IT’S IN THE DEED

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As reported earlier, the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners approved the MacPherson’s family re-zoning application at their Wednesday Dec 14 meeting.

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The meeting was well attended and the Board of County Commissioners gave everyone that wanted to testify an opportunity to voice their opinions, concerns and ask questions.

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Public input was clearly opposed to MacPherson’s proposal.

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Those supporting the zoning change included Ranch resident Mike O’Brien.

He submitted a letter on Dec 13 listed as “Exhibit P” with several supporters names and addresses.

Applicant’s attorney, Adam Smith’s testimony offered nothing new for those following the process. His testimony rehashed earlier statements that also included responding to public comments.

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“SURPRISE”

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Carol Macbeth, an attorney with Central Oregon Landwatch, threw a monkey wrench in the process that wasn’t well received by the Commission Chair.

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She suggested that the MacPherson’s do not own the northeastern section of the property based on a deed, a deed that very well may be outdated or possibly she just misread, according to Community Development Director Scott Edelman.

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Ms. Macbeth used map to point out her assertion that was a “surprise” Edelman said.

UNEDITED VIDEO ATTACHED

Edelman stated, “ It appears that she (Ms. Macbeth) was either misreading the deed or looking at an outdated deed.” Edelman added,

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“I don’t have anything concrete right now but will try to find the section of the deed that references that portion of the property. I think the applicant’s attorney was going to provide some clarifying information so we may need to wait until we get something from him, but I will check with Alexa (County Counsel, Alexa Gassner) in the meantime.”

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Prior to the Commissioners voting, outgoing Commissioner Mae Huston expressed her appreciation to Mike O’Brien and the “19 residents of the Ranch” that submitted the above described letter of support.

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Commissioners then voted 3-0 to approve the MacPherson’s plan to re-zone the 140 acres from Rangeland to Rural Residential.

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The decision will become official at their Dec 28 meeting.

Ranch Matters Staff