Readers Respond: Fix Portland’s High-Tax System

A Growing Concern

In response to David Newson’s recent opinion piece, “Reforming Portland’s high-tax system will protect programs, not gut them” (Aug. 24), readers are weighing in on the future of Portland’s economy. Many agree with Newson’s call for meaningful reform, warning that without changes, the city risks driving away businesses, families, and long-term investment.

One reader described Newson’s article as “perfect,” noting that his analysis captured frustrations that have been building for months. “All the suggestions he highlighted must happen,” the reader wrote. “It is the article I’ve wanted to write for months. Although admittedly, mine would have probably included too many swear words!”

Portland’s Tax Puzzle

Portland’s tax system has long been a point of contention. Residents face layered local taxes—including the Arts Tax, Multnomah County income tax, Metro transportation and supportive housing taxes, and school funding levies—on top of state and federal obligations.

For many families and small business owners, the cumulative burden feels overwhelming. Critics argue that the lack of coordination among agencies creates inefficiencies, drives up costs, and makes Portland increasingly uncompetitive compared with other cities in the Pacific Northwest.

Risk of Economic Flight

As Newson argued, without reform, Portland could see an economic exodus. High-income earners may relocate to avoid heavy local tax bills, and small businesses already operating on tight margins could scale back or shut down.

This concern resonates with residents who see friends and neighbors leaving for Vancouver, Boise, or other lower-tax regions. For them, the issue is not whether taxes should exist but whether they are designed in a way that sustains community services without punishing growth.

Calls for Reform

Supporters of reform echo Newson’s recommendations:

Streamlining overlapping taxes to reduce complexity.
Creating clear accountability for how funds are spent.
Ensuring that essential services remain funded without driving out taxpayers.

These measures, they argue, would protect critical social programs while making Portland more attractive to families and businesses alike.

Balancing Priorities

Not all Portlanders oppose higher taxes. Many value the city’s progressive commitments to affordable housing, transportation, and public health. But even supporters admit that poorly coordinated tax policies risk undermining the very programs they are meant to sustain.

One reader summed up the dilemma: “We’re willing to pay our fair share. But right now, it feels like we’re being asked to carry too much without seeing enough in return.”

Looking Ahead

The debate over Portland’s tax system is far from settled, but the growing chorus of resident feedback suggests that pressure for reform is building. Whether city and county leaders act on those concerns will shape Portland’s economic future for years to come.

For now, many Portlanders find themselves in agreement with Newson: the city must fix its high-tax system before it drives people and businesses away.