The Keizer City Council's recent work session highlighted a pressing issue: the city's land needs for housing and job growth. Council members discussed the importance of updating the housing needs analysis and buildable lands inventory, which have not been officially adopted since 2013. The last update, conducted in 2021, was not finalized due to various factors, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in state regulations.

City officials emphasized the necessity of determining land requirements to accommodate population growth. The analysis revealed a significant decrease in the projected need for residential land, dropping from 267 acres in 2013 to just 52 acres in the latest draft. This shift raises questions about how Keizer will manage its land supply and implement efficiency measures to support future development.

Council President Star expressed concern over the lack of adoption of the updated analysis, prompting discussions about the reasons behind this delay. Factors included staffing challenges and evolving state guidelines, which have complicated the planning process. Despite these hurdles, city leaders noted that infill development has been ongoing, suggesting that Keizer has been proactive in managing its land resources.

As the council moves forward, the focus will be on addressing the updated housing needs and ensuring that the city is prepared for future growth. The next steps will likely involve further discussions on how to effectively implement the necessary changes and secure the required land for development.