New Mirror Pond concept public meetings planned

The Mirror Pond Ad Hoc Committee invites citizens to give input on a new concept to address the future of Mirror Pond.

There are two ways to learn about the new Mirror Pond and Downtown Redevelopment concept and to give input. First, attend one of the following four community meetings:

–Thursday, December 4th at Bend Park & Recreation District, 799 SW Columbia 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm and 5:30 to 7:00 pm (two meetings)
–Wednesday, January 7th at Sky View Middle School, 63555 NE 18th St 5:30 to 7:00 pm
–Monday, January 12th at a location in Downtown Bend (to be determined)
5:30 to 7:00 pm.

All the meetings will include a brief presentation, followed by a question-and-answer period.

Another way to give input is to visit the Mirror Pond website at mirrorpondbend.com to read about the project, view images and offer feedback via a short on-line questionnaire. The public input period closes on Saturday, January 31st.

In 2012, local leaders launched an effort to identify community values associated with Mirror Pond. Since then, several scenarios regarding the pond’s future have been offered for public comment.

“We learned that the community was divided between those who preferred that the pond remain versus those who preferred it go back to a natural looking river,” stated Don Horton, Bend Park and Recreation District Executive Director and Ad Hoc committee member.

“The division in perspective sent the Ad Hoc committee back to explore alternative solutions. We are pleased with this new concept in that we believe it addresses most everyone’s interests,” stated Horton.

Should the Mirror Pond and Downtown Redevelopment Concept be well-received by the community, an independent commission would be formed to govern the redevelopment plan.

For additional project information or to request a paper questionnaire to be mailed to them, citizens may visit www.MirrorPondBend.com or call (541) 706-6151.