Bend’s City Council is preparing to vote on a climate fee that could help the community meet its environmental targets. If approved, these measures may introduce higher installation costs for gas stoves in new homes, underscoring the city’s push for cleaner energy usage.

Bend’s City Councilership is under scrutiny for potentially reducing opportunities for public input. While casting a ballot remains paramount, an editorial suggests there may be another way to shape Council decisions—leaving citizens to debate the impact of fewer voices on local democracy.