Public Meetings - Bend, Oregon

The Bend City Council met in a hybrid format on October 2, 2024, beginning with a work session at 5:30 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at City Hall. The meeting included updates on the municipal court, equity programs, and a public hearing on amendments to the camping code, among other items. Key decisions included a first reading of an ordinance amending the camping code, authorization for a best-value procurement method for the Olney Pedestrian and Bike Improvement Project, adoption of a resolution declaring intent for fossil fuel-free city buildings, and approval of a five-year contract with Axon Enterprise for police technology. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from September 18, 2024, City Council meeting. - Accepted the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) report. - Accepted the monthly financial report for August 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Hoon Tran (reading a letter from Embrace Bend) urged council to approach community events with active listening and avoid using platforms for self-promotion. - Teresa DeShaw, a Bend resident who bikes, thanked the council for bike infrastructure improvements but requested a fully funded bus system running every 15 minutes to support car-free lifestyles. - Kai Collingwood, a local student, expressed concern about school lessons that he felt were inappropriate, saying they guilt-trip students and push a certain viewpoint. - Jonathan Curtis criticized the city's focus on bike lanes, arguing it discriminates against drivers and downtown businesses. He noted 22,000–27,000 vehicles per day on Greenwood Avenue vs. 200 bikes and claimed a proposed bike lane on Minnesota Avenue would harm businesses. - Brennan Breen (Energize Bend Coalition) commended the city for the fossil fuel-free resolution and urged council to approve it, citing the worst fire season on record and the need for bold climate leadership. - Christy Kimball (Energize Bend Coalition) expressed strong support for the fossil fuel-free resolution, highlighting reduced emissions, cost savings, and improved air quality. - Justin Gottlieb (public comment on camping code) shared his personal story of using a car to escape homelessness, arguing that the proposed 24-hour limit would be harmful and that vehicles are often the best option for those with damaged credit. - Foster Fell (public comment on camping code) thanked the Human Rights and Equity Commission for their recommendations and urged the council to preserve dignity for unhoused people, suggesting expanded ADA accommodations for economic need. - Chuck Hibbingway (Homeward Network) argued that aligning the vehicle and tent camping codes to 24 hours is harmful and proposed instead aligning the tent code to 72 hours, as recommended by the Human Rights and Equity Commission. Discussion Items Work Session (5:30 p.m.) 1. Schedule Requests – A-Frame Signs - Councilor Perkins requested a future work session to expand the use of sandwich boards (A-frame signs) to all business districts, citing benefits for businesses with dark windows or limited visibility. Councilor Campbell supported the idea but noted enforcement issues downtown. City Manager Eric King suggested a code change rather than a temporary suspension of enforcement. The request was generally supported and will be scheduled for spring 2025. 2. Annual Municipal Court Update from Judge Angela Ruocco - Judge Ruocco reported on the court's progress over the past year, emphasizing accountability, public safety, access to justice, transparency, innovation, and integrity. Key statistics: nearly 5,000 violations, 90 trials, a 50% conviction rate. She highlighted the revamped Bend-specific traffic safety school, which includes scenarios like snowy roads and roundabouts. The language docket has grown from 2–3 cases per month to 30+ per month, improving compliance. She also introduced a virtual docket for remote appearances. Council members expressed appreciation for her work. 3. Equity Program Update - Equity and Inclusion Director Andres Portela, along with staff, presented on the department's work, including the equity framework, language access policy, and the City of Bend Accessibility Advisory Committee (COBAC). Key points: The language access policy was approved in April 2024; a needs assessment confirmed linguistic diversity (75% of limited-English-proficiency residents speak Spanish). The ADA self-evaluation and transition plan are upcoming. The department also manages the Human Rights and Equity Commission (HREC) and a hate speech/discrimination coalition. Council members praised the team's progress and expressed interest in future budget and resource discussions. Regular Meeting (7:00 p.m.) 1. Good of the Order - Recognized the winner of the One Water Student Video Competition: Sage Goldstein and her sister Skye. Their 30-second video on water conservation will air on TV and at the Bend Film Festival. - Proclaimed October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Donna Britt from Saving Grace spoke about the organization's services and called for community support. 2. Public Hearing and First Reading – Camping Code Amendment (Ordinance amending BMC Chapter 4.20) - Staff presented proposed changes to align vehicle and tent camping rules, including a 24-hour limit (previously 72 hours for vehicles), a 1,500-foot movement requirement for vehicles, a definition of vehicle camping, and a ban on camping on block faces with residential dwellings. Public comment included opposition from advocates who argued the changes are too restrictive and urged alignment at 72 hours instead. Council deliberation included amendments: adding a sentence on the 2024 point-in-time count (unsheltered homelessness decreased from 73% to 55%), expanding the residential dwelling restriction to both sides of the street, and directing staff to return with a one-year review. Councilor Campbell moved to defer to May 2025 and to add extension cords to the definition, but both motions lacked a second. The main motion passed 6–1, with Councilor Campbell opposed. 3. Public Hearing – Olney Pedestrian and Bike Improvement Project Procurement - Staff requested authorization to use the best-value (RFP) procurement method for the Olney Avenue project, which includes bike lanes, pedestrian improvements, and water/sewer work. The project is expected to begin construction in early 2025. No public comment was offered. The motion passed unanimously. 4. Resolution – Fossil Fuel-Free City Buildings - Staff presented a resolution directing the city to exclude fossil fuels in new or substantially altered city buildings, with exemptions for cost, technology, and emergency backup. The resolution also requires 1.5% green energy technology spending and retrofit evaluations for existing buildings. Council members expressed support, noting the city's new public utility campus already meets the standards. The resolution passed unanimously. 5. Contract – Axon Officer Safety Plan - Police Chief Mike Krance requested authorization for a five-year, $2,555,786.51 contract with Axon Enterprise for Taser hardware, virtual reality, digital video recorder playback, and investigation software. The bundled plan will consolidate multiple existing contracts and save $12,000 per year. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Camping Code Amendment: Passed first reading (6–1, Councilor Campbell opposed). The amended ordinance includes: 24-hour limit for both tents and vehicles, 1,500-foot movement requirement for vehicles, a definition of vehicle camping, no camping on block faces with residential dwellings (applied to both sides of the street), and a one-year review. A finding was added noting that 55% of homeless individuals in Bend are unsheltered, a decrease from 2023. - Olney Project Procurement: Authorized best-value RFP method (unanimous). - Fossil Fuel-Free Resolution: Adopted (unanimous). - Axon Contract: Approved five-year contract (unanimous). - Future Work: Council will hold a work session on A-frame sign policy in spring 2025. The Environment and Climate Committee will continue electrification policy discussions, with a recommendation expected by late 2024. The Human Rights and Equity Commission will be asked to help promote safe parking programs.

The City Council convened for a work session at 5:00 PM, followed by a brief meeting of the Bend Urban Renewal Agency (BURA), an executive session, and the regular meeting at 7:00 PM. Key topics included conceptual designs for Brooks Street improvements, the Growth Plan communication and governance strategy, adoption of the BURA tax increment assistance policy, surplus property declarations, and several major infrastructure contract amendments. All regular meeting votes were unanimous unless noted. Proclamations & Good of the Order - Welcoming Week Proclamation: Councilor Mendez read a proclamation designating September 13–28, 2024, as Welcoming Week, emphasizing inclusion of immigrant and refugee communities. Representatives from Restorative Justice & Equity, OSU-Cascades, and the Latino Community Association accepted and spoke in support. - Week Without Driving Proclamation: Mayor Pro Tem Perkins proclaimed September 30–October 8, 2024, as Week Without Driving, encouraging awareness of transportation barriers faced by non-drivers. Brian Potwin of Commute Options accepted. - Public Purchase of Mount Bachelor Update: Dan Cochrane, co-chair of the community initiative, reported that they have filed as a B Corp, formed committees, and launched a website and GoFundMe. He requested a letter of support from the council to assist with lender negotiations. Council expressed support for drafting such a letter. Public Comments & Testimony - Joanne Mina (Bend resident) read a poem in Spanish about inequity and shared her support for Welcoming Week. - Jim Elliot (Bend resident, volunteer with Council on Aging) spoke in support of the Week Without Driving, highlighting the challenges of involuntary non-drivers, especially seniors. - Jonathan Curtis (Bend resident) expressed frustration over lack of response to his previous data requests regarding bike lane usage, alleged discrimination due to his autism, and opposed the Hawthorne Bridge bike project, claiming it will harm local businesses. - Doug Dryden (Bend resident, medical provider, daily bike commuter) supported the Week Without Driving and urged earlier citizen engagement in bicycle infrastructure planning, specifically regarding safety on Franklin Street. - Linda Cook (Bend resident) thanked council for the county-city plan for the Juniper Ridge area ("dirt world") and urged timely implementation to avoid another summer of fires, gunshots, and stray dogs. - David Green (Bend resident, River West) urged participation in Week Without Driving and stressed the need to reduce vehicle miles traveled to address climate change. - Alicia Reynolds (manager of Cedar West) thanked council for efforts on Wattway but noted continued vehicle camping and asked for code enforcement. - Tamara Houston (Bend resident, via phone) spoke on the surplus property items: urged deed restrictions to protect roundabout infrastructure and raised concerns about environmental contaminants near the SE 9th Street parcel. Brooks Street Improvements – Conceptual Design Update Staff (John Conan, Ben Hempson, Jason Brew of Walker Macy) presented three options for the Mirror Pond Plaza and north parking lot area, funded by restricted tourism funds. Options included a plaza expansion, parking lot redevelopment, and a "flex plaza" that could serve as both parking and event space. Staff recommended focusing on the north parking lot redevelopment (including restrooms, trash compactor, and a shared-use path connecting Drake Park to Juniper Park) and allocating $500,000 toward the Drake Park Pedestrian Bridge design. Council members expressed support for the recommendation, emphasizing the need for restrooms, improved bike parking, and accessibility on the bridge. No formal vote was taken; direction was given to staff to proceed with the recommended concept and return with refined costs and designs. Growth Plan Strategy – Communications and Governance Brian Rankin and Elise Hulscher presented options for allocating resources between community engagement and project guidance. Two resource splits were shown: 75% engagement / 25% guidance, and a variant that included a civic assembly (Healthy Democracy model) costing $200,000–$300,000. Council discussed the value of civic assemblies for key decision points, the use of existing committees (committee of committees), and the need for broad equitable engagement. Councilor Campbell supported a civic assembly, citing its potential to bring diverse voices; others noted resource trade-offs. Staff was directed to explore the civic assembly model further in the request for proposals, and to continue refining the engagement plan. No formal vote. Bend Urban Renewal Agency (BURA) – Tax Increment Assistance Policy Jonathan Taylor presented a resolution establishing a tax increment reimbursement program to support affordable housing (at least 15% of units at 90% AMI) and living-wage employment. A key question was whether to retain or remove two additional criteria: energy efficiency standards and supplier diversity. Staff recommended removal to keep the policy focused, but several councilors argued for keeping them as optional "additional criteria" that applicants could choose to meet for extended benefits. After debate, the agency voted unanimously to amend the purpose statement to "while also encouraging other identified council goals" and to retain both criteria as additional options. Motion to adopt the resolution as amended passed unanimously. Consent Agenda - Approved minutes of September 4 and September 5 meetings. - OLCC report. - Amendment to agreement with Passport Labs for parking management system ($251,150.76, total not to exceed $1,054,641.51). Motion to approve the consent agenda passed unanimously. Surplus Property Declarations (Items 6 & 7) - SE 3rd Street & Wilson Avenue (0.75 acres, commercial): Declared surplus for sale by city’s broker with a minimum list price range of $1,000,000–$1,600,000. Proceeds to be returned to the transportation go bond. Motion passed unanimously. - SE 9th Street (3.4 acres, residential potential): Declared surplus with a minimum list price range of $1,200,000–$1,800,000. Proceeds from this sale to be allocated for housing purposes. Motion passed 6-1 (Councilor Mendez opposed, citing a desire for higher density and open space near the Coiner Trail). Property Exchange with Taylor Development LLC (Item 8) Staff (Matt Stuart) presented a negotiated agreement: the city will sell Lot 5 ($4.5M) and Lot 8 ($3.5M) at Juniper Ridge to TB Bend LLC (Taylor Brooks joint venture) and simultaneously purchase three properties (184 NE Franklin Ave, 615 NE 2nd St, and 637 NE 2nd St) from Taylor Development LLC for $3.5 million (current site of Paulson Flooring, with existing building and lease). The transaction supports the city’s future city hall needs and industrial land development. Motion to authorize the City Manager to execute the agreements passed unanimously. Infrastructure Contract Amendments (Items 9 & 10) - Awbrey Butte Distribution Improvements – Phase 3 (GMP 3): Amendment with K&E Excavating for $2,734,100, bringing total contract to $37,693,603.15. Approved unanimously. - Southeast Area Pump Station (GMP 4): Amendment with Slayden Constructors for $13,324,613, bringing total contract to $24,683,235. Councilor Broadman recused himself due to a potential conflict. Approved unanimously by remaining members. Intergovernmental Agreement – Wildfire Risk Reduction Grant (Item 11) Authorized the City Manager to sign an IGA with Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District 2 for administration of a $? grant from the Oregon State Fire Marshal for fuels mitigation in the Deschutes River Woods area. The city will administer the grant and receive 10% administrative fees. Approved unanimously. Sewer Code Amendment – Second Reading (Item 12) Ordinance amending Bend Municipal Code Section 15.10.020 (building sewer connections and responsibilities) was adopted by roll call vote. All councilors voted yes. Council Action & Reports - Stewardship Subcommittee: Reported on deflection program implementation and direction of remaining $480,000 in ARPA funds toward the temporary safe stay area plan in partnership with Deschutes County. - Appointments: Approved removal of Manoj Alapuria from the Human Rights & Equity Commission due to poor attendance and appointed Vanessa Cummington, Linda Heimer, Scott Jones, Eli Lowenstern, and Ruth Renatico to the Commission. Both motions passed unanimously. - Letters of Support: Mayor signed letters for the Oregon Community Paths grant application and the Railroad Crossing Elimination grant. City Manager’s Report - Presented results of council poll for League of Oregon Cities legislative priorities; top priority listed as a 2025 transportation package. Councilors discussed need for more specific safety focus. - Paving projects nearing completion with striping scheduled for October. - Upcoming events: Fire Prevention Week open house (Sept 28), Bend Central District fall event (Sept 24), CIP tour for council (Sept 23), watershed hike (Oct 3). - Recognition: Affordable Housing Manager Rachel Baker received a HUD Region 10 50th Anniversary Award for innovative CDBG program use. Assistant City Manager Sharon was honored for 20 years of service; she is departing to become assistant city manager in Winston-Salem, NC. Key Outcomes & Votes - BURA Policy: Adopted as amended (unanimous). - Surplus Property (SE 3rd/Wilson): Declared surplus (unanimous). - Surplus Property (SE 9th): Declared surplus (6-1, Mendez opposed). - Juniper Ridge Exchange: Authorized (unanimous). - Awbrey Butte GMP 3: Approved (unanimous). - SE Pump Station GMP 4: Approved (unanimous with Broadman recused). - Wildfire Grant IGA: Approved (unanimous). - Sewer Code Amendment: Adopted (unanimous roll call). - HREC Appointment Changes: Approved (unanimous).

The Bend City Council met on September 4, 2024, for a work session at 5:00 PM and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM. The work session focused on development code updates, including potential prohibitions on auto-dependent uses in convenience commercial zones and restrictions on short-term rentals in neighborhood commercial zones. The regular meeting included a public hearing on airport fee amendments, approval of a $5 million PRO Housing grant, initiation of a right-of-way vacation, and adoption of water/sewer connection standards for middle housing land divisions. Public comments addressed homelessness, transient fires, e-bike safety, and parking. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 21, 2024. - Accepted the OLCC Report. - Approved the Monthly Financial Report for July. - Authorized an agreement with North Industrial, LLC dba Coatings Unlimited for the Outback 2 and Rock Bluff Reservoir Rehabilitation Project in the amount of $1,786,500. - Authorized agreements with Polydyne, Inc. and Solenis, LLC for dewatering polymer purchase, cumulative amount not to exceed $400,000. - Authorized an agreement with Temp-Rite Mechanical, LLC for the Water Reclamation Facility Headworks Odorous Air Ductwork Replacement Project in an amount not to exceed $360,479. Public Comments & Testimony - Juan Barrasa (secretary director of Latino Funders) invited the council to join the Pitch Latino event on October 1, featuring entrepreneurs competing for $10,000. - Jessica Gamble (service provider) opposed the proposed 24-hour camping rule, asking that people not be required to move every 24 hours to allow time for service delivery. - Jonathan Curtis criticized spending on a pedestrian bridge, bike lanes, and electric vehicles, arguing funds should be used for homelessness management and that e-bikes are dangerous. - Eli Harris urged improving quality of life and culture to address homelessness, suggesting a focus on community swag. - Samuel Facey expressed concern about paid parking downtown, stating it hurts businesses. - Arthur described e-bikes and e-scooters as dangerous, citing a personal injury incident, and questioned their benefit to tourism. - Sherry Van Dyke (city resident) criticized the council for prioritizing bridge design and roundabout artwork over the homelessness crisis, citing multiple transient fires, shootings, and unsafe conditions near Dirt World. She urged action. - Linda Cook (city resident) detailed repeated fires, gunshots, and property damage from squatters near her home, emphasizing the daily toll on residents. - Chuck Hemingway (Homeborn Network) expressed concern that the proposed change from 3 days to 24 hours for vehicle camping violates city code (Chapter 4.05.010, paragraph 4), which acknowledges sheltering for extended periods. He provided a counter-proposal and urged reconsideration. Discussion Items - Development Code Updates (Work Session) - Auto-dependent uses in Convenience Commercial (CC) zones: Staff proposed prohibiting auto-dependent uses (gas stations, car washes, etc.) in CC zones to support council climate goals. Council discussed impacts on existing non-conforming uses, the need for a comprehensive approach via the upcoming growth plan, and whether to pause new auto-dependent uses for 2-3 years until the growth plan is complete. Council directed staff to develop code amendments removing auto-dependent uses from CC zones, with language that existing uses are not considered non-conforming. - Short-term rentals in Neighborhood Commercial (CN) zones: The CN zone exists in only three locations (five properties). Council discussed applying the same 500-foot concentration limit as residential zones, effectively preventing new short-term rentals in these areas. Council directed staff to amend the code to apply the 500-foot limit to short-term rentals in CN zones. - Future code updates: Staff outlined upcoming state-mandated and council-initiated code amendments, including floodplain updates, implementation of several Senate and House bills (SB 8, HB 2984, HB 3151, HB 4063, SB 1537), accessory dwelling unit standards, and a cleanup package. A timeline was provided, with most updates expected by early 2025. - Airport Fee Resolution (Public Hearing) - Airport Manager Tracy Williams and Real Estate Director Matt Stewart presented a resolution to amend fees for FY 2024-2025, including a new Reversion Deferral Fee program, Assignment & Transfer Fee (3% of sale price, capped at $10,000), and annual contractual increases. The deferral fee allows tenants to extend leases up to 49 years, deferring reversion of improvements to the city. The opt-in fee is $500, with a deferred rate of $0.50/sq ft/year (discounted to $0.35/sq ft until May 30, 2025). If all 112 eligible ground leases opt in, estimated annual revenue is $197,000. The program is intended to generate near-term revenue ($2 million over 10 years) to support $20 million in capital improvements, while providing lease certainty to tenants. Public comment from John Thielen (Friends of Bend Airport) and Kim Minch expressed support, noting the collaborative process and urging approval. - PRO Housing Grant - Affordable Housing Coordinator Melissa Gamache presented a request to authorize the City Manager to accept the $5 million HUD Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) grant. The grant will identify and address barriers to affordable housing. Activities will be rescaled from the original $10 million proposal, with adjustments to activities 1-3, while activities 4 and 5 remain unchanged. The grant runs through 2029. - Vacation of Excess Right-of-Way (Country Club Drive and Woodside Court) - Staff requested initiation of vacation of excess right-of-way to facilitate the Obsidian Heights subdivision by Hayden Homes. The excess right-of-way resulted from a 1982 road realignment that was never formally vacated. The applicant committed to providing two deed-restricted affordable housing units on the vacated land. The subdivision would include a multi-use path and sidewalk, improving connectivity. Council initiated the vacation and directed staff to schedule a public hearing. - Water and Sewer Connection Standards for Middle Housing Land Divisions - Staff presented two items: a resolution updating Standards and Specifications Sections 4.3 and 5.2, and a first reading of an ordinance amending BMC Section 15.10.020. The changes allow separate water and sewer service connections for each dwelling unit when a developer intends to subdivide via middle housing land division, even if the subdivision hasn't yet occurred. This addresses inefficiencies where developers install one connection but later need to subdivide. Council adopted the resolution and approved the first reading. - Historic Sites Inventory Amendment (Second Reading) - Second reading and adoption of an ordinance amending Table 3-1 of the Comprehensive Plan to add the A.J. Tucker Blacksmith Shop at 200-202 NW Greenwood Avenue to the inventory of historic sites. Adopted by roll call vote (7-0). Key Outcomes - Development Code Updates: Council directed staff to prohibit auto-dependent uses in CC zones and apply the 500-foot concentration limit to short-term rentals in CN zones. Staff will return with code amendments. - Airport Fee Resolution: Adopted unanimously (7-0). The resolution amends fees and charges for FY 2024-2025, including the Reversion Deferral Fee program, Assignment & Transfer Fee, and annual increases. - PRO Housing Grant: Council authorized the City Manager to accept the $5 million grant (7-0). - Right-of-Way Vacation: Council initiated the vacation and scheduled a public hearing (7-0, Councilor Broadman recused due to conflict of interest). - Water/Sewer Standards: Resolution adopted unanimously (7-0); first reading of ordinance approved unanimously (7-0). - Historic Sites Ordinance: Adopted on second reading by roll call (7-0). - Council Reports: Council noted upcoming meetings, including a joint meeting with Deschutes County on homelessness and managed camping, and the stewardship subcommittee meeting on ARPA and deflection programs.

The Bend City Council held a work session starting at 5:00 p.m. and a regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on August 21, 2024, in a hybrid format. The work session covered legislative priorities, electrification of city facilities, and proposed changes to vehicle camping regulations. The regular meeting included public comment, a consent agenda, and a public hearing to amend the historic sites inventory. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from August 7, 2024. - Accepted the OLCC report. - Authorized contracts: RingCentral, Inc. for phone and contact center services (5-year subscription, not-to-exceed $505,200.40) — pulled for discussion and later approved; Arctic Wolf Networks, Inc. for network security software (3-year subscription, not-to-exceed $593,475.53) — approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Jessica Gamble (Home Ward Network): Opposed stricter vehicle camping rules, citing that forcing relocations disrupts survival-mode individuals and can lead to loss of shelter. Urged council to focus on housing, not enforcement. - Smokey (unhoused resident): Said more rules are not needed; called for rent control and criticized shelters as inadequate. - Foster Fowell (activist): Submitted a petition against recent sweeps along Watt Way, arguing the city should wait until managed facilities open; requested a humanitarian pause. - Kim Mander (resident): Urged adoption of electrification policies for new construction, citing health impacts of gas stoves (50,000 pediatric asthma cases linked to NO2). - Cameron Alderson: Expressed safety concerns about the former Crusher Site for managed camping, citing fire hazards near the Sotera facility and lack of maintenance on city-owned properties. - Noel Nelson (volunteer, 350 Deschutes): Highlighted links between climate change, drought, and wildfire; urged restricting fossil gas infrastructure. Legislative Update (Work Session) - Housing production: Emphasis on implementation over new systemic changes. Eric (city lobbyist) noted potential focus on middle housing (LC 0358) and condo liability reform. Councilor Campbell expressed interest in construction liability reform. The Housing Innovation Partnership is exploring new ideas. - Shelter operations: Top priority is sustainable funding for shelters. City staff (Amy Fraley) is leading a statewide inventory of shelter facilities and needs. Discussion of evolving the Coordinated Houselessness Response Office (CHRO) to a regional model. - Transportation package: State highway fund insolvency driving need for new revenue. Council agreed to form a small group to craft Bend's project priorities for the joint transportation committee hearing on September 12. - Infrastructure funding: Governor's office proposed $100M/year for public works infrastructure (grants/loans). Council stressed need-based allocation, noting Bend's high per-capita housing production. - Local government revenue needs: Property tax reform unlikely for 2025; lodging tax reform focused on local flexibility is gaining traction. Electrification of City Facilities (Work Session) - Staff presented a draft resolution declaring council intent for city buildings to be fossil fuel-free. - Four parts: (1) Exclude fossil fuels in new city buildings, with exceptions for technology limitations, emergency backup, or cost (lifecycle cost increase 10% requires council approval); (2) Comply with state 1.5% green energy technology program; (3) Ensure new buildings are ready for additional solar/EV chargers; (4) Evaluate retrofits of existing buildings when replacements occur. - Council supported bringing the resolution for adoption at a future meeting, with minor wording clarifications. - Timeline for community-wide building electrification policy: draft options by October, ECC recommendation in November, council work session in Nov/Dec. Sheltering in Vehicles (Work Session) - Staff presented challenges with current code: tent camping (24-hour limit, movement required) vs. vehicle camping (72-hour limit, no movement requirement) create inconsistencies. - Current enforcement: 5,000 parking-related calls per year; 10 notices to move issued; zero citations given; city has not towed any vehicles but is prepared to do so if needed (72-hour notice, no fees for retrieval). - Staff recommended: - Align vehicle camping with tent camping: 24-hour maximum, add movement requirement. - Define "vehicle habitation" while preserving ability to sleep in a car. - Base proximity restrictions on actual residential uses (not zoning). - Apply same place restrictions (including water overlay zone) to both. - Council discussion: Councilor Campbell opposed reducing time limit, called for more stakeholder input; majority supported moving forward with proposed changes. Council supported including the water overlay zone for vehicle camping. Staff directed to return with an ordinance on September 18. Public Hearing: Amend Historic Sites Inventory - First reading of ordinance to remove the A.J. Tucker Blacksmith Shop (200-202 NW Greenwood Ave) from the comprehensive plan as a structure, reclassify as a site with a plaque. Approved unanimously. Council Action and Reports - Endorsement: Unanimous support for Measure 9-173 to expand Deschutes County Commission from 3 to 5 members. - Letters: Authorized letters supporting Oregon Department of Energy's comments on Hanford Holistic Agreement (with addition of concern about liquid waste) and supporting Commute Options' grant application for e-bike rebate program. - Appointments: Mayor Pro Tem Perkins appointed to Regional Housing Council (replacing Campbell). - Schedule change: January 2025 meetings moved to second and fourth Wednesdays (Jan 8 and 22) due to holiday; motion and vote approved. - Councilor reports: Covered Fire District concerns about fire risks in forested camps, MPO draft transportation plan, downtown business association, COCO legislative tour, CHRO updates, e-micromobility task force, and positive feedback on Greenwood Avenue reconfiguration. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved except item C (RingCentral), which was discussed and subsequently approved. - Resolution for city building electrification to be brought back for adoption. - Vehicle camping code amendments to be drafted and presented on September 18 for potential adoption. - Historic site ordinance passed first reading (unanimous). - Measure 9-173 endorsed; letters of support authorized. - January 2025 meeting dates changed to second and fourth Wednesdays. - Council will form a small group to develop Bend's transportation project priorities for the September 12 hearing. - City manager directed to incorporate feedback on Hanford letter regarding liquid waste.

The City of Bend held a hybrid work session beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by an Urban Renewal Agency work session, an executive session, and a regular council meeting at 7:00 p.m. on August 7, 2024. The evening included a fire season update, selection of a preferred bridge type for Hawthorne Bridge, a preview of draft Tax Increment Financing (TIF) policies, public testimony on the Milepost 132 fire and other neighborhood concerns, approval of contracts, and adoption of ordinances. Work Session: Fire Season Update - Emergency management director Kerry Carl reported 88 large fires burning nationally and 33 in Oregon (about 37%), with more than 9,000 personnel assigned. - Fire Chief Todd Riley said the Milepost 132 fire began at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, August 2, 2024, near 64010 North Highway 97, and burned 78 acres. The origin was a campfire/cooking fire at an encampment on private property; no structures were lost. - Real estate director Matt Stewart described ongoing management of city-owned land at Juniper Ridge, including distribution of fire extinguishers at about 50 camps, firebreak work along the North Interceptor sewer line, and coordination with the county. Council supported exploring defensible-space work near affected neighborhoods and a possible code change to allow fire-resilience mitigation with fire department approval. - A joint meeting with Deschutes County commissioners is scheduled for September 5 to discuss long-term management of Juniper Ridge. Work Session: Hawthorne Bridge - City engineer Garrett Sabron and DOWL engineer Jared Trowbridge reviewed four bridge types: two-tower cable-stay, single-tower cable-stay, extra-dosed, and steel truss. - About 400 people completed the public survey; the steel truss received the highest preference, followed by the extra-dosed option. The 75-year lifecycle maintenance estimate was about $1 million for the truss, $5 million for the single-tower cable-stay, and $7 million for the two-tower cable-stay. - Council consensus selected the single-tower cable-stay bridge, with direction to keep design within available funding of about $32.1 million and return with aesthetic options. - Council also directed staff to work with ODOT to amend the Parkway Plan to close the Hawthorne exit. The public survey found 67% support for closure; safety and connectivity were cited as key reasons. Urban Renewal Agency Work Session: Draft TIF Policies - Staff presented draft site-specific Tax Increment Financing policies aimed at lowering rents and encouraging good-paying jobs. - Key data cited: average Bend market rent is about $1,800 per month; an entry-level teacher can afford about $1,200; a target vacancy rate of 8% is considered healthy; an additional 1,000 multifamily units are needed. - Proposed housing incentives would require 15% of units in participating multifamily projects to be rented at or below 90% of Area Median Income, with a 10-year minimum compliance period and clawback provisions. - Council asked staff to clarify the distinction between minimum requirements and desired additional criteria, to avoid making energy efficiency and supplier diversity hard requirements initially, and to bring a revised policy back on August 21. Executive Session - Council convened an executive session under ORS 192.660(2)(e) to deliberate with real property negotiators. No decisions were made, and the council returned to open session before the 7:00 p.m. regular meeting. Regular Meeting: Consent Agenda - The consent agenda was approved unanimously, including the July 17, 2024 meeting minutes, OLCC report, quarterly investment report, and an agreement with AKS Engineering & Forestry, LLC for Neff Corridor Improvement design in an amount not to exceed $393,020. Public Comments & Testimony - Jonathan Curtis questioned Greenwood repaving and bike-lane spending, and raised concerns about emergency vehicle access. - Carl Schumacher described a disturbing incident he witnessed in a downtown pizza parlor. - Alicia Reynolds, property manager at Cedar West Apartments, requested action on camping and trash along Watt Way, saying it affected safety and occupancy. - Nancy Kerfman and Brian Frankel urged safer pedestrian crossings on Franklin Avenue, including a rapid flashing beacon at 6th Street and mid-block crossings at 5th and 7th streets. Frankel noted a neighborhood plan endorsed by 30 residents and questioned why Franklin was excluded from crossing solutions used on other minor arterials. - Tyler Reynolds, Craig Rinkert, Linda Cook, Sherry Van Dyke, Troy Anthony, and Cameron Alderson spoke about the Milepost 132 fire and Juniper Ridge. They described evacuations, fear, gunfire, and frustration; many said current actions are inadequate. Rinkert said preventing ignition is the best mitigation; Van Dyke and an online commenter called for professionally managed sanctioned camps; Alderson said the council was scapegoating homeless residents and criticized growth and evacuation planning. Regular Meeting: Public Hearings and Action Items - Item 6: The council adopted a resolution adding a $600 payment-in-lieu-of-tree-replacement fee to the FY2024-25 fee schedule. Councilor Norris recused. - Item 7: A contract with DOWL, LLC for Reed Market Corridor preliminary engineering and environmental review services was approved, not to exceed $1,749,765.84. - Item 8: An intergovernmental agreement with Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District 2 for fire protection services and funding was approved unanimously. Fire district executive director Gary Marshall reviewed the 1999 IGA, recent levy history, and planned expansion of Station 6. - Item 9: An ordinance adopting the fire code (BMC Chapter 8.10) was adopted by roll call vote, 7-0. - Item 10: An ordinance amending Title 16, grading/excavation/stormwater management, including new erosion control and tree preservation chapters, was adopted by roll call vote, 7-0, with an emergency declaration. Councilor Norris declared a potential conflict but voted. Council Reports and City Manager's Report - Councilors reported on committee updates, a Central Oregon Employers Council meeting, MPO meetings, the Bend Police Department swearing-in and National Night Out, the Southern Crossing Block Party, and a meeting on youth mental health needs. - City Manager Eric King reported CityFest on August 15, Greenwood Avenue chip seal completion and full reopening planned for August 14, upcoming paving work on Deschutes Market Road, Milwaukee Avenue, and Reed Market, and continued coordination with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs on water issues. Key Outcomes - Council selected the single-tower cable-stay design for the Hawthorne Bridge and directed staff to proceed with ODOT on closing the Hawthorne exit. - Staff will pursue defensible-space work, a potential code change for fire mitigation, and a September 5 joint county-city discussion on Juniper Ridge. - URA staff will revise the draft TIF policy to separate minimum requirements from desired enhancements and return on August 21. - All contracts, the fee resolution, and both ordinances were approved. The fire code and Title 16 ordinances passed unanimously on roll call.

The Bend City Council held a work session from 11:00 AM to about 5:00 PM, followed by a regular business meeting at 7:00 PM. The work session focused on the Council Goals Quarterly Update, including updates on permitting process improvements, development activity, housing incentives, and a comprehensive growth strategy. The regular meeting covered consent agenda items, first readings of ordinances, approvals of contracts and resolutions, and a public hearing on the Greenwood Avenue quick-build project. Key decisions included adoption of tree code ordinances, authorization of a $2 million contract for a Collection System Master Plan update, and approval of a guaranteed maximum price amendment for the Midtown Multimodal Connections project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: June 20, 2024, City Council meeting. - OLCC Report: No discussion. - Engineering & Infrastructure Planning Department Quarterly Project Status Report: For FY2024 Q4. - Monthly Financial Report: For May 2024. - Authorize Price Agreements: With DOWL, Flagline Engineering, Century West Engineering, and AKS Engineering for On-Call Construction Inspection Services, not to exceed $350,000 per agreement. Public Comments & Testimony - GTN Express Pipeline Expansion: Multiple speakers urged the city to oppose the pipeline expansion and transition to electrification. They cited safety risks, climate impacts, and potential rate increases for Cascade Natural Gas customers. - Greenwood Avenue Project: Many residents and business owners (including representatives from Cascade Theatre, Old Town Pizza, and a hair salon) opposed the proposed reconfiguration from four lanes to three lanes with buffered bike lanes. Concerns included loss of parking, safety for elderly and disabled patrons, and lack of adequate notice. A few speakers supported the project for improved safety and pedestrian access. Discussion Items - Council Goals Quarterly Update: Staff reported 96% of 51 action items are on track. Highlights included progress on the tree code, language access policy, public works campus, and a $5 million HUD housing grant. The permitting dashboard showed improvements, with residential permit turnaround times averaging 23 days in June after a temporary operational adjustment. Development activity update noted a market slowdown due to interest rates and construction costs, but Bend remains a leader in housing production per capita in Oregon. - Growth Strategy and Work Plan: Brian introduced a three-phase growth plan integrating housing needs analysis, transportation planning, climate resilience, and infrastructure. The plan will meet state deadlines (housing capacity analysis by 2027, transportation system plan by 2029). Council supported the integrated approach and agreed to pursue urban reserves as an optional task. - Tree Code In-Lieu Fee Update: Staff recommended a $600 per tree fee for developers who choose not to preserve trees on-site. The fee is based on average cost of purchasing, planting, and establishing a tree. Council accepted the recommendation and will adopt the fee schedule at the next meeting. - Parking Code Modernization: Staff proposed replacing the current 72-hour parking rule with a longer time limit (to be determined) and adding administrative tools for creating parking districts. Council directed staff to draft a code with public comment in September/October, with a separate work session on sheltering in vehicles. - First Reading – Fire Code Ordinance: Amending Chapter 8.10 to align with state fire code and update inspection fees. Passed unanimously. - First Reading – Tree Preservation and Erosion Control Ordinance: Amending Chapters 3.60 and Title 16 to require tree preservation on sites over one acre and new erosion control requirements for sites 5,000 sq ft or larger. Passed with an emergency clause. - Authorize Agreement with Carollo Engineers: For the Collection System Master Plan Update, $2,023,702. Funded by a Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan. Passed unanimously. - Adopt Resolution for Loan Amendment: Increasing the loan amount by $500,000 to $2,250,000 for the same project. Passed unanimously. - Adopt Resolution for Eminent Domain: For the Olney Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements Project, authorizing the city manager to acquire easements if negotiations fail. Passed unanimously. - Authorize Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment 1: For the Midtown Multimodal Connections and Streetscaping Project with K&E Excavating, Inc., adding $2,086,133.72 (total $4,529,562.08). The project includes a quick-build reconfiguration of Greenwood Avenue from four lanes to three lanes with buffered bike lanes, a chip seal, and waterline improvements on Second Street. Passed with a 6-0 vote. - Appeal of Hearings Officer’s Denial: Council declined to review the appeal of the denial of a site plan review for a mixed-use development (Compass Corner). The motion passed with one abstention. - Second Reading – Tree Code Ordinance: Adopting amendments to the Bend Development Code for tree preservation and street tree requirements. Passed by roll call vote (6-0, with one councilor who declared a conflict also voting yes). Key Outcomes - Council Goals: The integrated growth plan will proceed with an RFP for consulting services. Urban reserves will be included as an optional task. - Tree Code In-Lieu Fee: Set at $600 per tree; fee schedule to be adopted at the August 7 meeting. - Parking Code: Staff will draft a modernized code based on council direction, with a target adoption in winter 2024. - Fire Code Ordinance: First reading passed; second reading scheduled for next meeting. - Tree Preservation/Erosion Control Ordinance: First reading passed with emergency clause; effective date aligned with development code changes. - Collection System Master Plan: Contract awarded to Carollo Engineers; completion expected winter 2025. - Olney Project: Eminent domain resolution adopted; construction expected early 2025. - Midtown Project: GMP amendment approved; Greenwood construction to begin in August 2024 with a two-week closure; one-year evaluation period. - Appeal of Compass Corner: Council declined to review, finalizing the hearings officer’s denial. - Tree Code Development Code Amendments: Adopted with roll call vote; exemptions for residential sites under one acre included.

The Bend City Council held a hybrid work session at 5:00 PM, followed by a Bend Urban Renewal Agency (BURA) meeting, and a regular meeting at 7:00 PM on June 20, 2024. Key topics included an introduction from the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, a work session on a potential 100-acre Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) expansion under Senate Bill 1537, BURA budget adjustments, city budget resolutions for FY2024-2025, and a first reading of a comprehensive tree preservation and street tree code update. Public testimony was heard on several items, and council voted on numerous consent agenda items, budget resolutions, and code amendments. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Minutes from the June 5, 2024 work session and regular meeting, June 10 joint special meeting with Warm Springs Tribal Council, and the June 10 Public Safety Open House were approved. - Insurance and Benefits: Renewal of property, general liability, auto, and cyber/crime insurance policies; workers' compensation insurance with SAIF (not to exceed $1,484,138); and health, dental, telemedicine, and EAP benefit plans were authorized. - Contracts and Agreements: Authorized agreements for: NE Quimby Avenue Water Main Replacement (Jack Robinson & Sons, $830,888.75); Simpson Avenue Waterline Improvements (K & E Excavating, $248,195); Memorandum of Understanding with Central Oregon Civic Action Project for a Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness; vehicle lease for Police Department (Bancorp Bank, $720,000); amendment for Newport Corridor Improvements/South Awbrey Butte Drainage (Parametrix, $512,288); amendment for Crosstown Bikeways design (David Evans & Associates, $1,423,139); network/hardware/software from CompuNet ($951,800); computer equipment from CDW Government ($599,100). - Shelters and Services: Lease agreements for shelters with Shepherd’s House Ministries (154 NE Franklin Avenue, 275 NE 2nd Street) and NeighborImpact (2346 NE Division Street); amendment to contract with Shepherd’s House for Lighthouse Navigation Center services (not to exceed $1,329,787, extended to Dec 2026); grant agreement with COIC for $1,455,555 and amendment with Shepherd’s House for Franklin Avenue Shelter (total not to exceed $2,304,994). - Transportation Grant: Grant agreement with Federal Railroad Administration for Reed Market Corridor preliminary design ($1,050,000). - All consent items were approved unanimously by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - General Visitor Comments: - Hal DeShow (Bend resident, cyclist) advocated for narrower, slower streets to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians. He expressed that wide streets encourage speeding and endanger vulnerable road users. - David Green (River West neighborhood) criticized the Greenwood Quick Build Project proposal, stating that the current design does not include protected bike lanes, creates dangerous merging issues between 2nd and 3rd streets, and that the public engagement process has eroded trust. - Duran Tai (Bend resident) raised concerns about lead emissions from the Bend Municipal Airport, citing EPA data showing highest airborne lead emissions in Oregon. He requested monitoring, testing, and land use changes to protect children's health. - Testimony on Tree Code (Items 8-10): - John Halen asked for a one-year sunset on the tree code to evaluate its impact on housing production. - Morgan Greenwood (Central Oregon Builders Association) opposed mitigation requirements for residential developments on sites one acre or smaller, arguing it disincentivizes higher-density infill. Also recommended allowing street trees and decorative rock as a cost-effective alternative to full landscaping. - Jacob Clark (Hayden Homes) requested that existing master plan communities be exempt from the new tree preservation code, as earlier phases already carry costs for later phases. - David Welton (volunteer with Bend DMV) argued the code should be delayed until tree mitigation fees are known, warning it could increase housing costs and force essential workers out of town. - Michelle Walker (Bend resident) supported the planning commission’s amendments except the affordable housing exemption, urging consistent standards. - Tyler Nees (Central Oregon Association of Realtors) asked for clarity on wildfire code interactions and raised concerns about three-year tree preservation conditions running with the land. - Jim Roberts (former TruAC member, founder of Bend YIMBY) opposed the proposal, stating there is no evidence of canopy loss and that the code will increase housing costs without proven environmental benefit. - Mark Gentle (new Bend resident from Austin, Texas) urged strong tree protections, but noted incentives should be graduated rather than a simple menu. - Chad Bettisworth (Empire Construction) requested industrial and commercial exemptions, citing that mitigation costs (e.g., $500,000 for a 7.8-acre site) constitute a taking. - Brent Landells (land owner) argued the code will increase costs for attainable housing and urged council to visit actual development sites before voting. - Kirk Schuler (Brooks Resources) highlighted conflicts with wildfire codes and recommended a one-year review to assess impacts on development. - Joey Shearer (AKS Engineering) stated the code will complicate design, increase costs, and reduce housing production, citing mitigation costs of $100,000 to $700,000 on three active projects. - Cory Bittner (Pahlisch, former TruAC member) opposed the code, requesting more developer input, a field trip to a development site, and annual review. He noted master plans are not conceptual and that financing is sensitive to added costs. - Karen Johnson (TruAC member) supported the code and urged hiring a full-time arborist to oversee compliance and monitoring. Discussion Items - Work Session – U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness: Katy Miller (Senior Regional Advisor) and Gina Rendina (Policy Director) presented their federal coordination role, highlighting a day of site visits including China Hat encampments. They thanked the city for leadership and discussed strategies for addressing unsheltered homelessness. - Work Session – 100-Acre UGB Expansion (SB 1537): Lynn McConnell, Brian Rankin, and Michael Selkirk presented. The one-time expansion requires 30% affordable housing, a minimum density of 10 units/acre, and proof of housing need based on rent burden. Staff recommended pursuing the option with a tight timeline (applications by October 2024, comprehensive plan amendment by summer 2025), not requiring more than 30% affordability, and not subsidizing infrastructure—developers must pay. Council expressed support, noting it is a down payment on future growth planning. No formal vote was taken at the work session. - Bend Urban Renewal Agency (BURA) Meeting: - Approved minutes from February 7, 2024. - Approved budget adjustment ($100,000 increase in short-term loan) and authorized promissory notes for loans from City to BURA for Murphy Crossing, Juniper Ridge, Core Area, and Operating Loan. - Held public hearing and approved 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for BURA. - Adopted resolution levying ad valorem taxes. - Affirmed Core Area Advisory Board appointments: John Fisher, Catherine Austin, Elaine Fardella, Jeff Baker (three-year terms). - Regular Meeting – Budget Resolutions (Items 7-A through 7-H): Director Dan Quick presented eight budget items for FY2024-2025. Public hearings were held for items requiring hearings (7A, 7C, 7E). Council approved all items unanimously, with the following recusals: - Councilor Norris recused on 7.3 (fees and charges) due to employment conflict. - Councilor Riley declared a potential conflict on 7.4 (solid waste rate increase) but participated and voted. - Tree Code First Reading (Items 8-10): - Staff and Planning Commissioner Suzanne Johansson presented the proposed amendments to Bend Development Code, Municipal Code, and Standards & Specifications. Key elements include: regulated trees (≥6” DBH) and priority trees (≥20” DBH); preservation options (20% of priority trees, 25% of DBH, or 5% with mitigation); mitigation via on-site replacement or fee-in-lieu; incentives for exceeding preservation thresholds; new street tree requirements; water-efficient planter strips (no turf, efficient irrigation). - Council deliberated on four planning commission recommendations: 1. Added a discretionary track for industrial zones (approved). 2. Struck the Southeast Area Plan height incentive for consistency (approved). 3. Retained the “whichever comes first” trigger for the three-year preservation period (land division final plat or building final inspection) – council voted to keep original staff language including both triggers. 4. Exempted all residential developments on sites one acre or smaller from all tree preservation requirements (approved). - Council also passed a separate motion directing staff to: bring back fee resolution in August with options for affordable housing discounts; evaluate the code’s implementation by August 2025 with annual reviews; study best practices for incentives; review impact on housing production; and assess how the four options and incentives are being used. - Southeast Area Pump Station (Item 11): Authorized two contract amendments: Early Work Amendment 2 with Slayden Constructors ($8,892,695, total $11,358,622) for materials and construction activities including a trenchless bore crossing of TransCanada gas lines; and owner’s representative services amendment with Brown and Caldwell ($559,835, total $920,278). Approved unanimously. - Midtown Multimodal Connections (Item 12): Council postponed discussion of the Guaranteed Maximum Price amendment to July 17, 2024, to allow more time for deliberation. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Downtown Economic Improvement District (Item 6): Resolution approved assessing $0.30/sq ft on commercial property, increasing $0.01/sq ft in each of the next two years. No remonstrance votes were received. - Budget Resolutions: All eight items (7A-7H) approved as motions, with public hearings held for 7A, 7C, 7E, 7.3, and 7.4. Tax levies, fees, solid waste rates, CIP, staffing (+9 FTE), investment policy, and fiscal policies all adopted. - Tree Code Amendments (Items 8-10): - First reading of ordinance amending Bend Development Code (Item 8) passed with four technical amendments (industrial discretionary track, removal of Southeast Area incentives, preservation trigger wording, exemption for residential under one acre). Vote: 6-0 (Councilor Norris recused on Items 8-10). - Staff direction motion passed unanimously: annual review, affordable housing fee discussion in August, and evaluation of code impacts. - Resolution amending Standards & Specifications (Item 10) approved unanimously. - Item 9 (Municipal Code amendments) postponed to July 17 meeting to ensure consistency. - Second Readings: - Ordinance to modify Petrosa and Easton Master Planned Developments (Item 13): Adopted by roll call vote (6-0). - Ordinance to allow Neighborhood Commercial Sites adjacent to Bend Central District (Item 14): Adopted by roll call vote (6-0). - Ordinance to annex land in Southeast Area (Item 15): Adopted by roll call vote (5-0, Councilor Norris recused). - Ordinance to vacate portion of NE Penn Avenue right-of-way (Item 16): Adopted by roll call vote (6-0). - Public Safety Comment: Councilor Campbell reported that the Pilot Butte fire station is now the busiest for ambulance calls; long-term plans include remodeling to add another engine and ambulance. Next Steps: The council will hold its next regular meeting on July 17, 2024, where the tree code ordinance second reading and the Midtown Multimodal project will be addressed.

The Bend City Council and Budget Committee convened on June 5, 2024, starting at 5:00 p.m. for the Budget Committee portion, followed by an executive session, and then the regular City Council meeting at 7:00 p.m. The meeting covered budget updates, land use hearings, proclamations (Pride Month and Gun Violence Awareness Day), a public hearing on state shared revenue, and multiple first readings of ordinances. Key decisions included approval of the Visit Bend business plan, adoption of neighborhood association code amendments, and a compensation increase for the city manager. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from six prior meetings (October 2022 through May 2024) - Accepted the OLCC report - Approved the monthly financials for April 2024 - Authorized purchase of security cameras from LTT Partners, LLC for up to $150,000 - Authorized a three-year contract with PFM Financial Advisors LLC for municipal advisory services up to $400,000 - Accepted a $150,000 Climate-Friendly and Equitable Communities Program grant from DLCD and authorized a sub‑agreement with DKS Associates for the Climate Friendly Area Mobility & Low-Car District Feasibility Study - Authorized agreement with Diversified Construction and Consulting, LLC for residential meter box upgrades up to $376,347 - Authorized amendment to fuel purchase agreement with Ed Staub and Sons up to $980,000 - Adopted resolution authorizing amendment to Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan for the Silver Sage Sewer Project up to $350,000 Public Comments & Testimony - Emily Hart Header (Bend resident) urged better signage and repainting of sharrows at the Franklin underpass for cyclist safety. - Sweepy Cole (Bend resident) described dangerous conditions crossing Third Street near Wilson and Franklin, requesting pedestrian and cyclist safety improvements. - Justin (speaker) discussed his work with the Oregon Bottle Bill and homeless community, noting 1920 individuals signed a letter and that he processed 200,000 units and paid out $5,300 over 12 months; asked for assistance bringing bottle drop, trash company, and social services together. - Logan Coberts (Bend resident) raised concerns about the health of the Deschutes River, fish ladder functionality, and water quality; also commented on gun safety and trash. - One online commenter (Doreen) was unable to speak due to technical issues; was invited to submit written comments. Discussion Items - Budget and Revenue Update (Budget Committee) - Presented by Dan Quick, Budget and Financial Plan Manager, and Samantha Nelson, Finance Director. - General fund revenues are on track, with year-end close to budget. - American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds: $14.08 million allocated; $5.95 million spent; $7.79 million obligated; $340,000 still to be allocated. Deferring allocation until September pending state clarity on houseless shelter funding. - Proposed fee increases: 15% for building, 20% for planning, 12% for private development engineering (reduced from prior 20% building increase due to higher revenues). - Water services: 4.15% water, 2% reclamation, 6.5% stormwater (cumulative average bill increase 3.5%, or $5/month). - Solid waste hauler fees: 5.5% increase; senior citizen program replaced by low-income assistance program aligning with utility bill assistance. - Staffing requests: 8 additional positions (arborist, fire facilities technician, fire inspector, right-of-way manager, engineering inspector, sustainability analyst, community service officer, water conservation utility compliance tech). Most positions funded via existing savings; arborist unfunded but aligned with tree code update. - Budget adjustments categorized: CIP increases, grant/debt proceeds, and housekeeping items. - State Shared Revenue Public Hearing (Budget Committee) - Anticipated $12.6 million in state shared revenues for FY2024-25; uses include street maintenance, transportation planning, and transit contract with COIC. - Approved by unanimous vote. - City Property Tax Levies (Budget Committee) – No action needed; lower levy due to interest rate savings on GO bond; council will adopt resolution on June 20. - Election of Budget Committee Chair – Kat Mr. Angelo elected as new chair, succeeding Peter Skurbeck. - Executive Session (Council) – 1-hour closed session under ORS 192.660(2)(i) to review city manager performance. - Land Acknowledgement – Read by Councilor Méndez. - Proclamations - 2SLGBTQIA+ Pride Month – Proclamation read by Mayor Kebler; accepted by Sarah Wiener (28-year resident, helped start first Pride celebration) and Sam Brown (small business owner, spoke about community support). - National Gun Violence Awareness Day – Proclamation read by Mayor Pro Tem Perkins; Brandy Steelehammer (Central Oregon Gun Safety Advocates) noted Deschutes County youth suicide rates 2x state and 3x national rates, with 65% of youth suicides (ages 10-17) involving firearms. Tom O’Connor (Gun Owners for Responsible Ownership) emphasized safe storage and free gun locks at police station and clinics. - Item 6: Petrosa/Easton Master Plan Amendments – Quasi-judicial hearing to allow alternative “village” housing product, flag lot modifications, and revised transportation improvement triggers. Planning Commission recommended approval with bonding for Yeoman Road improvements. Applicant (Polish Homes) agreed to bond for $12 million estimated. Council voted unanimously for first reading. - Item 7: Annexation of 5 Acres in SE Area (Lagore) – Quasi-judicial hearing. Annexation of five acres (16 lots, single-unit detached with three ADUs to meet density). No public comments. Council voted unanimously for first reading. - Item 8: Neighborhood Commercial Sites Adjacent to Bend Central District – Legislative hearing to allow neighborhood commercial uses on residentially zoned land adjacent to the Bend Central District. Staff noted the amendment corrects a technicality and applies to a four-block area. Planning Commission voted unanimously for approval. Council voted unanimously for first reading. - Item 9: Right-of-Way Vacation – NE Penn Avenue – Hearing to vacate 15 feet of unimproved right-of-way (522 sq. ft.) to enable mixed-use development. Applicant (Greg Blackmore) committed to six affordable housing units and water main looping. Appraised value $33,000; conditions include payment and effectiveness tied to building permits. Council voted unanimously for first reading. - Item 10: Visit Bend FY24-25 Business Plan and Budget – Presentation by Nate Wyeth and Todd Montgomery. Budget of $4,981,200, funded by 35.4% of transient room tax (10.4% tax). Highlights: Tourism economic impacts – direct travel employment up 10.5%, wages up 16% year-over-year. Room tax collections softened 3% in FY24. Grant programs (Bend Sustainability Fund 15%, Bend Cultural Tourism Fund 7.5%) maintained. BDAB recommended approval with a mid-year check-in. Council approved unanimously. - Item 11: Second Reading – Neighborhood Associations Code Amendment – Adopted by roll call vote (7-0). Key Outcomes - Budget Committee Actions: - Approved use of state shared revenues for FY2024-25. - Elected Kat Mr. Angelo as budget committee chair. - Council Actions: - Approved all consent agenda items. - Approved first reading of ordinances for Items 6, 7, 8, and 9 (all unanimous). - Approved Visit Bend FY24-25 Business Plan and Budget ($4,981,200) unanimously. - Adopted neighborhood association code amendments (unanimous roll call). - Appointed members to advisory committees (Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Bend Economic Development Advisory Board, Human Rights & Equity Commission, Landmarks Commission, County Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee). - City manager compensation: approved a 6% total increase (3% merit, 3% market adjustment) and authorized cash-out of up to half of his current leave balance. - Issued a council op-ed column on Pride Month. Proclamations - June 2024 proclaimed as 2SLGBTQIA+ Pride Month in Bend. - First Friday in June (June 7, 2024) proclaimed as National Gun Violence Awareness Day. Council Reports & Subcommittee Updates - Stewardship Subcommittee: Discussed ARPA funds, tax incentives for housing (policy recommendation expected in August), and Citizen Assembly MOU. - Community Building Subcommittee: Discussed climate-friendly communities, Midtown Crossings Greenwood Avenue project (construction soon), and street standards/speed limits. - Councilors reported on various meetings: MPO board, transportation bond oversight, prescribed burn tour, League of Cities transportation policy, BDAB, environmental center home energy program, and a visit from State Representative Pam Marsh on housing.

The Bend City Council convened on May 15, 2024, for an afternoon work session, a joint work session with the Bend Urban Renewal Agency (BURA), an executive session (closed for real property negotiations), and a 7:00 p.m. regular meeting. Key actions included discussing a Citizen Assembly MOU on youth homelessness, reviewing housing tax incentives, approving updated neighborhood codes, authorizing an Air Traffic Control Tower project, and adopting second readings of ordinances. Citizen Assembly Memorandum of Understanding (Work Session) - Representatives from the Central Oregon Civic Action Project (COCAP) and Healthy Democracy presented a proposal for a Citizen Assembly on youth homelessness. - Project Description: Approximately 30 randomly selected residents (lottery from 10,000 invitations) will deliberate over two weekends in September/October 2024. Participants will receive a daily stipend ($100), and coverage for childcare, elder care, and transportation. The City would commit to receiving and publicly debating the recommendations without financial obligation. - Key Discussion/Speaker Positions: Councilors expressed support for signing the non-binding MOU. Councilor Méndez and others emphasized the need for a well-crafted framing question to ensure recommendations align with jurisdictional responsibilities (city, county, COIC). Mayor Kebler noted the importance of the assembly being community-driven. Council agreed to proceed with the MOU. Update on Tax Incentive Programs (Joint Council/BURA Work Session) - Staff presented options to incentivize housing following the pause of the MUPTI program. - ADU and Middle-Income Tax Exemptions: Staff proposed adopting state-enabled, five-year property tax exemptions as a city policy to spur ADU and middle-income housing development. This requires 51% approval from other taxing districts. Council directed staff to pursue these policies. Councilor Riley requested adding a data collection component to track rents. - Site-Specific Tax Increment Financing (TIFF): A proposed flexible tool to replace MUPTI, allowing limited parcels to use tax increment financing for affordable housing. Staff modeled achieving 20% affordable units at 60-120% AMI (e.g., 1 of 4 units in a quadplex at 70% AMI). Staff requested BURA assign policy formation to the Stewardship Subcommittee. - Key Outcomes: Council directed staff to continue work on the ADU and Middle-Income tax exemptions. BURA agreed to pursue the Site-Specific TIFF policy and assigned its development to the Stewardship Subcommittee. Public Comments & Testimony (Regular Meeting) - Jim Christo (Southeast Bend Neighborhood Association Chair): Expressed opposition to several aspects of the proposed neighborhood code changes, including potential mandatory name changes, lack of clear guidelines for district formation, and the structure of appeal fees which he argued asymmetrically burden neighborhood groups. - Ted Bayer (Aubrey Butte Neighborhood Board Member): Expressed support for the code changes and urged the city to do more to increase community awareness of the neighborhood district program. Discussion Items (Regular Meeting) - Neighborhood Code (First Reading – Item 10): Staff presented an ordinance amending Chapter 1.70 resulting from a two-year assessment. Key changes include renaming "associations" to "districts," adding a purpose statement, establishing a minimum size of 1,000 households for new districts, and requiring annual neighborhood surveys. Council passed the first reading with two amendments moved by Mayor Pro Tem Perkins: adding "or other assistance" to the restrictions on use of city resources in Section 060, and replacing "community" with "neighborhood" in the survey language of Section 050(D). - 2024-2025 CDBG Annual Action Plan (Item 6): Staff presented the plan. The Affordable Housing Advisory Committee recommended funding for Thrive Central Oregon, Volunteers in Medicine, J Bar J Loft, Bend Church, and Bend-Redmond Habitat for Humanity. One applicant (Homeward Network) was not recommended due to organizational maturity. Council approved the plan unanimously. - Air Traffic Control Tower (Items 7 & 8): Airport Manager Tracy Williams presented that the Bend Municipal Airport (3rd busiest in Oregon, 141,000 annual operations) will break ground on a 115-foot tower. Staff recommended contracts with Corp Inc. ($9.6M construction), Morrison-Maierle ($1.77M construction management), and CEC ($125k sole source electric infrastructure), and application for $11.29 million in FAA grants. Total project cost is $14 million, under initial estimates. Council authorized the contracts and grant applications unanimously. - Full Faith & Credit Obligations (Item 9): Staff requested amending Resolution 3362 to increase maximum allowable interest rates (from 6% to 7% fixed, 12% to 15% variable) due to current market conditions. Council approved the amended resolution. - Surplus Property Sale: Council President Riley moved to accept a bid of $151,903 from MK LLC for surplus property near SW Donovan Avenue, allocating proceeds to affordable housing programs. Approved. Key Outcomes (Regular Meeting) - Second Readings Adopted: - Ordinance amending BMC Chapter 1.55 (Public Contracts) – Adopted (Councilor Broadman abstained). - Ordinance amending BMC Chapter 1.10.040 (Council Member and Mayor Compensation) – Adopted (Councilor Broadman abstained). All councilors declared a potential conflict of interest. - City Manager Evaluation Kickoff: HR Director Rob Vaughn presented the process for the 2024 review of City Manager Eric King. Council will solicit feedback from direct reports and hold a discussion on June 5, 2024. - Proclamations: Council proclaimed Public Works Week (May 19-25), Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May), and National Preservation Month (May). - Council Reports: Councilors provided updates on the Greg Colburn housing event, committee meetings, attendance at local events, and upcoming Pride festivities.