Transportation funding and budget cuts dominated the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners meeting on September 24, 2025, as officials grappled with the implications of a pending transportation bill. The bill is expected to pass, but concerns were raised about a potential referral to the ballot, which could delay the implementation of crucial fees and taxes until November 2026. This delay poses a significant risk of layoffs for Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) employees, as the legislature failed to include a provision for an earlier ballot referral, a move that has been standard practice in past transportation packages.

Commissioners discussed the logistical challenges of gathering the necessary signatures to place the measure on the ballot, estimating that around 150,000 valid signatures would be required. The cost of hiring signature gatherers is projected to be between $150,000 and $200,000, indicating a substantial investment for those seeking to challenge the bill.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting highlighted the state's budgetary constraints. With a constitutional requirement to balance the budget, anticipated revenue shortfalls could lead to cuts totaling $800 million. The governor has already instructed agencies to reduce spending across various areas, including travel and administrative costs. Discussions are also underway regarding potential changes to Medicaid funding for undocumented individuals, which could save the state significant funds.

As the legislature prepares for a special session next week, the urgency of these discussions underscores the critical intersection of transportation funding and budget management in Oregon. The outcomes of these deliberations will have lasting impacts on both infrastructure and state services in the coming months.