Bill > HB3104

This bill establishes a statewide rural community resource center to help rural communities in Oregon access and manage grant funding. The center will be run by either a nonprofit organization specializing in public-private partnerships or a statewide local government association. Specifically, the Oregon Business Development Department will select an entity to provide technical assistance to rural service jurisdictions, which include rural cities, counties, economic development districts, and regional councils of government. The resource center will have seven professional staff members covering areas like public works, engineering, community development, housing, transportation, project management, and public administration. Its key functions include helping rural jurisdictions develop community plans, write and submit grant proposals, manage awarded funds, connect jurisdictions with resources, and identify investment opportunities. A new Rural Community Resource Leverage Fund will be established in the State Treasury, initially funded with a $6 million appropriation, to support the center's operations and grant assistance activities. The bill includes an emergency clause, meaning it will take effect immediately upon passage, with the goal of quickly providing support to rural communities lacking staff expertise for complex grant and development processes.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3104