09/02/2026 Board of County Commissioners Wednesday Meeting

The September 2, 2026 meeting of the Dashuites County Board of Commissioners included extensive discussions on land use and zoning applications, particularly focusing on two properties proposed for rezoning from Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) to Multiple Use Agricultural (MUA) or Rural Residential zones. The board reviewed detailed testimony and evidence regarding soil quality, agricultural viability, water rights, and compliance with state land use goals, including Goal 14 related to urban growth boundaries. The applicants proposed conditions limiting future subdivision to 10-acre minimum parcels to address legal concerns. Opposition from Central Oregon Land Watch emphasized preservation of agricultural land and compliance with planning goals. The board also discussed procedural matters including the record period for additional evidence and rebuttal. Additionally, the board considered a tax abatement request related to a geothermal energy project, discussing the potential economic impact, tax implications, and possible local benefit agreements for years four and five of the abatement period. Finally, the board approved an extension of a grant-funded behavioral health specialist position, noting its importance for homeless outreach and Medicaid billing. No final votes on the zoning applications were recorded during this session, but procedural steps for continued review were established.