Endorsements
The Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce has an active Government Affairs Council that brings the voice of business to the table to identify, evaluate, and recommend positions to the Gresham Area Chamber Board of Directors on issues and opportunities which may impact the health of the business community and the economic stability of our region. Our advocacy supports businesses of all sizes and types.
Ballot Measures & Issues
Vote YES on Gresham Safety Levy Measure 26-239
- Adds police to address the unacceptable rising rate of crime.
- Ensures 24-7 emergency response by Fire and Police Departments
- Restores teams to traffic, homeless services, and neighborhood enforcement.
- Sets up dedicated levy fund with community oversight holding government accountable for where money is being spent.
- Professional staff additions for homelessness and those experiencing mental health crisis
Click here to learn more about the Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce encourages you to VOTE YES on Safety Levy Measure 26-239
VOTE NO on Oregon Capital Gains Tax Measure 26-238
- Every Multnomah County reside is subject to this new tax.
- Portland and Multnomah County already have successful programs paid for by tax dollars, for rental assistance for evictions for low income residents.
- New tax funds free attorneys for renter, no matter what income level of renter.
- Local family-owned businesses will pay, while biggest corporations will not be required to pay.
- Seniors will pay when they sell their homes to fund health and end of life expenses or withdraw retirement savings (which is required for many).
- No income thresholds for who would receive free services.
- Tax is required to be adjusted annually.
Click here to learn more about why we are encouraging a NO vote on Capital Gains Measure 26-238.
Endorsement Process
The Government Affairs Council prioritizes potential ballot measures and legislative issues. The Government Affairs Council researches all sides of pertinent issues then makes recommendations for Board consideration.
Candidate Process
For a candidate endorsement form, please contact the chamber at gacc.greshamchamber.org.
Currently general election candidates who have filed and qualified for state and city positions within the Gresham and surrounding areas are sent a questionnaire. The GAC determines what races will be considered and are sent questionnaires. Not all races need to be considered each cycle. Only those candidates who fill out and return the questionnaire proceed to the interview process.
The interview process is face to face with members of the GAC. After all of the candidates have been interviewed, endorsement recommendations are made by the GAC, sent to the Executive Board and then the full Board of Directors for endorsement vote.
What qualities are we looking for? The GAC is looking for candidates with business knowledge, understanding, vision and the ability to articulate each of those areas. Candidates do not have to be a Chamber member to get the endorsement of the Chamber. Likewise, being a member does not assure an endorsement. Electability may be considered in the deliberation process.
The process is fair, strong, and reliable. Running for office requires honesty, knowledge and a public servant heart.
Gresham Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Council
The Government Affairs Council (GAC), a standing committee of the Chamber of Commerce, has developed and follows a methodical, complete process in order to endorse candidates. We promote community awareness and engagement on issues impacting our community. The goal is to determine the best candidates who will advocate for business and who will work with the Chamber to accomplish business goals.