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To address the disconnect between underrepresented communities and their government, the city of Bend is offering a new resource, a block party trailer.

The trailer comes with games, tables and chairs for around 60 people and all the supplies needed for decorations, safety and maintenance.

According to Makayla Oliver, the city’s community relations manager, the goal is to spur Bend residents to get involved in their community, with a nudge from City Hall.

“I often hear from people, ‘We get asked to do surveys all the time, there has to be a better way to get input. City Hall isn’t a welcoming place for those who don’t know how to navigate the system,’” Oliver said. “There was a real need of support, and the block party trailer is one of those solutions.”

The trailer can be used in parks, private venues — where it’s allowed — and neighborhood streets where the city permits it. Oliver said small businesses are also able to use the trailer, but as it’s being launched, neighborhood associations will be given priority.

The first event will be held by the Boyd Acres Neighborhood Association from 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 22, at the Pine Nursery Shelter, for its annual meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Megan Perkins will be there along with the Bend Police Department and Bend Bikes. Food by Port of Subs will be served along with music by Juniper and Gin.

Ashlie Bibaud, land use chair of Boyd Acres

Neighborhood Association, views the trailer as an opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other and their association.

To rent the trailer, people can reach out to Oliver, Zavi Borja — Bend’s other community relations manager — or their neighborhood board to reserve the Bend Block Party.

According to Bibaud, working with Oliver on getting the event setup was easy. “It sounds like she’s stocked it with a lot of great stuff that’s going to make our events a lot easier to put on,” Bibaud said. “We have the banners, markers, signs and then some toys and stuff like that. I’m really excited to try it out and see what’s in there and what it can add to the event.”