City of Bend is changing utility, engineering department names to be more clear, simple - KTVZ

The City of Bend has made a significant decision to rename its Utility Department to "Water Services Department" and the Engineering and Infrastructure Planning Department to "Engineering Department," as announced on September 23, 2024. This change is aimed at fostering clarity and simplicity in how the city communicates the roles of these departments to its residents. The new title, "Water Services Department," explicitly indicates that the department oversees all aspects of water services, which residents may find more intuitive. By streamlining department names, the city hopes to enhance transparency and improve public understanding of the services available to them. The city government recognizes that clear communication is essential for effective governance and community engagement.

This renaming initiative reflects a broader trend among local governments to simplify bureaucratic terminology for better public comprehension. Officials emphasized that these changes are part of an ongoing effort to refine the city's operations and enhance service delivery. The move is expected to resonate positively with residents, as it aligns departmental functions more closely with community needs.