White City, Ore. — A public town hall meeting will be held in White City on March 8 to discuss the repeal of Oregon’s statewide wildfire hazard map, with local leaders and experts addressing concerns from residents. The meeting will take place just two days before the March 10 appeals deadline, making it a critical opportunity for those opposed to the map to voice their opinions.
The event will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at White Mountain Middle School, located at 550 Wilson Way. Among those attending will be Bob Hart, a retired land consultant who has been vocal about the impacts of the wildfire hazard map, as well as state representatives Sen. Noah Robinson (R-District 2) and Rep. Emily McIntire (R-District 56). Jackson County Commissioner Colleen Roberts will also be in attendance to discuss local implications of the map.
The statewide wildfire hazard map, introduced by the Oregon Department of Forestry, categorizes land throughout the state based on wildfire risk. Critics argue that the map’s classifications unfairly impact property owners, particularly in rural areas, by limiting their ability to develop or sell land. The repeal campaign, led by local residents and supported by several lawmakers, has gained traction ahead of the upcoming appeals deadline.
Sen. Robinson and Rep. McIntire, both vocal critics of the map, have expressed their concerns that the classifications do not accurately reflect on-the-ground conditions and disproportionately affect property rights. The meeting in White City is expected to draw a large turnout, with many hoping to influence lawmakers before the deadline passes.
As the appeals window nears its close, residents of White City and surrounding areas are encouraged to attend and make their voices heard regarding this critical issue.