PENDLETON, Ore.-The League of Oregon Cities (LOC) 2026 Local Government Spring Conference was April 23-24 at the Pendleton Convention Center, and the host city was recognized with an Award for Excellence.
Pendleton was one of three cities, along with Yachats and Medford, to receive an LOC Award for Excellence, which recognizes progressive and innovative city operations and services, during the second day of the annual conference.
The City of Pendleton was awarded the LOC’s Award for Excellence for its Wastewater Treatment Resource Recovery Facility.
According to LOC, by leveraging state grants, energy performance contracting, and innovative financing for the facility, Pendleton has created a model for mid-sized cities that will modernize infrastructure and protect ratepayers.
Pendleton’s Wastewater Treatment Resource Recovery Facility is part of a multi-phase initiative in support of the city’s goal of net zero energy consumption that improves the efficiency of the wastewater treatment plant.
In response to increased utility costs, the facility also includes a 240-kilowatt solar canopy and a 500-kilowatt battery energy storage system, as well as opportunities for the future use of hydropower and wind.
The Wastewater Treatment Resource Recovery Facility in Pendleton is a successful demonstration of how essential infrastructure can be turned into a community asset through careful planning and partnerships, according to LOC.
The LOC is a voluntary association representing all 241 of Oregon’s incorporated cities that has been aiding local governments with legislative services, policy setting, intergovernmental relations, conferences and training, technical assistance, and publications for city governments since 1925.
