Robert Liberty
ADU owner, advocate for ADUs in various capacities including elected official, university sustainability program administrator and advocate for zoning reform to increase housing choice as staff attorney and director of 1000 Friends of Oregon.
Questions Asked and Answered
Let’s start off by talking about the history of the urban growth boundary, also referred to as the "UGB”. Every city in Oregon, has one regardless of size. The regulation of housing is also a part of the Oregon land use program; can you tell us something about that?
Is Oregon's experience relevant to other states? And if it is relevant, is it politically feasible today?
What are some fall out benefits that have occurred as a result of the UGB culturally?
For several years, you orchestrated a sustainability institute housed within Portland State University and focused the institute’s efforts on ADU production. Tell us about the initial goals of that program and whether it was successful.
In hindsight, what projects would you recommend for other University departments to help push the ball forward in terms of ADU research and policy locally?
Can you tell us about some highlights from the survey that ISS conducted? Focus in on how many ADUs were built for family members and their rental price point
You went on to build an ADU yourself. We’ll talk about the ADU itself, but let’s start by talking about whether and how going through that development process yourself, changed your understanding of the ADU market.
Tell us about the ADU development process, and what you’re learning about providing an affordable ADU rental as a homeowner?
How do you see ADUs playing a role in affordability and equity?
What role do you see ADUs and middle housing playing in terms of meeting housing production goals?
In a previous life, you were an elected official for Metro. So, you have some political chops. What are some strategies that you’d recommend for advocates and electeds that are confronting common concerns about the impact of off-street parking.