Corvallis citizens will vote on a proposed property tax levy renewal and increase at the general election on Nov. 5. If approved, the “Livability, Public Safety and City Services Local Option Tax Levy” would raise funds for the Osborn Aquatic Center, the Chintimini Senior Center and the library as well as social services and city staff including long-range planning, code enforcement, police and fire. Lastly, it would replace unrestricted funds lost to the adjustment of HP’s tax payment. The special levy would expire on June 30, 2019.
The levy would replace an existing special levy approved by the voters in 2011. That measure raised $0.45 per thousand dollars of assessed property value and expires on June 30, 2014. The new proposal would increase the special levy by $0.3681 for a total of $0.8181 per thousand. It would apply to tax bills calculated after July 1, 2014.
At the Oct. 14 Corvallis City Club meeting, two speakers will address the proposed levy: city council vice president Biff Traber from ward 8, and Bruce Sorte, an OSU Extension community economist. While Sorte serves on the city council, he will be speaking from a more general perspective.
Traber worked for 30 years as an executive in the software industry and, since retirement, has worked in various community volunteer roles. He favors the proposal and will explain the basis for his position.
Sorte will focus on economic issues. He plans to discuss the Corvallis economy, the economic future, public goods and taxes and how individuals and communities make spending decisions.
The speakers invite attendees to submit questions via email before the meeting and will attempt to answer them during their presentations. Email questions to nickhoutman8@aol.com with “City Club Oct. 14 questions” in the subject line.
City Club meets at the Les Schwab Gym in the Boys & Girls Club, 1112 NW Circle. The meeting will begin at 12 noon, and doors will open at 11:30. As always, attendance is free. Lunch is $10 for members, $12 for non-members. To register, send e-mail to nickhoutman8@aol.com with “City Club October 14” in the subject line by October 10. Lunch will be provided this month by Baja Fresh.