Building an Economy that helps all Oregonians
Oregon’s economy can thrive on the rich mix of our natural environment, our technical expertise, and our reputation for innovation. The key to success is to focus our strengths, our values, and our key industries as our best opportunities to create value for all Oregonians.
1. Transform Livability into an Oregon Industry.
Oregonians know as much about how to build livable communities as anyone in the world. Making communities work better is now a truly global enterprise, as more than half of the world’s population lives in cities for the first time in human history. People everywhere are struggling with sprawl, air pollution, affordable housing, and transportation gridlock. At home and abroad, there is a growing market for our signature accomplishments. There is also money to be made at home, not only by the planners, designers, developers, and builders who have made Portland a showcase for light rail, streetcars, and livability, but for businesses, clients, and neighbors who are already benefiting from Portland’s economic vitality.
What if we were to use the “Silicon Valley” model of economic growth, which capitalized on the research and academic resources of Stanford University to create a world-class technology center? Combining our own home-grown livability industries and professions with the cutting-edge research and development capacity of Portland State University, Oregon State University, and OHSU, we could shape the Portland region into a “Livability Valley” of excellence.
2. Use our agricultural heritage to transform American farm policy, strengthen rural communities, and benefit all Oregonians.
Oregon’s agricultural riches have been known for two hundred years. Today, 7,000 family-owned agricultural enterprises, vintners, nursery owners, and ranchers are already predisposed to honor Oregon’s land. Many are already environmental leaders; most take their stewardship responsibilities very seriously.
The federal Farm Bill has 146 provisions that are filled with opportunities. Just as Oregon was the poster child for the revolutionary 1991 federal transportation legislation that provided more opportunity and benefits from federal funds, Oregon can serve as a model for national agricultural policy while enhancing our economy at home. For example, we could redirect some of the bill’s $23 billion in agricultural subsidies to support local farmers markets that would revitalize communities large and small, provide Oregonians with better products, and put more money into farmers’ pockets.
Already, Oregon wine and nursery businesses, ranchers, and farmers are leading the way, showing how we can craft winning policies that are good for farmers, the land, the environment, our water supplies, and wildlife. We have the opportunity to build on this good work and take it to the next level, applying it to all of Oregon agriculture and, in true Oregon tradition, creating an opportunity to unite rather than divide citizens throughout the state.
In almost four decades of public service, Earl Blumenauer's innovative accomplishments in transportation, planning, environmental programs and public participation have helped Portland, Oregon earn an international reputation as one of America's most livable cities.