During the recent City of Prineville Council Workshop, a significant discussion emerged around the potential of a biomass complex, with community member Pam Tano expressing strong support for the initiative. Tano highlighted the project's potential as a "game changer" for Prineville but emphasized the need for more data to accompany the marketing efforts surrounding it.

Tano also raised concerns about public engagement, suggesting that upgrading the city's Zoom meetings to include audio and visual capabilities would enhance participation. She pointed out that many residents currently only receive audio, limiting their ability to engage fully in council discussions. Tano proposed allocating funds to improve city technology, ensuring that residents can have a more interactive experience during meetings.

Additionally, Tano addressed issues related to public records, noting difficulties in accessing important documents referenced by the city council and contractors. She advocated for increased funding to help the city organize and upload these documents online, which would improve transparency and compliance with public records laws.

In a side note, Tano mentioned her conversations with the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), revealing their frustrations with enforcement capabilities, particularly regarding a local contractor, Knife River. This insight underscores ongoing concerns about regulatory effectiveness in the community.

The discussions at the workshop reflect a growing desire among residents for improved communication and transparency from city officials, as well as a commitment to exploring innovative projects like the biomass complex that could significantly impact Prineville's future.