Oregon faces a busy week of developments as the state navigates several pressing challenges and opportunities heading into the holiday season.

A significant fuel emergency gripped Oregon this week after Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency Monday to ensure adequate fuel supplies reach the state. The Olympic Pipeline, which supplies more than ninety percent of Oregon's fuel, shut down due to a leak just ahead of Thanksgiving travel. The governor's emergency declaration waives certain regulations on commercial driver operating hours to keep fuel arriving by ships and trucks during the pipeline closure.

In transportation news, momentum is building for a referendum challenge to Oregon's recent gas tax increase. Petitioners gathered an estimated one hundred fifty thousand signatures opposing the bill that raises the state's gas tax and DMV fees to fund the Oregon Department of Transportation. They need seventy-eight thousand signatures by December thirtieth to place the measure on next year's ballot. Governor Kotek and union leaders warn that a successful referendum could immediately suspend emergency funding for roads and bridges, potentially forcing ODOT layoffs and maintenance station closures.

On the education front, Oregon education agencies outlined potential budget cuts this week as lawmakers prepare for difficult decisions. The state faces revenue challenges heading into the two thousand twenty-six and two thousand twenty-seven biennium. The Oregon Department of Education is proposing reductions touching nearly every corner of the pre-K-twelve system, including cuts to career technical education pathways, gang prevention grants, and youth development programs. Meanwhile, school districts across the state continue bond construction projects, with several communities working on facility improvements and athletic field upgrades for next year.

In economic development, Oregon continues attracting significant investment. Lam Research opened a sixty-five million dollar building in Tualatin this month, supported by a twenty-two million dollar Oregon CHIPS Act grant. The company posted eighteen point four billion dollars in sales for two thousand twenty-five. Additionally, Google launched the Oregon AI Accelerator program to support artificial intelligence entrepreneurs, with applications closing December fifteenth.

Looking ahead, listeners should watch for the Secretary of State's verification of referendum signatures and the next phase of Oregon's legislative budget negotiations. School construction projects will accelerate in spring, and the state's fuel situation bears continued monitoring.

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Oregonians are experiencing a week marked by both urgency and adaptation as Governor Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency following the shutdown of the Olympic Pipeline due to a leak near Everett, Washington. This critical pipeline supplies roughly 90 percent of Oregon’s refined fuel, prompting the state to swiftly organize alternative shipments by barge and truck. While officials say there is no immediate threat of shortages, listeners should expect possible price hikes at the pump because of more expensive delivery methods, and the emergency order now remains in effect through late December, according to ABC News.

In the state Legislature, fiscal strains are driving difficult discussions as lawmakers confront a $373 million shortfall. The 2025 session saw reserves set aside as a buffer against federal tax code changes, with Democrats attributing much of the fiscal squeeze to those changes enacted at the federal level. Nevertheless, state agencies are preparing for significant budget cuts. For education, the Department of Early Learning and Care faces tens of millions in reductions, with legislators weighing scenarios that would trim up to five percent from early learning, support, and professional development programs. At the same time, Oregon City School District is moving ahead with a voter-approved bond, initiating design and planning work for ambitious upgrades to local elementary schools and career and technical education facilities. Construction is set to start after the academic year ends next spring.

On the business front, Oregon’s economy shows resilience in sectors like technology, value-added agriculture, and manufacturing. The Portland area continues attracting tech investment, with initiatives supporting AI startups and semiconductor manufacturing, including Lam Research’s recent $65 million expansion in Tualatin, as highlighted by the Portland Business Journal. Federal infrastructure funds are also fueling improvements across broadband, transportation, and renewable energy, which are seen as vital to rural connectivity and economic growth. Business Oregon has opened a new $20 million grant round to expand and upgrade child care facilities statewide, advancing Governor Kotek’s goal to make quality early childhood care accessible for all families.

Community life this week has been shaped by collective response to adversity and infrastructure needs. Along the coast in Newport, locals are expressing concern over the federal government’s decision to reassign the Coast Guard rescue helicopter, a resource that carries out dozens of life-saving missions for one of the region’s largest crabbing fleets. In Portland, police responded to an increase in public disturbances over the weekend, while faith groups and nonprofits are rallying to serve those in need, providing food support as demand rises.

Weather is also making headlines. According to AccuWeather, an atmospheric river is slated to sweep across western Oregon this Thanksgiving week, bringing up to four inches of rain in some lowland areas and significant snow at higher elevations. The heavy precipitation is forecast to slow travel, create localized flooding, and pose risks on mountain passes, though quieter and colder weather should follow as the holiday weekend winds down.

Looking ahead, Oregonians can expect continued debate and possible referendums on transportation funding and tax policy next year, a close watch on efforts to prevent further education cuts, and progress on major infrastructure and energy projects. With unpredictable winter weather on the way and state agencies bracing for leaner times, staying informed will be crucial.

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Oregon listeners are waking up to a busy week marked by headline-grabbing developments. Portland’s Hollywood district was rocked this weekend by a deadly shooting, with authorities swiftly apprehending the suspect in a nearby hotel after extensive surveillance. Meanwhile, a tragic accident in Hillsboro claimed the life of a 12-year-old bicyclist, prompting renewed scrutiny on local infrastructure and safety measures, as reported by KGW News. Legal action also escalated as Lincoln County and Oregon’s attorney general sued the federal government following the removal of a Coast Guard helicopter from Newport, a decision made without public notice that has residents concerned about emergency response capabilities.

Turning to government and politics, listeners should note that the Oregon Legislature has reached the midpoint of its 2025 session with several contentious measures moving forward. Lawmakers are considering a multi-billion-dollar transportation tax package that could increase the gas tax, add new fees for vehicle registration and tires, create a sales tax on cars, and impose charges on electric vehicles and delivery trucks. This ambitious plan is generating skepticism among Oregonians, particularly in light of previous unmet transportation promises and recent budget miscalculations at the Oregon Department of Transportation. With a $373 million budget shortfall looming, legislators are also exploring cuts to state agencies, including the Department of Human Services and education agencies, which have outlined proposed reductions to core programs, grants, and workforce initiatives. These decisions will be debated further in next year’s legislative session.

On the business front, Portland’s historic Albina neighborhood is set for revitalization as a local organization commits nearly $70 million to redevelop two districts, promising hundreds of new jobs and economic growth for the region. However, economic indicators remain mixed. Oregon’s employment picture is challenged by potential budget cuts affecting workforce development; for instance, Central Oregon Community College is preparing for a $1.5 million reduction in funding, likely impacting its technical training programs and slowing regional economic momentum. Efforts to improve affordability are underway, including a proposed $7 million settlement with a major landlord to curb rent hikes, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting.

In community news, education continues to be tested. State agencies have drafted plans for budget cuts that could shrink grants for career and technical education, early learning programs, and critical summer initiatives, while attempting to preserve meal programs and special education support. The Child Care Infrastructure Fund has opened its third round of funding, aiming to expand affordable high-quality childcare options for families state-wide, echoing Governor Tina Kotek’s commitment to early learning. Infrastructure-wise, investments and delays are expected as agencies balance community needs against fiscal constraints. Public safety remains in focus with increased law enforcement efforts and some unrest, such as a peaceful march ending in a single arrest in Portland’s South Waterfront.

Weatherwise, according to AccuWeather, Oregon is bracing for a significant storm fueled by an atmospheric river this Thanksgiving week. Heavy rain, gusty winds, and mountain snow will impact travel across the state, especially from Medford to Portland and up into the higher elevations. While periods of relief are expected Monday, rain and wind will intensify through Wednesday and Thanksgiving Day, making for challenging holiday travel. A minor earthquake also shook Salem Sunday morning, with reports of mild tremors but no significant damage according to the US Geological Survey.

Looking ahead, Oregon’s primary election season is approaching, with affordability and tax policy expected to dominate debates as candidates make their pitch. The state legislature’s next moves on taxes and agency budgets will be closely watched, especially as community leaders advocate for restoring essential services and programs. Weather watchers should stay alert for winter storm updates and possible travel disruptions through the coming holiday week. Thank you for tuning in and remember to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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Oregon’s political landscape is shifting as the state legislature reaches the midpoint of its 2025 session, with lawmakers narrowing their focus after the April 9 bill deadline. The Oregon Business & Industry group reports that a major transportation tax package is taking shape, proposing a 20-cent gas tax increase, new sales taxes on vehicles and tires, and higher registration and titling fees. Meanwhile, the state’s budget outlook has improved, with the projected shortfall shrinking from $373 million to $63.1 million, according to the Oregon Office of Economic Analysis. However, economic uncertainty persists, and the state’s rate of new business creation dropped from 12th to 28th nationally between 2023 and 2024, as reported by Oregon Business & Industry.

On the employment front, Intel announced it will cut another 669 workers in Oregon by the end of 2025, bringing its total layoffs in the state this year to over 3,100, according to KLCC. The state’s public health sector is also facing challenges, with the Coalition of Local Health Officials requesting $65.2 million to address staffing shortages and prevent further strain on local health departments.

In local government news, Portland’s city council rejected a proposal to cut $4.3 million from the city’s homeless camp removal program, opting instead to maintain funding for the initiative. The city is also advancing several infrastructure projects, including the Rose Quarter improvement along I-5, which is now facing financial challenges as costs balloon to $2 billion, according to KGW News. Additionally, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality awarded $2.6 million in grants for zero-emission fueling infrastructure, supporting the installation of charging stations for medium- and heavy-duty fleets across the state.

Community news highlights include the Portland school board adopting a draft work plan that prioritizes Albina projects, boundaries, and budget, as well as ongoing efforts to improve child care infrastructure with $20 million in new funding from Business Oregon. The state also issued $31 million in Safe Routes to School funds to enhance safety for students traveling to and from school.

Recent weather events have prompted officials to urge winter preparedness, with the Oregon Department of Transportation hosting its annual winter preparation conference and Mayor Keith Wilson emphasizing the importance of community support during severe weather conditions. A minor earthquake of magnitude 1.5 was recorded in Oregon on November 19, according to Volcano Discovery.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect continued debate over the transportation tax package, further updates on the state’s budget and economic recovery, and ongoing developments in public health and infrastructure projects. The state’s business climate and employment trends will also remain key topics as Oregon navigates its economic challenges.

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Oregon listeners are watching a state in motion, with important headlines shaping life from Portland to the high desert. In top news, Governor Tina Kotek has signed a sweeping transportation funding bill shortly before the November deadline, introducing new taxes meant to sustain Oregon’s aging bridges and highways, according to The Oregonian. Meanwhile, the Oregon Department of Transportation faces more pressure as its director, Kris Strickler, has announced he will resign by the end of the year amid ongoing project cost overruns. In business news, tech giant Intel confirmed an additional round of layoffs, cutting 669 positions in Oregon and bringing the total workforce reduction this year to over 3,100, reported by the Portland Business Journal. 

The state legislature is grappling with a significant budget shortfall caused by recent federal funding changes. Oregon Public Broadcasting reports lawmakers are urgently reviewing how to adjust state programs covering education, health care, and public safety after the Trump administration’s budget bill resulted in a nearly 900-million dollar gap. New work requirements for SNAP and reduced Medicaid funding are at the center of concern, prompting the governor to convene a closed-door group for advice on the Medicaid crisis. Meanwhile, legislative committees continue to explore economic development strategies for 2026, with Sen. Janine Sollman leading efforts on potential incentives and improvements for industrial land, as detailed by Oregon Business & Industry.

On the local front, Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability is advancing a series of long-range planning projects focused on affordable housing and resilience. These include the Affordable Housing Opportunities Project, which will remove barriers to nonprofit and public housing sites, and the Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub Policy Project, updating risk standards for the West Portland industrial district that stores 90 percent of Oregon’s liquid fuel supply.

Community news is a mix of ongoing and new efforts. School districts statewide, as reported by OPB, are contending with declining enrollment and shrinking budgets, prompting closures and consolidations, particularly in Corvallis and Bethel. Yet construction efforts continue, such as the Gervais School District's upgrade projects and the Oregon Transportation Commission's approval of $31 million in Safe Routes to School grants. These investments will make commutes safer for students, adding crosswalks and pedestrian paths.

The weather has briefly shifted: after a wet weekend, KATU reports that high pressure has brought a stretch of dry, mild weather to western Oregon. Snow levels remain above the main highway passes, ensuring clear travel, though rain is likely to return midweek.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect more legislative activity as interim sessions continue and major decisions unfold on economic development, public health funding, and land use. Participation opportunities for public input are coming up, including a Dec. 3 workshop on redevelopment plans for Portland’s Lower Albina. Stay tuned for how these developments will impact Oregon’s future, from lawmaking halls to local neighborhoods.

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Oregon listeners are watching several major stories this week. Governor Tina Kotek has announced that the state will not comply with the Trump administration’s demand to claw back over $80 million in November SNAP benefits, a move that impacts roughly 757,000 Oregonians depending on food assistance. According to Oregon Capital Insider, Oregon’s distribution of full benefits followed a federal judge’s order, and the governor has sharply criticized the administration’s stance, declaring the state will fight any attempt to take food from vulnerable households.

In legislative action, the Oregon Legislature has crossed the halfway mark of its 2025 session and remains focused on a multi-billion-dollar transportation package designed to raise nearly $2 billion per biennium. This plan would dramatically increase the state’s gas tax, add new fees for electric and delivery vehicles, and introduce sales taxes on vehicles and tires. The proposal has sparked controversy, with the Oregon Farm Bureau now backing a referendum effort to push back against what it calls “record tax increases.” A Special Session resulted in the Senate passing a $4.3 billion, ten-year infrastructure investment, targeting roads, bridges, and transit services.

On the business front, Oregon’s largest private employer, Intel, is downsizing again. Oregon Public Broadcasting reports that an additional 669 layoffs are coming before year-end, bringing total cuts in 2025 to over 3,100 jobs. Statewide unemployment has inched up to 5 percent, and manufacturing is down 4.5 percent from last year. Economic experts, such as John Tapogna at the Lane County economic summit, have noted a slow economic outlook, pointing to declining birth rates, less mobility, and slow population growth as headwinds. However, city leaders in Eugene and Springfield hope upcoming redevelopment and airport expansion projects will provide a boost.

In education, some school districts are launching major modernization projects in Portland and Oregon City. Construction on new facilities and upgrades is underway, but declining student enrollment and budget constraints are putting pressure on urban school districts. According to OPB, the Corvallis area is even weighing possible school closures if funding continues to shrink. Meanwhile, the Bend-La Pine School District is piloting an affordable housing initiative for its school employees, aiming to retain staff in the high-cost area.

Infrastructure remains a focus statewide. The Oregon Department of Transportation is preparing to award over $30 million in contracts for improvements to Interstate 84 in Malheur County and Portland has earmarked funds for elevator modernization and high school campus upgrades. Notably, the Department of Environmental Quality announced nearly $11.5 million in grants toward clean diesel infrastructure and emissions reductions, with projects from Eugene to Portland slated to significantly improve air quality.

Oregon hasn’t seen major weather disruptions in recent days, though focus remains on transportation as the winter season approaches.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect continued debate on transportation taxes, more fallout from statewide employment shifts, and early impacts from school district budget decisions. The fate of the SNAP dispute and its legislative consequences also warrant close attention in coming weeks. Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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Listeners, Oregon is making headlines this week as Governor Tina Kotek stands firm on the decision not to claw back November’s full SNAP benefits, despite demands from the Trump administration. SNAP payments—critical food assistance for about 757,000 residents—were distributed promptly after a federal judge ordered their release. Kotek called any attempt to revoke those funds “ridiculous and immoral,” highlighting the state’s commitment to protecting vulnerable Oregonians, especially amid federal shutdown negotiations. The debate over federal food support continues to dominate local and national discourse, with Oregon’s stance widely covered by Oregon Capital Insider and OPB.

In state politics, the Oregon Legislature crosses the midpoint of its 2025 session, with just under half of the original bills remaining in play. Lawmakers are deep into debates on labor rules and public spending priorities. Most notably, a multi-billion-dollar transportation tax package is being finalized. The plan, outlined by Joint Committee Co-Chairs Chris Gorsek and Susan McLain, would phase in a 20-cent per-gallon gas tax increase, new sales taxes on vehicles and tires, and higher registration fees. According to NFIB, these changes could raise nearly $2 billion per biennium, funding roads, public transit, and infrastructure improvements while drawing criticism from business advocates concerned about rising costs.

Business and economic indicators reveal a mixed outlook. The Oregon Business & Industry Association reports the state’s rate of new business creation fell from 12th to 28th nationwide in just a year, citing ongoing challenges from inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain issues. Meanwhile, discussions continue to raise the Corporate Activity Tax exemption to benefit small businesses struggling under the current tax burden. Portland city leaders are under pressure to ease regulations and raise the business tax income threshold, with entrepreneurs lobbying for relief amid high costs and complex rules.

Within the community, education and infrastructure are seeing active investment. School modernization is underway across the region, from the Cleveland High School campus in Portland—which will gain new classrooms, labs, and sports facilities—to a greenhouse project in Sisters aiming to enrich STEM curricula. In Coos Bay, the city council has accepted a Safe Routes to School plan, paving the way for future ODOT construction grants and safer pathways for students. The Gervais School District’s bond projects are also in full swing, with summer construction enhancing elementary facilities. Bend’s city council has cleared the way for new affordable housing specifically for school employees, reflecting ongoing efforts to retain educators in expensive housing markets.

Public safety stories include a recent shooting involving a Clackamas County deputy near Sandy, where authorities responded after a trailer fire incident, as reported by KGW News. On another front, federal immigration enforcement activity intensified in Salem, with at least 24 detentions in a single day, raising concerns within the community about the impact on families and the local workforce.

Weather has taken center stage this week. Significant rainfall returned to Western Oregon, with the heaviest expected November 13-14. Snow is forecast for the Cascade Mountain passes between November 16-17, creating challenging travel conditions according to The Statesman Journal. On the heels of these events, solar storms brought the northern lights to Oregon’s night skies, offering rare views due to strong geomagnetic activity. While beautiful, forecasters from NOAA and OPB cautioned that GPS and power grids could experience minor disruptions during the peak of this solar cycle.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect further debate over the transportation tax package and ongoing legislative sessions that will shape future policy around taxes, public health, and workforce development. Construction projects statewide, including major school upgrades and infrastructure improvements, remain key community focal points. Stay tuned for continued updates on federal funding decisions, economic trends, and the impact of Oregon’s evolving weather.

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Oregon’s top news this week centers on the signing of the emergency transportation bill by Governor Tina Kotek, a move aimed at shoring up road and transit funding over the next decade. The legislation, raising $4.3 billion for the Oregon Department of Transportation, includes increases to the gas tax, vehicle title and registration fees, and the payroll tax. However, Republican leaders criticized the governor’s timing in making the bill official, contending it limited the window for citizens opposing the new taxes to gather signatures for a potential referendum. If the opposition gains enough signatures, some tax increases could appear on the November 2026 ballot, heightening political tensions around transportation funding priorities according to KATU News.

The close of the 2025 Oregon legislative session brought mixed results for lawmakers and communities across the state. Efforts to pass a more expansive $11.6 billion transportation package stalled earlier in the year after Democrats, despite controlling both legislative chambers, couldn’t secure full party support for the larger tax hikes initially proposed. According to the NFIB, business interests are closely watching additional proposals such as raising the Corporate Activity Tax exemption and restoring hiring and retention bonuses, key issues for many small businesses facing rising costs and labor challenges.

In business news, the city of La Pine is welcoming Western Metrology Sales LLC as it relocates its headquarters from Wilsonville, an expected boost to regional employment and investment after years of negotiation, reported by the Bend Bulletin. The Portland area also saw movement in education infrastructure, as Cleveland High School’s modernization plan entered the land use review phase, while OHSU prepared for mental health facility upgrades. The Daily Journal of Commerce noted these projects are part of broader efforts to update and expand Oregon’s educational and health infrastructure.

School funding remains a contentious issue. Voters in Lake Oswego approved a $245 million bond for campus reconstruction and safety upgrades, with a strong 71 percent support, illustrating ongoing commitment to public education. In contrast, other districts including Oregon Trail and Sandy saw significant bond measures rejected, highlighting persistent regional divides over school infrastructure funding, as detailed by OPB and The Outlook Online. Meanwhile, Coos Bay’s city council has paved the way for improved Safe Routes to School infrastructure, a step toward securing ODOT grants for safer student commutes.

Oregonians saw variable weather heading into Veterans Day week. According to KATU and the National Weather Service, a mild and sunny holiday is expected to quickly transition to rain and cooler temperatures midweek, bringing more snow to mountain passes. The Oregon Coast experienced the first king tides of the season, with waves surging over 10 feet and raising concerns about erosion and coastal flooding. Experts warn these dramatic tides, captured by OPB, may signal future hazards as sea levels rise.

Looking ahead, listeners can expect a flurry of activity as opposition groups race to gather signatures for a possible ballot referendum on the new transportation taxes before the December 30 deadline. The state’s evolving response to education, infrastructure, and business challenges will likely dominate public debate in the coming months, alongside ongoing legislative preparations for 2027 and the impacts of winter weather on both travel and local economies.

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Oregon is in the spotlight this week with a wide range of important developments across politics, business, education, and community life. Among the top headlines, Portland police are investigating multiple weekend shootings, with two fatalities and several injuries reported, though overall violent crime in the city is down compared to the same period last year, according to KGW News. Another major headline: Oregon voters have recently considered significant tax and bond measures, including a proposed 75 percent increase in Portland property taxes to fund city parks and public safety, decisions that could shape community resources for years to come.

In state government, the Oregon legislature’s 2025 session wrapped up with Democrats maintaining supermajorities in both houses. Project funding for southwest Oregon focused on fish, farm, and forestry improvements, though some legislative priorities are delayed until the next session. On the policy front, the Secretary of State is fast-tracking the implementation of House Bill 4024, which sets new campaign contribution limits and creates a campaign finance dashboard. Public hearings on these changes just took place, marking a major step for transparency and accountability in Oregon’s political landscape. Meanwhile, Governor Tina Kotek’s delay on signing a new transportation bill is drawing criticism even from within her party. The bill proposes increases to gas taxes, vehicle fees, and payroll taxes to fund critical road and transit repairs, but some lawmakers argue the delayed signature is hampering civic participation and public trust.

Turning to business and the economy, the state faces both growth and challenge. The transportation funding standoff could lead to the layoff of nearly 500 ODOT workers if the bill isn’t enacted soon, according to Oregon Public Broadcasting. Food insecurity remains a hot topic as thousands rely on assistance due to ongoing delays and reductions in federal SNAP benefits, leading to increased demand at food banks. In education and infrastructure, voters in Lake Oswego resoundingly approved a $245 million school bond measure, which will maintain current tax rates while enabling major facility upgrades, including safety improvements and the replacement of two elementary schools. However, other districts like Sandy and Oregon Trail saw their school bond measures rejected by voters, reflecting uneven support across the state, as reported by OPB.

For community news, Springfield finished the Mill Street construction project under budget to the relief of local residents, and several school districts are adjusting to budget cuts and infrastructure challenges. Public safety initiatives include property tax proposals in Washington County to support law enforcement and emergency services.

Weather-wise, Oregon has experienced several atmospheric river events this week, delivering heavy rainfall, especially to the coast and the Cascades. The Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes noted that while the precipitation will help battle drought, it also brings risks of high streamflow and minor flooding in low-lying areas. King tides, the highest tides of the year, are now surging along the coast, thrilling watchers and researchers alike but also causing concern for potential coastal erosion and flooding, something the Oregon Coastal Management Program is closely monitoring. KTVZ News in Bend reports that although rain remains steady, conditions should dry out and warm up by the coming weekend.

Looking ahead, Oregonians will be watching for the outcome of pending transportation funding, upcoming king tide events on the coast in December and January, and further education bond measures as communities continue to debate the best path forward for funding schools and infrastructure. Thanks for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

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Oregon listeners have seen a busy start to November, with legislative debates, economic developments, infrastructure activity, and turbulent weather putting the state in the national spotlight. In a top headline, pressure continues to mount on Governor Tina Kotek regarding the state’s sweeping transportation bill, which she has yet to sign. The legislation would raise the gas tax by six cents, increase registration and titling fees, and double a payroll tax funding public transit. Rep. Ed Diehl is gearing up for a ballot referendum to challenge some of these tax hikes, and his volunteer campaign aims to halt the moves until after a 2026 vote. The Oregon Department of Transportation warns that unless funding is secured, layoffs of nearly 500 staff could happen in the coming year, making this bill one of the most closely watched political stories in Oregon, as noted by Oregon Public Broadcasting.

Meanwhile, the Oregon State Legislature is preparing for its next session with important business changes on the agenda. According to the National Federation of Independent Business, the push to raise the Corporate Activity Tax exemption to $5 million could impact thousands of small businesses struggling with increased costs and labor shortages. Other legislative priorities include legalizing hiring and retention bonuses, a fix for Oregon’s strict Equal Pay Law, and another effort to block contractor wage claim liability, which industry advocates warn could unfairly penalize law-abiding businesses.

On the economic front, Governor Kotek just signed a memorandum of understanding with the United Kingdom to strengthen trade relations in advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, clean energy, and tourism. This partnership aims to create jobs and accelerate Oregon’s transition away from coal, with $238.4 million in exports to the UK last year, according to the State of Oregon’s newsroom. Southern Deschutes County is also seeing new momentum, as the town of La Pine welcomes aerospace manufacturer Western Metrology to its industrial park, setting the stage for more production and job growth in Central Oregon.

Employment news is also notable, with Business Oregon reporting gains in the leisure and hospitality sector, which added over 4,000 jobs this August compared to last year. Grants are flowing to small businesses in Portland through Prosper Portland’s Reimagine Oregon Economic Opportunity Investment Fund.

Community news saw strong voter turnout for the recent special election, with nearly 40 percent participation reported in Clackamas County. Lake Oswego voters approved a significant $245 million bond for school reconstruction and safety upgrades, keeping tax rates steady. West Linn-Wilsonville’s bond measure for school infrastructure received narrow support, but the Oregon Trail School District’s proposal for rural improvements was voted down, highlighting ongoing challenges for facility funding outside urban centers.

On the infrastructure front, Bend city leaders unveiled a $1.48 billion budget to manage rapid expansion and improve services, and St. Helens’ waterfront project earned a statewide award for transportation planning.

Weather has been a top concern this week. Multiple atmospheric river storms have battered western Oregon, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and minor flooding risks but no major river flooding yet. Flood Watches and wind advisories remain in effect, with more moisture in the forecast that promises relief for drought-hit areas, as reported by Fox Weather and UC San Diego’s Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes.

Looking ahead, Oregon will host public hearings November 7 to receive feedback on new campaign finance rules and other reforms under House Bill 4024, a major change to how elections and donations are managed. Watch for ongoing developments around the transportation tax referendum, the upcoming legislative session, and continuing weather patterns as fall progresses.

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