City Pushes for Tax Boost to Turn Medford Into Oregon’s Next Major Events Hub

MEDFORD, Ore. — Residents of Medford will be asked to vote for a 2% increase to the maximum allowable Transient Lodging Tax (TLT) on the November 2025 ballot.

The proposed increase is part of the City Council’s broader vision to transform downtown Medford into a vibrant and active hub for a new convention center and a publicly owned, multi-use stadium.

Medford Could Become Home to the Eugene Emeralds

It is hoped that the stadium will become the future home of the Eugene Emeralds, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the San Francisco Giants.

The stadium will also be used to host concerts, tournaments, and community events, supporting the council’s vision of an active, year-round city core offering tourism and economic growth opportunities.

At Wednesday’s monthly meeting, Councilor Nick Card introduced a motion requesting an additional 1% increase to the TLT rate, and a provision limiting the use of that revenue generated by the conference center for the Creekside Quarter, or similar downtown development.

Creekside Quarter Will Become an Active Social and Economic Hub

Creekside Quarter is a privately initiated vision for potential redevelopment in downtown Medford. The area will include a hotel, urban residential infill, multi-story retail and office space, a conference center, a multi-purpose outdoor sports and event stadium, and an elevated parking garage. It is also proposed to restore Bear Creek and revitalize a public park.

Clr. Card’s motion, which was unanimously accepted, also calls for an investigation into differentiated TLT rates and a study session for report-back to the Council.

These measures are part of the City’s 2040 Vision and Biennial Goals to enhance public spaces, attract investment, and strengthen Medford’s position as a regional hub for events and recreation.