A proposal for a $39 million annual payroll tax drew more than 30 speakers to the Cherriots board Wednesday night, with business leaders and transit riders staking out opposing sides — and one community leader urging board members to consider the human cost.
Tom Hoffert, CEO of the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce, spoke on behalf of a coalition of six business groups that includes the Keizer Chamber of Commerce, West Salem Business Association, Mid Valley Association of Realtors, the Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties and SEDCOR. He warned the tax would cost small businesses an average of $3,500 a year, discourage hiring and ultimately be passed on to consumers.
“Just two years ago, 82% of Salem voters rejected a city payroll tax. This Cherriots proposal risks repeating a similar outcome,” Hoffert told the board. He cited new polling showing 62% of likely voters oppose the measure. “For consumers, they can expect higher prices, placing further financial strain on our most vulnerable citizens. What’s worse, our residents will not be allowed to vote on your proposal.”…