In the wake of Oregon voters decisively rejecting a proposed gas and payroll tax increase, Governor Tina Kotek’s transportation workgroup has shifted its focus to addressing public perception issues rather than immediately identifying new funding solutions. The group, which met for the first time in May, is tasked with recommending funding ideas for the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) by the end of the year.

Public Perception Takes Center Stage

During a recent meeting, members of the workgroup and invited guests discussed the need to improve the public’s understanding of the value provided by the state transportation agency and local districts. The proposed tax increase, which was rejected by over 80% of voters, aimed to raise gas prices by 6 cents, double the transit payroll tax, and increase registration and title fees.

Chris Hagerbaumer, executive director of the Portland-based nonprofit OpenAQ, noted that many people don’t realize how little they spend on transportation compared to other utilities. Lee Beyer, a former Democratic lawmaker, emphasized the need to better communicate what the public is paying for.

Funding Ideas and Challenges

While the workgroup discussed the importance of public engagement and presenting a clear vision, they also considered potential funding mechanisms. Ideas included congestion pricing during peak traffic times, a mileage tax on electric vehicles, and reallocating parts of the transient lodging tax to support local transit districts.

Tammy Baney, director of the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council, advocated for educating the public about the transportation system’s benefits and suggested focusing on large capital projects related to safety. She also mentioned the potential of implementing a mileage tracking system for electric vehicles to ensure they contribute to road maintenance funding.

Future Considerations

Grace Crunican, co-chair of the workgroup and former ODOT director, highlighted the need to redirect some existing funds and maintain vacant positions to avoid significant damage to the transportation system. However, she warned that without new investments, future fixes could become economically challenging.

The workgroup aims to refine their ideas over the coming months and explore opportunities to leverage federal funds. With a deadline for proposals set for late summer, the group is under pressure to develop viable solutions that can gain legislative approval in 2027.

Original reporting: Salem Reporter — read the source article.