Regional Business Alliance Spotlight: Building a Stronger Regional Voice

As we move further into 2026, one thing remains clear : effective advocacy doesn't begin when the Legislature gavels into session, and it doesn't end when lawmakers adjourn.  

One of the most rewarding parts of my role as Program Manager for the Regional Business Alliance has been helping strengthen the connection between Central Oregon's business community and the policymakers making decisions that affect our region. That work happens year-round.

During the legislative session, the Alliance works to elevate regional business priorities and provide timely updates on legislation moving through the Capitol. But our role extends well beyond monitoring bills or advocating for specific policies. We also work to ensure that the intent behind legislation translates into practical, effective outcomes for employers once laws are implemented. Sometimes that means identifying unintended consequences, facilitating conversations with agencies and lawmakers, or helping shape future improvements based on what businesses are experiencing on the ground.

Just as importantly, advocacy is a two-way conversation.

Throughout the year, we bring business perspectives directly to legislators while also helping businesses better understand the opportunities, challenges, and policy discussions taking shape in Salem. One example is being able to raise awareness and articulate how a well-intended policy has drifted away from its original legislative intent, and share ideas how to get it back on track.  

This ongoing dialogue and engagement builds stronger relationships locally, creates greater transparency, and helps ensure lawmakers hear directly from, and better understand, local employers andoperators who This summer, we've continued that work through Regional Business Roundtables across the tri-county area of Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson. These local community conversations are providing valuable insight into the issues businesses are navigating every day. During each roundtable we talk about what challenges and opportunities each participant experiences running and operating a business in Oregon, and specifically Central Oregon, and what ideas they may have (and there is never a shortage of comments or ideas!) Topics discussed range from specific issues like navigating complicated and sometimes contradicting regulations,  confusing or outdated rules, and extreme liability risks. Another theme that has carried over from last year’s roundtables is a need for regional flexibility that acknowledges Central Oregon is different than Portland or the Willamette Valley and one size does not fit all when we talk about workforce, housing, infrastructure issues and economic development opportunities.. The feedback we're hearing in our second season is already helping shape the Alliance's priorities as we prepare for the 2027 Legislative Session.

The Regional Business Alliance was formed  because we know our communities are stronger when we work together. While each community has its own unique strengths and challenges, many of the issues affecting businesses are shared across the region. By bringing those voices together, we're able to advocate more effectively and ensure Central Oregon speaks with an elevated stronger, more unified voice.

Thank you to everyone who has participated in a roundtable, shared feedback, attended an event, or engaged with the Alliance over the past year. Your perspectives make this work possible, and I look forward to continuing these conversations as we build toward 2027.

- Jennifer Stephens, Program Manager for the Regional Business Alliance