Neighbors "Stop the Demolition"

A controversy over lot splitting in Eastmoreland has been partially resolved – at least temporarily.

With developers trying to use every square inch, sometimes larger lots with older homes are cut in half to allow for “infill.” But that technique often disturbs neighbors, concerned about their property value and neighborhood character.

In Eastmoreland, where “Stop the Demolition!” signs have cropped up like weeds, neighbors apparently have decided to collectively buy a property to prevent the lot from being split. Eastmoreland Neighborhood Association President Robert McCullough confirms for PRP that Dr. Robert Buys and another neighbor, Jeff Bowman, will join in the purchase of the 1959 ranch-style house at 3058 S.E. Woodstock.

The Portland Tribune reports developer Vic Remmers had purchased the property, with plans to tear down the 1959 ranch-style house – and replace it with two new ones. The real estate website Redfin shows the home sold for $529,000 in 2013.

Because of the Buys-Bowman purchase agreement, a Portland City Council hearing scheduled for Thursday afternoon has been cancelled – for at least 60 days.