Local and state policy changes, land use, environmental regulation and funding decisions

Central Oregon is actively shaping its future through a series of policy initiatives, land use decisions, and environmental regulations aimed at balancing growth, conservation, safety, and community resilience. Recent developments highlight both the region’s commitment to environmental stewardship and the challenges posed by economic and climate pressures.

State and Local Policy Initiatives on Guns, Gas, Forests, and Schools

Public safety and community well-being remain at the forefront of local policy efforts. The City of Bend is moving forward with ordinances to prohibit concealed carry in certain city buildings, aiming to enhance safety in government spaces. Additionally, the city plans to install traffic enforcement cameras at key intersections in the coming weeks to improve traffic safety, especially during winter conditions.

In response to regional dependencies and disruptions, gas prices spiked following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline, underscoring the need for resilient energy networks. The Bend City Council is also considering policies that affect new construction, such as a gas fee plan targeting natural gas appliances in new homes, reflecting an environmental and economic strategy to reduce fossil fuel reliance.

Land use policies are also evolving. Notably, the Oregon Senate has advanced legislation to prevent the privatization of public lands, with a 17-11 vote in favor. This move reaffirms community and state commitment to protecting natural resources from potential privatization threats.

School and health policies are addressing broader social resilience. A notable example is a state program providing $1,000 monthly support to a Bend mother experiencing homelessness, illustrating efforts to address housing insecurity and social issues at the community level.

Public Lands Protection, Solar Siting, and Urban Growth Planning

Environmental conservation remains a critical priority amid regional development pressures. A significant regional development was the withdrawal of a proposed 700-megawatt solar project near Redmond by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Covering approximately 4,037 acres of federal land, this project faced community concerns and ecological considerations, illustrating the ongoing tension between expanding renewable energy capacity and conserving natural landscapes. This decision underscores a regional prioritization of sustainable development over large-scale land exploitation.

Meanwhile, tribal-led renewable energy projects are gaining momentum. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have secured over $1 million in federal funding to develop solar power and battery storage projects, promoting tribal energy independence and resilience.

Land use planning also involves managing urban growth sustainably. For example, the reopening of Olney Avenue in Bend has improved traffic flow around outdoor recreation hubs, easing congestion and supporting urban development. The city is also planning to install traffic cameras at key intersections to bolster safety amid increasing population and activity.

In terms of public lands, legislation to protect these lands from privatization continues to be a priority, with recent legislative advances signaling regional and statewide commitment to ecological preservation.

Environmental Management and Wildfire Resilience

Given the region’s susceptibility to wildfires, efforts to reduce wildfire risk are ongoing. Prescribed burns at Skull Hollow and Crooked River Grassland aim to lower fuel loads, while firebreak expansion and juniper thinning in Dry Canyon, Redmond are designed to mitigate wildfire threats amid persistent drought conditions.

Post-fire ecological recovery efforts are also underway at Priday Ranch, where volunteers recently removed old fencing and planted native species following the Cram Fire. Community engagement continues through wildfire preparedness sessions, such as the upcoming March 9 event in Terrebonne.

Environmental challenges are compounded by weather variability. Recent tornado warnings have prompted increased investments in fire and flood preparedness, especially around critical infrastructure like Tumalo Reservoir, which faces heightened risks due to atmospheric river events and heavy mountain snowpack expected in spring 2026.

Conclusion

Central Oregon’s approach to land use and environmental regulation reflects a careful balance between promoting renewable energy and safeguarding natural landscapes. The withdrawal of the BLM solar project demonstrates regional caution, emphasizing sustainable development and ecological integrity. Meanwhile, ongoing wildfire mitigation, flood resilience planning, and community safety initiatives are vital as climate variability introduces new challenges.

Through collaborative policy-making and community involvement, Central Oregon aims to build a resilient future—one that harmonizes ecological health, public safety, and sustainable growth. Residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and participate in these ongoing efforts to ensure the region’s long-term sustainability and vitality.