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To contact me, please click here: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Hello Friends and Neighbors,
I hope you've all had a wonderful and blessed summer. It always seems to go by too quickly. I can already feel hints of autumn in the air. For many, this was a busy week of getting the kids (or yourselves) back to school. It's a time to settle into new routines and even think about holidays ahead.
We have once again reached the time of year where our newsletters will pause until after the election so that there is not an unethical incumbency advantage from mass communications like this newsletter to constituent voters paid for with taxpayer resources. My newsletter will be back after the election in November. Please read on for some legislative updates and many fantastic community highlights.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
August Revenue Forecast
Our recent Revenue and Economic Forecast showed little movement in anticipated revenue since the previous quarter, but shed light on some notable trends that could indicate where our state is heading.
This contradicts the popular understanding that our economy is exclusively suffering from federal instability. While it would be irresponsible to place the blame exclusively on one contributing factor, the Governor’s Prosperity Council recommendations point to specific policy changes that must be made to get Oregon back on track.
Celebrating Oregon Adoption Day
 August 25th was Oregon Adoption Day. It is an extremely special day to me, because August 25th was the day I was adopted. Last year, my House Bill 2019 designated this day to honor and celebrate adoption. One of my favorite memories of my time in the Capitol was hearing the incredible adoption stories from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle. To help spread the word about Oregon Adoption Day this year, I hosted a statewide contest to find the official Oregon Adoption Day logo.
I am thrilled to share our beautiful new logo, and congratulate the talented artist Beth Williams. Beth, an adoptee, shares, “As someone who was adopted, this topic lies close to my heart. For my design I chose regional botanicals to represent some of the themes that coexist within adoption: the bleeding heart for the inherent sacrifice and loss of relationship from which adoption is born; the white and pink rose for innocence, gratitude and new beginnings; and the Douglas fir for strength, protection, and resilience.”
Thank you, Beth, for creating such an impactful design that will last for generations. To all who have an adoption story, you are seen and you are valued.
Life and Legislation With Lucetta
 On our latest episode of Life and Legislation, we welcomed two guests for a conversation about adoption. Kendra Morris-Jacobson is the Director of the nonprofit Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center (ORPARC) and also supervises another recruitment program that helps kids in foster care find adoptive or guardianship families. Vennisa Gomez-Gerberg serves as Executive Director at With Love. She is a transracial adoptee who then became a kinship guardian and resource parent for over 14 years. You can watch the episode on our YouTube channel or tune in on your favorite podcast platform.
What Do You Think Oregon's Transportation Priorities Should Be?
The Governor’s Rebuilding Transportation Vision Workgroup is launching a public survey to hear directly from Oregonians about their priorities for Oregon’s transportation system. The survey will be available online until 6 p.m., Sept. 10. Feedback from the survey will help inform the upcoming recommendations from the Workgroup that will be delivered to the Governor in December.
“We know the need is greater than the available funding,” Governor Kotek said. “A critical part of this work will be prioritizing and holding accountable the resources we do have to keep providing the services Oregonians rely on to get to work and school safely. This survey creates another opportunity to hear from Oregonians what the state should prioritize to ensure recommendations that reflect and incorporate the will of Oregonians.”
The Workgroup is tasked with developing recommendations to maintain and improve our transportation system more efficiently, outlining how Oregon should prioritize its transportation dollars fairly, and affordable options to fund it.
“Experts from around the state are working to develop recommendations for Oregon’s transportation future, and we can’t do this effectively without giving Oregonians an opportunity to share their priorities for our transportation system and to be part of this process,” said the Workgroup’s co-chair Grace Crunican.
The brief survey includes the following questions:
1. What should Oregon’s transportation priorities be?
2. How should limited transportation dollars be spent?
3. What reductions would impact you most?
There is also an optional question to send feedback to Oregon’s public transportation agencies, asking the question: What does a successful and well-managed transportation system look like to you? What would make you confident that the state’s transportation dollars are being well spent?
Oregon Department of Revenue — Strategic Plan Update
The Department of Revenue (DOR) needs your help to plan for the future. They regularly gather feedback from customers and partners when planning for how to improve as an agency.
Your feedback is an essential part of this process. DOR wants their new, multi-year strategic plan to reflect the needs and experiences of those they serve and work with.
Take a few minutes to complete the 9-question survey to help DOR understand how they are doing and what they can focus on in the future.
Your responses are anonymous, and every response will help shape priorities, goals, and decisions for the future. Survey results will be shared with the DOR leadership team as they plan for their direction moving forward.
Wildfire Season Update: Continued Progress, But Fire Risk Remains High
STATEWIDE HOTLINE FOR OREGONIANS AFFECTED BY WILDFIRES AND SMOKE
Oregonians affected by wildfires or wildfire smoke — whether they've lost a home, evacuated, are sheltering in place, or are dealing with poor air quality — can now call 1-833-699-0554 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The line is staffed by 211info; missed calls get a callback within one business day. 211info will work with local communities to connect people with existing programs and local resources.
Please note this is not an emergency line; people with active emergencies should be directed to 911, and those with immediate shelter questions to 211.
Oregon Wildfire Update
Oregon’s wildfire season remains active, but there are encouraging signs as we head into September. So far this season, 1,690 fires have burned approximately 2.5 million acres statewide. The number of active fires has dropped from 32 at the peak of the season in late July and early August to 12, and the number of activated personnel has decreased from roughly 12,000 to 5,600. Unfortunately, wildfires have destroyed 54 homes and 163 outbuildings, and more than 3,100 Oregonians remain under some level of evacuation notice.
Fire crews continue to make good progress across the state. Several recent fire starts were caught before they could become large incidents, while crews are gaining containment on many existing fires. The Grasshopper Fire is now 83% contained, and firefighters are making encouraging progress on the McCully, Toll Gate, Paradise, Rowe Creek, and other fires.
There is also some welcome help in the forecast. A strong cold front is expected to bring above-average rainfall and below-average temperatures, although lightning remains a concern. Officials describe the change as a chance to gain ground rather than an end to fire season. With conditions still capable of producing new starts, fire agencies remain focused on suppression and rapid initial response in the weeks ahead.
The financial toll has also been significant. Gross wildfire suppression costs have reached approximately $315 million, with net costs currently estimated at about $190 million. The Legislature will continue discussing wildfire costs and funding as we work to ensure Oregon can pay its fire bills and maintain the resources necessary to respond when communities are threatened.
INSURANCE TIPS FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY WILDFIRES
The Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR) is asking Oregonians to help spread the word about insurance coverage for those affected by the recent wildfires.
If you were evacuated — Your homeowners policy may cover expenses for lodging, food, or even pet boarding following a mandatory evacuation. Be sure to save your receipts. Check with your agent or company, but coverage is typically available for fire, smoke, and ash damage to your home and/or personal property.
Additional living expenses (ALE) — ALE are typically subject to your deductible. Before you file a claim, make sure the circumstances qualify. Note: A claim can be counted against you for underwriting purposes, regardless of whether a payout is made. Most homeowners and rental insurance help pay for extra expenses if you are unable to live in your home. Check with your company or agent for details.
If you have not evacuated, but are required to do so — If your personal belongings are damaged, the insurance company will ask for a list of items that are damaged or destroyed. Make a quick home inventory list if it is safe to do so. Take photos or videos of each room in your home, paying close attention to what's on the walls, in drawers, and in closets. Don’t forget storage spaces like the attic or garage and smaller items, like jewelry. Oftentimes, your insurance company will have an app or checklist to help with this process.
Auto coverage — Comprehensive coverage auto policies cover fire, smoke, and ash damage, no matter where your vehicle is located at the time of loss.
BE AWARE OF WILDFIRE SUPPORT FUNDRAISING SCAMS
Even in times of tragedy, bad actors are looking to make a quick buck. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging Oregonians to be wary of fraudulent fundraising campaigns looking to exploit generosity during disasters.
Scammers may contact you via phone calls, emails, text messages, or even in-person visits. To avoid falling victim to these scams, OEM reminds Oregonians to:
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Look for sites with "https://" and a padlock icon
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Never give out your Social Security number or other sensitive information
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Avoid cash donations, opt for checks or credit cards instead
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Public aid is free; inspectors and government officials will never ask for, or accept, monetary compensation
OEM provided a list of trusted wildfire relief organizations:
Source: Oregon Wildfire Response and Recovery
To help you stay informed throughout the season, I've put together a list of state and national resources for tracking wildfire activity, evacuation information, and air quality.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: OSU Extension wildfire air quality, donation, and support resources available
Oregon State University Extension Service has compiled trusted, research-based resources to help Oregonians understand current air-quality conditions, reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke, and find support during wildfire emergencies.
Help Choose Oregon's Official Dish
Cast your ballot for Oregon’s Official Dish!
Help choose the dish that will represent your state in the Official State Dish Registry, an official program of the United States Semiquincentennial.
So far, marionberry pie has a substantial lead. Other options include Dungeness crab, smoked salmon, hazelnut-crusted salmon, maple bacon bar, jojo potatoes, coastal cheddar, wild Pacific chanterelles, razor clams, and marionberry soft-serve.
Voting ends November 1, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. Vote here today!
Amity's Investment in the Future
 Amity's Mayor Rachel King cuts the ribbon to celebrate the city's new water treatment plant.
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Recently, my office manager, Brayden, had the opportunity to tour the new plant and see firsthand this important investment in the community’s future. Planning for the project began back in 2014, with funding approved in 2019, and the new facility was completed in early spring. The upgraded plant includes its own lab for water testing and significantly increases the city’s water capacity. With these improvements, Amity can now serve approximately 700 additional residents while processing and distributing much more water at a time. It was great to see how this long-term project is helping prepare Amity for future growth! |
Solid Form Fabrication Tour
We recently had the opportunity to tour Solid Form Fabrication, a McMinnville company founded in 2007 that now employs 45 people and is approaching $9 million in annual revenue. With continued growth, the company is exploring opportunities for a larger facility while also investing in the next generation through four summer interns.
During the tour, we also discussed concerns surrounding HB 2688 from the 2025 legislative session, which expands Oregon’s prevailing wage requirements to certain custom fabrication work performed off-site for public works projects, including structural and ornamental iron work. For businesses like Solid Form, the law can mean additional labor costs, tracking requirements, and administrative complexity when competing for public projects—concerns that were raised during the legislative process as well.
It was great to see firsthand the success of a local manufacturer and hear directly about how decisions made in Salem can affect its ability to compete, expand, and create jobs here in Yamhill County.
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COMMUNITY KUDOS
Oregon International Air Show
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August 14-16, McMinnville hosted the Oregon International Air Show, welcoming locals and tourists from all over. There were many incredible aerial performances from the United States Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demo Team, warbirds, and world-class aerobatics. The highlight of the show was watching the U.S. Navy Blue Angels. |
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It was great to get out with other local leaders and enjoy the festivities. I was joined by McMinnville Mayor Kim Morris, McMinnville Chamber of Commerce President John Olsen, and Yamhill County Commissioner Kit Johnston.
Thank you to all the organizations and businesses that make this annual event possible. We can't wait for next year!
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Community Brunch
 On Saturday, August 15th, I had the honor of participating in two fantastic community events. The day began with a brunch at the longest table hosted by Mack Cooks, a community gathering centered around sharing food and connecting with neighbors. Mack Cooks believes everyone belongs at the table, so they host free, potluck-style events where good food and great company come together. As you can see, there was no shortage of food or friendship! 3rd Street was blocked off to make room for the table, and each section of the table had a designated host. Thank you, Mack Cooks, for putting together such a wonderful event!
If that wasn't enough to bring the community out, August 15th was also Lemonade Day!
Lemonade Day
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Lemonade Day is a national organization providing a practical way to enhance a child’s learning, explore their entrepreneurial spirit, and foster a growth mindset.
McMinnville is one of the Oregon cities that proudly participates in Lemonade Day. This year, over 600 youth set up stands, branded businesses, and learned about finances and marketing.
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I was thrilled to be an official lemonade taster! And after such a delicious brunch, who wouldn't want to enjoy a summer day walking along 3rd Street, sipping on all kinds of refreshing lemonade.
One of my favorite things about living in a small town is seeing friends and neighbors at every turn. After a LOT of lemonade, it was nice to end the walk with a muffin from my little buddy Logan's stand. At just five years old, he is rapidly learning financial literacy and has plans to spend, save, invest, and give portions of his earnings. And he is already planning for Lemonade Day next year!
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Not only does Lemonade Day encourage money sense, but it brings out such creativity!
I was truly amazed by our local youth. There were countless stands, each one unique and interesting. I am so excited to watch these kids grow and start up their own businesses someday. It's another reason why I am driven to do my part as a legislative leader to make Oregon the best state possible for the next generation.
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Cruising McMinnville
Beep! Beep! On August 22nd, McMinnville hosted its annual Cruising McMinnville, welcoming cool and classic cars from all over.
Cruising McMinnville is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created to present an annual car show and cruise in Historic Downtown McMinnville. Their primary mission is to support students pursuing careers in the trades; automotive, welding, construction and more. They offer scholarships and teacher grants, too!
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My district outreach coordinator, Jessica Campbell, took her young boys down 3rd Street to enjoy the car show. The weather was perfect for a downtown stroll to see rows and rows of cars along the street. There were old cars, new cars, fast cars... cars with crazy doors and cars with crazy tires. There was even a glitter car!
"Oh I like that one!" they would exclaim and ask to have a photo in front of car after car.
Thank you to all the organizers and volunteers for another great event!
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Femme Ferments
 Last week, Karen Wright and the Femme Ferments team and supporters gathered at Root and Rye to celebrate Women's Equality Day, remembering August 26th, 1920 when women were granted the right to vote.
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Femme Ferments is built around the idea of finding beauty in the broken glass—strength in the fractures, grace in the pieces, and hope in every shard.
What makes their mission especially meaningful is that 100% of their profits are donated to nonprofit organizations that empower and connect women and strengthen our communities. Giving back isn’t simply part of what Femme Ferments does—it’s the reason they exist.
I always love seeing Oregon businesses use their creativity and passion to make a difference beyond their doors. What a beautiful reminder of the good that can grow from resilience, purpose, and community.
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Chamber's Ribbon Cutting
 The McMinnville Area Chamber of Commerce has a new home! After plenty of boxes, moving, and settling in, the Chamber officially opened the doors at its new location at 1215 NE Baker Street with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting.
Chamber members, community partners, local leaders, and friends came together to celebrate the excitement. The Chamber plays such an important role in connecting and supporting our local businesses, and I’m excited to see all that will happen in this new space. Congratulations on your new home!
Honoring Retired U.S. Flags
 The VFW and Yamhill County recently came together in Lafayette to dedicate new U.S. Flag Retirement Drop Boxes, providing community members with a respectful way to retire worn or damaged American flags. Two drop boxes have been professionally painted in patriotic red, white, and blue and will serve as collection points for flags ready to be retired. Once collected, the flags will be respectfully burned during a proper flag retirement ceremony, honoring the symbol and all that it represents. This collaboration is a wonderful way to give our community a convenient and dignified option for properly retiring the American flag.
Congratulations Linfield
 Linfield University has been named Oregon’s highest-ranked college in TIME’s inaugural America’s Best Colleges of 2026-2027. Announced Aug. 25, Linfield earned the No. 136 spot nationally. TIME and the data research firm Statista recognized 500 institutions in the United States.
The ranking evaluates colleges across three areas: student outcomes, learning environment and attractiveness. TIME’s methodology puts the greatest weight on what students gain from their college experience. Student outcomes account for 75% of the overall score. They include measures of graduation rates, graduates’ earnings and return on education relative to its cost. Learning environment accounts for 15%, while attractiveness to prospective students accounts for 10%.
“The world doesn’t need graduates who can simply repeat what they already know,” President Mark Blegen said. “It needs people who can ask good questions, think critically, listen to perspectives different from their own and work with others to solve problems. That is the enduring value of a Linfield education, and it is why liberal arts education remains so important.”
Congratulations, Linfield! Go Cats!
Oregon State Fair
 The Oregon State Fair has been going strong this week. There are still a few more days to get out to Salem and enjoy the rides, animals, food, and concerts. The fair will run through September 7th. It's a great way to end the summer.
Wishing you all a great kick off to fall!
A LOOK AHEAD
There are so many wonderful ways to get involved in the community this fall. Below are just a handful of meaningful events to check out:
Recovery Awareness Month
Throughout September, YCAP and Provoking Hope are partnering with local restaurants to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and support recovery in Yamhill County through zero-proof beverage options, recovery resources, and community conversations.
Carlton Crush Grape Stomp
September 12, 12:00-5:00 PM at Ladd Park in Carlton
Celebrate harvest season with a lively, community-driven festival.
Kiwanis for Kids
September 26, 5:00-9:00 PM at The Grand Ballroom, McMinnville
Whether you attend, sponsor, donate an auction item, or all three, your contribution helps us continue making a difference in the lives of local children.
Pink Out Night at Willamette Valley Medical Center
October 1, 5:30 PM thru 07:30 PM
A night of education, awareness, community, and support.
Story Night Featuring Amy Widmer
October 1, 6:00-9:00 PM at the Chehalem Cultural Center
Ladies, join us for a free evening of prizes, food, wine, music, and an inspirational story.
Crown of Yamhill County
October 3, 6:00-8:00 PM at the Gallery Theatre
Henderson House invites you to a night of glamour and spectacle as they host their 3rd annual Crown of Yamhill County fundraiser.
Youth Suicide Awareness Day: Walk Out of Darkness
October 9, sunrise (7:21AM) at Discovery Meadows Park in McMinnville
I am honored to be sharing a few words on this important day. There will be coffee, cocoa, and pastries and a time to walk and reflect, honoring the youth we have lost to suicide.
A Family Place: Champions for Children After Dark Gala
October 24, 6:00-9:00 PM at Evergreen Event Center
Grab your masquerade mask and celebratory attire for this fundraiser that benefits Yamhill County families and children.
Yours truly,
 Representative Lucetta Elmer
House District 24
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1424
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-395, Salem, Oregon 97301
Email: Rep.LucettaElmer@oregonlegislature.gov
Website: https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/elmer
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