Eugene Voters to Consider Measure 20-388 on November 3

The proposed ballot measure seeks to tax large businesses to fund city clean energy and job training programs.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Utilities

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a wind turbine blade leaning against a brick structure, representing city climate policy. — Eugene voters will cast ballots on November 3, 2026, for Measure 20-388, a proposed tax on large businesses to fund local green energy initiatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should your city use targeted business taxes to fund specific climate initiatives instead of general budgets?

Eugene voters will decide on November 3, 2026, whether to approve Measure 20-388, which proposes a 2 percent tax on specific large businesses. The tax aims to generate roughly $15 million annually for local renewable energy and carbon sequestration projects.

Why it matters

Proponents argue the funding is essential to address the climate crisis, while opponents warn the measure bypasses standard city budgeting and could drive up consumer costs. The outcome will shape how Eugene approaches future energy efficiency and climate policy implementation.

The measure mandates a 2 percent tax on businesses with at least $1 billion in national gross profits and $500,000 in Eugene-area gross profits. Of the expected $15 million annual revenue, 60 percent is earmarked for renewable energy programs.

The players

Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce

This business association acts as the primary organization opposing the implementation of the new tax.

University of Oregon

The institution operates the largest single source of gas emissions currently located within the city of Eugene.

The details

Funds from the proposed tax would also support job training, carbon sequestration, and green infrastructure, though exemptions apply to utilities, groceries, and construction. The Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a campaign to oppose the measure, while various University of Oregon student groups and unions have signaled their support.

The Portland Clean Energy Fund, a model for this proposal, was passed in 2018.
The University of Oregon set aside $15 million for electric boilers in June 2026.
Measure 20-388 will appear on the ballot on November 3, 2026.

Market Landscape

The measure follows a pattern set by the 2018 Portland Clean Energy Fund. This initiative represents a shift toward municipal-level climate funding, placing Eugene in competition with other Oregon cities pursuing similar large-scale business tax frameworks.

Residents should note that the measure includes exemptions for utility and grocery sales, potentially insulating those household expenses from direct tax pass-throughs. The ballot outcome will determine whether certain large corporations face new local tax obligations starting next year.

The takeaway

Voters should review the list of business exemptions to understand which local services and goods are excluded from the proposed tax hike. Understanding the economic impact on large employers may help clarify how the measure could influence local business operations and municipal services.