are not already in public ownership do
not appear on the Metro Plan Diagram, because those proposed parks, facilities and
trails are not site-specific. If, in the future, Willamalane develops metropolitan-scale
parks or facilities on property with land use designations not consistent with park use,
plan amendment applications will be submitted for land use designation changes at that
time, as Willamalane has done in the past. Existing land use designations are
consistent with the Metro Plan. Division 34 continues:
(b) Appropriate zoning categories and map designations (a "local park"
zone or overlay zone is recommended), including objective land use
and siting review criteria, in order to authorize the existing and planned
park uses described in the local park master plan. (OAR 660-034-
0040(1)(a)(b))
Existing City of Springfield zoning categories and Metro Plan map designations are
sufficient, as they relate to existing parks and facilities, not proposed projects. The rule
also provides that "a local government is not required to adopt an exception to
Statewide Planning Goals 3 or 4 for[these uses]on agricultural or forest land within a
local park provided such uses, alone or in combination, meet all other statewide goals
and are each use must be described and authorized in a local park master plan"that
has been adopted as part of the local comprehensive plan (OAR 660-034-0040(4)(a)).
The proposed 2012 Plan is consistent with this rule. The findings under Goal 3:
Agricultural Lands are incorporated by reference herein. Lastly, OAR 660-023-0220
defines "open space" to include parks. It allows local governments to:
"...adopt a list of significant open space resource sites as an open space
acquisition program. Local governments are not required to apply the
requirements of OAR 660-023-0030 through 660-023-0050[Inventory
Process]to such sites unless land use regulations are adopted to protect
such sites prior to acquisition." (OAR 660-023-0220(3))
A list of proposed natural area parks is included in the proposed 2012 Plan. Some of
those sites are not yet in public ownership. However, their location is generalized in
nature, and there are no land use regulations being proposed to protect such sites prior
to acquisition. The above findings demonstrate that the proposed amendments are
consistent with this rule.
•
This criterion is satisfied.
Date Received:
MAY`3 0 2013
Original Submittal 37
CONCLUSION
Willamalane Park and Recreation District is designated in the Metro Plan as the park
and recreation service provider for Springfield and its urbanizable area. A 1995
Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City and Willamalane requires the two
agencies to collaborate in planning for parks, recreation and open space. The IGA
designates Willamalane as the agency responsible for preparing and updating a park
and recreation comprehensive plan, and it specifies that the comprehensive plan shall
be adopted as a refinement to the Metro Plan. Willamalane has had two prior Park and
Recreation District Comprehensive Plans adopted as Refinement Plans, one in 1980
and another in 2004.
Willamalane initiated the 2012 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan planning
process with the Community Needs Assessment in June of 2010 to identify future needs
for parks, open space, recreation facilities, programs, and services in the Springfield
area within the Metro Plan boundary. The 2012 Plan responds to identified community
needs and provides an action plan to ensure the most effective use of community
resources. Strategies and actions were developed with input from a broad spectrum of
community members, through such means as an online and printed community survey
in English and Spanish that was completed by more than 1,000 citizens, a Springfield
SummerFest booth visited by more than 900 citizens, youth workshops, and public
meetings. Input was also received throughout the planning process from elected and
appointed officials, including members of the Springfield School District, Springfield City
Council and Planning Commission, Lane County Board of Commissioners and Planning
Commission, and the Willamalane Board of Directors.
Willamalane staff took great care to ensure that the 2012 Plan meets or exceeds
applicable criteria in the Metro Plan, applicable state statutes, and applicable Statewide
Planning goals and administrative rules. Therefore, the Willamalane Park and
Recreation District 2012 Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, a Refinement Plan
to the Eugene-Springfield Metro Area General Plan (Metro Plan), is fully consistent with
applicable approval criteria as demonstrated by the findings herein.
Date Received:
MAY3 0 2013
Original Submittal_
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