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To Spur the Economy: Cut Taxes, Trim Regulations

Gov. Tina Kotek’s 15-person “prosperity council” released a report last week outlining ten recommendations to help energize the state’s economy. The report drew on dozens of listening sessions around the state and feedback from more than 1,000 Oregonians. [Oregon.gov / OPB]

• Tax Changes: Short-term, the report suggests a slew of business-friendly tax updates. Long-term, it recommends changes to the tax code that position Oregon as a more competitive option for high-earners and business owners to reside. [Oregonian]
• Oregon Cap and Trade? One of the bolder recommendations is to replace Oregon’s Climate Protection Program with an emissions reduction plan more similar to neighboring states’, which are market-based. [Oregon Journalism Project]
• What Next? Kotek established this council in January and has made economic development a top priority of her administration. While she said she broadly supports several of the recommendations, Kotek may avoid deciding which policies to implement until after the November election. [OPB]

Who Pays to Fix the Algal Bloom?

OSU researchers and the Human Access Project have devised a plan to curb the toxic algal blooms in the Ross Island lagoon that drift into the Willamette River each summer. They estimate it will cost between $14.5 and $26.5 million to flush fresh, cool water through the lagoon. It’s unclear who will take charge and pay for the fix – and when. [Oregonian]

PPS’s $2.77 Billion Budget

The Portland Public Schools board passed its 2026-2027 budget last week after testimony from many devastated by layoffs. In total, the district has reduced staffing by 322 full-time equivalent positions, including 80 teachers. State leaders and legislators have refused to tap into a state education fund to ease the burden, despite calls for financial help from districts across the state. [OPB]

Your Dog is the Wingman in Dating Show, “Fetching”

A reality-style dating show is being filmed in the Portland area and hopes to make finding love less… ruff. The new show is hosted by two local comedians who will match dates based on whose dogs played together at the first gathering of 20 singles. The show is expected to be released on YouTube this fall. [OPB]