Planning Commission Meeting - November 9, 2026

The Clackamas County Planning Commission held public hearings on November 9, 2026, regarding proposed urban growth boundary (UGB) expansions for Canby (ZDO296/Z0411-26) and Molalla (ZDO297/Z0405-26). Staff recommended approval of both proposals, which require county-city adoption before submission to the state. Canby’s proposal covers just over 512 acres, including residential, park, and employment lands. Commissioners raised questions about choosing employment expansion areas, infrastructure costs, water supply, wetlands, and the timing of future annexation. The commission unanimously recommended approval of Canby’s proposal. A commissioner also cited a potential cost of up to $250 million for a water project; the city described utility planning and said development would require adequate services before annexation.

Molalla’s proposal includes areas for residential, employment, commercial, and park/open-space uses, including about 77 acres of farmland. Public testimony raised concerns about population forecasts, farmland and wetlands, traffic, infrastructure, community engagement, and the selection of southern expansion areas; city representatives defended the analysis and described planned water-system improvements. After discussion, the commission recommended approval as staff advised, with six votes in favor, one opposed, and one abstention. The Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to hear the proposals on December 1, 2026. No contracts, vendor selections, purchasing approvals, or other procurement actions were identified.