City of North Bend release - The city has been awarded a Housing Planning Assistance grant from the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) to advance its Housing Implementation & Growth Planning Initiative.  The effort will update the Urban Growth Boundary (UGB) and complete a Housing Needs Analysis (HNA)—two cornerstone tools in Oregon’s growth and housing laws.  “This grant allows North Bend to take a clear, data-driven look at where we grow and what kinds of homes our community needs,” said City Planner Palak Pandey. “We want residents to understand these terms in plain language, because their feedback will shape the work.”  What is an Urban Growth Boundary (UGB)?  In Oregon, every city has a UGB—a line on a map that separates land intended for urban development (homes, businesses, streets, utilities, parks) from rural land.  Inside the UGB: Where most new housing and infrastructure are planned.  Outside the UGB: Land generally reserved for farming, forestry, natural areas, or rural uses.  “Think of the UGB as the community’s ‘edge for growth,’” Pandey said. “It helps North Bend plan infrastructure efficiently, protect nearby rural lands, and decide whether we have enough land—in the right places—for future homes and jobs.”  What is a Housing Needs Analysis (HNA)?  An HNA is a long-range study that estimates how many homes a community will need and what types of homes those should be—such as single-family houses, apartments, townhomes, senior housing, and workforce options at different price points.  It looks at population trends, incomes, and the kinds of households we expect (families, singles, seniors).  It identifies gaps—for example, if there aren’t enough smaller, starter, or accessible homes.  “The HNA tells us not just ‘how many,’ but ‘what kinds’ of homes will keep North Bend livable and affordable for all ages and incomes,” Pandey noted.  What This Means for North Bend - Smarter Land Use: The City will evaluate whether the UGB has the right amount of buildable land—and in the right locations—to meet future needs.  Right Homes, Right Places: The HNA will guide zoning updates, encourage a mix of housing types, and align infrastructure plans with where homes are likely to go.  Community Input: Residents and businesses will be invited to share ideas through meetings and surveys before any recommendations move forward.  Stronger Funding Position: A clear plan can help the City compete for state and federal infrastructure and housing grants.  “This is about planning smart and planning together,” Pandey said. “By updating the UGB and completing the HNA, North Bend can better match housing supply with what residents actually need—while investing in streets, water, and parks in a responsible way.”  The City will announce the project timeline and public engagement opportunities after the State pairs North Bend with a consulting team and agreements are finalized.