Milwaukie resident urges balance as housing projects multiply near Linwood Elementary

Milwaukie — During public comment, Lisa McCallie Sprague of the Lynnwood neighborhood association urged council to consider neighborhood impacts as multiple housing projects proceed near Linwood Elementary.

"I'm concerned in our Lynnwood area — there's a number of projects...45 unit townhouse...and the St. Paul's Church with 28 clusters — I'm just hoping the city can take into account some of the goals we've had: keeping parks, community hubs, coffee shop," Sprague said, noting two developments on either side of the school and limited nearby services.

She said she supports affordable housing but is worried about density and the potential tax impact on long-time homeowners, and asked staff who she should contact in planning for follow-up. Councilors and staff acknowledged the concern, noted planning resources, and said the planning department is the appropriate contact for project-specific questions. Sprague also asked the city to consider neighborhood hubs and balanced mixed-use amenities as development proceeds.

Her comments were part of the community comment period and did not prompt immediate action or a vote during the meeting.