Grants Pass is hurting, drastically. The city has struggled with the homeless crisis for years now, and despite various attempts, no lasting solution has been found. Residents witness the growing encampments, the strain on public services, and a community increasingly frustrated by the lack of progress. There appears to be a real effort underway with the Pathway To Stability program but it has yet come to fruition.
Compounding the issue, Oregon state lawmakers continue to make life more difficult for everyday Oregonians. Taxes keep rising, and according to recent news reports, 2025 is set to bring a new wave of tax hikes as a result of the democratic super majority in Oregon (1). It feels less like governance and more like an assault on taxpayers. Adding to the outrage, articles are surfacing that claim Oregonians will soon be footing the bill for food stamps and other provisions for illegal immigrants (2).
From rent control laws to restrictive building codes and the dismantling of the timber industry, Oregon’s Democratic majority has taken steps that have driven businesses away and increased hardship for residents.
These developments have made it clear that the decisions made in Salem have a direct and powerful impact on daily life. Yet, when it comes to local governance, the contrast is stark. County commissioners and city council members play a much smaller role, but the influence they do have is critically important. Local leaders must get their decisions right because they are often the last line of defense for communities struggling under state policies.
Meanwhile, costs are rising on every front. The Democratic-controlled House, Senate, and Governor’s office is the root cause. With one-party control, checks and balances have eroded, leading to policies that many feel are out of touch with the realities faced by working families.
Oregon is overdue for a change in leadership. If we want to alter the trajectory of this state, to address the homeless crisis, curb rising costs, and implement policies that serve the people, we must start at the top. From the Governor’s office to the Oregon House and Senate, a new direction is essential if we hope to build a future where Oregonians can thrive.
The time for passive frustration has passed. The time for change is now.
(1) Oregon forecast warns “growth recession” ahead
https://oregoncatalyst.com/87734-oregon-forecast-warns-growth-recession.html
“All of the big taxes since 2019 (Corporate Activities Tax, METRO Homeless Income/business tax hike, biennial gas tax increases, etc…) are dragging Oregon’s economy down.”
(2) CA cuts non-citizen aid, while Oregon boosts it
https://oregoncatalyst.com/87748-ca-cuts-noncitizen-aid-oregon-boosts.html
“At the same time, Oregon lawmakers are voting on a plan to expand food stamps to non-citizens (SB 611) and offer special tuition benefits to non-citizens (HB 2586) and offer free government breakfast and government lunch to all students regardless of need .(HB 3435).”
And this is why we vote for people who are NOT currently in office when given a chance.
Agreed, vote out the democratic incumbents whenever possible.