Elections
The Bend City Council is comprised of six council members and an elected Mayor. Councilors are elected to four-year terms.
Positions 1, 2, 3, and 4 were elected in 2024. Positions 5, 6, and 7 will be on the ballot in 2026. Position 7 is the elected mayor. Positions are not tied to geographic areas of the City and each councilor is elected at-large.
Expectations & Compensation for Bend City Council
Candidates can expect to meet in the Council capacity at least four nights each month. Individuals elected to the City Council are automatically placed on the Bend Urban Renewal Agency Board, serve on the Budget Committee and other local and regional committees.
City Councilors are not City of Bend employees, but to reduce barriers for individuals interested in serving their community in this capacity, City Councilors are compensated. Candidates elected to a Councilor position in the November 2024 election will receive an annual $30,000 stipend, health benefits, and an annual $3,000 health and wellness stipend. Candidates elected as Mayor in the November 2026 election will receive an annual $50,000 stipend, health benefits, and an annual $3,000 health and wellness stipend. The Ordinance and corresponding Issue Summary provide additional detail.