Redmond, Deschutes County to Co-Manage Homeless Camp Near Airport
City and county approve joint funding and oversight plan for 10-acre managed site opening early 2026
REDMOND, Ore. — The City of Redmond and Deschutes County have finalized an agreement to jointly manage a 10-acre homeless camp planned for the east side of Redmond near the city’s airport.
Both the Redmond City Council and the Board of County Commissioners approved the partnership last week, clearing the way for the project to move forward after a brief delay in October. The site, located north of Highway 126 and near the future CORE3 emergency response center, will include 72 designated campsites with access to water, electricity, portable toilets, trash services, and a shared kitchen area.
The camp is expected to open by late January 2026.
Funding and Management Plan
Under the approved agreement, Deschutes County will contribute $353,000 toward construction and $500,000 over two years to support operations, security, and case management. The City of Redmond will provide $322,000, bringing total construction costs to approximately $676,000. The construction contract is expected to be awarded to Taylor NW, which submitted the lowest of six bids.
The project will be located on county-owned land within Redmond’s urban growth boundary, near the existing Oasis Village transitional housing community. Each 50-by-30-foot campsite will include a gravel pad, tent space, and picnic table, with gravel roads, fire hydrants, and electrical service throughout the property.
An operational code of conduct for campers is still being developed, and the city and county will determine the level of services to be provided. The Oregon Department of Human Services and local service providers have been consulted in planning discussions.
Differing Views Among Officials
While the project received approval, it has not been without debate.
County Commissioner Tony DeBone expressed concerns about oversight and clarity of responsibility, asking, “Who’s camp is it? Who goes to who to ask for clarity on the camp?”
Some Redmond City Council members also voiced caution over the project’s long-term costs and management model. Councilor Jay Patrick said the council should remain mindful of potential cost overruns and operational challenges.
Despite differences, the agreement was approved to address what officials described as an urgent need for organized, managed shelter space as unsanctioned camping areas across Central Oregon continue to close.
Regional Context
The managed camp is part of a broader regional response to homelessness following multiple camp closures and relocations in Redmond and Bend. Over the summer, approximately 30 campers were removed from forested areas east of Redmond known as “The Junipers.”
Deschutes County has been working with cities across the region to expand managed shelter and safe-parking options using the final portion of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. None of the programs currently have long-term funding sources once ARPA funds expire.
Local advocates say the managed site could help stabilize people who have been displaced repeatedly. Outreach worker Bob Bohac of Jericho Road said frequent relocations make it harder to maintain contact with unhoused residents and provide consistent support.
While some residents hope the new site will provide safety and structure, others remain hesitant about new rules and curfews. Still, many agree that access to water, power, and services represents a step forward compared to unsanctioned camps on public land.
Cover Photo: Joni Land / OPB