Your trusted source for local Bend, OR news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Pacific Power is deploying crews from various locations in the Northwest to assist Georgia Power in restoring electricity following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. The response includes personnel and equipment from regions across Oregon and Washington, highlighting the collaborative effort in emergency situations.
The Weekly Road and Traffic Report for October 4 – 13 informs residents of significant road closures due to the Bend Fall Festival and ongoing infrastructure projects, helping them stay updated on traffic impacts in the city.
Open burning remains prohibited in the Black Butte Ranch, Cloverdale, and Sisters-Camp Sherman fire districts due to ongoing dry conditions and warm temperatures, as announced by local fire officials. Central Oregon fire chiefs plan to reassess the situation in mid-October, potentially allowing open burning if conditions improve.
Kerry Backsen, a farmer and business owner near Culver, is optimistic about receiving an $822,000 grant from the USDA to help transition his farm to solar energy. The grant will support his efforts in sustainable farming and energy use, reflecting a growing trend towards renewable energy in agriculture.
A pickup driver crashed into a power pole on southbound Highway 97 in Madras, resulting in downed lines and necessitating a detour for several hours. The incident occurred early Thursday morning, and repairs were underway as a crew worked to replace the damaged pole.
Bend city councilors have unanimously approved a resolution committing to building all new or significantly renovated city-owned buildings with pollution-free electric equipment, advancing their Community Climate Action Plan. This decision reflects the community's growing support for environmental initiatives and aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
A Redmond family living in the RedPoint apartments claims they are facing eviction threats from management due to their complaints about necessary repairs. The family's situation highlights ongoing issues with apartment maintenance and tenant rights.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has awarded over $822,000 to Haystack Farm and Feeds in Culver, Oregon, as part of a $104 million grant initiative aimed at promoting clean energy systems for farmers and small businesses. This funding is part of the Rural Energy for America Program, which supports renewable energy projects across the country.
Deschutes County commissioners voted 2-1 to adopt a revised version of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan after extensive community outreach and planning over the past 2.5 years. The decision reflects a significant step in local governance and urban planning for the region. Commissioner Patti Adair and Commissioner Tony DeBone supported the plan while Commissioner Phil Chang opposed it.
Aspen Ridge Memory Care in Bend has been flagged for putting residents in "immediate jeopardy condition" by the Oregon Department of Human Services following a tragic death of a resident. An ex-worker reported significant neglect within the facility, prompting calls for stricter staffing regulations.