Oswego Lake access to be discussed at public meeting

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – After a circuit court ruled that Lake Oswego must allow public access to its beloved lake in Millennium Plaza Park, a special meeting will give the community a chance to share their thoughts. 

The order, issued on March 3, banned the city from enforcing policies that exclude access to Oswego Lake. Clackamas County Circuit Court Judge Kathie Steele gave officials 120 days to get rid of obstructions like boulders and metal reeds.

The city is also required to remove exclusionary signs, such as those that read “Private Lake” and “No Trespassing” on public property, within 30 days.

This decision, known as Kramer v. State of Oregon and City of Lake Oswego, followed a years-long saga involving who should have access to the lake. A group of homeowners believe access should remain private while other community members claim the public have a right to navigable waterways.

Two resolutions are expected to be discussed at the meeting on Monday evening. The first will determine whether to authorize the city attorney to appeal the decision, and the second will possibly implement city park rules or find other actions available to manage public access.

The meeting is set to begin at 6 p.m. within Lake Oswego City Hall.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as we continue to follow this story.