MEDCOC BR August 2024 FINAL

A monthly online digital publication, The Business Review targets business leaders from the Rogue Valley and beyond. This means that your published articles and advertising message are being seen, read and remembered by those who are seeking your products or services in and around Jackson County and within more than 55 Oregon communities.

BUSINESS REVIEW AUGUST 2024

The Business and Economy Issue

THE CHAMBER OF MEDFORD & JACKSON COUNTY

CONTENTS LEADERSHIP MATTERS

AUGUST 2024 VOLUME 24 ISSUE 7

4 A Letter from the President LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

8 Small Businesses as Community Catalysts: Partnering with Living Opportunities for Inclusive Growth PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY 12 Swimming Spots Near Medford CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY 20 Startup Spotlight: Unleashing the Entrepreneurial Edge OREGON UPDATES 24 Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES 30 Medford’s Main Street Cycle

Track: A Community Survey Fuels Ongoing Discussions

The Business Review | June & July 2024

Promote. Promoting the community. Create. Creating a strong local economy. Connect. Providing networking opportunities. Represent. Representing business issues. Our Strategic Objectives

Meet the Staff

Eli Matthews President & CEO eli@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8526

Kira Zavala VP of Communications & Programs kira@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8522

Shon Moses Membership Director shon@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8534

Cathy Watt Office Administrator cathy@medfordchamber.com 541-608-8515

Shelly Wager Executive Assistant to the President & CEO shelly@medfordchamber.com 541- 608-8526

The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E 8th St, Medford, OR 97501 (541) 779-4847 • medfordchamber.com

medfordchamber.com

December 2024 | The Business Review

LEADERSHIP MATTERS A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

Dear Valued Members, As summer begins to wind down and we prepare to welcome the crisp days of fall, I am inspired by the energy and achievements we’ve shared this season. Summer has been a time of vibrant growth and connection, with many of you hosting and attending events, welcoming visitors, and driving innovation in your businesses. As we transition into fall, we look forward to continuing this momentum. The season ahead is full of opportunities, from networking events to community initiatives, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s helping you promote your business, offering valuable resources, or advocating for policies that benefit our local economy, the Chamber remains steadfast in its commitment to your success. Fall is also a time to reflect and prepare for what’s next. Let’s use this season to strengthen our collaborations, set ambitious goals, and ensure our business community thrives as we approach the end of the year. Together, we can continue to build a vibrant and prosperous future for Southern Oregon. Thank you for your dedication and for being an integral part of the Chamber of Medford & Jackson County. Let’s embrace the season ahead with optimism and purpose.

Warm regards,

Eli Matthews, IOM President & CEO The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County

The Business Review | June & July 2024

Join us to enjoy these exclusive member benefits:

Promote: Leverage Chamber communications to promote your business, and enjoy referrals from fellow members.

Connect: Connect with the business community through a variety of networking events hosted by The Chamber, as well as through our weekly newsletter, website, and social media.

Represent: Be a part of the active business voice of The Chamber & be represented by a full time lobbyist.

Create: Raise your profile in the business community through your membership with The Chamber by participating in an Action Team or committee.

Let’s connect

Give us a call, send us an email or drop by our office. 541-779-4847 business@medfordchamber.com The Chamber of Medford & Jackson County 101 E. 8th St. Medford, OR 97501 medfordchamber.com

December 2024 | The Business Review

GREETERS HOST LOCATIONS BOOKING NOW FOR 2024! Welcome 50-65 business professionals to your location on a Thursday at 8am! Showcase your business to community leaders, and get a 5-minute speaking opportunity. Space is limited!

The Business Review | June & July 2024

The Holly Theatre in Medford is nearly finished and it’s going to be beautiful — just like when it opened back in 1930. We just received a $50,000 matching challenge from a generous anonymous donor and we need your help to meet the challenge. To open the Holly by January 2025, we need to raise the final $660,000 in order to furnish the theater with seats, theatrical lighting, sound and projection equipment, rigging, concession equipment and soft goods, including the grand drape for the stage. Any donation will be matched 1:1 until the matching challenge is met. Would you be able to help us reach our goal? Please see hollytheatre.org to make your contribution. Any amount will do and donations of $500 or more can be paid over a 3-year period. If you don’t see an option that’s right for you, or if you have questions, contact us at info@jeffersonlive.org or call (541)772-3797 x512 for details and answers. Help the Holly Theatre open by January 2025

December 2024 | The Business Review

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT

Small Businesses as Community Catalysts: Partnering with Living Opportunities for Inclusive Growth S mall businesses play a crucial role in enriching their communities, particularly through innovative partnerships with organizations like Living

Opportunities, which integrates individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities into the workforce. By collaborating with such organizations, small businesses can contribute to a more inclusive and diverse local economy, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement for all community members. Building Inclusive Work Environments Small businesses have the unique opportunity to lead by example in the creation of inclusive work environments. Living Opportunities, a non-profit in Rogue Valley, assists over 110 community members by providing them with employment opportunities across various local businesses. This not only helps individuals gain employment but also allows businesses to benefit from a wider range of talents and perspectives. Training and Development The partnership goes beyond mere employment; it involves comprehensive on-the-job training, mentoring,

Conclusion For small businesses looking to make a significant impact in their communities, engaging with organizations like Living Opportunities offers a pathway to contribute meaningfully while enhancing their workforce. It’s an investment in the community that yields returns in the form of a robust, inclusive, and thriving local economy. For more information on how to get involved, you can visit Living Opportunities at Living Opportunities Job Seekers . n

and continuous support, ensuring that individuals are not just employed but are truly integrated into their workplaces. This model not only empowers the employees but also enhances the business environment, contributing to the overall productivity and morale of the workforce. The impact of such initiatives is profound. Employing individuals with disabilities can lead to greater independence for them, while also providing businesses with loyal and motivated employees. This collaboration not only fulfills social responsibility objectives but also strengthens the local economy by creating more job opportunities and fostering a community spirit that values diversity and inclusion. Community and Economic Benefits

Image Courtest of Livingopps.org

The Business Review | June & July 2024

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The Business Review | June & July 2024

December 2024 | The Business Review

PROMOTING THE COMMUNITY

Swimming Spots Near Medford SWIMMING SPOTS NEAR MEDFORD

Medford, OR | July 16, 2024 | Travel Medford

A midsummer heatwave is nothing new to Southern Oregon locals. Whether you’re in Medford for the weekend or you’re here to stay, check out these 6 swimming spots for a perfect day trip to beat the heat. TOUVELLE STATE RECREATION SITE 15 minutes from Medford This is the perfect spot when you’re not in the mood for a long drive but need to be in the water ASAP. This spot offers access to water just 15 minutes from downtown Medford. You can picnic, fish, raft, and splash in the Rogue River. Directions from Medford: Head north on I-5 N. Take exit 30 toward Crater Lake Highway/ OR-62 and turn left onto Crater Lake Highway/ OR-62 W. Continue for approximately 8 miles, then turn right onto Table Rock Road. Drive for about 2 miles and turn left onto Modoc Road. After approximately 2 miles, turn left again onto Table Rock Road. Continue for about 1 mile and turn right onto State Highway 234 W (Antelope Road). Follow State Highway 234 W for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto Table Rock Road and continue for about 2 miles. Turn right onto TouVelle Park Drive and follow the road to TouVelle State Recreation Area.

The Business Review | June & July 2024

EMIGRANT LAKE 25 minutes from Medford

Emigrant Lake is a local favorite to Ashland residents and not far off from the city of Medford. There are boat docks at certain areas of the lake and opportunities to fish, paddle board, or swim at this man-made reservoir. Directions from Medford: Take I-5 S toward Ashland. Merge onto OR-66 E via exit 14 toward Klamath Falls/Ashland. Continue on OR-66 E for about 7 miles. Turn left onto Emigrant Lake Road and follow signs to the lake.

APPLEGATE LAKE 45 minutes from Medford

Located east of Medford, you’ll find a Southern Oregon paradise. This lake is fed by the Applegate River and makes the perfect day trip destination whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town. Applegate Lake also offers unique hiking, biking, and equestrian trails for endless fun. Directions from Medford: Take OR-99 S/Pacific Highway toward Grants Pass. After about 7 miles, turn right onto OR-238 W toward Jacksonville. Continue on OR-238 W for approximately 15 miles, then turn right onto Upper Applegate Road. Follow signs to Applegate Lake.

LAKE OF THE WOODS < 1 hour from Medford

Lake of the Woods combines resort fun with rustic roots for a diverse day trip from Medford. Their lively event calendar includes live music, vintage movie nights, and BBQs making it truly the place to be during summer in Southern Oregon. Directions from Medford: Head east on OR-62 E/Crater Lake Highway toward Shady Cove. Continue on OR-62 E for approximately 26 miles. Turn left onto Butte Falls Highway and follow it for about 9 miles. Turn right onto Fish Lake Road and continue for approximately 9 miles. Turn left onto Dead Indian Memorial Road and drive for about 5 miles. Turn right onto Highway 140 E and continue for approximately 23 miles. Turn left onto Lake of the Woods Access Road and follow signs to Lake of the Woods.

December 2024 | The Business Review

LOST CREEK LAKE 55 minutes from Medford Lost Creek Lake offers a park specifically designed for the convenience of visitors with disabilities, McGregor State Park, along with River’s Edge Park and Joseph Stewart County Park. This lake is equipped with all the amenities for a perfect family day trip. You’ll find bathrooms, picnic tables, boat docks and more. Directions from Medford: Head northeast on OR-62 E/Crater Lake Highway toward Shady Cove. Continue on OR-62 E for approximately 25 miles. Look for signs directing you to Lost Creek Lake.

ILLINOIS RIVER ~90 minutes from Medford The Illinois River is a special pocket in Southern Oregon. Its little pods of still water along the river make it perfect for swimming holes safe enough for all ages. For thrill seekers, there are spots on the river deep enough for small cliff jumping for a deeper plunge on the hot summer days. There is also a 9-hole frisbee golf course in the Illinois River Forks State Park. Directions from Medford: Head southwest on OR-99 S/Pacific Highway toward Grants Pass. After approximately 19 miles, turn right onto Lower Wolf Creek Road. Continue on Lower Wolf Creek Road for about 20 miles. Turn left onto River Road and follow signs to Illinois River.

Please remember to hydrate, wear sunscreen, and bring forms of shade during your Southern Oregon summer trip. We encourage you to follow #LeaveNoTrace policies and to always leave our waters better than you found them. Happy swimming! n

The Business Review | June & July 2024

December 2024 | The Business Review

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The Business Review | June & July 2024

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December 2024 | The Business Review

CHAMBER FORUM

BROUGHT TO YOU BY: MEDFORD: A HOMETOWN FOR ALL

SPEAKERS

RANDY SPARACINO MAYOR

BRIAN SJOTHUNE CITY MANAGER

TIM D’ALESSANDRO CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT WARD 2 REPRESENTATIVE

NICK CARD CITY COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT WARD 4 REPRESENTATIVE

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The Business Review | June & July 2024

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December 2024 | The Business Review

CREATING A STRONG ECONOMY

Startup Spotlight: Unleashing the Entrepreneurial Edge I n today’s fast-paced economy, startups have become the driving force behind innovation, transforming industries and reshaping how we live, work, and connect. These small but mighty businesses are fueled by passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of progress— qualities that embody the entrepreneurial edge. What is the Entrepreneurial Edge? The entrepreneurial edge is the unique mindset that pushes entrepreneurs beyond conventional boundaries. It’s the ability to see opportunities where others see challenges, to pivot in the face of obstacles, and to approach problems with fresh solutions. Startups with this edge are nimble, resilient, and customer-focused, allowing them to disrupt established industries or create entirely new ones. This edge isn’t limited to technology or product development—it also shows up in how founders connect with their communities, build partnerships, and foster a collaborative spirit that elevates everyone involved.

Startup Spotlight: Unleashing the Entrepreneurial Edge

The Power of Startups in Local Communities

Startups are essential contributors to vibrant economies. They bring fresh ideas, generate jobs, and cultivate local pride. Beyond economic impact, startups help shape the identity of communities by supporting other small businesses, hosting events, and engaging in civic initiatives. The synergy between startups and their surrounding ecosystems allows regions to become hubs of creativity and opportunity. Programs provided by chambers of commerce and other local organizations are often instrumental in helping these businesses thrive. Through networking events, mentorship programs, and funding opportunities, startups gain the support they need to establish themselves and grow. These collaborations are vital in turning small businesses into community pillars.

The Business Review | June & July 2024

The Traits that Define Successful Startups Several key traits distinguish successful startups from the rest: 1. Adaptability: Markets are constantly evolving, and successful entrepreneurs know how to pivot quickly when circumstances change. 2. Customer-Centric Approach: Startups often have the advantage of being able to listen closely to customer feedback and respond swiftly with improved products or services. 3. Risk-Taking Mentality: Entrepreneurs understand that failure is often part of the journey and see each setback as an opportunity to learn and refine their approach. 4. Community Engagement: Many startups thrive by fostering strong local connections, participating in events, or giving back through charitable initiatives. 5. Innovation and Agility: Startups often introduce new ways of thinking and working, setting trends that larger companies follow. How Startups Drive Economic Growth While startups are known for their innovative spirit, their economic influence extends far beyond new ideas. By creating jobs, attracting talent, and inspiring other entrepreneurs, they play a crucial role in building strong economies. Their presence attracts investors and new industries, fostering a ripple effect of growth across the region. Local organizations, such as chambers of commerce, provide vital support through business incubation programs, networking events, and grants. These programs encourage new entrepreneurs and help reduce the risks that come with launching a business. Additionally, successful startups often reinvest in their communities, creating a positive feedback loop of development and prosperity.

Strategies to Strengthen the Entrepreneurial Edge Entrepreneurs looking to sharpen their edge can benefit from a few key strategies: 1. Stay Curious: Continual learning helps entrepreneurs stay ahead of trends and shifts in their industry. 2. Build a Strong Network: Collaboration with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and community leaders opens new doors and provides valuable insight. 3. Listen and Adapt: Customer feedback is a powerful tool for refining ideas and ensuring long-term success. 4. Embrace Failure: Every setback presents an opportunity to learn and grow, building resilience along the way. 5. Leverage Resources: Taking advantage of available programs, grants, and networking opportunities can accelerate growth. Startups are more than just businesses; they are engines of innovation and community growth. By embracing the entrepreneurial edge—staying curious, adaptable, and deeply connected to their communities—startups can thrive and drive positive change. With the support of chambers of commerce, mentors, and local partnerships, these entrepreneurs have the tools to succeed in an ever- evolving world. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a supporter of local business, now is the time to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit. Together, we can foster an environment where ideas flourish, economies grow, and communities thrive. n

December 2024 | The Business Review

The Business Review | June & July 2024

December 2024 | The Business Review

OREGON UPDATES

Oregon Economic and Revenue Forecast August 28, 2024 | Written By Josh Lehner T he economy has transitioned out of the inflationary economic boom and into what will hopefully become a sustained expansion. So far the Federal Reserve appears to be threading the needle. High interest

While the economy is slowing down from the inflationary boom, state revenues continue to outpace expectations in recent months. In particular, both personal and corporate income taxes have come in noticeably higher than the previous forecast. Consumption-based revenues like lottery, the corporate activity tax, and recreational marijuana have more closely matched expectations. Getting a handle of recent personal income tax collections is challenging. So far, the number of returns processed to date, and the amount of collections have outpaced previous expectations. Even so, compared to the past decade, collections are relatively low compared to the liability reported on returns. Ultimately how these data reconcile, with either less reported income or more payments than expected, will only be known after the extension filing season. Available resources for the General Fund in the current 2023-25 biennium are raised by $676 million (+2.0%) compared to the prior forecast. Two-thirds of this increase is due to tracking actual tax collections alone. One-

rates were needed when inflation was running near double-digit rates, but no longer. The key will be when, and how quickly the Fed adjusts course. Expectations are interest rate cuts will begin next month. This should stabilize and revive rate-sensitive parts of the economy in the year ahead. The labor market is expected to improve as well following the past year where slower hiring has led to a rising unemployment rate, despite layoffs remaining low. While imminent recession fears appear misplaced, the longer high interest rates remain, the probably of recession rises as economic growth slows. Getting a read on the current state of Oregon’s economy is challenging. Over the entire cycle to date, Oregon’s economic performance has been solid. Employment gains, income growth, and population change are all roughly in the middle of the pack across all states, but a bit below the typical state. Top 15 productivity gains have helped

overall growth. However, in recent months withholdings and job gains have picked up. The number of personal income tax returns filed and processed so far this year has increased. These data could be the first indication that Oregon’s patterns of growth have shifted out of the pandemic era lull, and back toward something more like the typical expansion. However, they could also be more noise than signal. Only time will tell. For now, the economic forecast remains essentially unchanged compared to recent outlooks. These green shoots of stronger gains indicate there is more potential upside than believed in some time.

The Business Review | June & July 2024

third of the increase is due to a stronger revenue outlook through the remainder of the biennium. Increased revenues in the current biennium also increase the projected kickers. The personal kicker now stands at an expected $987 million that will be returned to taxpayers in 2026. The corporate kicker now stands at an expected $883 million and will be retained in the General Fund and spent on education next biennium.

Looking ahead to the 2025-27 biennium, available resources are revised lower by $66 million compared to the previous forecast. Increases in corporate, estate, and interest earnings are not enough to fully offset the larger personal kicker being paid out. That said, when looking at the state budget and the combined resources of 2023-25 and 2025-27 the General Fund forecast is raised $610 million. Consumption-based tax collections for the corporate activity tax, the lottery, and recreational marijuana in the current 2023-25 biennium are lowered a combined

$27 million (-0.5%) compared to the prior forecast, and lowered a similar $34 million (-0.6%) in the upcoming 2025-27 biennium. For more information click HERE . n

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December 2024 | The Business Review

Working Together in the Rogue Valley for a Stronger Community

26 The Business Review | June & July 2024 541.622.8577 • 40 S Central • Medford, Oregon 97501 • cowcreek.com

December 2024 | The Business Review

The Business Review | June & July 2024

December 2024 | The Business Review

REPRESENTING BUSINESS ISSUES

Medford’s Main Street Cycle Track: A Community Survey Fuels Ongoing Discussions Medford, OR | August 2024 I n the heart of Medford, a recent initiative has sparked both interest and debate among local business owners—the installation of the Main Street Cycle Track, a two-way bike facility designed to enhance urban mobility.

The questions posed were as varied as they were vital. Business owners provided data on employee numbers, the cycle track’s effect on gross revenues, and feedback from customers and staff. Crucially, the survey sought to determine whether the track has been a boon or a bane to the businesses it neighbors. Other inquiries focused on the logistical shifts within the businesses, including the number of employees now commuting by bike due to the new track and observations of any improper use of the track by motor vehicles. The findings from this survey are more than just numbers and percentages; they represent the voices of Medford’s business community, offering a clear picture of the cycle track’s real-world implications. These results were

As this new feature nears its one-year anniversary, the Chamber of Medford & Jackson County has taken proactive steps to understand its impact on the local business community through a comprehensive survey. The survey, conducted anonymously to ensure candid feedback, was meticulously distributed—mailed to property owners and hand-delivered to business tenants by the diligent staff of the Chamber. This strategic approach aimed to gather a broad spectrum of insights from those directly affected by the cycle track’s presence.

The Business Review | June & July 2024

thoughtfully summarized and presented to the Medford City Council, serving as a crucial piece of evidence as the council prepares to review the cycle track’s effectiveness and future. This dialogue between the Chamber and the City Council is not a closed chapter but an ongoing conversation, reflecting the dynamic nature of urban development and community response. As the City Council continues to deliberate the future of the Main Street Cycle Track, the Chamber of

Medford & Jackson County remains committed to ensuring that the voices of local businesses are heard and considered in shaping the city’s infrastructural landscape. This story of community engagement and responsive governance highlights the Chamber’s role not only as a business advocate but as a pivotal link between the city’s economic activities and its urban planning efforts. n

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December 2024 | The Business Review

EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS &

ANNUAL MEETING

About The Chamber and community leaders come together to recognize the talents and achievements of prominent companies and outstanding individuals, who have not only progressed in business, but have also succeeded in setting a great example of community involvement and advocacy. Date: September 12, 2024 (5pm - cocktails, 6pm - program) Projected Attendance: 500+ Audience: Business leaders and key decision makers. (i.e. CEOs, mayors, commissioners, judges, police chiefs, university presidents, superintendents, etc.)

The Business Review | June & July 2024 Sponsorships are limited! Reserve by emailing: business@medfordchamber.com

The Chamber's Leadership program creates in its class participants a comprehensive and objective awareness of our community in action. The program fosters commitment to our region and develops leaders to meet the demands of the future. Since its inception in 1983, more than 1000 people have graduated from this distinguished and popular program, many of whom are now prominent and influential leaders in the Rogue Valley. Most of the opportunities available to this group are exclusive to the Leadership Program and not open to the general public. This provides the participants with unique, rare and interesting experiences. Join a Legacy of Leaders

where one day each month, you will... Network with and develop long-term business relationships with others in the class. Examine the major business sectors that contribute to the vibrancy and growth of Southern Oregon. Participate in finding creative and insightful solutions to community needs. Enhance the skills needed to become a decision- maker and leader in your community. Discover how you and your organization can make a positive impact within your business interactions.