“In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity” ― Sun Tzu
It was great to see another strong turnout of county commissioners and judges at the annual Oregon Business Summit in Portland December 5. We followed up the day of programming with commissioners, legislators, business and philanthropy leaders at a lively dinner.
Many positive things came out of the day, but one disquieting theme emerged—business and top political leadership in the state aren’t in sync on how to tackle Oregon’s budget deficit. Sen. Richard Devlin made it clear that we can’t make it up with cuts alone without significantly impacting the state’s core services.
Business representatives on the podium made it clear they’ll support new revenues to help close the gap if, and only if, the state’s willing to seriously look at cost containment. Although the courts have frustrated many attempts at PERS reform, there are still alternatives that may withstand legal challenges.
It was also clear, that those on the business side expect elected leadership to lead, and put forward a plan they can react to. But the message from the governor and legislators seemed to indicate they were looking for the business representatives to put their cards on the table first.
Let’s hope that doesn’t indicate a stalemate in the making.
I did hear conversations that gave me hope. Legislators from both houses and both parties are interested in crafting a 2017 version of a “grand bargain” that would tie new revenues to spending controls in a package that they believe could win bipartisan support.
As always, it’s all about the details, but if something emerges that can protect essential public services while demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility, I hope AOC can be a strong advocate for that package. Senate President Peter Courtney said when the state’s economic and political forces are working together, we can accomplish anything. He’s right; let’s help move us all in the same direction. Our mutual constituents are counting on it.