Core Area Advisory Board Meeting - 10/29/26 - 3:00 PM

The City of Bend Core Area Advisory Board met October 29, 2026. The board discussed how to balance the Bend Urban Renewal Agency’s property-acquisition and development-incentive resources. Staff reported about $5.3 million budgeted for incentives and $700,000 for acquisition, with roughly $8.9 million in projected tax increment over five years. Potential acquisitions could cost approximately $2.8–$3.2 million, while one currently marketed property was cited at $8.9 million. Members discussed reserving flexible funds for strategic opportunities, applying established priority criteria, and requiring a clear plan and timeline for any publicly acquired property. Staff noted that prevailing-wage requirements may constrain some incentive programs; no budget decision or formal vote was recorded.

Rooted Homes presented a proposed mixed-use, permanently affordable homeownership project and requested inclusion of its site in the Bend Central District. Members expressed interest, while raising boundary and precedent considerations; staff will present pros and cons at the November meeting before any recommendation to the urban renewal agency. The board also reviewed the proposed scope for a Bend Central District concept plan, including design standards, transportation and public-space planning, city-owned properties, and extensive community and property-owner engagement. Staff is targeting consultant selection and project kickoff in spring 2027; no contract award was reported. A feasibility study by Hunden on potential large-venue development was also described as underway. No procurement award or spending motion was identified.