Question from Bob
I think most people agree we need affordable housing for people in our community. The thing that concerns me, and every other person I've met with, is what about the environment, infrastructure, availability of water, stress on our power grid and all the other issues that come with the overbuilding that's occurring now?
It seems that if we're going to factor in the quality of life for Bend citizens, we can't keep building and building like we're doing now. Most people move to Bend to get away from the big city feel, the traffic, crime and the loss of a tight knit community.
We currently have a city government that pretends to care but does nothing to address these issues.
How would you address this as I know these are the biggest concerns of the people living in Bend now.
Bernadette's Response
Hi Bob,
Thank you for the thoughtful question.
Yes, this is top of mind for many Bend residents, myself included.
In a nutshell, Bend needs to use accurate forecasting numbers to determine the right amount, type, and placement for new construction. Current projections are based off of outdated numbers, instead of using the most recent and steady projections.
Bend needs to conduct its own housing needs analysis, City Hall needs to collaborate with residents to determine the types and placement of new developments / construction, we also need to look at having a development code that requires a mix of housing that encourages prosperity and encourages the kind of community we know Bend to be, instead of massive apartment complexes that have high vacancy rates and create the problems you mentioned.
I don't have all of the answers, but if I am elected I will collaborate with experienced teams and planners, as well as engage with the community to determine what is right for Bend, and how to make it happen effectively and thoughtfully.
I will be diligent about measuring effectiveness and making that data available to every resident.