Public Meetings - Bend, Oregon

The Bend City Council met on December 6, 2023, starting with a work session at 5:00 PM on System Development Charge (SDC) methodology and code updates, followed by a Right of Way code update, and then an executive session. The regular meeting at 7:00 PM included proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, three public hearings, a Multiple Unit Property Tax Exemption (MUPTE) resolution, council reports, and the city manager's report. Key actions included adoption of parking regulation amendments, approval of surplus property sales for housing and industrial development, and approval of a MUPTE for a 199-unit project. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 1 and November 15, 2023 meetings. - Accepted the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) report. - Accepted the Monthly Financial Report for October 2023. - Authorized a two-year agreement with Kancler Consulting, LLC for government relations services not to exceed $156,000, with renewal options. - Authorized an agreement with Cascade Pump & Irrigation Services, LLC for pump and motor repair not to exceed $500,000. - Authorized purchase of six Stryker Power-PRO XT cots not to exceed $150,700. - Authorized purchase of emergency medical supplies from Life-Assist, Inc. not to exceed $250,000 per fiscal year of the 2023-2025 biennium. - Accepted petition to vacate a segment of right-of-way along Cooley Road. Public Comments & Testimony - Veterans Village Update (In-person): Eric Tobiason thanked the city for support, reported that the expansion will finish in two weeks, with seven units ready before winter. He credited the building department for efficient project completion. - Airport Rules (Zoom): Gary Miller, Bend resident and airport user, expressed dissatisfaction with proposed airport rules, noting no city staff defended the proposal. He offered cooperation and tours for staff to understand airport operations. - Verizon Wireless (Zoom): Kim Allen stated no objection to moving from franchise to license model but raised legal concerns about the access fee for wireless providers. Supported the proposal to set the fee to zero temporarily. - Utilities (In-person): - Casey Rhodes (Rosewater) supported the general concept of the right-of-way code but urged collaborative process to avoid ratepayer impacts. - Rick Bailey (Avion Water) noted the city's shift from partnership to one-size-fits-all, citing a past conflict over the Brown and Caldwell report. He requested more stakeholder involvement compared to the SDC process. - Brenton Pass (Central Electric Cooperative) appreciated staff responsiveness but highlighted concerns about emergency language, gross revenue definitions, and relocation costs. - Marcus McCloskey (Cascade Natural Gas) urged a more thoughtful timeline, mirroring the SDC stakeholder process. - Matthew Chancellor (Pacific Power) expressed concern that an ordinance ends the partnership approach, could shift costs to customers, and conflicts with state law on undergrounding. Discussion Items - System Development Charge (SDC) Methodology and Code Update (Work Session): - Staff presented a tiered residential SDC structure: smaller homes pay less (e.g., under 600 sq. ft. $11,000), larger homes pay more (over 3,000 sq. ft. $31,000), with the current uniform charge of $21,760 as a midpoint. Multi-unit housing gets a uniform charge per unit. - Non-residential SDCs updated using current ITE trip generation data, causing increases in some categories (e.g., auto-dependent uses) due to historical arbitrary reductions from 2003 being corrected. - Urban area rates for transportation SDCs in core areas (downtown, opportunity areas) based on lower trip generation due to walkability. - Water and sewer SDCs aligned with building square footage instead of meter size or employee counts. - Code changes include: deferred SDC payment phased in over three years (multi-unit residential starting now, all residential in 2025, all development in 2026) with fixed rate at building permit time; simplified credits for existing use (using current schedule); expanded credit for qualified public improvements with transferability for credits over $250,000 for improvements in same basin; exemptions for affordable housing (20-year deed restriction) and childcare/shelters (non-durational, no credit upon conversion). Staff will review exemptions without Affordable Housing Advisory Committee involvement. - Council directed staff to explore reducing the transportation SDC for ADUs (currently $2,239) as a policy incentive. - Right of Way Code Update (Work Session): - Staff proposed replacing individual franchise agreements with a uniform license program to streamline management and ensure equitable fees. - Key elements: registration for providers (utility service), license for operators (facility owners), and two fees (use fee on operators, access fee on providers) based on gross revenue percentages unchanged from current. - Public comments from telecom raised legal concerns about the access fee under federal law. Staff recommended enacting the code but setting the access fee to zero temporarily (via resolution) while the city determines who is operating in the right-of-way, to avoid litigation risk. - Timeline: first reading delayed to January 2024; implementation delayed until May 1, 2024; stakeholder meeting on December 11, 2023. - Public Hearings (Regular Meeting): - CFEC Parking Amendments (Item 6): Adopted first reading of ordinance implementing OAR 660-012-0405 and 660-012-0415. Includes 40% tree canopy or solar panels for parking lots over half acre; parking maximums for multi-unit and large commercial near transit. Planning commission recommended approval with amendment allowing building frontage to face pedestrian plazas or breezeways. No public comment. Unanimous vote. - SE 9th Street Surplus Property (Item 7): Adopted resolution declaring two tax lots (3.4 acres) surplus for housing development (excluding shelters). RFP process will include covenant for rental or owner-occupied housing, with evaluation criteria including ability to proceed, compensation, expediency, and community benefit. Unanimous vote. - Juniper Ridge Surplus Property (Item 8): Adopted resolution declaring five lots (approx. 200 acres) surplus for industrial/commercial development. Two-step RFP: first 100 acres (lots requiring major infrastructure), then remaining 100 acres. Proposals must include infrastructure development. Unanimous vote. - Multiple Unit Property Tax Exemption (MUPTE) – 105 NE Franklin Ave (Item 9): Approved 10-year tax exemption for two five-story buildings with 199 residential units (Platform Project). Priority public benefit: Earth Advantage Platinum energy certification; additional benefits: enhanced landscaping and EV charging. Financial analysis by independent consultant found project not viable without exemption. Estimated $4.4 million exemption over 10 years; project in core TIF district, so impact deferred to Bend Urban Renewal Agency. All taxing districts approved. Unanimous vote. - Council Reports: - Stewardship Subcommittee (Councilor Riley): Youth Advisory Council progress with Campfire partnership; Community Crisis Response Team update—shift to first-response model, one-third reduction in mental health calls, need for stable funding and detox center. - Community Building Subcommittee (Councilor Perkins): Meeting next week. - Mayor pro tem Perkins: BDAB continued discussion on non-residential Transportation Utility Fee; business survey results (289 responses) showed top concerns: congestion (36%), enhanced street quality (23%), snow plowing/sweeping (12%); 67% support phase-in over 3 years. - Councilor Campbell: Attended rural fire protection board; shared personal story of husband rescued by city/county cooperation; emphasized value of the agreement. - Councilor Méndez: Bend MPO awarded Safe Streets for All grant; updates to Transportation Safety Action Plan and Transportation System Plan starting. - Appointments: Carly Colgan and Christopher Fultz appointed to Human Rights & Equity Commission. Key Outcomes - SDC Update: Council provided direction to proceed with the proposed methodology and code changes, including exploring reduced ADU transportation SDC, and staff to bring back a refined proposal for January 17, 2024 public hearing. - Right-of-Way Code: Council directed staff to proceed with the code, delay implementation until May 1, 2024, and set access fee to zero temporarily via resolution. Stakeholder meeting on December 11. - CFEC Parking Amendments: Ordinance adopted on first reading (unanimous). - SE 9th Street Surplus: Resolution adopted to declare property surplus and initiate RFP for housing development (unanimous). - Juniper Ridge Surplus: Resolution adopted to declare lots surplus and initiate RFP for industrial/commercial use (unanimous). - MUPTE Approval: Resolution adopted for 10-year tax exemption at 105 NE Franklin Ave (unanimous). - Appointments: Two members appointed to Human Rights & Equity Commission (unanimous). - Consent Agenda: Approved (unanimous). - Public Comments: Noted for action by staff; right-of-way stakeholders invited to December 11 meeting.

This meeting included a work session from 5:00 p.m. covering community development fee updates and an update on the camping code, followed by an executive session. The regular meeting began at 7:00 p.m. with a consent agenda, public comments, and several action items including approval of a housing code amendment, the second intergovernmental agreement for the Coordinated Houseless Response Office (CHRO), and a rapid rehousing contract. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 1, 2023 work session. - Authorized a Master Price Agreement with PacificWRO for furniture (up to $3,500,000 over five years). - Approved sole source contracts with Pacific Power for Wilson Avenue Corridor project ($129,129). - Accepted a $152,740 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant from the Department of Energy. Public Comments & Testimony - Electrification advocates (Brendan Brees, Amelia DuBose, Freddie Finney Jordan, Annie Nichols, Emmy Lerding, Rowan Lucas – members of Fridays for Future Bend and Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition) urged council to task the Environment and Climate Committee with drafting a comprehensive building electrification plan and to raise the right-of-way fee to 10% to fund equitable transitions. They noted September 15, 2023 was the 60-day mark from a letter sent to council; several youth speakers expressed urgency for bold climate action. - Bob Peel, Camden Hendrix, Keith Higby, Nancy Bouchard, Corey Gillette, James Thiele (all Bend residents) spoke in opposition to the repeal of BDC Section 3.1.400.J (13-foot-6-inch vertical clearance standard) as part of the housing code amendments. They argued the building code does not cover the same scope and that removing this standard would create safety gaps for delivery trucks and emergency vehicles. Several noted the repeal was presented as “redundant” but appeared to be a substantive change. - Katie Brooks (CEO of Bend Chamber) expressed appreciation for the fee update process and asked for continued focus on streamlining pre-application permitting. - Dorian Tai, Gary Miller, Garrett Welch, Robert Watkins, Faye Phillips (airport users and stakeholders) criticized the proposed airport rules and regulations update, citing a short 30-day comment period over Thanksgiving, lack of stakeholder input, and concerns about hangar lease terms, flight instructor restrictions, and privacy (requiring member lists). They requested the draft be withdrawn and redrafted with genuine participation. - Richard Regard (formerly unhoused) expressed frustration with resources and enforcement of camping rules, asking for assistance and a shopping cart. Discussion Items - Community Development Fee Update (Work Session): Sharon Witter and Colin presented a fee increase plan for the Community and Economic Development Department funds (Building, Engineering, Planning). The plan includes step increases (e.g., 20% on July 1, 2024, and 10% on January 1, 2025 for Building; similar for other funds) to restore reserves to policy targets. Council discussed the need to align with the 6-month reserve policy and possible options for the Planning fund. Next steps include revisiting at June budget and ongoing stakeholder meetings with BDAB. - Update on Camping Code (Work Session): Ian Lightheiser, Sherry Meisel, and Chief presented data from eight months of implementation: 68 cases opened, 42 notices issued in March, seasonal peaks. Notices to clean vs. move for tents and vehicles. Parking complaints (abandoned vehicles) exceed 10 per day. City has issued no citations. Staff recommended clarifying the 750-foot move requirement for all vehicles citywide as a short-term code amendment, with a larger parking code overhaul in 2024. Council directed staff to return with that ordinance. - Approve Employment Agreement for Judge Ruocco: Council unanimously approved amendments including a 4% salary adjustment and an additional court session to manage docket. - Rapid Rehousing Sole Source with NeighborImpact: Council approved $215,000 for direct client assistance (rent, deposits, arrears) for up to 30 households, funded by a state grant that must be expended by January 10, 2024. - Second IGA for CHRO (Item 8): Council authorized the City Manager to sign the agreement that moves CHRO oversight to Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) and includes updated board bylaws. - Housing Code Amendment (Second Reading – Item 9): After extensive public comment and procedural discussion, council voted 6-1 (Councilor Riley opposed) to adopt the ordinance amending the Comprehensive Plan and Development Code to facilitate housing. The vote passed despite concerns about removal of the 13-foot-6-inch vertical clearance standard. Mayor and Councilor Riley will meet with staff to clarify the issue and possibly bring a future revision. - Council Reports: Councilors reported on committee meetings (BDAB, ECC, ATF, affordable housing, tree code, etc.), Veterans Day events, and a letter to the Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition outlining existing climate action planning and a commitment to report in March 2024. - City Manager’s Report: STC methodology public notice begins November 17; e-bike information page launched; Bird bikes averaging 3,500 rides per month; 17 of 25 neighborhood street safety projects completed; 32 pump stations decommissioned reducing energy use. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (unanimous). - Approved employment agreement for Municipal Court Judge Angela Ruocco (unanimous). - Approved sole source contract with NeighborImpact for $215,000 for rapid rehousing (unanimous). - Authorized second IGA for CHRO (unanimous). - Passed housing code amendment on second reading (6-1). - Directed staff to bring ordinance clarifying 750-foot vehicle move requirement citywide. - Appointed Mark Fronti and Petra Oros Lenova to BDAB; named alternates Gillian Taylor and David Dowdy. - Approved homelessness collaborative agreement (unanimous). - Council authorized participation in the 3M and DuPont PFAS settlement (unanimous). - Letter to youth climate groups to be sent by November 17 outlining timeline and work plan.

The Bend City Council held a hybrid work session starting at 4:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on November 1, 2023. The work session included an intergovernmental meeting with the Tribal Council of the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation, an update on the public safety system, and an Envision Bend update. The regular meeting featured a public hearing on housing code amendments, approval of design contracts for pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and adoption of a nondiscrimination policy for discretionary funding. Intergovernmental Meeting with Warm Springs Tribal Council - The City Council hosted the Tribal Council of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs for the first formal intergovernmental meeting. Tribal Secretary-Treasurer Bobby Bruno provided an overview of the tribe’s treaty (June 25, 1855), which ceded 10 million acres of land (including the City of Bend) while reserving rights to fish, hunt, gather, and pasture livestock. He noted that 444,000 acres of the 640,000-acre reservation are forested. - Vice Chairman Ray Moody emphasized the tribe’s focus on water quality, land use, and the impact of growth on treaty resources. He stated, “We are very cautious to watch what you’re doing” and asked that the city keep the tribe in mind when making decisions. - Mayor Melanie Kebler and City Manager Eric King expressed commitments to annual meetings and a future “tribal harmony workshop” (a 2.5-day cultural and educational session). The council agreed to meet next in Warm Springs. Public Safety System Update - Chief Mike Grant (Bend Police) described the complexity of modern policing, noting that the department responds to approximately 45,000 calls for service annually. He distinguished between policing (relationships, crisis intervention) and law enforcement (citations, arrests, reports). - District Attorney Steve Gunnels reported that the DA’s office files about 5,000 criminal cases per year, with 24.5 FTE prosecutors and 9.5 victim advocates. He highlighted that Measure 110 reduced methamphetamine possession charges by 90% (from 633 to 62 cases) and heroin possession by 97% (from 257 to 6 cases). Violent crime spiked during COVID: murders rose from 1 in 2019 to 8 in 2022, but are down to 3 in 2023. DUI filings exceed 1,000 per year. - Judge Beth Bagley (Deschutes County Circuit Court) explained that the court handled 14,442 total cases in 2022, including 54 jury trials and 382 bench trials. She noted a significant increase in “aid and assist” cases (competency evaluations) and civil commitments. The court worked through a backlog of over 1,000 warrants from the COVID period, and the warrant queue is now nearly cleared. - Councilors discussed the adult treatment court, which was suspended due to workforce shortages. DA Gunnels expressed hope for its resurrection. Chief Grant clarified that the city council does not direct police enforcement; officers follow state law, city ordinances, and constitutional protections. Envision Bend Update - David White (Envision Bend Board Chair) and Matt Munchin (Executive Director) presented the vision action plan, developed from 17 months of community input. The plan includes 28 strategies, with the City of Bend listed as lead or co-lead on 10. - Strategic Initiatives Manager Mickey Dirting reviewed the 10 strategies: 4 align with current council goals (e.g., housing innovation, tree canopy, complete communities), 1 is a “maybe” (thriving urban tree canopy), and 5 are not currently in goals (railroad safety/redevelopment, city of belonging, alliance on equity partners, adapting to climate change). Staff recommended that the city not lead on railroad relocation (requires 5–10 years) or the equity alliance (best led by other organizations). - Councilors expressed support for using the plan to inform future goal-setting but noted resource constraints. Councilor Perkins raised concerns about overburdening under-resourced equity organizations. Consent Calendar - Items A–D (minutes, OLCC report, quarterly investment report, monthly financial report) were approved unanimously. - Item E (acceptance of $577,500 grant from COIC for rapid rehousing at the Rainbow Motel, including a $1 sublease at 181 NE Franklin Ave.) was pulled for discussion. Housing Director Lynn McConnell explained that the grant allows relocation of support services to the adjacent Blue Dog RV site, freeing two rooms for shelter beds during the Lighthouse Navigation Center renovation. The motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Freddie Finney Jordan (organizer, Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition) thanked the council for progress on electrification and bike routes, urging continued action. - Rowan Lucas (19, Bend resident) requested the council adopt policies requiring 50% electrification of buildings by 2030 and all-electric new construction by 2025, and strengthen the city’s right-of-way law to create a climate justice fund. - Ann Women (Bend resident) thanked the council for the upcoming vote on the nondiscrimination policy, saying it will make the city more welcoming. - Linda Johnson (nearby resident) expressed gratitude for the revision of the city sponsorship policy, noting her church had faced barriers when applying for a parade permit due to its social justice programs. Discussion Items - Housing Code Update (PLTEXT20230479): Staff presented amendments to remove maximum density in high-density residential zones (RH), allow single-room occupancies (SROs) in all residential districts (per HB 3395), and streamline middle housing land divisions. Planning Commissioner Suzanne Johansson reported a unanimous recommendation from the Planning Commission. Council adopted the ordinance on first reading. - Olney Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements: Engineer Carrie Goldstein presented the final design amendment (Phase 2) with Parametrix, Inc. for $1,437,547. The project will add curb-protected bike lanes on both sides of Olney Avenue, sidewalks, and a safe crossing at 2nd Street. Total project cost is estimated at $10.4 million, with a $1 million gap from the GO bond. Council approved the contract. - Crosstown Bikeways (Bend Bikeway): Engineer Kevin Howard introduced a $786,820 design contract with David Evans and Associates. The project will create a connected north-south and east-west protected bike network, including shared-use paths, neighborhood greenways, and modal filters. Construction is targeted to finish by June 2025. Council approved the contract. - Resolution on Discretionary Funding Policy (CP007): Council adopted a resolution affirming nondiscrimination in city-sponsored events and programs. The policy clarifies that “public purpose” includes additional protected classes and renames the “Christmas Parade” to “Holiday Parade” (effective next year) to align with the prohibition on promoting religion. Councilors noted that the 2023 parade will proceed as planned. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent agenda items approved (unanimous). Housing code update (first reading) approved (unanimous). Olney Bicycle/Pedestrian contract approved (unanimous). Crosstown Bikeways contract approved (unanimous). Resolution CP007 approved (unanimous). - Directives: Council directed staff to schedule a work session on tolling building and land use permits due to high interest rates and construction slowdowns. Staff will also explore amendments to the municipal court judge’s contract (Judge Rocco) recognizing excellent performance. - Next Steps: The second reading of the housing code ordinance is scheduled for November 15, 2023. The council will hold a January 2024 work session to discuss cost overruns in the capital improvement program. The second intergovernmental meeting with Warm Springs will occur in 2024. - City Manager’s Report: Upcoming events include a climate-friendly areas open house (Nov. 7), Habitat for Humanity capital campaign celebration (Nov. 2), and construction updates: Wilson Avenue closure extended through June 2024; Neff-Purcell intersection expected to open after Nov. 28.

The Bend City Council held a hybrid regular meeting on October 18, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. following a 5:00 p.m. work session. The agenda included a proclamation, public comments, consent agenda items, a public hearing on a federal housing grant, a resolution to amend the Transportation SDC project list, second readings of the Caraway Master Plan and annexation ordinances, and council reports. All votes were unanimous. Proclamation - Mayor Kebler read a proclamation declaring October 2023 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Bend. Cassie McQueen of Satan Grace shared that at the Deschutes County Courthouse that day, a line of people seeking temporary restraining orders exceeded available staffing, highlighting ongoing needs. Public Comments & Testimony - Freddie Finagarette (Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition/Fridays for Future Bend) urged council to pursue building electrification, noting 54% of Bend's emissions come from buildings, largely from methane gas. He argued electric homes are safer, more efficient, and cheaper, and thanked council for previous climate action. - Doreen Ty complained about aircraft from the Bend airport (paragliders and airplanes) repeatedly invading her property and disturbing her cattle, alleging retaliation for online comments. She asked the council to address airport emissions and noise, stating operations have increased from 10,000 to 200,000. - Debbie Putnam (co-owner, Riverside Animal Hospital) expressed concern that the proposed safety corridor modifications on Olney Avenue would create a barrier preventing left turns into her business, potentially causing layoffs among 30 employees. She requested continued collaboration with city engineers to find a balanced solution, such as delaying barrier construction until a roundabout is built. - Eric Presia (Southeast Tempest Drive resident) described escalating problems with a homeless camp in his neighborhood, including aggressive behavior and trash. He asked for stronger camping code enforcement (e.g., preventing camping in the same spot twice) and noted the issue could harm public support for future housing projects. Council noted a work session on camping code is scheduled for November 15. Consent Calendar - The council approved items A, B, C, E, and F of the consent agenda. Item D was pulled for separate discussion. Approved items: - Approval of minutes from September 20, 2023 (regular), October 4, 2023 (work session and regular), and October 10, 2023 (joint meeting). - OLCC Report. - EIPD Quarterly Project Status Report for FY2024 Q1. - Authorize an agreement with Carlson Testing, Inc., for special inspections at Public Works Campus (not to exceed $303,455.50). - Authorize purchase of a closed-circuit television van from Cues, Inc. ($294,707). Item D – Percent for Art Program (pulled): Councilor Campbell expressed initial concern over a $110,380 contract with Art in Public Places, Inc., to manage selection and community education for art at the Public Works Campus (total art budget over $800,000). She questioned whether funds could be used for other city art or spread over time. Staff explained the city's code requires 1% of public construction costs for art, and the contract includes community education. Council approved the motion after discussion. Discussion Items - Public Hearing – PRO Housing Grant (Item 6): Housing Director Lynn McConnell and Affordable Housing Coordinator Melissa Camania presented a draft application for a $10 million grant from HUD (total project cost $19 million, with city match). The grant would fund five activities over six years: internal assessment of city processes, housing production data and planning, a new housing development fund ($8 million), expanded incentives and subsidies, and streamlining housing production for community members (e.g., ADU toolkits). The city qualifies under HUD's off-pace factor (housing production lagged population growth 2009–2019). Council noted the difficulty of HUD's outdated data but recognized local need. No public comments were submitted. Council unanimously approved submission of the application. - Resolution Amending Transportation SDC Project List (Item 7): Staff presented a resolution to add a project to the fiscally constrained list needed for the Gateway and Caraway developments, while removing projects already completed, funded by ODOT, or covered by the 2020 GO Bond. Council adopted the resolution without debate. - Caraway Master Planned Development – Second Reading (Item 9): Council considered an ordinance to create the Caraway Master Planned Development on approximately 150 acres. The motion included an amendment to reduce minimum lot sizes for triplexes and quadplexes in the RS zone to match the underlying zone. Approved by roll call (7-0). - Caraway Annexation – Second Reading (Item 10): Ordinance to annex approximately 153.56 acres in the North Triangle Urban Growth Boundary Expansion Area. Approved by roll call (7-0). Key Outcomes - Domestic Violence Awareness Month was proclaimed. - Consent agenda approved except Item D; Item D later approved. - PRO Housing grant application authorized for submission to HUD. - Transportation SDC project list amendment adopted. - Caraway Master Planned Development ordinance adopted (second reading). - Caraway Annexation ordinance adopted (second reading). - Appointment: Corey Harlan (Central Oregon Land Watch) was appointed to the Tree Regulation Update Advisory Committee (Truac). Council Reports and City Manager's Report - Councilors reported on committee meetings, groundbreakings, events (including Sustainable Housing Works, Healing Reins, Warm Springs Museum Gala, etc.), and a change of command for the local Army National Guard unit. - City Manager Eric King noted property tax assessed value increased 5.7% (budgeted 5%), resulting in a $234,000 positive delta in the general fund. Urban renewal areas varied: Core area came in $196,000 less than budget; Murphy higher; Juniper Ridge on target. He also reported on a water caucus with state representatives and tribes, and a planned joint meeting with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs on November 1.

The work session began at 5:00 p.m. and covered the quarterly update on council goals, a discussion on defining equity for the organization, updates to the sponsorship program, and presentations on the city website redesign and the new Bend Works service request system. No public comment or consent agenda were part of this session. The session concluded with a report from the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) regarding parks system development charge (SDC) exemptions. Quarterly Council-Board/Commission Update - City Manager Eric King reported that 46 of 50 action items (92%) across five goal areas are on track. Key highlights included: over 400 attendees at the State of the City; the Public Works Campus broke ground in late August/early September; permitting times met or beat targets (residential new construction first review at 30 days target, commercial at 76 days vs. 90-day goal, tenant improvements at 22 days vs. 45-day goal, rights-of-way slightly over at 52 days vs. 45-day target); 250–300 non-law enforcement calls handled by behavioral health response; over 7,400 new emergency alert signups since September 2022 (1,700 in last two months); and the transportation fee work continuing with a planned vote in March 2024. - Jesse Thomas, Office of Performance Management, presented a prototype of a new council goals dashboard merging with the open data platform, featuring improved mobile accessibility and translation. The public safety dashboard was ready; all goal areas expected to be live by mid- to late-December. Council provided positive feedback. Defining Equity - Andres Portillo, Equity and Inclusion Director, presented four definitions of equity for council consideration. The Human Rights and Equity Commission (HREC) preferred definition four (aspirational, aligning with the state of Oregon’s DEI action plan), while the Committee on Accessibility and Belonging (COBAC) preferred definition three. Staff surveys were inconclusive. - After discussion, council reached consensus to adopt definition four as the aspirational definition for the city and definition one as the operational definition for day-to-day use. Councilor Megan Norris expressed a preference for definition two, and Councilor Ariel Méndez noted operational concerns with definition three’s use of “absence of discrimination.” The decision was not a formal vote but a consensus to move forward with two definitions. Sponsorship Program Update - Andres Portillo presented three changes to the council policy on discretionary funding and sponsorships: adding a line item to create and maintain a discrimination-free environment, expanding protected classes per federal/state/local ordinances and adding an ADA statement, and making for-profit organizations ineligible if funds are used for commercial enterprise. The formal vote will be at the November 15 council meeting. Website and Bend Works - Jacob Rigal, User Experience Designer, reported on the city website redesign. User research identified top tasks; improvements included a new search tool with manual result adjustment, a redesigned navigation with a 21% higher success rate and 19% faster directness, a consolidated services page, and a new “About” page. Future plans include rewriting content at an eighth-grade reading level and replatforming by end of 2024. - John Condon, Project Management Office, introduced Bend Works, a new community service request system (web and mobile app). It allows reporting of non-emergency issues (potholes, street flooding, etc.) with a public map of open/in progress/resolved requests. The web version launched October 18; the mobile app will launch in late November. Privacy protections include private request options and guidance on public records. Committee & Commission Updates - Ian Schmidt, Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC), reported that SDC exemptions for affordable housing have enabled nearly 1,000 units in the pipeline and over 500 shelter beds. He urged council to encourage Bend Parks and Recreation to continue and expand its SDC waiver program, which is capped at 75 units per year and may expire after 2024. Council acknowledged the issue and plans to discuss with the parks board. Key Outcomes - Council agreed to adopt definition four (aspirational) and definition one (operational) for equity, with formal adoption to follow. - Sponsorship policy changes will be voted on November 15. - Website improvements and Bend Works soft launch commenced; council encouraged continued public feedback. - The AHAC request regarding parks SDC exemptions will be communicated to the Bend Parks and Recreation board for further discussion.

The Bend City Council and Deschutes County Board of Commissioners held a joint meeting on October 10, 2023, to discuss coordination of houseless strategies, siting of managed camps, updates on the Juniper Ridge/Dirt World remediation, the city camping code, shelter capacity and funding, a county feasibility study for additional campgrounds, the siting process for a new landfill, and legislative priorities. The meeting featured presentations from staff from both the city and county, the CHRO (Coordinated Houseless Response Office), and the county solid waste department. Discussion Items Coordination of Houseless Strategies and Siting of Managed Camps - Shelter Capacity and Funding Update (Amy Fraley, City of Bend): - The 2023 point-in-time count showed a 28% increase in homelessness from 2022 to 2023, with approximately 1,600 unhoused individuals in Deschutes County, 73% unsheltered, and 1,012 within Bend city limits. 44% of those counted have been in the community for 20 years or more; 59% have experienced homelessness for three years or more. - In 2023, the city opened 56 beds at the Stepping Stone renovation (former Bend Value Inn), a 100-bed low-barrier Navigation Center (consistently over capacity), and Central Oregon Villages (20 beds, with 40 more expected soon). Safe parking sites at four churches provide 16 spots. The Rainbow Motel, a joint effort, added 60 beds. - Shelter results: 58,000 nights of shelter provided, 105,000 meals served, and 315 transitions to permanent housing (fiscal year June 2022 to June 2023). - Funding is precarious: The Navigation Center could close as early as March 2024 without state action to release allocated funds from the legislature. Operational funding is being stretched with one-time ARPA dollars and other sources. - CHRO Update (Chris Ogren, Houseless Response Analyst; Janice, Deschutes County Health Services Director): - The Coordinated Houseless Response Office (CHRO) was established per HB 4123, convening Deschutes County, and cities of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, and La Pine. A subcommittee of public land agencies has been meeting bi-weekly for three months to identify properties for managed camps. - A technical subcommittee will tour potential sites in October 2023 and provide recommendations. - The group developed core values and criteria: comprehensive community engagement (including unhoused residents and neighbors), safety and quality of life for all, respect for partnerships, multiple scaled options, and maintaining public trust. - Juniper Ridge/Dirt World Remediation Plan (Eric Kropp, Deputy County Administrator; Christy Bollinger, Property Management): - The county received a code enforcement complaint on its property at Juniper Ridge (zoned EFU). The original 10-week remediation plan was paused due to concerns about displacing people without a place to go. - Basic supports have been installed: three stations with port-a-potties, hand-washing stations, drinking water, and dumpsters. BioSolutions has cleaned up 225,000 pounds of waste (133 cubic yards). Approximately 17 occupied camps remain, with estimated 200–250 people across county and city properties in the area. The number of camps has increased slightly since summer. - The county decided not to sweep the area, but the situation remains a code enforcement case. There is no case management or wraparound services; the sites are not a managed camp. - Councilor Campbell thanked the county for not sweeping, noting that without alternative spaces, displacement is counterproductive. - City Camping Code Update (Eric, City of Bend): - The city’s camping code (time, place, manner restrictions) has been in effect since March 1, 2023. A check-in with council is scheduled for November 15, 2023, to evaluate enforcement and consider adjustments. Early feedback indicates fewer large encampments, though RV camping remains a challenge. - County Feasibility Study for Additional Campgrounds (Jen Patterson, Strategic Initiatives Manager, via video): - The county contracted with Eco Northwest to study the feasibility of recreational campgrounds at three sites: Fort Thompson Road (540 acres, 310 potential campsites, near Bend), Crooked River Ranch (1,190 potential sites, with river access), and Drafter Road in La Pine (63 potential RV sites). The final report is expected by end of October or early November 2023. - Commissioner DeBone noted that the Fort Thompson site could also serve as a short-term transitional housing option (30 out of 60 consecutive days allowed) and could reduce pressure on dispersed camping on federal lands. He also mentioned a separate private project for 330 manufactured homes on adjacent land. Update on Siting Process for a New Deschutes County Landfill and Solid Waste Management Coordination (Tim Brownell, Solid Waste Director) - The county is 18 months into the siting process. From an initial list of 203 sites, two finalist sites remain: the Moon Pit site (near Badlands Wilderness) and the Roth East site (south of Highway 20, near Pine Mountain). A third BLM site is on hold. - Phase two involves on-the-ground exploration, consultation with environmental groups and tribes, and is expected to take six more months. A final recommendation from the Solid Waste Advisory Committee to the Board of Commissioners is anticipated by April or May 2024. - The current landfill is expected to reach capacity by end of 2029 or early 2030. Permitting and development of a new site will take 3–5 years after site selection. - The county is also updating its franchise agreement with haulers to improve service standards, transparency, and compliance with the Recycling Modernization Act (2021). The new agreement will be shared with interested cities. - Councilor Mendez asked about waste reduction policies; Brownell highlighted consumer education and the issue of lithium batteries causing fires at facilities. Legislative Priorities - The city’s top priorities: sustainable shelter operations funding (to keep existing beds open), housing supply (infrastructure and land supply), and e-bike regulations. The water rulemaking process is also a concern. - Commissioner DeBone mentioned drug courts (Measure 110) and groundwater allocation rulemaking as key issues. Commissioner Chang proposed a policy paper on adult drug treatment court (which is at risk of closing) to inform state-level discussions. - Councilor Perkins noted that the adult drug treatment court graduation was held the day before; Judge Crutchley indicated the court is one of the best in the state but faces multiple resource shortfalls. - Councilor Broadman suggested the Local Public Safety Coordinating Commission (LPSCC) could develop a plan to support the court. - Commissioner Chang expressed concern about groundwater decline affecting domestic wells, urging cities to acknowledge the impact. The decline in the Bend area is measured in feet over 20 years, not inches. The state’s draft rule uses a 35-foot decline threshold. - Councilor Perkins raised a concern about ODOT funding cuts affecting snow removal on mountain passes, which could create safety issues. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and collaborative. - The city and county will continue to work on a framework agreement with the governor’s office regarding managed camps; a draft is expected in the coming weeks. - The CHRO will finalize its bylaws and roles by November 2023, with a goal of finalizing the framework agreement by the end of the year. - The city will hold a work session on November 15, 2023, to review the camping code. - The county will bring the final campground feasibility study to the Board of Commissioners by early November 2023. - The landfill siting process will continue, with a finalist site recommendation expected in April/May 2024. - The city and county will coordinate on legislative advocacy, including shelter funding, water rulemaking, drug court support, and ODOT funding for snow removal.

The Bend City Council held a work session at 5:00 p.m. followed by a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on October 4, 2023, at City Hall. The work session included discussions on a youth advisory council, a safe streets for all event debrief, and a follow-up on e-bike safety with Representative Emerson Levy and Commute Options. The regular meeting addressed proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, the Middle-Income Housing Pilot Program, airport projects, the Caraway Master Planned Development, and annexation. The council also approved development assistance agreements for the Bend Urban Renewal Agency. Work Session - Schedule Requests - Councilor Barb Campbell proposed exploring a Youth Advisory Council, noting that 23 other Oregon cities have similar councils. Two high school seniors had initiated the idea, and Campfire USA offered to organize a teen event. The council directed the stewardship subcommittee to begin discussions rather than scheduling a full work session. - Councilor Ariel Méndez requested a debrief of the July "Safe Streets for All" workshop, which focused on transportation safety, particularly biking. The council referred this to the community building subcommittee for initial discussion. E-Bike Roundtable Follow-Up (45 minutes) - Representative Emerson Levy (HD 53) outlined three goals: clarifying state laws (unupdated since 1997), educating students, and improving infrastructure. She plans to introduce a priority bill in the 2024 short session that would align Oregon's e-bike definitions with federal law, prohibit kids 16 and under from using throttle e-bikes, and create an enforcement mechanism. She noted that e-bikes can be easily modified to reach speeds up to 74 mph, and current fines for helmet violations are only $25. - Chief Kranz of Bend Police reported a "massive explosion" of e-bikes since May 2023, with increased collisions. Enforcement is limited because officers prioritize higher-speed vehicle incidents. He noted that some young riders have fled from stops, escalating to felony eludes. - Brian Potwin, Executive Director of Commute Options, discussed education efforts: an e-bike law webinar in September, posters with QR codes linking to an online safety course in bike shops, and a new Safe Routes to School contract with the city. The online course license expires February 22, 2024, and funding is needed to move it to a learning management system. He also noted that the League of American Bicyclists' curriculum does not match Oregon law. - Councilor Perkins requested the city serve as a central resource hub for e-bike safety information on its website, which the council supported. David Abbas, Transportation Director, highlighted infrastructure improvements for all users, including roundabouts, buffered bike lanes, and shared-use paths, noting that the transportation fee under discussion would support these efforts. - Councilor Campbell noted that the Oregon MPO Consortium (representing 80% of the state's population) could support statewide legislation. Representative Levy committed to providing a memo of proposed changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Annie Goldner (Bend resident, 22 years) urged the council to prioritize street safety with TUF funds, sharing her son's death in a traffic accident in Brooklyn. She displayed a photo of his ghost bike. - Sarah Moss (Southeast Bend Neighborhood Association) spoke about the Woodside Court development, requesting that the city help existing residents connect to a planned sewer extension by communicating early, accelerating the septic-to-sewer application, and reducing connection fees (approximately $10,000 per home). - Christy Kimball (Orchard District, mother of two teenagers) spoke on behalf of Energize Bend, urging the council to accelerate home and building electrification to meet climate goals. She noted that 51% of Bend's emissions come from buildings and that RMI research shows 91% of Oregonians could switch to heat pumps with current grid capacity. - Joshua Mooney (Bend resident) echoed the call for electrification, asking the city to electrify all city buildings, work toward electrifying half of existing housing, and require electrification in new construction. Consent Calendar - The council approved items A, B, C, E, and F unanimously. Item D was pulled for separate discussion. - Item D: Authorized purchase of two UW56 Toolcat utility work machines from Bobcat of Central Oregon for up to $198,755.16. Funding came from streets funds and the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO). Council thanked the MPO. Lead time is approximately 6–8 months. Discussion Items 6. Middle-Income Housing Pilot Program Fund Recommendations - Housing Director Lynn McConnell and Middle-Income Housing Coordinator Carrie Bell presented the first-ever awards from the $500,000 pilot program, sourced from the general fund. The fund aims to incentivize housing for households earning 60%–120% of Area Median Income (AMI). The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee (AHAC) recommended three of four applications. - Award Recommendations (as modified by council): - Hiatus/Habitat partnership on Wilson Avenue: $75,000 for design and down payment assistance for one homeownership unit at 80%–120% AMI, deed-restricted for 30 years. - Neighbor Impact Down Payment Assistance: $200,000 for up to five down payment loans (up to $40,000 each) for first-time homebuyers at 80%–120% AMI. Loans recycle to serve additional buyers. - Hiatus at 445 North Penn Avenue: $225,000 contingent on the developer recording a deed restriction within 4 months to restrict rents of at least 18 units to households at up to 120% AMI for 10 years. If the condition is not met, council may reallocate the funds to other applications. This project originally was not recommended by AHAC due to uncertainty about deed restriction via the Multiple-Unit Property Tax Exemption (MUPTE). Council opted to include it with conditions. - Woodside Court (Hayden Homes): Not funded. The project requested $225,000 for sewer infrastructure to enable 20 deed-restricted lots at 80% AMI, but council cited uncertainty about the septic-to-sewer timeline and lack of a committed affordable housing partner. - Leverage: The approved projects leverage $342,200 (Hiatus/Habitat), $5 million (Neighbor Impact), and $20 million (Hiatus Penn) in additional resources. - Councilor Perkins noted discomfort with overriding AHAC's recommendation without more input, but supported the change due to the leverage and innovation of the Hiatus Penn project. 7 & 8. Bend Municipal Airport Air Traffic Control Tower Design and Grants - Senior Project Manager Matthew Jarislowski presented: Bend Airport is the busiest of the top 5 Oregon airports without a control tower, with 141,000 annual operations (380 per day). The tower will be 115 feet tall. The design contract with Morrison-Maierle is for up to $1,394,652.54, with a $205,347.46 amendment authority for the city manager. - Two FAA grants accepted: $190,431 for infrastructure (Airport Infrastructure Grant) and $1.6 million for the Federal Contract Tower Grant (no local match). Total project cost is estimated at $15 million, with anticipated funding sources including $9 million in congressionally directed spending and $4.8 million from Connect Oregon. The biennial budget currently includes only the $1.6 million for design. - Both items approved unanimously. 9. Caraway Master Planned Development (Second Reading) - Councilor Broadman moved to amend the ordinance to reduce minimum lot sizes for triplexes and quadplexes in the RS zone to match the underlying zoning, as discussed in the previous meeting. The applicant agreed. The amendment passed, making this a first reading. A second reading will occur at the next meeting. Roll call vote: 6-0 (Councilor Perkins absent for roll call? Actually all present - vote was unanimous yes). 10. Caraway Annexation (Second Reading) - Councilor Broadman moved to table this item to the next meeting to align with the Caraway Master Plan's second reading. Approved unanimously. 11. BendTel, Inc. Non-Exclusive Franchise (Second Reading) - Roll call vote to approve the ordinance granting a non-exclusive franchise to BendTel, Inc. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Middle-Income Housing Pilot Program: Council approved three awards totaling $500,000, with a contingency on the Hiatus Penn project for deed restriction. - Airport Tower: Design contract and two FAA grants approved, moving the project toward construction by 2025. - Caraway Master Plan: First reading approved with an amendment; second reading scheduled for the next meeting. - Caraway Annexation: Tabled to coincide with the master plan's second reading. - BendTel Franchise: Approved. - Bend Urban Renewal Agency: Approved two development assistance agreements: Empire Construction and Development, LLC ($48,490) and TOMCO Electric, Inc. ($48,490) for infrastructure improvements at Juniper Ridge. Council Reports & City Manager Updates - Subcommittee updates: Stewardship discussed Envision Bend, the Coordinated Houseless Response Office, and ARPA funds. Community Building discussed Climate Friendly Areas (CFA) designation and three bond-funded projects (Butler Market, Uney, Portland Avenue) with cost overruns. - Councilor Riley reported on the Neighborhood Street Safety Program kickoff and a TUF community event. - Councilor Norris attended the Oasis Village groundbreaking. - Councilor Campbell reported on the Southern Crossing Neighborhood Association meeting, including concerns about Chamberlain Street's connection to Reed Market. - Mayor Keebler reported on the Strong Cities Conference, a Habitat for Humanity event with Senator Merkley, and the new bike wayfinding signs. - City Manager Eric King presented the final bikeway wayfinding design (to be installed spring 2024), noted completion of the Ferguson project, and announced upcoming events: Central Oregon Villages open house (Oct 14) and Cleveland Commons groundbreaking (Oct 16). He also introduced Renee Mitchell as the new Communications Director.

The Bend City Council held a work session at 5:00 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on September 20, 2023. The agenda included a legislative update with state representatives, a check-in on the Tree Regulation Update Advisory Committee (TRUAC), an executive session on real property negotiations, and a full regular meeting with public hearings, consent agenda items, and multiple votes on development, housing, and city services. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 9, 2023 (Transportation Fee Roundtable 1), September 6, 2023 (work session), and September 6, 2023 (regular session). - Accepted the OLCC (Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission) report. - Authorized the purchase of twenty-three police vehicles from Kendall Dealership Holdings for an estimated $1,133,000. Public Comments & Testimony - Carl Schumacher told a story about a mugging downtown, implicitly questioning who is a better human being (no clear position on agenda items). - Alice Staley urged the city to create temporary large camps (100+ people) for the unsheltered on the Stevens Road tract, citing the severity of the homelessness crisis. - Nicole Moore Perulo (via Zoom) expressed concern about environmental damage from houseless camps on public lands (Phil's Trail, China Hat, etc.) and advocated for temporary use of the Stevens Road tract for camping. - Doreen Type (via Zoom) opposed FAA funding for the Bend Municipal Airport, citing lack of community engagement and noise/pollution impacts. - Freddie Finney (via Zoom), a youth organizer, called on the council to take action to electrify the city within 60 days to meet climate goals, referencing the global climate strike and a letter signed by 20+ local businesses. - Marcus Hirschfield (via Zoom) advocated for expanding the climate advisory board to include more marginalized voices. - Leslie Cano (in person) reported receiving a threatening note from a supposed "Bend licensing committee" targeting apartment residents; Chief Cranks confirmed the note is fraudulent and not affiliated with the city. - Jenny Lingard (in person) supported temporarily using the Stevens Road tract for large homeless camps to provide centralized services. - Karen Johnson (in person) urged the council to ask the tree committee (TRUAC) to modify the Bend Code to allow more room for trees while achieving density. - Dan Pebbles (in person) requested city services for his property (One World Center) to enable a large childcare facility, citing the childcare desert. Discussion Items Legislative Update (Work Session) - Eric King (City Manager) summarized the city's legislative priorities: transportation infrastructure funding (e.g., $5 million for Hawthorn overcrossing), House Bill 2980 (revolving loan fund for middle-income housing), shelter funding, and the middle-income tax exemption (HB 2705). - Senator Daniel Canut (via Zoom) outlined his 2024 session priorities: housing and homelessness, infrastructure revolving funds, modifying Measure 110 (addiction services), and updating e-bike statutes. - Representative Jason Krupp (in person) praised Bend staff for their work on housing bills and emphasized the need for operational shelter funding, infrastructure support, and addressing addiction/behavioral health. He also noted ongoing work on childcare and workforce development. - Representutive Emerson Levy (letter read aloud) focused on community safety (school panic alarms), e-bike safety regulations, and continuing work on housing supply and wildfire insurance. Tree Regulation Update Advisory Committee (TRUAC) Check-in (Work Session) - Pauline (staff) presented TRUAC's progress, including defining significant trees (20 inches or greater DBH for preservation), mapping all trees at 6 inches DBH, and discussing alternatives (on-site replacement or in-lieu fees). - Committee members Jeff Harris (Solar Homes, chair) and Christy (Central Oregon Land Watch, vice chair) requested council direction on whether to allow preservation of trees smaller than 20 inches (6-20 inches) for flexibility. - Councilors supported the flexibility concept, emphasizing the need to balance housing production with tree preservation. Councilor Riley advocated for a "floor" (minimum preservation) while ensuring clear and objective standards. Caraway Master Planned Development (Items 6 & 7) - Staff (Karen, Russ) and applicant team (Joey Shear, planner; Corey Bittner, Polish Homes) presented the 150-acre master plan and annexation of 153.56 acres in the North Triangle UGB expansion area. The plan includes 593 units (minimum 401), 77 deed-restricted affordable units (planned 92), a 5.3-acre park, 3 miles of trails, and realignment of Hunnel Road. - Planning Commission (via Margo Clinton) recommended approval with an amendment to allow all uses permitted in the underlying zones (RS, RM) rather than a restricted list, to retain future flexibility. - Council discussion: Councilor Méndez questioned the restricted use table and the location of affordable housing near busy roads; applicant argued it provides clarity for developers. Councilor Kebler (Mayor) noted that restricted uses persisted from previous master plans but preferred the planning commission's recommendation for flexibility. Councilor Riley raised concerns about safe school routes for children. - Vote: Approved the first reading of the ordinance for the master plan (as amended by planning commission) and the first reading of the annexation ordinance, both unanimously. BendTel Franchise (Item 8) - Robin Jones staff presented a non-exclusive franchise agreement for BendTel, a local telecom provider. Initial term 5 years, renewable for 5 more, with a 7% franchise fee. Approved unanimously. Utility Assistance Programs (Item 9) - Dana Wilson (business manager) presented a resolution to discontinue the Senior Citizens and Disabled Persons Discount and the $150 One-time Credit, replacing them with a Low-Income Assistance Program (50% discount on base fees for water, sewer, stormwater for households at or below 60% AMI) and a Crisis Voucher Program (administered by Neighbor Impact). Approved unanimously. Childcare Grant (Item 10) - Catherine Brown (COCC Small Business Development Center) detailed a grant agreement to use $100,000 for childcare expansion: $28,000 for permitting fees for new startups, $50,000 for sustainability grants to existing centers, $2,000 for low-income home-based providers, and $15,000 for program management. Approved unanimously. Lighthouse Navigation Center Alterations (Item 11) - Garrett Kay (facilities) presented a $2.64 million construction contract for renovations to the Lighthouse Navigation Center (shelter). Scope includes new roof, HVAC, showers, laundry, commercial kitchen shell, restrooms, and safety upgrades. Funding from state, federal, and local sources. Approved unanimously. Public Works Campus (Items 12 & 13) - Joe Wells (facilities architect) presented GMP 2 amendment ($27.98 million) for the Public Works Campus (headquarters, warm vehicle storage, site work, utilities) and an amendment to the Otak construction management contract ($1.94 million). Total project estimated at $130 million. Approved unanimously. Stevens Road Tract UGB (Item 14) - Second reading of an ordinance to include the Stevens Road Tract within the Bend Urban Growth Boundary. Approved unanimously on roll call vote. Building Code Amendment (Item 15) - Second reading of an ordinance amending BMC Chapter 9.10 to add protection of pedestrians. Approved unanimously on roll call vote. Key Outcomes - Legislative Update: Council heard from state legislators and city staff on 2024 session priorities; shelter funding, infrastructure, and housing remain key focuses. - TRUAC: Council directed the committee to continue exploring preservation of trees smaller than 20 inches for flexibility, with a focus on balanced options and clear and objective standards. - Caraway Master Plan & Annexation: First readings approved, adopting the planning commission's recommended unrestricted use table. - BendTel Franchise: New franchise agreement approved. - Utility Assistance: New low-income and crisis voucher programs adopted; old programs discontinued. - Childcare Grant: $100,000 grant to COCC authorized. - Lighthouse Navigation Center: $2.64 million construction contract authorized. - Public Works Campus: GMP 2 ($27.98 million) and Otak amendment ($1.94 million) authorized. - Stevens Road Tract UGB: Ordinance adopted on second reading. - Pedestrian Protection: Building code amendment adopted. - Greeley Avenue Purchase: Council approved purchase of 133 NE Greeley Ave for $880,000, with a lease-back to the current occupant for up to two years at $42,000/year. - Council Compensation Committee: Appointed members as recommended.

The Bend City Council met on September 6, 2023, in a hybrid work session (5:00 p.m.) and regular meeting (7:00 p.m.) at City Hall. The work session focused on public safety system updates, camping code enforcement, hate speech and discrimination response, and the system development charge (SDC) methodology update. The regular meeting included proclamations, public comments, consent agenda approval, legislative hearings on the Stevens Road Tract urban growth boundary (UGB) and building code amendments, and contracts for the Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) clarifier rehabilitation. Council also received committee and city manager reports. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 16, 2023 work session and regular session. - Accepted the OLCC report for information. - Approved the July 2023 monthly financial report. - Authorized an additional $237,027.20 for the city-wide parking management system agreement with Passport Labs, Inc., bringing the total not-to-exceed amount to $803,490.75. - Accepted a $100,000 grant from the Oregon Department of Energy Community Renewable Energy Grant Program. - Authorized an intergovernmental agreement with the Oregon Health Authority for Ground Emergency Medical Transport (GEMT) reimbursement, with a city contribution not to exceed $300,000. - Approved three enterprise zone property tax exemption agreements with CiES Inc., R&J Olsen Inc. (dba ASI), and Seràn Biotech LLC for new capital investments. - Authorized a $75,000 amendment to the services agreement with JECS Inc. dba Central Oregon Bio Solutions for abandoned encampment cleanup at Juniper Ridge, for a total not to exceed $388,930.50. Public Comments & Testimony - Kristen Fowler (Bend resident) requested council intervention to reduce bass noise from the Hayden Homes Amphitheater, which she experiences 3-4 miles away, disturbing her peace and quality of life. - Nancy Hawkes, John Hawkes, Suzanne Canning, and Fred Betts (residents of Northwest Crossing) described constant noise (60-65 decibels) from a TDS/BendBroadband utility box on city land near their homes. They asked the city to require relocation of the box, stating the noise is a nuisance and prevents them from using their front porch. Council acknowledged the issue but noted limited city authority, expecting TDS to respond. - Justin Gottlieb (12-year Bend resident) proposed a friendly challenge to nonprofits and charities participating in the bottle drop blue bag program: his team of homeless individuals vs. organizations to collect the most cans in October, to demonstrate real-world value for those without resources. - General public comment also raised concerns about noise pollution and airport lead emissions. Discussion Items - Council Schedule Requests: Councilors Broadman and Perkins requested work sessions on the public safety system (with presiding judge, district attorney, and police chief) and camping code enforcement updates. These were scheduled for October 2023. Council expressed support. - Addressing Hate Speech and Discrimination: Equity and Inclusion Director Andrés Portela and Accessibility and Equity Manager Cassandra Kehoe presented on community experiences of bias incidents and crimes. They recommended: 1) building a regional coalition for shared response, 2) creating a formal council response process with legal and equity teams, 3) continuing the Human Rights and Equity Commission (HREC) resource guide for community members, and 4) updating the sponsorship program to include a safety plan for hate and extremism. Council unanimously supported the recommendations and noted the importance of proactive and timely responses. Councilor Méndez suggested also addressing large-scale hate events. - SDC Methodology Update: Chief Operations Officer Russell Grayson, Senior Policy Analyst Sarah Hudson, and consultant Deb Galardi presented proposed changes to water, sewer, and transportation SDCs. Key proposals included: tiered rates for single-unit dwellings (by square footage), a single per-unit rate for middle housing (duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes), continued exemptions for affordable housing and temporary shelters, expanded exemption for childcare to all systems, expanded SDC deferral program to all development types, and a location-based transportation rate for the core area (data-supported 25-30% reduction). Council gave direction on several questions: - Middle housing: Explore square-footage tiers for middle housing (especially cottages) but maintain a single rate for duplexes/triplexes/quadplexes unless data supports otherwise; staff to return with analysis. - ADUs: Keep current policy (25% of transportation SDC) to maintain incentive. - Micro-units and single-room occupancy: Charge at a rate less than apartments, based on lower impact; staff to determine appropriate percentage. - Exemptions: Continue 100% exemption for affordable housing and temporary shelters; expand child care exemption to all SDC systems. - Deferrals: Expand to all residential and commercial/industrial development, with phased implementation beginning with multi-family and middle housing, then single-family, then commercial/industrial. Fees set at time of permit issuance. - Location-based rates: Apply to core area first; staff to explore if other areas (e.g., climate-friendly areas) can be included using floor area ratio or other metrics. - Council requested staff to return with a full work session in December before adoption in January 2024. - Stevens Road Tract UGB Amendment (First Reading): Senior Planner Damian Stennick presented the proposed amendments to include 261.66 acres (owned by Oregon Department of State Lands) in the Bend UGB, following House Bill 3318. The concept plan includes 147 acres for housing (up to 2,500 units, 700 deed-restricted affordable), a 28-acre community park, commercial land, and a future school site. The first reading advanced unanimously. Second reading and adoption scheduled for September 20, 2023. - Building Codes Amendment (First Reading): Staff presented a housekeeping item to add state-removed pedestrian protection requirements (covered walkways) into Bend Municipal Code. Unanimously approved first reading. - WRF Primary Clarifier Rehabilitation Contract and Loan: Engineering Associate Dade Pettinger and Financial Accountant Joe DeVall requested authorization for a $2,436,720 construction contract with 2KG Contractors, Inc. (lowest of three bids, within engineer's estimate) and a Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan from Oregon DEQ for up to $4,000,000 at 1.97% interest. The project includes replacing sludge collector mechanisms in two clarifiers (from 1981) and concrete repairs, with completion by April 1, 2025. The project budget is $4 million; actual loan amount will be limited to project costs. Council approved both items unanimously. Key Outcomes - Work Session Items: Council directed staff to schedule public safety and camping code enforcement updates in October 2023. - Hate Speech and Discrimination: Council endorsed all four recommendations from staff/HREC and directed staff to begin implementation, including forming a regional coalition and updating the sponsorship program. - SDC Methodology: Council provided direction on tiering, exemptions, deferrals, and location-based rates. Staff will prepare detailed proposals for a December work session, with adoption targeted for January 2024. - Stevens Road Tract UGB: First reading approved unanimously; second reading set for September 20, 2023. - Building Code Amendment: First reading approved unanimously; second reading to follow. - WRF Clarifier Project: Construction contract (not to exceed $2,436,720) and DEQ loan resolution (up to $4,000,000) approved unanimously. - City Manager's Report: Council supported removing fees for dumpster placement under the fire-free program, accepted the manager's plan to sign a $1.6 million federal grant for the air traffic control tower (formal acceptance in October), and noted the release of the integrated stormwater management plan for public comment.