At Tuesday’s Town Hall Meeting with Senator Ron Wyden, many issues were on the table. But dried up federal timber funds paying counties not to cut down trees were at the top of the list.
“I think we’re going to lose Oregon communities in parts of this state. In rural communities we’re going to see school three days a week. It’s just that serious,” said Senator Wyden.
According to the Senator, it could happen if Washington doesn’t act quick.
“The first and foremost thing that has to happen is the House of Representatives has to pass the Senate transportation bill.”
That piece of legislation would extend federal timber payments for one year. Iif passed, Senator Wyden said Oregon would get $102-million.
“What I want to see this year, get that timber payments legislation done, that’s a lifeline,” said Wyden.
Other issues brought up at the town hall meeting included partisanship and taxes.
“Seems to me we’re a long way from any cooperative efforts,” said Jackson County resident Bill McDonald.
“It seems to us that those making millions should pay their fair share,” began Beverly Deleonardis of Central Point.
She continued, “We would like to know if you’d support the Buffet Rule.”
Senator Wyden responded, saying he would vote for it.
The senator said his three goals are to extend timber payments, get people back to work in the woods thinning forests and pass an agriculture bill allowing Oregon produce into schools.
Residents also expressed concern about exporting natural gas. Senator Wyden reassured the audience saying he agreed and would not rush into any decisions.
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