Since these large property owners have not successfully reinvested their tax savings into job creation it is not unreasonable to ask them to pay their fair share for the use of local infrastructure and services.
Read MoreWe could also look at stemming the flow of timber (and jobs) that heads overseas and deprives Oregon mills of much needed work. We can promote green jobs through forest and watershed restoration. And we should explore opportunities for payments from the carbon sequestration our federal forests do naturally through their growth.
Read MoreToday, they announced that an agreement has been reached and that next week Chairman Bingaman will be introducing bipartisan legislation to extend the program for an additional five years at a level of funding necessary to support essential county services.
Read More