Metro ends case-by-case expansion system

PORTLAND (AP) - The Metro Council, which must sign off on urban growth in the Portland area, decided Thursday to end a system of case-by-case reviews for development proposals.

The decision means that after next year's major expansion of the growth boundary, the door will probably close to piecemeal additions until 2007.

Officials said they can cut costs, simplify the process and better address the area's housing needs by considering all proposals for residential development at once.

The rules also help prevent urban sprawl from eating up valuable farmland around the city.

State law requires that Metro Council meet at least once every five years to consider expanding the line that zigs and zags around the Portland area, corralling urban-style development inside and preserving farmland outside.