Cities across Oregon have designated September 12-16 “City Hall Week.” In 17 host locations, city officials will lead a forum with legislators and candidates on issues that support the economic vitality and stability of Oregon communities.
In Redmond, City Hall Week will be held on Friday, September 16 at Redmond City Hall from 1-4pm. The event will provide an opportunity for city officials, state lawmakers and legislative candidates to share ideas and perspectives prior to the 2017 legislative session. City officials, legislators and candidates will attend, and the public is welcome.
Discussions will focus on property tax reform, restoring recreational immunity, transportation funding, and PERS reform. Cities are urging the Legislature to:
- Reform Oregon’s property tax system, by:
o Introducing a constitutional amendment allowing the option to have a local option levy outside compression;
o Restoring equity in Oregon’s property tax system by resetting assessed value to real market value when a property is sold or constructed; and
o Improving the fairness of how new and improved property is added to the state’s property tax rolls; - Restore the immunity from civil liability cities and other property owners held in exchange for fostering no-cost recreational opportunities; and
- Pass a comprehensive transportation funding and policy package
City Hall Week represents a proactive approach to raising awareness of these critical issues. City governments statewide are facing increased fiscal pressures and would like greater flexibility in managing their affairs.
“This valuable League of Oregon Cities event provides an opportunity for elected legislators to hear directly from local officials about issues currently impacting our community, as well as provide us with their legislative agendas and receive feedback on their plans,” states Mayor George Endicott. “City Hall Week works to ensures that Redmond’s voice gains the attention of our legislators and candidates.”
