Driving the Oregon Economy
Growing the Oregon economy will require savvy and creative thinking – and the drive to turn ideas into action. On April 8, Friday Forum speaker Karla Chambers will highlight novel ideas for growing Oregon’s private sector economy, which is also essential to the state’s long-term fiscal health and its ability to provide key public services.
Chambers will begin with an assessment of Oregon’s private sector economy, including the state’s anemic job growth and below-average per capita income. She will suggest economic development strategies that Oregon should prioritize to encourage businesses to relocate, grow or invest here, such as lowering the capital gains taxes and assuring stable and consistent land use policies. Finally, she will acknowledge global trends that influence Oregon’s economy, highlighting local innovations and unique natural resources that might enhance the state’s international position.
Karla Chambers is co-owner and vice president of Stahlbush Island Farms, an environmentally friendly farm and food processor committed to sustainable agriculture. She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco.
Arrive early! Doors open 11:00 AM; Debate and vote on mental health services report at 11:45 AM.
