picture courtesy C.O. Daily

A newly approved zone change could help bring major new business investment to Redmond. The Bend Bulletin reports Redmond, Sisters, and Deschutes County have signed off on changes to the Greater Redmond Area Enterprise Zone, allowing qualifying companies to receive up to a 10-year tax break for relocating to Redmond and building projects valued at more than 25 million dollars. Under a state law passed in June, companies must show significant capital investment, regional economic benefit, and alignment with local development goals. Potential examples include large-scale projects like Nosler’s new headquarters or Amazon’s Redmond distribution facility, though Amazon did not receive incentives. Bend and Redmond are the first Oregon zones to approve extended abatements.

Firefighters on the Deschutes National Forest plan to conduct prescribed burning Tuesday about seven miles southwest of Crescent, near the Rivers North OHV Staging Area and Highway 58.

Crews may ignite up to 187 acres if weather conditions are favorable.

Trail 55 in the Three Trails OHV system will be closed for several days during mop-up and patrol.

A burn on the Ochoco National Forest is scheduled to continue through tomorrow.

Bend Fire & Rescue crews were called to a structure fire on Greenmont Drive just after 4 p.m., with Alfalfa Fire District also sending a water tender to assist. Firefighters arrived within five minutes of dispatch and began suppression efforts, finding flames in the attic area. Officials say no one was home because the house was under construction, and no injuries were reported. The cause remains under investigation. Estimated damage to the structure and contents is listed at more than 637-thousand dollars. Fire officials remind homeowners that attic fires can go unnoticed, making working smoke alarms on every level especially important.

Central Oregon Daily News reports an independent investigator is recommending Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant James McLaughlin be fired, citing dishonesty, misconduct, lack of integrity and insubordination. The findings stem from a February SWAT callout in Three Rivers and a Ring camera recording involving McLaughlin and another deputy.

McLaughlin is currently running for sheriff against Interim Sheriff Ty Rupert. His attorney says the case is politically motivated. Rupert says due process is still underway and he cannot comment on possible discipline.

McLaughlin is on medical leave, meaning any discipline may wait until after the November third election.

Unemployment rates showed little movement across Central Oregon in August. The Bend metro area held at five percent, slightly below last year’s five-point-one percent. Deschutes County stayed at four-point-eight percent, while Crook County remained at six percent. Jefferson County held at five-point-six percent, down from six percent a year ago. Public-sector hiring helped offset private-sector losses in several industries.