Board reviews City Hall 'waterwise' and 'firewise' landscape concept, hears design details and maintenance concerns

The Sisters board reviewed a final concept for City Hall landscaping that combines waterwise and firewise principles and is intended as an educational demonstration for residents.

Jackson, a city staff presenter, said the design — prepared by Greenworks — aims to reduce irrigated turf and indicated the site currently uses about "350,000 gallons of water annually." He told the board the city contracted the design for just under $15,000.

The concept uses a three-zone Firewise approach (0–5 feet, 5–30 feet, 30 feet and beyond), with low-water plantings largely drawn from an OSU Extension Service plant palette and native species such as Idaho fescue. The more detailed concept includes pathways, interpretive signage, rain-garden daylighting of roof downspouts and limited pedestrian bridges; staff said they would consider phasing or city-crew work to control costs.

Board members raised maintenance questions about pine-needle accumulation under ponderosa pines and the potential for gravel displacement. Staff said maintenance strategies might include low-speed blowers and raking, and that recent ladder-fuel treatments and limited tree removals near the building had been completed under grant funding.

Members also discussed an educational component focused on pollinator forage and a demonstration zone in the outer Firewise area to show homeowners how to balance pollinator habitat with fire safety. Staff emphasized that the item was for review and feedback only and no formal approval or vote was requested at the meeting.

Next steps: staff will pursue grant opportunities, refine the planting and signage budget, and return with implementation options and phasing recommendations.