There are difficult decisions ahead for Bend City Councilors. In his parting address, retiring Councilor Oran Teater says Councilors must have a good dialogue with the community as they deal with a $27-million budget deficit over the next five years. “To my fellow councilors, I do not envy your job. You are going to have to make some tough decisions to balance our budget. Cuts will be difficult; services will have to be reduced. But it's vital that you communicate openly to the community and clearly the necessity of your decisions.” Teater says Bend has seen tough times before and will slowly recover again. He also cautioned the Council to make decisions that benefit the entire community, not just one special interest group.