Damascus, Oregon may be a small city with a population of just over 10,000 people, but it has had its fair share of notable political events. Located in Clackamas County, this city has been at the center of various political controversies and developments that have shaped its history and future.
The Formation of Damascus
The city of Damascus was officially incorporated in 2004, making it one of the newest cities in Oregon. However, its history dates back to the 1800s when it was first settled by pioneers. The city was named after the biblical city of Damascus in Syria and was initially known for its agricultural industry. But as the city grew, so did its political landscape.In the early 2000s, there was a push for Damascus to become an incorporated city, with some residents wanting more control over their community's development. This led to a series of political events that would shape the future of Damascus.
The Battle for Incorporation
The push for incorporation sparked a heated debate among residents, with some in favor and others against it. Those in favor argued that becoming a city would give them more control over zoning and development decisions, while those against incorporation feared higher taxes and loss of rural character. In 2004, a vote was held, and the majority voted in favor of incorporation. However, this decision was challenged by a group of residents who filed a lawsuit claiming that the vote was invalid due to irregularities.This led to a series of legal battles that lasted for years. In 2016, after multiple court rulings and appeals, the Oregon Supreme Court finally declared Damascus an incorporated city. This marked a significant political event in the city's history, as it solidified its status as an independent entity with its own government and decision-making power.
The Urban Growth Boundary Controversy
One of the most significant political events that have taken place in Damascus is the ongoing controversy over the city's Urban Growth Boundary (UGB). The UGB is a line that separates urban and rural areas and dictates where development can take place. In 2002, the Metro Council, which oversees land use planning in the Portland metropolitan area, expanded Damascus' UGB to accommodate future growth. However, this decision was met with opposition from some residents who wanted to preserve the city's rural character. Since then, there have been numerous attempts to change or remove the UGB, with some residents arguing that it restricts their property rights and hinders economic development.This has led to a series of political events, including ballot measures and lawsuits, that have yet to be resolved.
The Disincorporation of Damascus
In 2016, after years of legal battles and political turmoil, a group of residents successfully petitioned for a vote to disincorporate Damascus. This was a significant event that divided the community once again. Those in favor of disincorporation argued that the city was too small to sustain itself and that it was facing financial difficulties. On the other hand, those against it believed that disincorporation would lead to higher taxes and loss of local control. In 2017, a vote was held, and the majority voted in favor of disincorporation. This marked the end of Damascus as an incorporated city and a return to being an unincorporated community under Clackamas County's jurisdiction.The Future of Damascus
Today, Damascus remains an unincorporated community, and its political landscape continues to evolve.The controversy over the UGB and development in the area is ongoing, with residents and local officials still trying to find a resolution. Despite its challenges, Damascus has a strong sense of community and a rich history that continues to shape its future. As the city grows and changes, it will undoubtedly see more notable political events that will shape its identity and character.
