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By Emily Boyd, Government Affairs Manager, Bend Chamber
The Bend City Council unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the City to offer extended Enterprise Zone property tax exemptions of up to 10 years for qualifying projects, a new option made available through HB 4084, which the Bend Chamber supported during the 2026 legislative session.
The Chamber also submitted a letter of support to the City, noting that the expanded program better reflects today's economic realities. Major traded-sector investments are increasingly capital intensive, construction timelines are longer and businesses often require greater certainty when making long-term location decisions. The updated Enterprise Zone program gives communities like Bend another tool to compete for projects that create family-wage jobs, attract private investment and strengthen the regional economy.
Bend City Council will now begin applying that framework. At its August 5 meeting, Council is scheduled to consider its first Extended Abatement Agreement under the new program for a proposal from Lonza. The project includes more than $200 million in capital investment, the creation of 70+ jobs, wages exceeding 150% of the average county wage and investment within one of the City's identified target industries.
The Chamber believes this progression, from state policy modernization, to local implementation, to consideration of a qualifying project, demonstrates the value of maintaining competitive economic development tools. We also recognize the leadership of Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO), whose work to recruit, retain and support traded-sector employers continues to position Central Oregon for long-term economic success.
We'll continue to follow the Council's discussion and advocate for policies that encourage responsible investment, expand family-wage employment opportunities and strengthen Bend's business climate.
