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Bend Landmarks Commission approves Podsky’s marquee tent instead of planned addition
Summary
The Landmarks Commission approved PLMOD20250620, allowing an 800‑sq‑ft heated marquee tent to remain at Podsky in lieu of a previously approved 1,668‑sq‑ft addition, subject to required building permits and staff conditions. Neighbors supported retaining the tent as a family‑friendly space; staff will finalize decision wording with the city attorney.
The Bend Landmarks Commission on Jan. 20 approved a modification allowing an 800‑square‑foot marquee tent to remain on the Podsky site instead of building a previously approved 1,668‑square‑foot addition, with two standard conditions requiring the applicant to obtain any necessary building permits and to notify planning staff of site changes.
Heidi Kennedy, the city planner handling the modification (file PLMOD20250620), presented the staff report and recommended approval, noting the tent is currently screened from the street and that the original building approval remains valid for two years should the applicant later decide to proceed. Kennedy said staff’s recommended conditions include coordination with the building division to confirm structural and fire‑safety requirements.
Michael Momski, identified in the hearing as one of Podsky’s owners, described the tent as a roughly $85,000 engineered, steel‑framed structure built to withstand snow loads and to be heated; he told commissioners the economics of new construction make the tent a more feasible long‑term option today. “It’s not a wedding tent… it’s steel,” the applicant said, describing the unit as substantial and long‑lasting.
Several neighbors testified in favor. Stephanie Reese said the tent “is not even really visible from the front” and that it provides warm, family‑friendly space for patrons during colder months. Mary Lee Williams, who lives nearby, said the tent contributes to the neighborhood atmosphere and helps local businesses stay viable in off‑season weather.
During deliberations commissioners noted the tent’s limited street visibility, the added screening proposed around it, and the absence of public opposition at the hearing. After discussion a motion to approve the modification was moved and seconded; a roll‑call vote was taken and the commission approved the request. The decision includes the condition that the applicant obtain all applicable building‑department approvals for structural and fire‑safety compliance.
Kennedy and the City Attorney will review the final decision wording to ensure it reflects that the modified approval allows the tent to remain while the previously approved building permit and site plan remain available should the applicant choose to pursue those options later. The decision and any clarifying language will be communicated to the applicant and posted to the record.
