ARTICLE
As the legislature convenes in special session to contemplate congressional and state legislative redistricting and the window for candidate filings opens, we are reminded that nothing in politics is quick, easy or free. During this week alone, we are already seeing a battle play out in Salem for the future of political control of the state for the next ten years with promises broken, new committees created, threatened walk outs and decisions on legislative and congressional districts possibly left up to the Secretary of State and a panel of judges, respectively. On the local level, although the filing window has opened, we see few filings for public office. Whether for the legislature or local councils and commissions, many incumbents and new candidates seem to be waiting to officially declare their candidacy. However, some are already making their intentions known through word of mouth or more proactively through e-mail announcements and public statements. Instrumental in the day to day advocacy successes for our industry, some of which are included in this and past e-news articles, is HBA and OHBA’s ability to get sympathetic people elected to office. Although we may not always agree, having an elected official willing to listen to industry needs and concerns is instrumental in getting housing forward polices created and anti-development, anti-business laws thwarted. As we head into another major election year, it is important that our political action committee Oregonians for Affordable Housing (OFAH) has the funds it needs to support candidates and political action that support us. While reviewing your end of year budget or planning for next year, please make sure to include a contribution to OFAH. The money we raise now will help us later as we work to get pro-housing candidates elected to local and state offices. Elections Matter. Your Support Matters. Please give today. If you would like to discuss your first personal or company contribution or just let us know you’d like to continue with past contribution levels, please contact Ryan Makinster at ryanm@hbapdx.org.