Promote United Way's Earned Income Tax Credit Initiative.

Rationale: People who worked in 2008 for low to moderate incomes may qualify for an Earned Income Tax Credit, which could eliminate their taxes - or even get them money back. To qualify, people must file a tax return. In the past, millions of dollars of these credits went unclaimed in Lane County. (For assistance, go to www.211Lane.org). These much-needed dollars will help support low-income families, while providing an economic stimulus to local businesses.

Provide financial and other incentives to employers that offer career growth opportunities and wages at or above the private sector median wage.

Rationale: Lane County's average wage lags the statewide average wage by nearly 20 percent. More than 55 percent of jobs in Lane County pay less than $30,000 per year. It is estimated that a family of four in Lane County requires an average annual household income of more than $45,000 to meet basic needs. Giving local businesses incentives to offer higher wages and career opportunities will improve families' financial stability. Chuck Forster

Create a cluster-based regional economic development plan.