Dutch Pacific plans multiple uses

Last updated 9/26/2006 at Noon

The developers of Dutch Pacific want to do something unique in Sisters on their 40 acres of land. At last Thursday's Sisters Urban Area Planning Commission meeting, they proposed a multi-use development including industrial buildings with lofts on the top floor. This live-work use is not currently permitted by the city but commissioners were receptive to the new concept.

Dutch Pacific owns the land where the former Conklin's Bed & Breakfast used to be on the corner of Camp Polk Road and Barclay Drive. The development plan includes a light industrial park called Sun Ranch Business Park, a residential strip on the north side, 25 bungalows for visitors, a restaurant and walking paths.

Dutch Pacific President Shane Lundgren said his team's vision for a multi-use development is an attractive combination for new businesses. Lundgren has sold 11 of the 21 light industrial lots which he said "speaks volumes about our vision."

"It's a tough area for real light industrial to thrive," said Lundgren who pointed out that Sisters does not have a major highway or seaport. He wants to attract niche business especially smaller high-tech companies with 10 to 15 employees.

"Sisters is a pass-through place that's trying to be a destination," said Lundgren. "Sun Ranch Business Park will be the economic heartbeat of the new Sisters."

Commissioners agreed with the planning department's recommendation on the application and voted to continue the public hearing at its October meeting so more details of the large proposal could be ironed out. Sisters Comprehensive Plan would need to be amended to allow Dutch Pacific's plan for live/work use. If the Planning Commission approves the application at its October 19 meeting, the project would still need to be approved by the Sisters City Council.

"While we support fully the concept of this mixed-use development, there are a lot of inconsistencies to be worked out," said planner Bill Adams who reviewed the application for City Planning Director Brian Rankin.

Several people spoke in favor of the development at the public hearing. Denny Ebner, whose home borders the property, supports the project. Ebner said he had seen three different developers' plans for the acreage and praised Lundgren for his integrity.

"You've done an outstanding job of innovating with this property," said Ebner.

Commissioner Carey Tosello noted the positive tone of the speakers.

"It was a real pleasure hearing testimony in favor of new development," said Tosello.