City Council Work Session - 1/14/2025 - 4:00 PM

The City of Bend Oregon City Council held a work session on January 14, 2025, focusing primarily on commercial development strategies and the Temporary Safe Sleeping Area (TSSA) related to homelessness management. The council discussed legislative advocacy concerning Senate Bill 8, which mandates affordable housing in commercial zones, and explored potential amendments to balance affordable housing needs with preserving commercial land for neighborhood services. They reviewed ongoing market analyses, code cleanup efforts, and possible incentive programs to activate commercial development, particularly neighborhood-serving businesses. Additionally, the council addressed the TSSA operations, including funding challenges, service provision, and the proposed extension of the TSSA closure deadline beyond December 31, 2026, seeking county partnership for cost-sharing. Financial considerations for shelter operations, permanent supportive housing, and safe parking programs were also discussed, with emphasis on sustainable funding sources and collaboration with stakeholders to mitigate homelessness while supporting community safety and development goals.