[Heritage] Legislative Task Force on Heritage Vitality to Convene on Monday

[Heritage Info]

A Legislative Task Force to examine Oregon heritage vitality will have its first meeting at 9 a.m. June 18. The meeting, which is open to the public, will take place in Room 102 of the Oregon State Library, 250 Winter St. NE, Salem. 

The 76th Legislative Assembly created the Task Force to study and review several heritage-related laws and the effectiveness of heritage organizations with education, tourism, preservation and economic development. The Task Force will submit a report, including recommendations, to the Legislature by Oct. 1.

The Legislative Assembly created the Task Force upon the request of the Oregon Heritage Commission, which last year released a report identifying eight major issues challenging more than 500 local, regional and state heritage organizations in Oregon. Copies of the report are available from the Oregon Heritage Commission, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem OR 97301 or http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/HCD/OHC/vitality.shtml 

The Task Force is comprised of two legislators appointed by the Senate President and the House Co-Speakers and 12 people appointed by Governor John Kitzhaber who represent a variety of heritage constituencies identified in the Task Force legislation.

More information about Task Force activities and the meeting may be obtained from Kyle Jansson, coordinator of the Oregon Heritage Commission at 503-986-0673 or by e-mail at kyle.jansson at state.or.us .  The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

The meetings are accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be arranged up to 72 hours in advance by call 503-986-0690. 

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