In today’s news, Central Oregon awaits biomass plants, PDC purchasing four acres in Central Eastside and Oregon could break voter turnout record today.
1. Central Oregon biomass plants on simmer
Two firms are developing plans for biomass facilities, but are on hold awaiting a contract to sell generated power, the Bend Bulletin reports. Vancouver-based Biogreen Sustainable Energy Co. intends to build a 25 megawatt facility in La Pine. In Lakeview, Colorado-based Red Rock Biofuels is working toward construction on its plant by the end of the year.
2. Portland Development Commission buys six Central Eastside blocks
The commission intends to lease the four acres to the Oregon Department of Transportation, the Portland Business Journal reports. If approved, the PDC will pay $2.8 million for the property. The commission intends to build affordable industrial buildings to help reach its job goals for the Central Eastside Industrial District.
3. It’s election day!
A new voter record is likely to be set in Oregon today as projections show 600,000 voters will vote today. The current record was set in 2014 with 449,000 ballots cast on Election Day, the Oregonian reports. So far 1.56 million votes have been cast in Oregon, nearly 61% of eligible voters. If you haven’t voted, polls close at 8 p.m. Find the closest drop box here.
4. Marijuana legalization on ballot in five states, while 54 Oregon cities consider banning sales
Recreational marijuana in Oregon, Washington, Colorado and Alaska has proven to boot state revenues and economies. With five more states considering legalization this election cycle (California, Arizona, Maine, Massachusettes and Nevada), legalization seems to be a new trend, as OPB reports. But as other states seek to join Oregon, many Oregon cities look to ban recreational dispensaries. The list includes Cannon Beach, Lake Oswego and Medford.
5. As Hillary Clinton solidifies election lead, stocks surge
The FBI announcement that the agency is not recommending criminal charges against the candidate caused the largest rally in eight months (371 points). USA Today reports Wall Street is now in a holding pattern as the nation awaits the results from today’s election. If Donald Trump wins, Wall Street predicts a decline similar to Brexit — between 9 and 12%.
6. Q&A wih the Chief Science Officer of Green Leaf Labs
Eric Wendt talks about cannabis regulations, financial models and the need to onboard the scientific community.
7. From the Magazine: Startup Tip
“One common mistake entrepreneurs make is to not spend time validating the value proposition with customers.” Oregon Technology Business Center executive director Steve Morris gives more advice here.
