Every two years, the Ways & Means Committee of the Oregon Legislature sets a budget for the coming two-year period. The process is long and complex, but it begins with two things:
- First, an understanding of how much money is available to spend,
- Second, a proposal known as the “Co-Chairs’ Budget”, and
- Third, an opportunity for Oregonians to share their budget priorities with the Legislature. These opportunities are called the “Ways & Means Road Shows” or “budget town halls”
What is a Ways & Means Road Show?
A Ways & Means Road Show is a series of meetings where Oregonians can come share their budget priorities with the budget writers of the Oregon Legislature. The road show travels all around Oregon so that people can come and share their opinions with the budget committee about the proposed budget.
Where does the Road Show visit?
In 2017, the Road Show will visit:
(1) Salem: Friday, February 10, 5 – 7 pm
Oregon State Capitol, Hearing Room F, 900 Court Street NE, Salem
(2) Portland: Saturday, February 11, 12 – 2 pm
Main Mall, Amo DeBernardis CC Building, PCC, Sylvania campus, 12000 SW 49th Ave, Portland
(3) Hermiston: Friday, February 17, 5 – 7 pm
Main Commons, Hermiston High School, 600 S 1st St, Hermiston
(4) Madras: Saturday, February 18, 1 – 3 pm
Performing Arts Center, Madras High School, 390 SE 10th St, Madras
(5) Ashland: Friday, February 24, 5 – 7 pm
Rogue River Room, Southern Oregon University, 1250 Siskiyou Blvd, Ashland
(6) Eugene: Saturday, February 25, 2 – 4 pm
Lane Community College, Rooms 308-309 Building 17 (The Forum), 4000 E 30th Ave, Eugene
(7) Tillamook: Friday, March 3, 6 – 8 pm
Officer’s Mess, Port of Tillamook Bay, 6825 Officers Row, Tillamook
Should I go?
Yes, absolutely! This is your chance to talk to the Legislature about your priorities as an Oregonian. Housing programs are not adequately funded in the proposed budget. We need to make sure housing is a priority! Your stories are incredibly important. They help the Legislature understand what is going on in their communities.
The road shows will be crowded, so please plan to show up at least 90 minutes early to sign up to speak, and your speaking time will go by fast, so be prepared. Click to download our toolkit for the full details on what to expect and what to say!