Eugene Voters Will Decide on Retail Fee Measure

The upcoming November 2026 ballot measure proposes a 2% licensing fee on major retailers to fund climate resiliency.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Utilities

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a small pine seedling growing out of a solid concrete block, representing sustainable development policy. — Eugene voters will decide on Measure 20-388 in November 2026, a proposed 2% licensing fee on major retailers to fund municipal climate resiliency projects. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Is it worth risking higher local retail prices to fund community climate projects?

Eugene voters will head to the polls in November 2026 to decide on Measure 20-388, which would impose a 2% fee on the retail profits of large companies. The initiative is projected to generate up to $15 million annually for climate projects and local green jobs.

Why it matters

Proponents claim the revenue is essential for sustainable development and workforce growth, while opponents contend the fee acts as a sales tax that will increase costs for consumers. The measure follows a similar model implemented in Portland in 2018.

The measure applies to businesses with over $1 billion in national profits and $500,000 in city profits, with exemptions for utilities, groceries, and healthcare. Supporters and opponents have raised $428,000 and $25,000, respectively, ahead of the vote.

The players

Eugene City Council

This body acts as the governing legislative branch for the city of Eugene and would grant final approval for fund distribution.

Eugene Water and Electric Board

This is a municipal utility that would be exempt from the proposed fee and hold a seat on the oversight committee.

Stop the Hidden Tax on Eugene

This opposition committee has raised $25,000 to campaign against the approval of the retail licensing fee.

The details

If approved, the city would start collecting the fees in 2029 to support climate initiatives overseen by a committee representing the city council and various local commissions. The policy exempts several sectors, including construction contractors, credit unions, and co-ops.

July 21, 2026: Supporters officially submitted signatures to election officials.
September 2026: A City Club debate was held regarding the ballot measure.
October 7, 2026: Campaign fundraising totals for both sides were reported.
November 2026: Eugene residents will vote on the proposed Measure 20-388.
2029: Licensing requirements and initial funding distributions would begin.

Market Landscape

The proposal mirrors the regulatory framework of the 2018 Portland climate fee, which has successfully raised over $1 billion for municipal projects. By adopting this model, Eugene positions itself to shift the cost of environmental initiatives onto large-scale corporate entities.

While the fee targets large corporations, opponents argue that the costs may trickle down to residents through higher prices on everyday goods. Consumers should anticipate potential retail price adjustments if the measure is enacted and businesses pass the 2% fee forward.

The takeaway

The upcoming vote represents a significant choice between local revenue generation and potential cost increases for residents. Voters are encouraged to review which sectors are specifically exempted before casting their ballots in November.