Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 124 - EASTERN OREGON BORDER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD
Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 124 pertains to the Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Board (EOBB).
The EOBB was established by the Oregon Legislature in 2017 (through HB 2012) with the primary purpose of fostering economic and workforce development in the specific region of Eastern Oregon that borders Idaho. This region includes, but is not limited to, cities like Ontario, Vale, and Nyssa, and areas within 20 miles of the Idaho border.
Key functions and aspects governed by OAR Chapter 124 include:
Purpose and Establishment: The rules define the legislative intent behind the creation of the EOBB, the Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Region, and the associated Fund. The core purpose is to promote workforce development, create or retain jobs, expand businesses, and generally promote economic development to enhance prosperity and competitiveness with Idaho.
Defining the Region: Chapter 124 precisely outlines the geographical boundaries of the "Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Region."
Board Structure and Operations: While the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS 284.776) detail the board's composition (seven voting members appointed by the Governor and one non-voting member from the Oregon Business Development Department), OAR 124 likely provides administrative details related to board meetings, procedures, and internal governance.
Economic Development Fund: A significant part of OAR Chapter 124 focuses on the "Eastern Oregon Border Board Economic Development Fund." This includes:
Eligible Applicants: Defining who can apply for grants and loans from the fund (e.g., residents, landowners, schools, businesses, local governments, non-profits, community groups within the Border Region).
Project Eligibility: Specifying the types of projects and activities that qualify for funding. These typically must significantly impact education, workforce, and/or economic development capacity. Priority is often given to projects that enhance prosperity, improve the property tax base, increase workforce availability, and leverage outside funding.
Ineligible Expenditures: Listing activities or uses of funds that are not permitted.
Application Process: Outlining the procedures for submitting applications for grants and loans.
Board Review and Evaluation: Describing how applications are reviewed, evaluated, and how funding decisions are made.
Specific Programs: The rules lay the groundwork for various programs implemented by the EOBB, such as:
Competitive Housing Incentive Program: Incentives for new, owner-occupied home construction.
Property Improvement Rebate Program: Rebates for improvements to existing residential, commercial, or industrial properties.
Infrastructure Revolving Loan Program: To attract new development.
Ready Workforce Mobilization Grant: To enhance economic vitality and opportunity.
In essence, OAR Chapter 124 provides the detailed regulatory framework through which the Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Board operates, manages its funds, and implements its programs to achieve its legislative mandate of economic and workforce development in the specified border region.
You can typically find the official text of the Oregon Administrative Rules on the Oregon Secretary of State's website or through legal research platforms.
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