Republicans and Democrats put aside political differences Saturday to campaign against three ballot measures that would amend the state constitution.

Members of the Southern Oregon Committee for Our Oregon who canvassed Medford neighborhoods were among Rogue Valley community and business leaders opposed to Measures 8, 91 and 93.

"These measures are presented as tax cuts but actually have the opposite effect on most Oregon taxpayers," said Bill Thorndike, president of Medford Fabrication. In fact, he said, if Measure 91 passes, a typical family of four earning less than $81,000 a year would get a tax increase, because they would not get a state "kicker" rebate traditionally triggered by unanticipated state revenues, he said.

Measure 8 would amend the state constitution to limit state spending to no more than 15 percent of the total personal income of Oregonians in the previous two years, which would force the state to send back billions in federal matching funds needed in Oregon, he added.

Measure 91 would amend the constitution to allow an unlimited deduction of federal taxes from state income taxes. And Measure 93 would require voters to approve all new taxes and fees, and all increases over the rate of inflation, as well as revisit certain already-passed tax measures.

John Watt, a Republican and former state representative from Medford, also urged voters to be cautious when considering the measures.

"Once people realize that the largest share of the financial benefit goes to only a small percentage of wealthy taxpayers — and that more than $2 billion will be cut from funds that support services such as education and public safety — they oppose Measure 91," he said.

For information on the Southern Oregon Committee for Our Oregon, call Amy Amrhein at 482-6680. 

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