Bend Park & Rec District gives update on patrols after man sets up encampment in Drake Park

(Update: Adding video, comments from Horton, camper at Drake Park, park district communication manager)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Longtime Bend Park & Recreation District Executive Director Don Horton says he'll retire in September 2024, more than 20 years after he took the helm of the park district that has reflected the city's rapid growth over that time -- as well as its successes and its challenges, as he discussed with us Tuesday.

Horton made the announcement to the staff and park board last week, to give them ample time to find his successor. He cites the transformation of numerous parks, such as Farewell Bend, Riverbend and Juniper, as some of the district's biggest accomplishments during his tenure.

The district also recently hired a private security firm to patrol parks 24/7.

"The biggest negative we get is that they're really busy. And so sometimes I'll think that our success has created that in our parks, especially along the river," Horton said Tuesday.

Horton also mentioned some challenges currently facing the district that he hopes to help with during his remaining time in the role.

"Well, the biggest trouble areas are the river. That's what we're trying to do. Educate people about the wide use of drinking. Parks are not the best place to do that," he said.

Historic Drake Park has become one problem area, a popular spot for river floaters and kayakers.

Lately, the scenery often includes people who appear to be homeless collecting cans and bottles.

Mike, a man who says he's been camping at Drake Park since July 4th, says he saw no other encampments and noticed a high volume of visitors leaving behind redeemable items - "$20 to $28 a day is a good day."

Mike continued, "The cops give me permission, and the employees, to be here, as long as I keep it relatively organized, and I can't fly a sign."

Bend police tell us they haven't encouraged anyone to camp at Drake Park. The department reports 45 calls for service to Drake Park since the start of June. A few were for welfare checks for people thought to be homeless, while three were for unwanted subjects.

The park district has a contract with Trident Professional Security for area park patrols through mid-2025.

Park district Communication Manager Julie Brown said the district has contracted for security for a long period and that they support park stewards with a schedule that fluctuates seasonally.

Brown said BPRD park hours are maintained for 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the rules apply regardless of housing status. The park district works with the Homeless Leadership Coalition to provide support and connection to services to those in need.

Horton said law enforcement is assisting on the message to river users about not using alcohol on the water: "Anywhere between Farewell (Bend) Park and Drake Park, we're really trying to concentrate our efforts, along with the police department and the sheriff's office, educating people on the dangers of mixing alcohol with the water."