Politics
87 articles · Page 5 of 9
Taxpayers Association of Oregon: The Bull Pen
A new Oregon law, effective October 1, 2022, prohibits hiring bonuses to promote equality, impacting businesses like Tri-Met and McMennamins. As other states increase their bonuses, Oregon faces significant labor shortages and job recovery challenges. Critics argue the law hinders employment opportunities for minorities and exacerbates the state's economic issues.
Salem Chamber of Commerce Supports the $300 Million Community Infrastructure Bond, on the November Ballot
In November, Salem voters will decide on a $300 million community improvement bond, funding various projects including infrastructure, affordable housing, and public safety. The bond will not raise tax rates, maintaining the current bond rate of $1.20 per $1,000 assessed. The Chamber supports the bond, emphasizing local accountability.
Fly Salem, Fly!
Travel Salem, SEDCOR, Fly Salem Committee, and the Salem Chamber of Commerce urged the City Council to prioritize efforts for restoring commercial air service at Salem Airport. They highlighted essential upgrades, funding strategies, and potential revenue impacts, emphasizing the need for swift action to ensure economic growth and service availability within the year.
Salem Is the 9th Most Dependent Midsize U.S. Metro on Small Businesses
A new Smartest Dollar report highlights that while small businesses constitute 99.9% of U.S. firms and generate nearly half of the GDP, their economic role has declined since the 1980s. Challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, labor shortages, and rising costs threaten their sustainability, with varying dependency across U.S. locations.
Salem Community Improvement Bond and 2022-23 Salem City Budget
In June, the Salem City Council prioritized the $300 million Community Improvement Bond and the 2022-23 budget. Key proposals included funding for infrastructure, youth bus passes, and affordable housing initiatives. Councilors supported various amendments to enhance public safety and bikeway connectivity, ultimately allocating significant resources for community improvements.
Oregon's latest attempt at a single-payer health care system
In 2019, Oregon established a Task Force on Universal Health Care under Senate Bill 770, advocating for a publicly funded single-payer system. While promising no out-of-pocket costs and potential savings, the plan proposes new taxes totaling $21.35 billion annually, burdening employers and middle-class individuals, raising concerns over economic impacts and equity.
Legislature Working to Increase Construction Regulation Authority
Construction bills in an Oregon legislative session are typically focused on prevailing wage, apprenticeship, and public contracting. However, this year dollars in federal spending bills come attached to their own...
Getting ready for takeoff: Salem Municipal Airport is five months away from offering passenger flights
The Fly Salem Steering Committee has worked for five years to restore air service in Salem, Oregon. They've made significant progress with a new airline committed to start flights by October 2023. Plans include affordable flights to Hollywood Burbank and Las Vegas, potentially boosting tourism and the local economy significantly.
Oregon Credit Unions Contribute to Real-World Education with New Financial Literacy Legislation
The legislation incorporates financial and life skills into high school programs, equipping young individuals with essential knowledge for their future. Tigard, Oregon (February 16, 2023) The GoWest Credit Union Association,...
Are Salem-Keizer incomes keeping pace with inflation?
Many workers have experienced stagnating wages amid rising inflation, creating disparities in economic wellbeing. While some areas, like Salem, saw income growth, others struggled with slower wage increases outpaced by living costs. Geography significantly influenced these trends, impacting different demographics unevenly as inflation rates soared post-pandemic.