Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bend public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in development
Tax Increment Assistance policy for housing affordability
Most roundtable participants backed exempting deed-restricted affordable housing from the fee, and several pushed to extend exemptions to middle housing up to 120% of Area Median Income. Climate advocates warned every exemption weakens the fee and worries about stranded gas assets hitting lower-income owners later.
Bend's eight-year housing need and safe harbors
Bend won't hit its middle housing goal (826 units) and likely won't hit its affordable housing goal (1,818) this biennium, as single-family applications have plateaued. Staff say the goals were always a stretch and are pushing on state funding, permitting efficiency, and helping smaller builders navigate review cycles.
Affordable housing progress at Summit area
Councilor Platt highlighted a Habitat for Humanity groundbreaking for affordable homes near an elementary school, prioritizing Bend-La Pine Schools staff.
Development Infrastructure Requirements
Final adoption of BMC Chapter 12.10 changes updates how the city charges developers for growth-related infrastructure.
Caldera Ranch growth boundary expansion
The council adopted the binding conceptual plan and UGB expansion for Caldera Ranch under SB 1537, despite neighbors raising wildfire, traffic and former mine-site safety concerns.
Hayden Homes Legacy Village financing request
The council advanced the 260-acre Legacy Village plan: at least 2,487 homes, nearly 24 acres of deed-restricted affordable housing, a 23-acre park, and commercial land. Councilor Franzosa's dissent centers on whether commercial actually gets built.
housing crisis / GIS technology
Bend is using GIS mapping to make smarter zoning and planning decisions as it grapples with a housing crisis. It’s behind-the-scenes tech that helps shape where homes get built—and that can affect housing costs over time. If you care about housing, this is worth watching.