Yamhill County sends proposed zoning changes on transportation in exception areas back to planning commission

The Yamhill County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Sept. 3 to send a draft ordinance that would amend the county zoning code to allow roads, highways and transportation facilities in exception areas back to the planning commission for further public review and findings.

Clay Downing, speaking on behalf of the Chehalem Park and Recreation District, urged the board to defer adoption and called for clearer definitions and findings. "We would expect prior to adoption to see something like how this is consistent with statewide land use goals 5 and 8 as well as the county's comprehensive plan," Downing said, asking for specific language on adequacy of findings and definitions for trails versus transportation facilities.

Commissioners and staff discussed how the changes would apply across zones and whether routine parks‑related amenities — sidewalks, bridges and on‑site service drives — should be classed as conditional uses. One commissioner objected to a proposed requirement that AF‑10 parcels undergo farm‑impact studies, arguing that it could impose an undue burden on private property owners; staff and other members said the farm‑impact test is intended to evaluate off‑site conflicts and protect neighboring farm uses.

Celine McCarthy of Gaston urged the board not to loosen AF‑10 protections countywide. "Don't change AF‑10 zoning codes that protect farm ground and private property rights," she said, suggesting rezoning individual parks where appropriate instead of revising the code across the board.

Morgan McLaughlin, executive director of the Willamette Valley Wineries Association, raised a separate procedural concern: she said many impacted constituents were not notified of the item and that industry stakeholders had been told the agenda item would be heard Oct. 8. The board reiterated that the measure will return to the planning commission with notices and a public hearing.

Chair moved a motion directing staff to proceed with the proposed amendments to the zoning code as provided and forward the draft to the planning commission for public hearings and findings; the board approved the motion unanimously.