Last night’s CitySpeak town hall covered new ground when it comes to Corvallis’ long popular City Livability Levy – namely that viewers questioned if instead of spending on the library and parks, the city should put more resources into social services, mostly for those experiencing homelessness.
However, Mayor Charles Maughan pointed out that library and parks patrons are often struggling financially themselves – and that both departments have facilities and services that are free for all, regardless of housing status.
He also cited his own experiences of raising young children with very few resources, and finding the parks and library an enriching experience for both him and his children, even as finances were tough.
Library Director Ashlee Chavez and Parks and Recreation Director Meredith Petit were also on hand, both explained that a large portion of their respective departments annual funding comes from the local option levy. Chavez stated plainly that the library would lose two open days a week if it weren’t for the extra dollars the Livability Levy has always brought in.
Of course, questions also arose about the financial ramifications for residents, some of them on fixed incomes – but it was fewer than what came in concerning a desire to spend more on social services.
A video of the hour-long town hall is available below.
Here’s What the Levy is About, Measure 2-141
Every five years, Corvallis voters are asked if they would like to continue paying added tax dollars for expanded services.
Corvallis currently imposes $1.07 in added property taxes per $1,000 of assessed value, which pays for extra library hours and programs, and added parks services and maintenance. It also means extra funding for social services programs. City officials are seeking voter approval to continue this optional local levy at the same rate for another five years.
According to the City’s filings for the election, if the levy passes, $480,000 in grants would be directed annually to local social service agencies. 51.9% of the remaining revenue, after that $480,000, would go to the Corvallis Public Library, which would continue its currently expanded open days and hours – and added materials, programs, and outreach. In the first year, that would be $3,137,511.
48.1% of the remaining revenue, after the social services grants, would go to continue expanded Parks & Recreation programs, the Osborn Aquatic Center, Corvallis Community Center, the Majestic Theatre, and Parks services and maintenance. In the first year it would amount to $2,907,789.
In subsequent years, as assessed property values increase, the funding would also increase. Notably, the state caps how much assessed values can increase each year.
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