Wedding hosts in Oregon dealt a setback

SISTERS, Ore. — A couple that has tried for years to gain approval to host weddings on their 216-acre property near Sisters is no closer to doing so.

The Bend Bulletin reports the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals rejected a permit that allowed a 2-acre private park on the property owned by John and Stephanie Shepard to be used for weddings and receptions.

The private park concept was approved by Deschutes County commissioners in April, allowing the Shepherds to host up to 18 weddings from May to October.

But the county’s decision was appealed to LUBA by Central Oregon LandWatch and a Bend attorney who said an approval would’ve set a precedent for wedding venues on land zoned exclusively for farm use.

John Shepherd said he plans to appeal LUBA’s decision.

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