Author: KTVZ

Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Arnold Irrigation District is wrapping up one of its best water seasons in years in a bit tricky fashion, as it works to balance the system of canals and pipelines while some patrons ask to stop water deliveries early. 

In a letter sent this week to the district’s 600 or so patrons, mostly in southeast Bend, Board President Bob Schuur said they are “experiencing an unusual challenge we have not encountered in many years.” 

“A significant number of patrons have requested to discontinue irrigation water delveries,” Schuur wrote. “While these requests are understandable, they have begun to affect our ability to effectively serve those who still require water.” 

Schuur explained that the delivery system as configured “depends on a consistent flow to operate efficiently. When too many turnouts are closed, the system struggles to deliver the correct volume of water to remaining users.” 

With lower needed volume or pressure, some patrons might receive less water than expected, or even none at all. But increasing water flow to ensure delivery risks flooding at the ends of the system where shutoffs have occurred, and Schuur said that “is a risk the district cannot take.”

Balancing it out “is becoming increasingly difficult,” he said, so they might have to conclude the irrigation season and halt water deliveries earlier than the originally scheduled end date of Friday, October 17th. 

Schuur tells us they haven’t been in this situation since before 2020, because drought conditions meant “there wasn’t water to distribute” this late into the year. 

But thanks to last winter’s healthy snowpack, “It’s a good year,” he said. “We’re really quite pleased with how things have gone this year.”

“When it starts to get cold, lots of farmers say, ‘Hey, I’m not going to get any growth, I’m going to shut my water off.” The system needs a certain amount of water(flowing through it) to function properly.” 

“Our goal remains to run until the 17th,” Schuur said. 

Meanwhile, the district is about halfway through its project to pipe 12 miles of its main canal. 

Click here to follow the original article.

KTVZ

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Hayden Homes has announced the grand opening of its new Support Center in Redmond, marking what it calls “a significant and continued investment in the Redmond community and in the company’s mission to expand affordable homeownership opportunities across the Northwest.”

Here’s the rest of the Hayden Homes announcement we received Thursday:

The company held a community celebration at the new Support Center across from the Redmond Airport in September that welcomed neighbors, community members, and business leaders to tour the space, connect with the Hayden Homes team, and enjoy an afternoon of food, drinks, and giveaways.

More than 150 attendees joined the event, underscoring the value of the new Support Center to Redmond’s continued growth and the partnerships that Hayden Homes has built throughout the region.

“Our new Support Center is more than just a building—it’s a new home base for our company and a promise to our community,” said Steve Klingman, president of Hayden Homes. “As a certified Great Place to Work, we are proud to provide a space where our team and culture can thrive. This facility also demonstrates our investment in local jobs, our dedication to regional partnerships, and our ongoing efforts to live out our Give As You Go™ philosophy.

“This place will help us expand opportunities and strengthen our long-standing support for the communities and hardworking families we are honored to serve throughout the Northwest.”

The grand opening served as a powerful reminder of where it all began and a celebration of the legacy that continues to shape the company.

Since 1989, when Bob and Virginia Watson founded Hayden Homes, the company has grown across the Northwest—yet it all started in a humble 1,000-square-foot model home on 33rd Street in the Hayden Village community of Redmond.

From those early days, Bob and Virginia envisioned a company rooted in the belief that you should always give more than you get. That guiding principle has fueled our commitment to building not just homes, but a strong community where people can live fulfilled lives.

Since opening its doors, Hayden Homes has contributed $7.1 billion to local economies, has created more than 99,000 jobs and has given more than $80 million in charitable donations to the communities it serves.

“Hayden Homes’ renewed investment in Redmond and renovation of an existing industrial building exemplifies the kind of long-term economic development that REDI strives to facilitate,” said Steve Curley, director of Redmond Economic Development, Inc. (REDI). “When businesses launch and grow here in Redmond—as Hayden Homes has over three decades—these employers create lasting prosperity for our community.”

The new Support Center is a renovation of a former aircraft parts manufacturing facility and now includes offices and work spaces for more than 100 team members, a floating mezzanine level of meeting rooms and soaring floor-to-ceiling art installations championing the company’s Give As You Go™ story and the core values the company lives by.

Hayden Homes intends to use the facility to host partners, support relevant community events and for the company’s next 30 years of growth, and beyond.

The new Support Center is located at 250 SE Timber Ave. Redmond, OR 97756.

Click here to follow the original article.

KTVZ

Update: Adding video

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ)  — The Central Oregon Health Council announced Friday that the region’s health care partners have brought home about $23.5 million in bonus Medicaid funding for providing exceptional care to the communities they serve. 

Here’s the full Health Council announcement about the bonus funding:

This achievement reflects the outstanding performance of the Central Oregon CCO, PacificSource Community Solutions, aided by a regional network of Medicaid providers and clinics, the public health departments and the hospital system, in meeting the Oregon Health Authority’s Quality Incentive Measures (QIMs).

The QIMs are metrics designed to assess health care processes and outcomes, ensure that the state’s CCOs, or Coordinated Care Organizations, are serving members of the Oregon Health Plan well, and reward performance. CCOs can earn incentive payments by meeting or exceeding these annual benchmarks. 

OHA recently announced the 2024 incentive program results, and PacificSource met 13 of 15 QIMs to achieve a 100% payout, as well as 4 of 4 challenge pool metrics, earning $23.5 million.

These funds will be distributed to participating health care providers, awarded to social service organizations that contribute to expanding access or closing care gaps, and used to support providers and innovative programs that continue to advance quality care. 

For years, COHC has coordinated a monthly Central Oregon QIMs Workgroup, bringing together hard-working health care partners to collaborate on strategies and share best practices to improve the delivery of care.

These efforts have helped Central Oregon to achieve ambitious performance benchmarks, which also align with the Regional Health Improvement Plan and its focus on improving access to and quality of healthcare. 

“We should celebrate our health care providers — primary care and behavioral health providers, dental teams — they achieved 100% of the goal because of the quality care they provided to the Medicaid population,” said MaCayla Arsenault, COHC’s Director of Quality. “This means around $23.5 million coming back to the region to continually improve services, enhance quality of care, and support our communities.” 

About the Central Oregon Health Council The Central Oregon Health Council (COHC) is a nonprofit organization working to improve health outcomes and equity across Central Oregon through collaboration with health care and community partners to identify needs, coordinate solutions, and develop projects and programs that advance the goals of the Regional Health Improvement Plan. 

Click here to follow the original article.

Claire Elmer

(Update: adding interview with CRR resident, comments from community meeting, video)

CROOKED RIVER RANCH, Ore. (KTVZ) — Jefferson County leaders are reviewing a proposed ordinance that would allow ATVs on designated roads in Crooked River Ranch, sparking a community-wide conversation about safety, lifestyle, and the future of their neighborhood.

The proposal to permit ATVs on specific roads has divided Crooked River Ranch residents. Some value the neighborhood’s quiet, peaceful environment and worry that allowing ATVs will increase noise, traffic and safety concerns.

“It’s troubling that their road to happiness drives over peace and quiet. Why should they have that right?” expressed one concerned resident, reflecting fears of disruption.

Opponents highlight that under current Oregon law (ORS 821.190), it is unlawful to operate ATVs, UTVs or minibikes on public roads open to motor vehicle traffic, unless specifically authorized.

Jefferson County Sheriff Jason Pollock issued a community notice, emphasizing that currently no county ordinance permits ATV use on these roads and that reckless or illegal ATV use would still be subject to citation. At a community meeting, he stated, “Even if the ordinance was to pass, that still doesn’t give people the legal right to ride recklessly, tear up roads, or run people off the road.”

Steve McCann, a Crooked River Ranch resident, voiced both his concerns and admiration for the way community members are handling the debate.

“I’m afraid the Crooked River Ranch could become a destination for ATVs, and it would impact the quality of life of the people that live out here. It would also impact the people who have horses out here,” McCann said.

He also made clear, “ATVs circulating is one thing. Getting more control and law enforcement out here is another thing. They are not related at all. You cannot circulate with ATVs, and that is the law. And it will continue to be the law, until there is an ordinance – if there is an ordinance.”

Despite the passionate arguments on both sides, McCann said, “I’ve been very impressed. Everybody seems to have patience for the other person and their opinions.”

Conversely, ATV proponents emphasize that the ordinance would bring clarity and order to ATV use, which they say already happens unofficially. Supporters say they believe the ordinance could enhance safety by setting clear rules and ensuring responsible riding.

“Give it a chance,” one resident said. “Give the people a chance to see that this ugly, red-headed step-dragon is not the case. And it will work, and it’ll be beneficial to all.”

Another ranch resident echoed that sentiment, saying, “Nobody wants it louder. Nobody wants criminal activity. The ATV group especially doesn’t want that.”

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office stressed that the ordinance would not legalize unsafe behavior and that riders must still follow laws to avoid damage and danger on the roads. Violating roadway protection rules could result in citations or enforcement under reckless driving or criminal mischief charges.

They said residents should expect citations if they operate ATVs on roads without authorization at present. If an ordinance is adopted, the public will be informed beforehand.

The Crooked River Ranch ATV Riders group highlights their positive role in the community beyond recreation. They have contributed volunteer efforts such as building and maintaining local memorials, organizing wellness and emergency checks, delivering groceries and medical supplies, helping with snow removal for medical patients, and supporting local emergency services and organizations.

Currently, ATVs are still not allowed on Crooked River Ranch roads, but the Jefferson County Board of Commissioners is considering a draft ordinance that includes a sunset clause, allowing it to be revoked within 24 hours if problems arise.

Community feedback has been strong and divided, with many residents encouraging respectful dialogue and patience as leaders carefully evaluate the proposal. Officials say they’ll take into account the straw poll that was conducted, which reflected 675 votes opposed to the ordinance and 489 votes in support.

Both sides agree on the importance of preserving community safety, quality of life, and mutual respect as this dialogue continues, with many residents and leaders commending the patience and respect shown throughout the process.

Jefferson County residents interested in questions or concerns about ATV use are encouraged to reach out to the sheriff’s office for clarification and guidance on what is legally allowed.

A freelance news group, Ranch Matters CRR, LLC., has been covering the ordinance and community meetings extensively since the matter first arose months ago.

KTVZ News will continue following this issue, as the county decides how to balance access and preservation for Crooked River Ranch.

Earlier Story — October 13th — CROOKED RIVER RANCH, Ore. (KTVZ) — Jefferson County officials are considering new rules that could open certain Crooked River Ranch roads to all-terrain vehicles (ATVs).  

The proposal aims to improve access for local riders while also tackling ongoing safety and noise concerns in the community. 

County leaders — including the Board of Commissioners, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Crooked River Ranch Special Road District — have collaborated on a draft ordinance that would authorize limited ATV use.  

The measure could introduce a trial period with a built-in sunset clause, allowing officials to assess the program’s impact before deciding whether to make it permanent. 

Reaction from residents has been mixed. Some locals support the idea, saying it would enhance mobility and outdoor recreation.  

Others have voiced worries about potential noise disturbances, accidents, and conflicts with existing road policies.  

Public discussions on social media and at recent meetings have revealed a community divided on whether the benefits outweigh the risks. 

The Crooked River Ranch Special Road District will review the draft proposal Monday, October 13, at 6 p.m.  

The meeting will be held in the Juniper Room in Terrebonne and is open to the public. 

Click here to follow the original article.

KTVZ – News Team

CENTRAL OREGON (KTVZ) — Happening this Saturday, October 18th, there are two ‘No Kings’ rallies planned: One in Bend and another in Prineville.

In Bend, the day will kick off at Drake Park. Indivisible Bend has joined with 50501 Central Oregon to sponsor the ‘No Kings 2.0’ event. Plans include an hour of music and inspirational speakers from 2:00-3:00 p.m. followed by a rally at Peace Corner from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m.

In Prineville, the rally is slated from Noon to 1 p.m. at Pioneer Park.

These ‘No Kings’ events are happening nationwide this weekend.

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

Update: Adding video

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The City of Redmond has scheduled paving next week of the final section of the Reservoir Drive Improvement project between SW 39th and SW 43rd Street.

The Work will occur October 15 through October 17 (weather permitting)., the city said in a news release Friday that continues in full below:

Due to the nature of the work, a full closure is required, and flaggers will be directing traffic.   Drivers are asked to avoid traveling in the area, as there has been a significant uptick of commuters cutting through the construction zones which may cause project delays.   

Reservoir Drive is scheduled to fully reopen October 31.  

“Phase 2 of the Reservoir Drive Improvement Project has been underway since April, and we are excited to see the newly constructed road and infrastructure improvements nearing completion,” states Redmond Principal Engineer Jake Sherman. 

Reservoir Drive Phase 2 Detour Map (City of Redmond)

The Reservoir Drive Improvement Project included the installation of new pavement, curbs, sidewalks, bike lanes, waterlines, storm collection systems, and sewer lines. These improvements were designed to bring this older street section up to current City standards, ensuring a safer and more efficient roadway for all users. 

Reservoir Drive Improvement project details, status updates and necessary detours are available on the project website at www.redmondoregon.gov/reservoirdrive. 

For more information about the Reservoir Drive project, visit the website at www.redmondoregon.gov/reservoirdrive or contact City of Redmond Principal Engineer Jake Sherman at (541) 504-2019 or by email: jake.sherman@redmondoregon.gov. 

Click here to follow the original article.

Barney Lerten

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) — A small electrical fire damaged a Sisters home Monday morning and brought a reminder from officials on checking those smoke alarms when our clocks “fall back” in coming weeks.

Shortly before 7 a.m., Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District crews were dispatched to a report of a residential structure fire in the 100 block of North Cowboy Street, Deputy Chief Tim Craig said. 

Crews from Sisters-Camp Sherman, Black Butte Ranch, and Cloverdale fire districts were dispatched to the scene.

The shift commander, Captain Pat Burke, quickly found that the fire was isolated to an exterior outlet on the side of the home. Burke said his engine crew could handle the issue, so other crews went back into service.

The fire resulted in damage to the exterior siding and one window of the home, Craig said.

SCSFD personnel used power tools to open the exterior wall, to ensure the fire had not spread. Crews also isolated the electrical service to the home until an electrician could be contacted to ensure the home would be safe to re-energize.  

“SCSFD would like to thank the Black Butte Ranch and Cloverdale Fire Districts for their continued partnership and response to this incident,” Craig said in a news release. 

Craig told KTVZ News that the home’s smoke alarms were not functioning, and did not go off.

“Reminder, it’s almost time to set clocks back,” he said. “That means it’s also time to check your smoke alarms. Working smoke alarms save lives! 

Click here to follow the original article.

Claire Elmer

(Update: Adding video)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — After 27 years in business, Spa W — a downtown Bend favorite known for its massages, facials, and tranquil atmosphere — has suddenly closed its doors, leaving both employees and customers stunned.

Former staff say they received no warning about the closure.

“She didn’t give anyone notice,” said former employee Angel Farrington. “Unfortunately, based on building conditions and the economy, she just was pushed into a corner and felt like that was her only choice.”

Farrington described the owner as deeply committed to the business, but struggling in recent months with mounting maintenance costs and declining revenue — challenges many small business owners face in a difficult economy.

“She loves this building. She loves this business. She’s put her heart and soul into it,” Farrington added. “Could she have handled it a little better? Yes. But I think she’s embarrassed. It’s a sad thing. It’s unfortunate, but it’s not personal. It’s business. And I wish people would understand that.”

For loyal customers, the closure came as both an emotional and financial blow. Many say they were left holding unredeemed Spa W gift cards with no way to use them.

“I think I had about $120 left on mine,” said former customer Kristin Brownfield. “I had just used it about three weeks ago. Nobody said anything about the spa closing at that time, or I would have used it all up. So it’s a big surprise.”

Brownfield said the lack of communication added to her frustration.

“They did it in the middle of the night — took down their webpage, removed signage, and vanished,” she said. “That’s where the anger comes in. It feels like stealing from people who had gift cards.”

According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), customers often have limited recourse when a business closes without notice.

“When they sell you a gift card, they’re promising it’s as good as cash in their store,” said Cameron Nakashima, Media Engagement Manager for the BBB. “There’s an ethical responsibility for a business to honor that. But once a company closes for good or files for bankruptcy, unfortunately, those gift cards aren’t really worth anything.”

One Bend business is offering a small gesture to those caught in the situation. Anjou Spa announced it is honoring 25% off services for anyone who presents an unused Spa W gift card. And for former Spa W clients without a gift card, they’re offering 10% off any service. 

The BBB also advises consumers to use gift cards sooner rather than later and to research businesses before making such purchases.

Spa W’s downtown location now sits dark, marking the end of an era for a spa that once served thousands of Central Oregonians seeking rest and renewal.

Earlier story — October 13 — BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A longtime downtown Bend spa has just closed its doors, to the surprise of many customers, citing years of economic challenges , rising costs and the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here’s the full statement posted to Spa W’s website:

“After 27 wonderful years, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closing of Spa W.

“This decision did not come easily. Serving Bend and Central Oregon has been a joy and true passion. We loved being your sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Each treatment, special conversations, your celebrations, and the trust you’ve placed in us to enhance your well-being has made this experience profoundly rewarding. It has been an honor to be part of your lives.

“Unfortunately, the economic hardships faced in recent years have taken a toll on Spa W. Rising costs and the lasting effects of the pandemic have proven to be a challenge we could not meet despite our very best efforts.

“We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and loyalty through the years. Though Spa W may be closing, the memories created will remain in our hearts forever.”

KTVZ News has reached out to the spa’s owner and is looking into concerns and questions that some customers upset by the short notice have about what will happen regarding their unused gift cards.

Click here to follow the original article.

KTVZ

The City of Bend’s Department of Public Works is in the process of moving into a new location that will finally bring all of its operations together on one site.

For years, the department’s offices have been scattered across different areas of Bend. Now, all five of its divisions — Engineering, Transportation and Mobility, Street Services, Water Services, and Fleet Services — will soon be working side by side in a single facility.

The new campus includes several buildings spread out across 35 acres off Talus Place. The move is happening gradually, with small groups of employees beginning to relocate as construction continues.

Public Works Director Mike Buettner said the move will eventually bring more than 200 staff members together at the site.

“We have over 200 staff from those five different departments that will be, eventually moving into this facility,” Buettner said. “Right now, it’s just our IT and our facility staff. In the coming weeks, our transportation and engineering staff move in, then water services, and then our fleet group moves in in late November.”

Although the new campus is not yet open to the public, the department says that won’t affect residents needing city services. Service requests can still be made over the phone or online, and billing operations will continue to run from offices downtown.

City officials hope to open the new Public Works campus to the public sometime early next year.

EARLIER REPORTING:

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — After a decade of planning and two years of construction, five City of Bend departments have just begun a multi-week process of moving to the new $130 million Public Works Campus at Juniper Ridge, on the northern edge of the city.

The funding came in part from sale of the previous public works campus on Boyd Acres Road, as well as Juniper Ridge property sales and planned issuance of long-term debt, to be repaid by the departments over time.

Here’s the city of Bend’s Monday announcement on the move-in details and schedule:

Bend’s Public Works departments (Engineering, Facilities, Fleet, Transportation & Mobility, and Water Services (formerly Utilities) have been dispersed in different locations across Bend, posing challenges to efficient collaboration. Existing buildings are at capacity and at the end of their useful lives.

City staff compared the costs of investing in existing facilities versus building a new one and determined that a new campus would be the best, cost-effective approach. Bringing together these departments will reduce annual maintenance requirements and allow for better coordination and efficiencies.

In 2018, the City began searching for a location that could house the needed departments and associated equipment. In 2021, the Bend City Council approved an area within Juniper Ridge for the new Public Works Campus. The City already owned land there, which saved money by avoiding additional property acquisition. It was also part of a strategy to spur development in the area. 

“This move culminates years of planning and includes moving approximately 250 employees and all the vehicles, equipment and materials associated with their work,” said Facilities Architect and Project Manager Jo Wells.

“In line with Council goals around sustainability and reducing the City’s overall carbon footprint, the campus incorporates a number of sustainability strategies. The facility is powered 100% by electricity and will incorporate enough solar power to balance out its power use.”

Groups of employees will be moving in phases through Nov. 17.

Water Services Billing will not be interrupted during this move. Billing offices will remain downtown at 639 NW Franklin Ave. Bend, OR 97703, open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday, and can be reached at 541-388-5515.

While departments are moving, drop-in customers accustomed to visiting Transportation & Mobility and Water Services departments will be unable to visit those offices in-person for a short period of time.

The Transportation and Mobility Department on NE 15th Street will close its doors to walk-in visitors starting Monday, Oct. 13; Water Services on Boyd Acres Road will close its doors to walk-in visitors starting Oct. 27. Staff anticipate being ready to accommodate individual drop-in customers at the front desk of the new Public Works Campus 21051 NE Talus Place by Nov. 10.

During this period of time, walk-in customers seeking information about backflow tests, permits or meter boxes or other questions can visit the billing office at 639 NW Franklin Ave. Bend, OR 97703 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.  Customers can also always submit questions or reports online through the City’s online service request system: bendoregon.gov/bend-works.

“Thank you for your patience with our services during this phased-in move,” said the City’s new Public Works Director Mike Buettner, formerly the City’s Water Services Director. “I’m excited to see our departments collocate for better coordination and efficiency. This new campus positions us to continue to provide crucial, core public services, including transportation, water services and fleet management well into the future.”

A public Open House will be planned in the spring, in conjunction with Art in Public Places, which has worked with the City on the selection of artists commissioned to create art for the campus. Per City Code, the City of Bend dedicates one percent (1%) of the total eligible costs of improvement projects to public art.

Click here to follow the original article.

KTVZ

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — A Portland man suffered a severe arm injury in an ATV rollover crash on Sunday at Walton Lake Sno-Park, an official said.

Deputies were dispatched around 11:15 a.m. Sunday to the reported ATV crash in the gravel pit at the sno-park, located on the Ochoco National Forest about 15 miles east of Prineville, Crook County Undersheriff Bill Elliott said in a news release.

When deputies arrived on the scene, they found a Polaris side-by-side that was lying on its top. 

The driver, a 32-year-old Portland man, had accelerated the ATV and began losing control, Elliott said.

“The ATV fishtailed in an arc until it rolled once, landing on its top,” the undersheriff said. “The driver’s arm was stuck under the ATV, causing severe injury to his left arm.”

A juvenile passenger in the vehicle was not injured. 

Crook County Fire and Rescue arrived and provided medical care until Air Life could land and take the driver to the hospital.

Elliott added, “There were no signs of drug or alcohol use during this incident, and everyone in the ATV was wearing a seat belt.”

Click here to follow the original article.