Medford, Oregon- Medford voters have until 8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4 to return their ballots in a local election that could shape the city’s future downtown redevelopment plans. On the ballot is Measure 15-238, a proposal to raise the city’s transient lodging tax to help fund the Creekside Quarter project — a planned mixed-use district that supporters say would revitalize part of downtown and boost tourism.
If approved, Measure 15-238 would allow Medford to increase the lodging tax from 11% to up to 13%, with the added revenue used to help build a new conference and events center. The tax applies only to overnight visitors staying in hotels, motels, and short-term rentals. According to the proposal, nearly 90% of the overall project funding would come from private investment, with the lodging tax contributing to public facilities within the development.
Supporters describe Creekside Quarter as a “transformative” project that would turn an underused area into a vibrant community hub, creating public gathering spaces and attracting visitors to local restaurants, shops, and hotels.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to invest in Medford’s future,” backers said in a statement. “Your vote is critical in paving the way for a brighter, more vibrant Medford.”
The campaign in favor of the measure, Creekside Quarter PAC, was formed by local business and civic leaders who argue that the project would strengthen the city’s economy without adding new taxes for residents. They say visitors would primarily fund the development through the lodging fee increase.
Voters are encouraged to return their ballots early or place them in official drop boxes before the Nov. 4, 8 p.m. deadline to ensure they are counted.
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