City of Bend adding at least 25 positions

The Bend City Council approved the addition of at least 25 jobs at Wednesday night’s meeting, a result of the renewed growth in the city and growing demand for city services.

The proposal by City Manager Eric King was part of a three-phase plan, after years of staff layoffs during the economic downturn. Council members voted unanimously to add the proposed jobs — plus two more, to address neighborhood livability and code enforcement issues.

King said Thursday now is a good time to take the step, because revenue is up, from sources including room and property taxes and building fees, so the city has the funds to pay for the positions. He said more business and a growing population calls for the added positions to keep the city running smoothly.

Four service areas will be affected: public safety, infrastructure, community and economic development, and administration.

Twenty of the jobs originally presented will fill full-time positions, while four will fill limited full-time positions. The two councilors added will be a public safety officer and a permit coordinator.

Those positions were specifically added to help with the vacation rental issue that has recently sparked debate in Bend.

The city reached its peak employment of 527 positions in 2008, followed by several rounds of layoffs.