Environment and Climate Committee Meeting, August 13, 2026

The City of Bend, Oregon Environment and Climate Committee met on August 13, 2026, to discuss various environmental initiatives with a strong focus on procurement and funding related to climate action. Key procurement-related topics included the authorization of up to $8 million in GEO bond funds for transit-supportive capital projects and the launch of climate action partner and small business assistance grant programs, with application deadlines in September. The committee also engaged in an extensive discussion on the development of an electrification incentive program funded by a newly established climate pollution fee, expected to generate up to approximately $1 million annually. The program aims to encourage building electrification, with considerations on incentive levels, eligibility (new vs. existing construction, income tiers), and administrative costs. The committee planned further engagement with stakeholders, including builders and equity commissions, to refine the program before recommending it to the city council in early 2027. Additionally, the committee reviewed updates on waste materials management, including potential incentives for construction using upcycled materials and exploring construction waste diversion strategies. The meeting also addressed conflict of interest policies related to grant funding decisions and scheduled future meetings to continue deliberations on grants and electrification incentives.