Summary of January 6 BPRD board of directors meeting
January 7, 2026
The BPRD board of directors met on January 6 for work session discussions and two staff introductions of new employees in Park Services. A video recording of the meeting is available.
Deschutes River Access and Habitat Restoration Plan Mid-term Update
The board received a progress update on the 2021–2031 Deschutes River Access and Habitat Restoration Plan. Of the 28 projects outlined in the plan, 12 have been completed, meeting the district’s annual target. Changing environmental conditions and new data sources, such as updated habitat inventories and river park usage analytics, prompted a mid-term plan update. This update will be completed by district staff over the next year and will culminate in a fully revised plan, maintaining the original sunset year of 2031. The process includes data review, stakeholder feedback, project list development, drafting and final adoption. Fiscal impacts will depend on the scope of future projects identified.
System Development Charge (SDC) Waiver History and Update
Staff presented an overview of the SDC waiver program, which began in 2019 to support community goals for affordable housing. The program’s evolution, use statistics—including updates on 2025 activity—and considerations for future direction were discussed. Since inception, waivers have supported hundreds of housing units and temporary shelters, with significant financial impact to the district. There have been 819 waivers granted for a total of $5.7 million in waived park SDCs since 2019. This session was informational, with no immediate fiscal impact or board action required.
Comprehensive Plan & Level of Service Update
The district’s comprehensive plan, last updated in November 2024, sets targets for park and trail infrastructure:
- Neighborhood & Community Parks: 7.85 acres per 1,000 residents
- Regional Parks: 10 acres per 1,000 residents
- Trails: 1 mile per 1,000 residents
Staff annually assess service levels to ensure the district meets community needs. A walkshed analysis helps identify areas lacking park access, guiding future park locations. The board received new calculations and a status update on the 110 projects in the plan. In 2025, there were three acres added with the opening of Manzanita Ridge Park and a mile of trail with the Manzanita Trail. Staff also proposed two possible recreation levels of service for aquatics and fitness facilities and pool space, including seasonal use.
Juniper Swim and Fitness Center Project Update
The board was briefed on the Juniper pool cover replacement and facility renovation. The original fabric structure, installed in 1997 and expanded in 2006, is nearing the end of its service life. Operational challenges and rising costs led staff to explore alternative solutions, including a new enclosure and related renovations. Pence Construction was awarded the design-build contract in June 2025. Recent cost estimates exceed $11 million, surpassing the $9.67 million allocated in the Capital Improvement Plan.
Staff and contractors are reviewing options to manage costs and scope. Board feedback will inform discussion at the upcoming budget workshop on Jan. 23. No formal action was taken at this meeting.
The next board meeting is Jan. 20.
