Tracy Williams

The commission held a quasi-judicial public hearing to review a major historic alteration application for a residential property, which included the construction of a 209-square-foot addition. The application was approved with three staff-recommended conditions and three additional conditions regarding material submittal for the driveway and front pathway, the potential use of lava rock veneer for the foundation, and the preservation of existing window proportions. Additionally, commissioners discussed interest in hosting informational meetings to assist neighborhood residents with the design and application process and requested updates from the Engineering and Public Works departments regarding previous modal filter presentations.

The commission held a work session regarding text amendments to the municipal and development codes to implement state laws for streamlining housing production. A public hearing was conducted for the Gilchrist Pedestrian Bridge Replacement project, resulting in its approval. Additionally, the commission held a hearing on the Stevens Ranch Master Plan Amendment, which was continued to a future date to allow for further review and testimony.

This Strategic Investment Plan details the Bend Urban Renewal Agency's approach to implementing its urban renewal strategy from 2026 to 2030. It outlines initiatives across three core districts – Core Area, Murphy Crossing, and Juniper Ridge – to support housing, commercial, entrepreneurial development, and district beautification. Key strategic priorities include fostering vibrancy, stimulating market activity, leveraging resources, revitalizing legacy retail, promoting green spaces, enhancing housing affordability, repositioning for long-term growth, and improving public infrastructure systems. The plan aims to achieve specific outcomes, including the creation of 500 jobs and 1,000 multifamily housing units by 2030.

The board received an update from the Mayor Pro Tem regarding city council activities, including climate fee discussions, infrastructure projects, and housing statistics. The board reviewed and approved the Visit Bend annual business plan and budget after discussing tourism impacts, grant programs, and the balance between visitor growth and community needs. A presentation on employment land site readiness highlighted challenges in developing industrial land, specifically regarding infrastructure and tree preservation codes, resulting in a recommendation for council to expedite options to improve site readiness.

The City Council approved contracts for the neighborhood street safety program and a construction contract for a new roundabout. Budget adjustments for the 2025-2027 biennial cycle were authorized, including staffing changes and public safety funding. Additionally, the Council approved a climate pollution fee for new residential construction, discussed potential future locations for City Hall, reviewed the Downtown Bend Business Association’s annual business plan, and approved the 2027 business plan for Visit Bend. Proclamations were also issued to recognize Pride Month and National Gun Violence Awareness Day.