On the G6 Young Professional Council, I’ve served as a voice for property owners during pivotal moments, such as OYO’s acquisition of G6 Hospitality. I’ve worked closely with corporate leadership to address owner concerns, ensure their needs were heard, and deliver actionable solutions during times of uncertainty and transition.

Portland recently welcomed Ritesh Agarwal, the visionary founder of OYO and a key leader of G6 Hospitality, during the company’s "Hit the Road" tour. The event provided local hoteliers with a unique opportunity to engage directly with Agarwal and G6 Hospitality leadership. Discussions centered around operational strategies, franchise support, and future growth plans, fostering meaningful dialogue between ownership and corporate leadership. This visit underscored the importance of collaboration and direct engagement in navigating the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry.

AAHOA recently hosted Sam Adams, a candidate for County Commissioner, to engage in a productive discussion with its members. The event provided a platform for hoteliers to voice their concerns on critical issues such as local regulations, economic development, and tourism initiatives. Sam Adams shared his vision for supporting the hospitality industry, addressing challenges, and fostering collaboration with local businesses. This gathering highlighted AAHOA’s commitment to advocating for its members and ensuring their voices are heard by policymakers.

AAHOA recently welcomed Rene Gonzalez, a candidate for Mayor of Portland, to discuss pressing issues impacting the city’s hospitality industry and business community. This event provided AAHOA members with a platform to engage directly with Gonzalez on topics such as public safety, economic development, homelessness, and tourism recovery. Gonzalez shared his vision for addressing these challenges and revitalizing Portland’s economy, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between city leadership and local business owners. The event highlighted AAHOA’s commitment to advocating for its members and fostering dialogue with key policymakers.

Defending the 70/30 TLT Tax Split through SB452 to ensure tourism dollars support communities and drive economic growth, supporting amendments to the Corporate Activity Tax (CAT) to raise the exemption threshold and reduce tax burdens on small businesses, and advocating for financial relief programs such as grants or no-interest loans for businesses impacted by weather-related events. ORLA remains committed to policies that provide meaningful support to Oregon’s hospitality sector.

I contributed to discussions opposing SB5067/HB1315, which seeks to lower the BAC limit to 0.05, as this could unintentionally harm tourism and hospitality-related businesses. I also shared insights on SB5251, which addresses how tourism tax dollars are allocated, ensuring these funds are spent strategically to maximize benefits for local communities and the hospitality industry. Additionally, I provided input on HB1181, which proposes increasing the minimum wage by $1.50 annually until a $25 minimum wage is reached—offering perspectives on the financial and operational challenges this could pose to small hotel owners.