The Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on General Government convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss pressing issues affecting local governments in Oregon, particularly in relation to housing, education funding, and community engagement.

A significant focus of the meeting was the challenges local governments face in fundraising and the need for increased authority at the local level. Committee members expressed concerns about the rising cost of housing across the state, which has made it difficult for communities to provide adequate housing options, including duplexes and quadplexes. The discussions highlighted the urgent need to address homelessness and ensure that residents can maintain stable housing.

Additionally, the committee addressed the impact of education costs on local governments. There was a call for creative solutions that would alleviate the financial burden on communities while encouraging public participation in local initiatives. The conversation also touched on the need for state leadership to address existing measures that are perceived as hindering local government effectiveness, specifically Measures 5 and 47.

As the meeting concluded, members acknowledged the positive efforts of Governor Kotek in various sectors, including housing, behavioral health, and education, particularly in Eastern Oregon. The committee emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovative approaches to tackle the challenges facing local governments and their communities.