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Pahlisch Homes drops appeal of Bend’s new tree preservation rules; both developer and city speak of ‘balance’ going forward

(Update: City of Bend statement)

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Pahlisch Homes, one of the region's largest developers, said Thursday it has dropped its state appeal of the city of Bend's revised tree preservation code and will instead focus on collaboration "to achieve a balanced approach" toward protecting trees while not creating new obstacles to badly needed housing.

The city also issued a statement, noting talks took place between developers and the city late last year about the code and the pending appeal.

"The (City) Council looks forward to working with the development community to evaluate the impact of the new code later in 2025 to continue assessing how the code is meeting the objectives of tree preservation balanced with the need for housing production and efficient development," the statement read, in part (you can read both full statements below.)

First, here's Pahlisch's statement:

Pahlisch Homes remains steadfast in its commitment to finding solutions that balance housing needs with environmental goals. Our appeal of the City of Bend’s tree code was never about opposition but rather about advocating for a more balanced approach to address the challenges facing our growing community.

“We’ve always appreciated the collaboration with the City of Bend to ensure both housing and tree preservation goals are met,” said Jason Myhre, Chief Communications Officer at Pahlisch Homes. “Our decision to withdraw the appeal demonstrates our commitment to working together constructively. We believe collaboration will lead to meaningful solutions that benefit the entire community.”

While we fully support tree preservation efforts, the increasing restrictions within Bend’s evolving development regulations have made it significantly more challenging to protect existing trees during construction. Throughout our history of development in Bend, we have worked to preserve mature trees and have planted thousands more in our communities.

Two of our signature communities in southeast Bend, Stonegate and The Bridges, exemplify our ability to preserve mature ponderosa pines.

Unfortunately, due to today’s stricter regulations, achieving that level of preservation would no longer be feasible. This highlights the need to reevaluate and adjust policies to allow for both environmental stewardship and the development of housing that meets the needs of our growing community.

Though we remain concerned about the potential negative impacts the tree code could have on housing production and affordability, we are optimistic about the City’s willingness to engage with the development community.

The appeal was intended to bring attention to these challenges and foster constructive dialogue—not to create division. We trust that ongoing collaboration will ensure the tree code evolves to balance environmental preservation with the critical need for housing.

Bend is facing an urgent housing shortage, and we are all working toward the same goal: maintaining a vibrant and attainable community. The state’s efforts to increase housing supply have yet to meet the demand, emphasizing the importance of local partnerships. Together, we can protect Bend’s natural character while ensuring housing options remain accessible to those who live and work here.

Pahlisch Homes remains dedicated to working alongside the City of Bend, residents, and stakeholders to achieve a balanced approach that preserves our natural landscape and meets the housing demands of our growing community.

Here is the city of Bend's statement on the appeal withdrawal:

Article Topic Follows: Government-politics

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