Oregon City commission reaffirms opposition to tolling, urges ODOT accountability amid repeal talk
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Summary
Facing state‑level moves to repeal parts of a transportation package, the commission voted unanimously to affirm its position that tolling language should be permanently removed from statutes and that increased ODOT accountability be central to any transportation fix.
Oregon City’s commission on Jan. 7 voted unanimously to reaffirm a local position opposing tolling and calling for greater accountability from the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) amid discussion of a possible repeal of the state transportation package.
Commissioners said the governor’s announcement to seek repeal in the short session followed an initiative petition that qualified for the ballot and that repeal could remove both the tax/fee changes and some accountability measures for ODOT. One commissioner urged care so that beneficial provisions beyond taxes are not lost. The commission debated whether to send a letter, draft a motion, or otherwise urge state representatives to preserve accountability measures while removing tolling language.
A formal motion carried that the commission affirm its position “that tolling language should be permanently stricken from the statutes and that ODOT accountability is a central part of any transportation fix.” The motion passed by unanimous roll call.
Commissioners asked staff about options for follow‑up and whether the commission should send a communication to state legislators or otherwise advocate for preserving non‑tolling accountability measures. No specific legislative language was adopted at the meeting; the commission’s action records its local stance and directs follow‑up as needed.
