Category: ktvz-local-news

Spencer Sacks

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The hotly contested Oregon Republican gubernatorial race is heating up as candidates approach the May 19 primary. Education has emerged as a defining issue in the campaign, with less than a week remaining until voters head to the polls.

Republican gubernatorial candidates are currently in crunch time, traveling across Oregon to speak with as many voters as possible before the primary. During their campaigns, the candidates made stops in Central Oregon to address issues affecting local residents.

Federal education data indicates that Oregon ranks 36th out of 50 states in eighth-grade reading proficiency and 40th in math. This performance has drawn criticism from candidates.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Christine Drazan stated that Oregon’s schools are among the worst in the nation for reading and math at the third and fourth-grade levels.

“We have to have good schools. We are worst in the nation for reading and math in third and fourth grade. Right now we’re right at the bottom couple of states. Not good enough. Not good. Not even not even close to good enough,” Drazan said.

One contributing factor to Oregon’s educational challenges is its short school year. The state averages approximately 165 school days, which is about 15 to 20 days fewer than the common 180-day standard in the U.S.

Chris Dudley, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, highlighted the disparity this creates.

“If a kid from Washington and a kid from Oregon meet up right now, the kid and they both graduated high school, the kid from Washington has gone the equivalent of one full school year, more than the kid from Oregon,” Dudley explained.

Part of the issue regarding the short school year stems from what counts as learning days. Currently, up to 30 hours of parent-teacher conferences can be counted as learning days, alongside up to 30 hours of professional development.

Republican gubernatorial candidate Danielle Bethell commented on how this policy impacts classroom instruction.

“One of the issues that we’re facing in classrooms today is teachers are spending more time in their, continuing education space, not on academics. They’re focusing more on social emotional learning, diversity, equity, inclusion, comprehensive sex education and other things that are not targeted to reading, writing and math comprehension and phonics,” Bethell said.

Ed Diehl, also a Republican gubernatorial candidate, emphasized his intent to directly oversee public education should he be elected.

“As governor, I’ll be the superintendent of public education. And with that, comes control over that education system. I am talking to teachers who are just as frustrated as we are talking to teachers who who are getting abused in the classroom and they feel helpless because there’s nothing they can do,” Diehl stated.

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Lee Anderson

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The local advocacy group Connect Bend released an artist’s rendering of the possible crossing that would connect southern Bend neighborhoods to Century Drive.

The group states the proposed crossing presents a “stark choice” for the city. The project includes a vehicular bridge over the Deschutes River.

The vehicular bridge would span the Deschutes River, starting between Powers Road and Murphy Road, potentially near the Mount Bachelor Village or Sunrise Village communities. It would potentially ease congestion at Reed Market Road.

Connect Bend would like a southern footbridge instead.

Connect Bend consulted with a civil engineer for the new renderings. Larry Waters, an engineering consultant and Connect Bend board member, explained the engineering challenges. “Given the steep inclines on both rims, as well as the residential presence on both sides, getting to the rims, down to the river and back up, would be extremely disruptive to both the environment and the community,”.

Bend City Engineer Ryan Oster said the city will begin evaluation of the plan either this year of next year.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The new Bend Central Library opened on May 11th, at 61956 SE Santorini Street, establishing a major presence within the Stevens Ranch master-planned development. The Deschutes Public Library system intentionally chose the southeast Bend location for its anticipated growth. City officials confirmed that no changes to the master plan were necessary to accommodate the 100,000-square-foot facility.

This three-story facility is a central component of a $195 million bond, approved by voters in 2020, dedicated to system-wide library upgrades. The library’s current location in Stevens Ranch follows an abandoned plan for a north-end site. The Stevens Ranch Master Plan, greenlit by the Bend City Council in 2021, is projected to bring between 1,400 and 2,400 new homes to the area.

Library Director Todd Dunkelberg for the Deschutes Public Library system, emphasized the new facility’s dual purpose. “Like all of our libraries, they all kind of form a dual role of definitely serving the neighborhoods right around them and then also serving a broader community,” Dunkelberg said. He added that the anticipated growth in the Stevens Ranch area and southeast Bend was a significant factor in selecting the location.

The City of Bend’s perspective on the library’s integration into the master plan was clarified by Renee Brooke, Planning Manager for the City of Bend. Brooke confirmed that no adjustments were necessary for the master plan or development standards. “We didn’t,” Brooke said, referencing potential changes. “And the developer had designated that area for commercial zoning. The library was a permitted use in that area, so no changes needed to be made to the master plan or any development standards in order for the library to locate there.”

The library’s current location was not its original planned site. The library board initially acquired property on the north side of Bend along U.S. Highway 20 for the 100,000-square-foot facility. However, that north-end site encountered opposition due to concerns about its accessibility, its contribution to urban sprawl and a lack of support from the Bend City Council.

The application for the first site was later terminated and the library purchased the Stevens Ranch property in late 2022. The new Central Library facility represents an investment of more than $137 million. It is seen as an intentional civic anchor for the 370-acre Stevens Ranch Master Plan. This development aims to transform Bend’s east side into a dense, walkable urban hub.

The library is intended to catalyze the construction of between 1,400 and 2,400 planned housing units in the area. Beyond serving as a neighborhood branch, the library’s “Central” designation highlights its role as the operational hub for the entire Deschutes Public Library system, housing the county-wide distribution system. This strategic placement avoids the congestion of downtown Bend while providing a large public amenity. The facility also features a Thump Coffee cafe, multiple maker spaces, co-working areas and enhanced children’s spaces.

The library’s construction coincided with significant infrastructure upgrades in the area. These included a new roundabout at SE 27th Street and Wilderness Way, as well as the extension of water and sewer utilities to support the anticipated residential growth. The facility features a transit-oriented design, positioned next to wide biking and pedestrian paths that will eventually connect new residential blocks to the Deschutes River Trail. The building itself sets a high sustainability benchmark for future development in Stevens Ranch. It was constructed to LEED Platinum standards as an all-electric, net-zero facility.

The Stevens Ranch master plan area is situated east of 27th Street, south of Reed Market Road and Stevens Road, north of Ferguson Road and west of the eastern city limits. The non-platted property is currently addressed as 21425 Stevens Road.

The new Central Library’s opening is part of a larger plan for the Deschutes Public Library system, which includes the future remodel of the Downtown Bend branch. The downtown location closed in Spring 2026 for a reopening in 2027.

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Tyson Beauchemin

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Bend Fire and Rescue conducted a unique training exercise this Tuesday: a simulated trench rescue. The training exercise took place at a Taylor Northwest job site to prepare for real-world emergencies.

The exercise simulated a worker, trapped under a concrete slab in a narrow trench. The worker was a dummy, but the exercise allowed crews to practice specialized rescue techniques and equipment they rarely use.

The training simulation took approximately 40 minutes to successfully rescue the trapped dummy. Crews used wooden shoring and air-pressurized bars to stabilize the trench walls. After everything was safe, the rescuers carefully leveraged the concrete off the simulated victim and moved the dummy to safety.

Brian Boyd, a Battalion Chief with Bend Fire and Rescue, explained that this specific training is incredibly valuable, and they carefully choose the exercises they simulate.

“But we have a number of disciplines that we have to cover, so we really only get two days a year to to train on this,” Boyd said. “So, it’s just reviewing the process, identifying those efficiencies that can help make up time where there’s opportunities.”

Officials anticipate a rise in trench rescue calls or similar incidents, due to the constant construction and development in Central Oregon.

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Kelsey Merison

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Division has alerted employers to two active scams targeting businesses, with fraudulent callers attempting to steal money through misrepresentation. These scams involve individuals falsely claiming to represent Oregon OSHA or an affiliated consultation firm to extract payments from employers.

Scammers are reportedly utilizing publicly searchable federal OSHA enforcement databases to identify potential targets for their schemes. Oregon OSHA has confirmed that there has been no data or security breach and these fraudulent activities do not reflect how the division conducts its programs, services or processes under the Oregon Safe Employment Act.

One type of scam involves callers contacting employers who have recently had an Oregon OSHA inspection opened. These individuals, posing as representatives of a consultation firm, falsely assure employers that they can guarantee an inspection will result in no violations in exchange for payment.

The second scam entails callers falsely claiming to be from Oregon OSHA. These scammers tell employers they can settle an enforcement penalty for a reduced amount if a lower payment is sent to them.

Oregon OSHA issues citations only following inspections that identify violations of workplace safety or health requirements. If an inspection finds no violations, OSHA considers the business to be in compliance. Employers have a due process right to file an appeal of a citation.

The division also provides a full range of free services to employers. These include safety and health consultations, answers to questions about safety and health requirements, public education and training, publications and streaming videos.

Employers can find more details about the citation process, penalty payments by mail and online and general enforcement and appeals information on the Oregon OSHA website.

Most interactions with Oregon OSHA can be conducted on its website at https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/index.aspx. Information about Oregon OSHA enforcement and appeals is available at https://osha.oregon.gov/rules/enf/Pages/default.aspx. Field office contact details are listed at https://osha.oregon.gov/Pages/maps.aspx.

Employers who receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to represent Oregon OSHA or making assertions about its programs, services or processes should call 800-922-2689 to verify the information. They can also directly contact a field office if they are suspicious about a caller.

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Kelsey Merison

HINES, Ore. (KTVZ) — Happening now, with increasing temperatures and lower fuel moisture, the Malheur National Forest will move from a low to a moderate fire danger rating.

The moderate fire danger rating went into effect this morning. When fire danger is “moderate”, it means that fires can start from most accidental causes, but number of fire starts are usually low.

If a fire does start in an open, dry grassland it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires will spread slowly to moderately.

Average fire intensity will be moderate, except in heavy concentrations of fuel, which may burn hot.

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Tracee Tuesday

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — University of Oregon head football coach Dan Lanning is set to return to Central Oregon for a community event at Worthy Brewing next week.

The fourth annual “Happy Hour with Dan Lanning” is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m.

The event will feature a live question-and-answer session with Lanning, moderated by former Oregon quarterback Tony Graziani. Organizers say attendees will also have a chance to connect with fellow Ducks fans while enjoying food and drinks at the Bend brewery.

Pre-registration costs $15, or $20 at the door, and includes one canned beverage. The event is open to all ages.

Worthy Brewing has hosted the event for the past three years, bringing one of the state’s most prominent college football figures to Central Oregon and drawing fans from across the region.

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Tracee Tuesday

PORTLAND & SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — A growing wildfire threat is prompting new fire restrictions across Oregon, as parts of Central Oregon have already entered fire season weeks ahead of summer.

Starting May 14, the Bureau of Land Management will ban fireworks, exploding targets, steel-core ammunition and other fire-starting materials on all BLM lands in Oregon and Washington. The restrictions are aimed at reducing human-caused wildfires as the region faces hotter, drier conditions.

At the same time, the Oregon Department of Forestry has declared fire season in its Central Oregon District, impacting Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook and surrounding counties. Residents in those areas are now required to get permits before burning yard debris on private property.

Fire officials say the early restrictions reflect worsening conditions across the region.

“We are increasingly concerned that 2026 could rival the most extreme years on record for heat and dryness,” said Jeff Fedrizzi with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. “Even one small spark can lead to a costly and destructive fire.”

Escaped debris burns remain the leading cause of human-caused wildfires in Oregon. So far this year, 23 burns have escaped, scorching 83 acres on ODF-protected lands. That compares to 37 escaped burns and 69 acres at the same time last year.

More than 70% of wildfires in Oregon are human-caused, according to ODF, with yard debris burning topping the list.

With record low snowpack and an unusually warm winter, officials warn the risk will only increase as vegetation dries out. They urge residents to consider alternatives like chipping or composting instead of burning.

If burning is necessary, officials recommend checking local restrictions, avoiding windy days and keeping water and tools nearby. Residents can also check current rules using the website beforeyouburn.net.

Anyone who violates fire restrictions could face fines up to $100,000, jail time or be held responsible for the cost of firefighting efforts.

Fire officials say taking precautions now is critical to preventing wildfires as summer approaches.

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Kelsey Merison

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes Historical Museum is hosting the History Bricks 2026 LEGO Contest, inviting community members to recreate historic Deschutes County landmarks using LEGO bricks. The event celebrates America’s 250th anniversary by bridging the past and present through creative artistic expression.

Submissions for the contest are due by July 3rd, 2026 and the recreated landmarks will be on display at the museum from July 4th through July 11th, 2026.

The contest challenges participants to research and recreate a historic landmark from Deschutes County, which can be either still standing or lost to history. The museum aims to provide a space for the community to gather, learn about their cultural heritage, and showcase original works in an exhibit.

Participants will explore and learn about the origins of local historic landmarks and the people and places behind them.

Submissions for the History Bricks 2026 contest must be entered at the Deschutes Historical Museum, located at 129 NW Idaho Avenue in Bend.

The public will have the opportunity to view the creations and cast their votes starting July 4th and continuing through July 11th, 2026.

The contest features two age categories: “Kids” for those 12 and under and “Big Kids” for individuals 13 to 100-plus years old. One winner in each category will be selected based on public voting.

Museum staff will also choose a special award for the most realistic creation. Prizes for winners include Old Mill gift certificates. Participants can find rules and links to historic resources on the event page at deschuteshistory.org.

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Kelsey Merison

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — Oregon’s recent Lottery Revenue Bond sale successfully generated $140.1 million this month, providing crucial funding for statewide affordable housing, behavioral health facilities, food assistance, and emergency preparedness programs. The sale was facilitated through the Treasury’s Buy Oregon Bonds Program.

The $140.1 million in proceeds are designated for capital improvement projects that support the preservation of affordable housing, water and housing infrastructure development, and food assistance services production and warehouse facilities. The funds will also benefit the Central Oregon Ready, Responsive, Resilient program. The bonds were issued in two series, Series A as tax-exempt and Series B as federally taxable, offering flexibility to meet different financing needs and attract a broader range of investors.

Oregon State Treasurer Elizabeth Steiner highlighted the impact of the bond sale on vital state initiatives. “These bonds will fund buildings and other capital needs for vital programs that will give more Oregonians a place to call home, help more people recover from substance use or mental health issues and get food to hungry families,” Steiner said. “I’m glad our financial strength enables us to issue these bonds at favorable rates, so more money goes toward programs.”

Oregon’s strong economic position, coupled with the Treasury’s careful management of state debt, has ensured the Oregon Lottery’s credit ratings remain steady and solid. This has resulted in favorable interest rates, even amid market fluctuations, saving the State of Oregon millions of dollars in interest costs over time. This also allows for greater flexibility with the management of state debt.

The Lottery Revenue Bond offering was the first of several planned sales by the Treasury. A general obligation bond sale totaling $685 million is scheduled for the week of June 1st, featuring Series A (Tax-Exempt), Series B (Taxable – Sustainability Bonds), and Series C (Tax-Exempt) offerings.

Additional bond offerings are planned for Spring 2026, including Mortgage Revenue Bonds from Oregon Housing & Community Services and Veterans’ Welfare GO Bonds. Summer 2026 will see further Oregon Revenue Bonds and more Mortgage Revenue Bonds from Oregon Housing & Community Services.

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