Wednesday, August 12, 2026 / Eugene
Eugene's clean-energy fund reaches the ballot — and an Aug. 19 deadline
The city is recruiting up to three opponents to write the voters' pamphlet argument against the measure.
Eugene voters will decide Nov. 3 whether to create a clean-energy fund financed by a 2% license fee on the Eugene retail profits of very large companies. Before the pamphlet is printed, the city needs up to three people who oppose the measure to serve on its argument committee; applications close at 5 p.m. Aug. 19.
The certified ballot title says the fee would begin Jan. 1, 2029, and apply to retailers with more than $1 billion in national revenue and more than $500,000 in Eugene retail sales. Most groceries, medicine, healthcare and garbage services would be excluded. Proceeds would fund renewable energy, efficiency, green jobs and related infrastructure.
This is not a poll about the measure. It is a narrow deadline for residents who want to help write the official opposition argument. If more than three apply, the city plans a lottery Aug. 20; pamphlet arguments are due Sept. 8.
Field notes
What changed: The city recorder certified the clean-energy fund petition for the Nov. 3 ballot, and the city posted the opposition-committee application deadline.
Why it matters: The committee's argument will become part of the official information voters receive about a new business fee and spending program.
Who may be affected: Eugene voters, large retailers covered by the proposed fee and residents interested in the voters' pamphlet process.