City Council Work Session - 5/13/2026 - 4:00 PM

The City of Bend, Oregon held a City Council Work Session on May 13, 2026, focusing primarily on updates to the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) related to the geo bond and transportation funds. Key procurement discussions included project budget adjustments, grant awards such as a $32 million federal grant for the Reed Market overcrossing bridge, and potential reallocations of ODOT contribution funds totaling $17 million. The council reviewed various infrastructure projects including roundabouts, shared use paths, and bridge designs, with considerations for scope adjustments due to inflation and funding constraints. The council approved increasing the transportation fund allocation to $2 million over two years for the Drake Park footbridge replacement, with plans to seek additional grants. Additionally, the council discussed the upcoming transient lodging tax (TLT) legislation changes under House Bill 4148, directing staff to explore reallocations of the 1.4% tax increment and business resiliency grants, with plans to incorporate these considerations into the upcoming RFP for destination management services. No final decisions on tax rate increases were made, but the council emphasized the need for careful planning and coordination with Visit Bend and other stakeholders. The session concluded with an informational briefing on the upcoming fire season and community preparedness efforts.