Bend, Oregon Development News

City Council Reviews Housing Goals Progress, Faces Shelter Funding Cliff, and Explores Juniper Ridge Development

The council reviewed the city's progress on housing goals, noting that while overall housing production targets might be met, the specific goals for affordable and middle housing are unlikely to be achieved within the current biennium. The discussion highlighted market trends, permit timelines, and the impact of funding availability and policy changes on development. Several studies and data analyses were presented to inform the council about current housing needs, market dynamics, and the effectiveness of existing policies. The council also discussed potential future strategies, including exploring new housing models and improving the permitting process. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around the proposed development of affordable housing on city-owned land in Juniper Ridge and the challenges and opportunities associated with it, including potential permanent supportive housing components. Additionally, the critical issue of maintaining shelter capacity due to declining state and federal funding was addressed, with a focus on the impending closure of the Franklin Avenue shelter and the need for sustainable funding solutions. The Juniper Ridge development, in particular, aims to address these needs by potentially offering affordable housing and exploring the feasibility of permanent supportive housing, while also considering the concerns of existing residents and businesses.