A local business owner is hosting an event at his bar in downtown Bend to foster political involvement and social connections for people across Deschutes County.

The free event will take place Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. at Unofficial Logging Company, 910 NW Harriman St., kicking off a series of “local politics nights” taking place on the fourth Thursday of each month at the same place and same time.

Hosting the event is bar owner John Heylin, initiator of the successful petition to expand the Deschutes County Commission from three members to five. After voters approved the measure in November, Heylin created a group called Engage Deschutes, which “aims to demystify local politics and encourage more participation from those who call Deschutes County home,” according to a press release.

“I hope people will find community and support,” Heylin said in an email. “When working on my ballot measure to expand the County Commission, I greatly benefited from having people to bounce ideas off of. I want to create that same support for others who have great ideas to improve Deschutes County, their town, or even their neighborhood.”

This month’s event, the “elections edition,” is a chance to converse with people who have run, or are currently running, for office. Heylin said members and former candidates for city council and school boards in Bend and Redmond will be in attendance.

“If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to campaign, are considering volunteering, or even thinking about running yourself, this is your chance to get insider insights and inspiration,” the release states.

Each month will have a different theme such as “talking to the media” or “the state of public transit,” and suggested topics are welcome. Attendees will take home optional “homework” after every event to help them become more active in their local community. Events will also be held in La Pine, Redmond and Sisters.

Although Heylin’s 2024 ballot measure was backed by Democrats and his bar hosted the Deschutes County Democrats election night watch party, he said the upcoming events are not affiliated with any political party, and the invitation goes out to all of Deschutes County.

“I’ve made a point to inform both major parties, as well as local activists, political leaders, and nonprofits,” Heylin said. “Even if I personally disagree with an idea, I believe it’s valuable to engage through writing, in-person discussions, and phone calls.”