The Bend Bulletin reports a proposed development in Terrebonne, which is about 20 miles north of Bend, Oregon, on a 145-acre parcel of land, is raising a backlash as neighbors express concerns about density and environmental issues. “You can make one decision and end up impacting a panoply of other cases,” said Liz Dickson, an attorney representing neighbors who oppose the proposed subdivision. Lower Bridge LLC would like to develop the land and is attempting to get the community and the local government on board, without much success so far.
The proposed subdivision has been the subject of controversy for more than a decade, largely because of its location. The area was mined in the early 20th century for diatomaceous earth, which was used as an insecticide product, cat litter and for other items. The mine was also used to dispose of hazardous waste, such as cyanide and lead in the 1970s, according to county documents.
Several neighbors have testified over the years to relay their concern about the health risks that could come with building at the site — even with a letter from the Department of Environmental Quality in 2017 saying it’s safe to build there.
But neighbors and the land use watchdog group Central Oregon LandWatch argue there is something broader to worry about: development precedent.
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