Development News for Pendleton, Oregon

Pendleton Fire Department to Use Unused Stipends for Radio Equipment Purchase

The Pendleton Fire Department is requesting to reallocate approximately $12,000 of remaining volunteer stipend funds from the current fiscal year to be used for equipment purchases, specifically radios, which were found at a discount. This is a one-time reallocation for the current fiscal year and does not set a precedent for future years. The agreement for stipends expires at the end of the fiscal year.

Town Council Considers Rezoning of 610 Cherry Street from R1 to R2

The Planning Commission heard a request to rezone 610 Cherry Street from R1 (low-density residential) to R2 (low-density residential). The commission approved the rezoning request and recommended it to the town council for final consideration. The council is considering this recommendation.

Pendleton Approves CMAR Project for Town Facility Maintenance

The council is considering awarding a bid for the Seymour project, a construction manager risk (CMAR) project aimed at maintaining town facilities, including town hall and the Better Tomorrow building, with plans to extend to parks and other town properties. This CMAR approach will allow for the bundling of smaller projects into larger, more attractive packages and ensure ongoing maintenance. Several top construction companies bid on the project, and the committee was impressed with the quality of bidders and the process. The project has an estimated cost of $2.3 million.

Pendleton Council Amends FY26-27 Budget: Postpones Hiring, Strengthens Oversight of Volunteer Funds

Councilwoman Lynn Merchant proposed amendments to the first reading of the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget ordinance. The first amendment would postpone the hiring of new staff until a gap analysis is complete, job descriptions are reviewed, and a new town administrator is appointed. The second amendment requires staff to draft agreements for volunteer organizations (recreation and fire departments) and create a grant program for council approval before funds are released. These amendments were seconded by Councilwoman Nancy von Meyer and unanimously approved.