Planning Commission Meeting - 1/26/2026 - 5:30 PM

The City of Bend, Oregon Planning Commission held a meeting on January 26, 2026, focusing primarily on updates and planning related to the city's comprehensive growth plan and land use policies. Key procurement-related discussions included the intent to award a contract to Cascadia Partners and other consulting firms for assistance with the growth plan update, with contract approval anticipated by the city council in March 2026. The growth plan update involves multiple deliverables such as housing needs analysis, economic opportunities analysis, and transportation system plan updates, all aimed at meeting new state land use rules including climate-friendly and equitable community requirements. The commission also reviewed proposed amendments to the tree preservation code, including provisions for discretionary approval tracks and exemptions for smaller residential land divisions, with a unanimous vote recommending city council approval. The meeting included discussions on community engagement strategies for the growth plan, coordination with neighborhood districts, and upcoming work on neighborhood commercial development and code revisions. The commission emphasized the importance of integrated planning, public involvement, and adherence to state mandates in guiding Bend's growth and infrastructure investments over the next 20 years.