City Council Business Meeting - 2/4/26 6:00pm

The City of Bend, Oregon City Council held a business meeting on February 4, 2026, which included extensive public testimony primarily focused on the proposed climate impact fee related to natural gas appliance electrification. The council heard from various stakeholders including local residents, union representatives, business leaders, and environmental advocates, with opinions divided on the economic and environmental impacts of the fee. The meeting also featured a presentation and unanimous approval of a contract with Neighbor Impact for utility assistance third-party services, totaling $52,342 initially and up to $261,710 over five years. Additionally, the council authorized the city manager to issue notices of termination to current solid waste collection franchise holders to initiate a six-year wind-down period, aiming to transition to a regional solid waste management approach with new franchise agreements. The council received a detailed presentation on the city's economic development strategic plan, emphasizing business retention, growth, and inclusive prosperity, and discussed transportation infrastructure projects including eminent domain authorization for a roundabout construction. The meeting concluded with updates on city economic performance and infrastructure projects.