Baker City officials explain updates to development plan

BAKER CITY —  Officials with the City of Baker City have just issued a news release regarding improvements to the city’s development plan. Also, the city is seeking feedback from residents, contractors, and developers regarding the current plan.

Read the city’s release below:

(From the City of Baker City)

Baker City is working hard to enhance our entire development process as we head into 2026. “Development” includes projects such as additions to existing structures, new outbuildings or Accessory dwelling units (ADU’s), new homes, new businesses, and other construction or land-use activities.

Here’s what we’ve accomplished so far — and what’s coming next:

Updated Development Code

Drafted new language to align with recent Oregon requirements and support housing production.

Preparing another update to increase flexibility for housing developments (e.g., rolled curbs) and reduce overall costs.

This upcoming update will also clarify confusing sections and remove unnecessary barriers.

Streamlined Development Fee Review

Completed research to modernize ordinances related to development fees.

Over the next few months, we’ll use this research to update our ordinance to simplify guidance and reduce water/sewer connection fees in existing neighborhoods.

For new housing developments in undeveloped areas, we are trying to provide developers more options when it comes to required improvements for streets and utility infrastructure.

These updates aim to make navigating early project design easier for residents and businesses.

Faster, Smarter Application Processing

Partnered with an AI service to process planning applications more efficiently and accurately.

Our goal: Most applications reviewed within 7–10 business days.

This partnership will also help us launch:

An online application system

An online payment portal

A developer tool to flag items requiring conditional use permits or that fall outside the development code

Process Review Coming in Early 2026

Before Spring 2026, we will conduct a full review of how planning and building applications move through the system—with the goal of streamlining every step.

We Want Your Input!

As we prepare to roll out these improvements, we would love to hear from residents, contractors, and developers about your experience with the current process.

Please see the attached flyer for a QR code linking to a short survey — it only takes about 5 minutes, and your feedback is extremely valuable.

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