Ask the Mayor: Redmond ice rink timeline, airport future, and water concerns
REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Redmond Mayor Ed Fitch joined KTVZ News at Sunrise for this month’s exclusive “Ask the Mayor” segment, answering community questions ranging from the long-awaited ice rink to major water challenges facing Central Oregon.
New ice rink expected by winter 2027
A question from resident Chelsea Davidson focused on the long-discussed replacement for Redmond’s ice rink, which has been out of commission for two years.
Mayor Fitch said the city is actively working toward a new facility, planned for the site of the former police station. While it won’t be ready this coming winter, Fitch said the current target is winter 2027. He added that the new rink will be significantly larger than the previous one.
Airport name and upgrades: ‘Redmond International’ in the future?
Another resident, Greg Garry, asked about updates to signage at the Redmond Airport—specifically a “Welcome to Redmond/Bend” display.
Fitch used the question to highlight broader developments at the airport, noting that in two years the facility will celebrate its 100th anniversary. The city has invested heavily in upgrades, with nearly $100 million in borrowed funds going toward improvements.
Fitch emphasized the airport’s identity as Redmond’s, suggesting a “Redmond/Bend” label may not be likely. Instead, he pointed to bigger ambitions. “We’re very proud of it,” Fitch said, adding that the long-term vision is for the airport to eventually become Redmond International Airport.
Canal piping project could significantly impact the aquifer
The most complex question centered on the Central Oregon Irrigation District’s canal piping project and its broader impact.
Fitch explained the issue ties back to environmental requirements involving the spotted frog, which have forced changes in water releases from the North Unit Irrigation District. The piping project is expected to save about 14 billion gallons of water annually, helping ensure farmers in Jefferson County have water during the summer.
However, Fitch warned the project could also have major unintended consequences closer to home. “It’s anticipated the aquifer will drop 30 to 60 feet here in Deschutes County,” he said. That decline could affect both cities and rural residents who rely on wells.
Proposed solution: Aquifer recharge
To offset those impacts, regional leaders are pushing a solution known as aquifer recharge. The idea is to capture water released in the winter and return it to the aquifer after it reaches the Bend area.
Fitch said the approach has broad support from cities, irrigation districts, environmental groups, and tribes, but still requires approval from the state. “It’s a more holistic solution,” he said, noting that without recharge, the impacts in Deschutes County could be severe, while without piping, farmers in Jefferson County could lose access to water.
Approval process remains a hurdle
Fitch acknowledged that gaining approval from the Oregon Water Resources Department could be challenging.
However, he expressed optimism that state officials will recognize the need for recharge as they evaluate the projected aquifer impacts. “We need to have that water certainty,” he said. “And we need to make sure the aquifer is not unduly impacted.”
Homelessness and site closures expected to bring summer challenges
Before wrapping up, Fitch addressed an issue he expects to impact Redmond residents in the coming months: homelessness.
Several sites are expected to be cleared this summer, including areas managed by the city, Deschutes County, and a location known as “Corps 3.” Those closures will likely lead to the relocation of people living in those areas.
“When you see a lot of movement of people, it has an impact on them, and it has an impact on the community,” Fitch said. He added that while the process may be difficult, the changes are necessary for long-term safety and economic viability on the city’s east side.
Residents can continue submitting questions for future “Ask the Mayor” segments below:
