Category: ktvz-local-news

Campbell Porter

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Deschutes Public Library announced today that the new Central Library in Bend will open to the public on May 11, 2026. Located at 61956 SE Santorini Street, the nearly 100,000-square-foot facility stands as the largest branch in the library district.

The opening follows nearly two years of construction after a May 2024 groundbreaking. Library officials stated the new building is necessary to accommodate the rapid population growth in Deschutes County.

“Bend’s last library was built more than 20 years ago, so it’s essential that our library system keeps pace with our county’s growth,” said Deschutes Public Library Director Todd Dunkelberg. “The Central Library, along with the new Redmond Library and remodeled neighborhood libraries, allows us to increase our services, resources and public meeting spaces.”

Even before the doors open to the public, drive-thru services for hold pick-ups and returns will begin on March 23, 2026. The drive-thru window will be available Monday through Saturday from noon to 6:00 p.m. Customers may also use a 24-hour book drop for books, DVDs and magazines. Starting March 23, those placing holds can select “Central DRIVE-THRU” as their preferred pick-up location.

The three-story building features a variety of specialized spaces for the community. The first floor includes multiple meeting rooms and a large community room, while the second floor is dedicated to a children’s discovery space designed for interactive play. The third floor contains the adult collection, a co-working area and a MakerSpace for creative projects. The lobby will also feature a Thump Coffee café, a first for the library district.

Library officials emphasized the importance of sustainability in the building’s design. Deschutes Public Library Dunkelberg said the facility was engineered to achieve LEED Platinum certification standards.

“It’s an all-electric building engineered to operate as an energy-independent facility,” Dunkelberg said. “We’ve also incorporated energy-efficient systems that will significantly reduce the building’s environmental footprint while helping ensure reliable library service for the community well into the future.”

With construction complete, the library has entered a preparation phase. Staff will spend the next several weeks undergoing training on the building’s new systems and layout.

“We’ve remodeled three libraries so far and built a new Redmond Library. We’ve learned that providing time to train staff and allowing them to get familiar with the new space is key to having a successful opening,” Dunkelberg said. “For the next six weeks or so we’ll focus on making sure everyone understands all the systems and processes that make this new, three-story building function.”

The Central Library will also showcase a collection of public art from various artists. A wooden sculpture titled “Juniper” by artist John Grade is installed over the main staircase. The building will eventually feature additional works from artists including Jason Graham, Sara Siestreem, Jeremy Okai Davis and Sarah More.

The project is part of a broader district-wide expansion funded by a bond measure supported by Deschutes County voters in November 2020. This initiative has already funded the remodeling of the La Pine, Sisters and Sunriver libraries, as well as the construction of the new Redmond Library.

The Downtown Bend Library will temporarily close to the public on April 11, 2026, as it begins the final renovation project of the 2020 bond measure. That branch is expected to reopen in spring 2027 once the renovation work is complete.

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KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Krista Appleby began her new role as the Deschutes County building official on March 10. She is responsible for ensuring construction projects in the county and the cities of La Pine and Sisters comply with Oregon statewide building codes.

As the building official, Appleby oversees plan reviews, permitting, and inspections for a variety of work. Her oversight includes projects ranging from residential home remodels to new commercial construction.

Appleby has worked within the Deschutes County Community Development Department since April 2017. During her tenure with the county, she served as a fire and life-safety commercial plans examiner and as a lead plans examiner. Most recently, she served as an assistant building official.

Before joining the county staff, Appleby worked for various architectural firms located in Montana, Ore. and Washington. She is a licensed architect in both Oregon and Washington and holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana.

Community Development Director Peter Gutowsky said Appleby was selected for the role following a recruitment process that included a large number of applicants. Gutowsky noted her existing professional network within the industry as a factor in her selection.

“Krista was selected from a highly competitive field of candidates. She has strong relationships with building officials in the region, Central Oregon Builders Association, and the State’s Building Codes Division, among others,” Gutowsky said.

Beyond her responsibilities with Deschutes County, Appleby maintains a leadership role in professional advocacy. She currently serves as the board president of the Oregon Building Officials Association.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding video, comments from committee member, Phil Chang)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — A new state committee aims to increase oversight of the Oregon Department of Transportation, as questions about the agency’s financial management take center stage in the broader debate over how to fund roads and infrastructure.

State leaders recently approved the creation of an Audit Accountability Committee, designed to ensure issues identified in audits are addressed — not just documented.

Deschutes County Commissioner Phil Chang, who will serve on the new committee, said the group will play a hands-on role in tracking whether ODOT follows through on recommended fixes.

“We, as the governing body for ODOT, will be able to press to make sure that things are getting done,” Chang said. “We will be overseeing that process of checking up on the different divisions of ODOT and whether they are acting upon the auditor’s findings or not.”

The move follows several high-profile audit findings, including one that revealed $1.1 billion was mis-timed in agency projections. It also comes as lawmakers and voters consider a controversial transportation funding proposal that could bring new taxes and fees for Oregonians.

“People don’t want to invest in an agency that they don’t think is running well and using their money well,” Chang said. “This highlights our commitment at ODOT to taking auditor findings very seriously and making the fixes that they recommend.”

While the new committee may not lead to immediate, visible changes on Oregon roads, leaders say it plays a key role in rebuilding public trust.

“What I hope this audit committee can do is help build trust that ODOT is catching issues and fixing them so that people feel more comfortable investing in our transportation system,” Chang said.

The committee is expected to begin reviewing audit progress in the coming months, as the statewide transportation funding debate continues.

After strong public pushback, the latest transportation funding proposal is now expected to go before voters in May.

Whether the new oversight effort will boost confidence in how taxpayer dollars are spent remains to be seen, but the future of transportation funding in Oregon may ultimately depend on it.

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Barney Lerten

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) – The owner of a property east of Bend had a valid burn permit, but Monday’s work burning ditches got away from them, sparking a fire that covered almost seven acres before it was stopped.

Bend Fire & Rescue crews were called around 3:40 p.m. to the escaped burn off the Powell Butte Highway, Bend Fire & Rescue Deputy Fire Marshal Dan Derlacki said.

“The owner was out burning his ditches when the wind carried the fire past his containment and started to spread,” Derlacki said.

Crews arrived and worked to stop the spread of the fire before it left the owner’s property.

Bend Fire was assisted by Alfalfa Fire, Oregon Department of Forestry and BLM fire crews, as well as Deschutes County sheriff’s deputies for traffic control.

Smoke from Monday’s escaped field burn could be seen for miles (View from Powell Butte ALERTWest/OHAZ/University of Oregon. courtesy of Watch Duty)

The fire was stopped on the owner’s property, at 6.6 acres, Derlacki said, and no damage to buildings or fences was found.

“The fire burning mostly pasture land, with a few trees, brush piles, and brush surrounding the fields burning as well,” the fire official said.

Derlacki said the land owners had a current burn permit for burning fields. They were out burning ditches this afternoon, but unfortunately didn’t have all the water they should have to be prepared.

“They were following all the other rules of the permit and had called in to ensure burning was open today,” he said. “With light winds predicted today, open burning was open today.”

Just last week, a 2-day-old burn pile that was believed to be out rekindled in strong winds northeast of Sisters and burned nearly two acres before firefighters contained it.

Derlacki noted that burning is typically open through May 31 each year for debris and field burning outside the Bend city limits.

But he added, “That date may be moved up if we continue with the dry spring weather. Burning can be shut down from day to day when winds are predicted above 20 mph. Burn permits are needed for field burning and for large piles. This permit includes a site visit to go over safe burning practices.”

In Monday’s case, Derlacki said, “The owner knows to have more water on hand for next year, if they choose to burn again.”

He told KTVZ News that “dry and windy conditions contribute to most escaped burns, as well as not having enough tools/water on hand in the event of an escape, or not prepping the area enough a head of time.”

The Bend fire official asked that anyone with questions about burning call their office at 541-322-6386 to schedule a site visit. He also stressed that debris burning is not allowed within the Bend city limits year-round, under city ordinance.

More information on burning regulations can be found on the Bend Fire website, www.bendoregon.gov/fire and by clicking on the Outdoor Burning Information tab. You can also always call the burn information line before you burn, at 541-322-6335.

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Barney Lerten

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) — Crook County announced Monday it’s proud to celebrate the completion of its first participants in the County College program, an initiative designed to give residents an inside look at how county government operates.

Through a series of classes, participants heard directly from county department heads about the services they provide, how departments are funded, and the day-to-day work that keeps county government running.

“The County College program was a great experience and gave me a much deeper understanding of how county government actually works,” said Jessica Barnes, one of the program’s graduates. “I’m grateful to Commissioner Seth Crawford and everyone involved for creating such a transparent and informative program.”

Graduate Pam Dykstra said the program was also valuable for local business owners.

“County College helped me better understand how county offices operate and the people behind the scenes who keep them running, ” Dykstra said. “The information has been incredibly valuable in my work as a realtor and will help make our businesses stronger by knowing where to go for resources.”

Graduate Julie Johnson said the program gave participants a new appreciation for county employees and the work they do.

“It was a great opportunity to learn about the inner workings of county departments and the hard-working people behind them,” Johnson said. “I came away impressed by the scope of work the county handles.”

County officials say the program reflects Crook County’s commitment to transparency, public education, and strengthening connections with the community.

Future sessions of County College are expected to be announced later this year, offering additional residents the opportunity to learn more about their local government. Apply now if you are interested in the next county college sessions https://www.crookcountyor.gov/1661/Crook-CountyCollege.

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KTVZ – News Team

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — BEAT Children’s Theatre is requesting handmade flower donations from the community for its upcoming production of “The Secret Garden” this May. The artwork will be used to decorate the stage at Open Space Event Studios and will later be featured in a silent auction to benefit the organization.

The play, adapted by Tim Kelly, uses the community-made flowers to represent growth and healing as the garden “blooms” on stage during each performance. The project is open to participants of all ages and skill levels to help create the visual landscape of the show.

Local artists and community members of all ages and experience levels are invited to contribute. The theater is accepting flowers made from any medium, including paper, fabric, ceramic, metal, crochet, painting, photography and illustration.

Each flower must follow specific size and weight guidelines to ensure they can be incorporated into the production. Submissions must be no more than two feet in diameter and weigh less than five pounds. Those wishing to contribute a piece heavier than five pounds are asked to contact theater officials in advance.

Visual guidelines for the project encourage the use of bright colors, though neon colors are not permitted. The theater also specified that no lights or electronic elements should be included in the handmade designs.

The flowers must be designed so they can be hung, mounted or placed directly on the stage. While the focus is on the flowers themselves, the theater will allow the minimal addition of leaves or greenery to the pieces.

The donated artwork will also serve a secondary purpose beyond stage decoration. Audience members will have the opportunity to bid on the flowers during a silent auction held throughout the run of the show. All proceeds from the auction will benefit BEAT Children’s Theatre.

The deadline for flower submissions is Friday, April 24. Donations can be dropped off at the BEAT Studio, located at 1080 SE Ninth Street, Suite 120, in Bend. Community members with questions or ideas that fall outside the provided guidelines can contact Executive Director Bree Beal.

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Claire Elmer

(Update: adding comments from local lawmaker, AAA)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Rising global tensions are continuing to drive up gas prices across the U.S., and Central Oregonians aren’t immune from feeling the impacts at the pump.

Recent conflict in the Middle East has disrupted key oil shipping routes, pushing up the global price of crude oil — the main ingredient in gasoline. Even though most of the U.S. oil supply comes from domestic sources and Canada, officials say Americans are still closely tied into the global market.

“There’s a lot of interdependence between India and Iran in their oil supply,” said State Representative Emerson Levy (D-Bend). “Our oil supply mostly is domestic, but we are still always tied to that per-barrel price. So whatever is happening in the world affects us at home, but it’s not necessarily our supply.”

Marie Dodds, director of government and public affairs for AAA Oregon and Idaho, expanded on the topic, noting any issue in a worldwide product supply can quickly translate to higher prices at local levels.

“Any time there’s a disruption in supplies in that global market, prices go up,” Dodds said. “Crude oil is that basic ingredient that goes into a gallon of gas or diesel. So when that cost of the main ingredient goes up, so do gas and oil prices when we go to our local gas station to fill up our tanks.”

The rising cost is being felt statewide, with limited options for immediate relief across both the country, and right here in Oregon.

“The majority of the cost that Oregonians are paying at the pump all goes back to the Iranian government cutting off ships being able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz,” Levy said. “It’s really difficult to pay higher costs when you’re already feeling the squeeze.”

With no clear end to the conflict, analysts warn drivers should prepare for more volatility in gas prices as ongoing instability could push prices even higher in the weeks ahead.

Earlier Story — BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Gas prices are still climbing quickly across the U.S., and right here in Oregon. Central Oregon drivers are not only feeling it in their wallets, but also talking more about politics at the pump.

According to GasBuddy, the average price for a gallon of gas in Oregon has jumped more than 30 cents in the past week, pushing the statewide average to about $4.41 per gallon. That’s nearly 80 cents higher than just one month ago.

In Central Oregon, prices are slightly lower but still elevated, averaging around $4.38 per gallon among our tri-county area. At the Parkway Chevron in southern Bend, regular gas was priced at $4.29 per gallon on Monday.

GasBuddy analysts point to global tensions and tight oil supplies as key factors behind the recent spike. Analysts warn prices could continue climbing in the weeks ahead if those pressures persist.

In Central Oregon, many say the increase has been sudden and hard to ignore.

“Everybody talks about how much it’s gone up,” said Ron Starkey, a gas attendant at Parkway Chevron. “It’s been, I don’t know, two or three weeks since it went from $3 to over $4. So people have definitely noticed.”

He added that customers are increasingly concerned about how rising fuel costs affect everyday expenses.

“They know that higher gas prices means that that’s higher prices for everything else,” Starkey said. “So they’re not happy – I mean, they’re not happy.”

Starkey said those frustrations are often turning into political discussions.

“There’s a lot there’s a lot of people that voted for Trump thinking that he was going to do the right thing, and they feel very disillusioned from what I’ve heard,” he said. “It’s all the same stuff that they fed to us when Bush went to war with Iraq. I don’t see how that really makes anything better.”

Not everyone sees it the same way. One viewer told KTVZ News via social media the increase was expected and expressed support for the current administration, saying she is “glad to finally have a transparent leader.”

With prices expected to remain high in coming weeks, a few ways to cut costs include signing up for loyalty or reward programs, use credit cards with cash back on gas purchases, and fill up when you notice lower prices, if possible. 

Earlier Story — CNN is reporting, global oil prices are rising again amid escalating tensions with Iran, a shift that is beginning to show up at the pump in Oregon and across Central Oregon.

On Sunday, crude oil prices climbed to their highest level since July 20–22. Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose nearly 3% to just over $106 a barrel. U.S. oil also increased, gaining about 2.6% to reach $101 a barrel.

The price jump follows comments from President Donald Trump suggesting the war with Iran could continue for several more weeks. Iran has been blocking oil tankers from moving through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route that carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply. Over the weekend, Trump called on the international community to help reopen the strait.

The global uncertainty is already affecting drivers closer to home. According to AAA, gas prices across Oregon have been climbing, with the statewide average for regular gasoline sitting around $4.46 per gallon.

In Bend, drivers are paying slightly more, with regular unleaded averaging about $4.47 per gallon. Analysts say if oil prices continue rising and shipping disruptions persist, prices at the pump could increase further in the coming weeks.

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Barney Lerten

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) – Spring break is almost here, and despite fast-rising gas prices, thousands of travelers will be flocking to places where they can get some sun and have some fun. And that means Bend and Central Oregon remain the region’s top travel destination, AAA Oregon/Idaho reports.

AAA Travel booking data reveals top destinations and trends as spring breakers prepare to travel throughout March and April. AAA says beaches, warm weather destinations, theme parks and cruising are the most popular for spring break 2026. AAA also offers tips to keep the vacation worry-free.

“Travel is a very personal choice, and for many, it’s vital to their overall quality of life. By taking some precautions, everyone can feel more at ease throughout the journey,” says Marie Dodds, public affairs director for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

Theme parks in Southern California and Florida are perennial favorites for families during spring break. The Disneyland Resort in Anaheim and Knotts Berry Farm are popular in the Los Angeles area. Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary with special shows and new additions to attractions. And in Florida, The Walt Disney World Resort and the Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando are top destinations.

Cruising continues to set records this year. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will take cruise vacations in 2026. Many families book cruises over Spring Break to get the most out of the week, with Caribbean itineraries departing from Florida, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas being the most popular.

Top international destinations for members of AAA Oregon/Idaho include Paris, Rome, Tokyo, London and Barcelona. These cities appeal to families looking for history and entertainment.

Good news for travelers planning to drive abroad: you can now apply for International Driving Permits online! AAA is one of only two official organizations authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue IDPs. While you can still apply in person at a AAA branch, you now have the option to use your smartphone to take a digital photo and complete the application online. Many countries require IDPs to rent a car and drive legally.

Many will take a road trip this Spring Break. Oregonians will be visiting Central Oregon, the Oregon Coast, Portland, Seattle, Eugene, Southern Oregon, and Boise. La Verkin, Utah is popular for its proximity to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks. The busiest car rental destinations are Orlando, Los Angeles and Phoenix, according to AAA rental car partner Hertz.

AAA offers many other tips on how to save on fuel here: https://gasprices.aaa.com/news/fuel-saving-tips/

Costs to fly for Spring Break in the U.S. are up 2% this year, compared to 2025. AAA says the average price for a roundtrip domestic ticket is $815. International flights are slightly cheaper this year, with the average price for a roundtrip ticket at $1,300.

“Spring break is a perfect time to chase the sun and shake off the winter doldrums. Sandy beaches, inviting pools and sunny skies are among the most popular escapes this time of year. International cities are popular for culture, sightseeing and great restaurants, often with mild spring weather,” says Doreen Loofburrow, Senior Vice President of Travel at AAA Oregon/Idaho.

Gas prices on the rise for spring break:

This is the time of year that we typically see seasonal increases in gas prices – and this year, the conflict in Iran and the Middle East is causing gas prices to soar due to skyrocketing crude oil prices. Anytime crude oil prices spike, gas prices go up as well.

Other factors that cause prices to rise this time of year include refinery maintenance, the switch to summer-blend fuel, and an increase in demand for gas.

Gas prices are more expensive this year for spring break, compared to last year. Last year in mid-March, the national average for regular gas was $3.08 and the Oregon average was $3.72.

Find current fuel prices at GasPrices.AAA.com.

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Silas Moreau

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The High Desert Museum will begin its Spring break programming on Saturday, March 21st, featuring the return of live flight demonstrations and several new exhibitions. The museum will also transition to summer hours, staying open daily from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.

The seasonal schedule includes the Sky Hunters bird of prey program and interactive history at the museum’s ranch and sawmill. These activities are paired with daily wildlife talks and scientific exhibitions focused on regional geology and biology.

The Sky Hunters program will be hosted in the E.L. Wiegand Pavilion in the Donald M. Kerr Birds of Prey Center. The demonstration features raptors flying overhead to showcase their agility while educators share information about the birds’ lives in the wild. The program runs daily from March 21st through March 28th at 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are available at admissions for $7, and museum members receive a 20% discount. Fly Redmond and the Veterinary Referral Center of Central Oregon provide funding support for the program.

Daily talks regarding High Desert flora and fauna are included with museum admission. These scheduled events include a Nature Walk at 10:30 a.m., an Otter Encounter at 12:30 p.m. and a Mammal Encounter at 3:00 p.m.

The High Desert Museum is also featuring several temporary exhibitions, including “Under Pressure: A Volcanic Exploration.” Located in the Spirit of the West Gallery, the exhibit combines history and geology with interactive storytelling. Visitors can view lava rocks, study a volcanic hazard map and hear simulated volcanic rumbles. The display highlights the scientific significance of volcanoes and the local impact of the Mount St. Helens eruption on May 18, 1980.

The Brooks Gallery houses “Soil Alive!,” a subterranean-themed exhibition presented in both English and Spanish. The family-friendly installation uses muffled underground sounds and interactive activities to show how microorganisms turn dirt into living soil. Features include a giant magnifying glass for viewing digital illustrations and a motion-activated experience where visitors help a ponderosa sapling grow.

Artist Hilary Baker is featured in the Desertarium Gallery with an exhibition titled “Prophets.” Baker, who grew up in Los Angeles, lost her longtime home to the Palisades Fire in January 2025. Following the fire, she began painting moths as spiritual messengers. The exhibit includes 18 of her artworks, which use bright renderings to encourage closer observation of the insects.

Another original exhibition, “Drawn West: A History of Promoting Place,” examines a century of western salesmanship. The collection features more than 50 maps, advertisements and artworks that explore the growth of cities along High Desert railways and the first Pendleton Round-Up in 1910. Additionally, the “Forest at Night” exhibition provides an immersive virtual tour of the forest after dark, highlighting the constellations and nocturnal animals.

The High Desert Ranch and Sawmill will offer historical demonstrations from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. These areas will be open from Saturday, March 21st through Sunday, March 29th, though they will be closed on Monday, March 23rd. Visitors are invited to ask questions about the historical buildings or participate in ranch activities.

The Sky Hunters flight demonstrations will conclude on Saturday, March 28. The “Soil Alive!” exhibition is scheduled to close on Sunday, March 29.

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Claire Elmer

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Winter arrived on the calendar in Central Oregon, but the weather hasn’t looked much like it.

Temperatures have been running well above normal in recent months, and mountain snowpack has lagged behind typical levels. Because snowpack helps supply the region’s rivers and groundwater through the summer, water conservation is becoming increasingly important.

That’s part of the reason the City of Bend is encouraging residents to participate in “Fix a Leak Week,” a national campaign aimed at reducing household water waste.

The campaign runs March 16 through March 22 and asks residents to check their homes for common water leaks, including dripping faucets, worn seals, and irrigation system problems.

Even small leaks can add up. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average household can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water each year from leaks that go unfixed.

In Central Oregon, officials say that wasted water is especially significant because the region relies heavily on snowpack to replenish water supplies during the warmer months.

The city is encouraging Bend residents to take part in the challenge by inspecting their homes and fixing leaks where they find them. Those who participate in the accompanying challenges will be entered to win prizes.

The city also offers online resources to help residents identify and repair leaks, which can help lower water bills while conserving water during potentially dry seasons ahead.

For more information or to participate in the challenge, visit the City of Bend’s page dedicated to ‘Fix a Leak Weak’.

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