Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 124 - EASTERN OREGON BORDER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BO
Oregon Administrative Rules — Chapter 124
Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Board (EOBEDB)
These rules implement the state law establishing the Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Region, Board, and Fund. They define the Board’s purpose, the region, eligible applicants, project types, funding rules, and review procedures.
Division 1 — Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Region
Purpose
Support economic growth, workforce development, and job creation in the Eastern Oregon Border Region.
Encourage business development, infrastructure, and industrial site preparation.
Region Definition
Covers areas near the Oregon-Idaho border, including communities such as Ontario, Vale, and Nyssa.
Includes areas near Weiser, Idaho, and specific locations southwest of Vale, as well as Willow Creek and Brogan.
Division 5 — Definitions
Key terms used in the rules:
Board — Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Board.
Department — Oregon Business Development Department.
Economic Development — Activities that promote business expansion, job creation, industrial site certification, and workforce development.
Fund — Eastern Oregon Border Economic Development Board Fund.
Local Government — Cities, counties, or other public entities.
Region — Eastern Oregon Border Region.
Regionally Significant Industrial Site — Industrial site defined by state statute as critical for regional development.
Traded Sector — Businesses selling goods or services outside the region.
Workforce Development — Programs that help workers gain employment or improve skills, including housing for workers if necessary.
Division 10 — Eastern Oregon Border Board Economic Development Fund
Eligible Applicants
Local governments.
Institutions of higher education.
Private or nonprofit businesses in the region.
Economic development organizations and small business development centers.
School districts and individuals/entities promoting workforce or economic development.
Eligible Projects
Funding may support projects that:
Lead to private investment and job creation or retention.
Expand transportation infrastructure for goods movement.
Support workforce development and related housing.
Certify and prepare industrial sites.
Provide technical assistance or services to entrepreneurs.
Fund utilities or infrastructure necessary for industrial development.
Ineligible Expenditures
Paying off existing public or private debt.
Covering expenses incurred before funding approval unless specifically allowed by the Board.
Application and Board Review
Applicants submit proposals for grants or loans as announced by the Board.
Loan applications must include a repayment plan and credit information.
The Board may use review panels to assess projects and recommend awards.
Final awards are determined by the Board considering project evaluation, public comment, and review panel recommendations.
Project Funding Criteria
When awarding funds, the Board considers:
Project readiness and timelines.
Permitting feasibility.
Applicant’s financial contribution.
Job creation or retention.
Local tax revenue impact.
Project longevity and sustainability.
Number of businesses or residents served.
Whether the project can operate without future public subsidies.
Performance metrics and other considerations deemed relevant by the Board.
How the Rules Work Together
Establish a framework for economic development in Eastern Oregon.
Define eligible applicants and projects.
Set funding rules, including what is allowed and what is not.
Create a review and approval process to ensure projects meet Board objectives.
Maintain consistent definitions and procedures to align with state statutes and economic development goals.
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