Bend City Council Business Meeting - 8/5/2026 5:00pm

The Bend City Council held a business meeting on August 5, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement actions included the approval of a progressive design-build contract with Stacy and Wickbeck Inc. for the Reed Market Bridge project, valued at approximately $5.2 million, funded primarily through federal grants and local bond funds. The council also authorized an agreement with Lonza of Bend, Inc. for a property tax exemption under the enterprise zone program to encourage capital investment and business growth. Additionally, the council approved the 2026 affordable housing fund recommendations, allocating $1 million to two projects focused on homeownership assistance and construction, including Habitat for Humanity's Bear Creek Village. The meeting also covered amendments to the Bend Development Code to implement state housing bills, streamlining middle housing development processes and updating standards. Urban renewal agency staff presented plans for new grant and loan programs aimed at supporting small businesses and commercial revitalization in the core area, Murphy Crossing, and Juniper Ridge, with a combined budget of over $15 million. These programs are designed to stimulate economic development, support business retention and expansion, and encourage sustainable improvements. No votes or motions were reported on the urban renewal programs during this meeting. Overall, the meeting focused on advancing infrastructure projects, housing affordability initiatives, and economic development incentives through contract awards, funding allocations, and code amendments.