We want to send out a thank you for all the effort going into guessing what might please state bureaucrats in the city of Bend’s expansion plans.

But does anybody else think that’s at least a little crazy? Local officials must pick what they hope state bureaucrats will approve rather than what they think is best for Bend?

Here’s what’s going on: Bend is trying to get permission from the state to expand its borders — what’s called its urban growth boundary.

Want to keep housing prices down? Want to have room for business to expand or locate? Nothing helps like land.

The state rejected Bend’s last proposal a few years ago. The city is trying again.

A city committee met Thursday. They discussed Bend’s housing mix. What should be the mix of stand-alone homes; homes that are attached like townhomes; and apartments, condos and duplexes? State bureaucrats with the Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development say they want the city to use zoning and other tools to help push builders and developers in that direction.

Back in 2007, Bend’s mix was 75 percent stand-alone, 3 percent attached and 22 percent apartments — or a 75/3/22 mix.

That gives Bend a certain feel. It’s not urban; it’s more small town. We would bet that’s one of the reasons so many people want to move to Bend or try to stay here.

What mix did local officials pick?

They didn’t decide on the option some of them thought was right for Bend. They picked the option more likely to be right for state bureaucrats. They picked targeting a 55/10/35 mix, instead of the alternative of 60/7/33.

There are other good reasons for trying to add more townhomes and apartments. It could improve affordability. It’s a more efficient use of space.

It could also, though, undermine Bend’s character. It may not be what consumers want. It may not be what the market will support.

Of course, state bureaucrats don’t just demand whatever they want. They set rules based on the laws passed by the Legislature. Lawmakers should look at what they have created.