Dear Fellow Portlander and Concerned Citizen,

A lot has happened since we last connected, and we want to share some important updates about the fight against the $2.13 billion filtration plant.

The Portland Water Bureau (PWB) has been pushing this project forward, ignoring permit conditions and community concerns. But here’s the BIG NEWS: We’ve scored a major victory!

The Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA) has remanded the decision back to Multnomah County, citing the failure to adequately evaluate the project’s adverse impacts on natural resources, as required by law. This means the PWB’s permit is not fully approved, and construction has been paused pending further study—a process that could take up to 120 days (starting once PWB requests to move forward with a remand, which they haven not yet done.)

Why This Matters:

·       The PWB is trying to bypass zoning laws and environmental protections.

·       The project threatens rural farmland, natural resources, and your wallet—water rates are set to rise an estimated 8.1% or more annually for the next 35 years.

·       Senate Bill 936, if passed, would allow the PWB to circumvent Oregon’s land-use appeals process, setting a dangerous precedent for other projects. It would allow major projects to gain permit access regardless of land zoning.

The Fight Continues:
The battle now shifts to Multnomah County, where we’ll argue whether the project adversely affects natural resources. 

But keep in mind - this fight is about more than just a filtration plant—it’s about:

·       Government overreach and circumventing environmental protections.

·       Excessive spending that will skyrocket water rates.

·       Destruction of farmland and natural resources.

·       Unnecessary chemicals that could alter the taste of Bull Run water and affect local businesses.

How You Can Help:

1.     Share this email and encourage others to sign our petition on Change.org

2.     Donate to support our efforts through our sister organization, Cottrell CPO (501c3): Donate Here

3.     Follow us on Facebook for updates: Facebook Link

4.     Learn more about the fight on our website: BRWG’s Website

If you’re as passionate about this issue as we are, we’d love your help with outreach. Reach out to us at BullRunWaterGuardians@gmail.com or message us on Facebook.

Together, we can protect our water, land, and community.

Thank you for standing with us,

Bull Run Water Guardians