Deschutes County is demonstrating fiscal strength as officials report some revenue streams outperforming projections. Commissioner Patty Adair notes the lodging tax is particularly strong, coming in higher than anticipated. A focus on building reserves is also paying off: the county’s health benefit fund, which dropped sharply during the pandemic, has rebounded—from just $1 million at its lowest to an expected $15 million by year’s end. These robust reserves give county leaders more security in their long-term planning. The county’s new budget awaits final certification in the coming weeks, with officials expressing optimism for continued financial health.

 

 

The Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office is implementing new vehicles to enhance safety on local trails and roadways. Thanks to funding from the State Parks’ ATV program, deputies are now equipped with Dual Sport Honda motorcycles, improving access to hard-to-reach areas and significantly reducing emergency response times. Sheriff Ty Rupert explains the motorcycles enable faster patient care and enhanced patrol capabilities. In addition, an unmarked Dodge Durango is being deployed to monitor traffic and encourage safe driving across the county. The Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that the goal is safety and driver compliance, not issuing citations. These upgrades aim to protect residents and visitors alike.

 

 

We’re learning more details about the heartbreaking incident at Suttle Lake’s Link Creek Campground involving a local family this past weekend. Investigators say a six-year-old from the Redmond area was struck by a slowly moving vehicle and trailer after running to retrieve a toy.

Despite immediate efforts, the child did not survive.

Officials emphasize no signs of impairment or criminal behavior and say the driver is cooperating.

The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office continues to support the family and requests privacy as they grieve.

 

 

Bend residents have recently reported receiving phone calls from individuals pretending to be law enforcement or court officials, often using phone numbers that appear legitimate. Bend Police spokesperson Sheila Miller explains that these numbers are typically spoofed through internet services, making it nearly impossible to trace the source. Once money is sent to these scammers, it’s rarely recoverable. Miller warns that scammers have also begun sending convincing fake documents, sometimes created with AI technology, but emphasizes that genuine law enforcement will never deliver documents via text. If you’re uncertain about a call, hang up and contact the agency directly for confirmation.

Bend-La Pine Schools, the city’s largest water consumer, is ramping up conservation efforts. Facility Operations Director Rodger Moore says the district is working with the city on both immediate and long-range solutions, aiming to make the most of every drop. By targeting low-priority irrigation spots—like grassy strips along roadways—the district expects to save millions of gallons and cut maintenance expenses. Plans are underway to transform those areas into visually appealing, drought-tolerant native landscaping. The big-picture goal is to safeguard local water supplies while ensuring athletic and play fields remain healthy for student use.