The Urban Growth Boundary Steering Committee composed of county commissioner Tony DeBone, Bend City Council, and two members of the planning commission, along with input from the community, reached a decision to move forward with the 2.1 Urban Boundary Growth Scenario with modifications. But before the scenario can be officially adopted, it has to be approved by the state.
Councilor Nathan Boddie says the state kicked back a proposed scenario a number of years ago because the proposed UGB recommended expanding on a very large scale. The UGB has to follow certain land use rules mandated by the state and the City has to prove that it needs the land, according to Boddie. A series of planning meetings to revise the scenario to include the finalized boundaries will take place before the plan is officially submitted to the state, says Boddie. He says scenario 2.1 is the best choice. "It's the working end of how we'll make Bend more affordable."
Outdoor burning season began on Oct. 24 and the City of Bend Fire Department is reminding Bend residents of burning regulations. Debris burning is not allowed in the city limits; however, recreational fires are permitted as long as fire safety regulations are followed. It's a good idea to check the Bend Fire Department's website to see where and when you are allowed to burn. Before burning, consider high winds, make sure you have a shovel and a hose, and be sure to extinguish fires completely before leaving the property. All regulations can be found at bendoregon.gov/burninginfo.
Reed Market Road and Bend Parkway off ramps will be closed through Oct. 31 from 7 pm to 6 am. Silver Lake Boulevard between Garfield Avenue and Reed Lane is closed for road improvements through Nov. 6
Deschutes County is reminding people to monitor their sprinklers to ensure water isn't being sprayed onto sidewalks and into bike lanes. Once freezing weather occurs icy pedestrian lanes can create potential hazards.
Bend City Councilor Campbell proposed an ordinance, which would require landlords to provide renters with a 90-day notice if their rent is set to increase. Portland City Council recently passed a similar ordinance. A work session for the affordable housing fee is scheduled for Nov. 4.
