Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon lawmakers reversed themselves Monday on a bill that blocks destination resorts in the Metolius Basin.

The move comes less than a week after the same measure failed by just one vote on the House floor.

Democratic Representative Larry Galizio was one of five Democrats who originally joined every Republican in voting against the bill.

He says he changed his mind after his office was flooded with calls and letters from people who wanted to protect the Metolius.

Larry Galizio: “Sometimes lengthy and heartfelt communication. Land-use lawyers, environmentalists, people who said they've never communicated with a legislator before. And some people quite frankly, who were so rude and obnoxious that I want them to know that I'm not changing my vote because of them.”

Galizio also says he received what he called a call from Governor Ted Kulongoski which he called “persuasive.” Opponents of the bill said the measure overturns a local land-use decision.

The bill is now headed to the Governor's desk for his signature.