SALEM, Ore. — Voters in Marion and Polk counties appear to have approved several local tax increases, funding measures and government proposals in the November 3 election, according to preliminary election results.
Among the measures receiving support were proposals affecting local fire protection, school facilities, parks, libraries and the Polk County Fairgrounds.
In Polk County, voters supported an operating levy for the Polk County Fairgrounds in Rickreall. The measure is expected to generate approximately $5.4 million over five years through a property tax rate of 12 cents per $1,000 of assessed value.
County officials had warned that the fairgrounds could face closure if the measure failed.
Voters in the Silver Falls School District also supported an $87 million school bond. The proposal is intended to replace the existing Silverton Middle School building and provide a new K-8 school on the western side of the district.
The bond is expected to carry a rate of $1.88 per $1,000 of assessed property value beginning in 2027, when the existing bond at the same rate expires.
In Independence, voters appeared to support monthly fees totaling $19.65 to help pay for city parks, the library and museum.
Fire protection funding also received support in several communities. Stayton Fire District voters approved a five-year levy expected to generate $7.7 million. Gates Fire District voters also supported a funding measure.
Voters in Mt. Angel and the Monitor area supported measures necessary to establish a combined fire district, which would have a proposed tax rate of $1.97 per $1,000 of assessed value.
The results reflect a broader statewide trend. The Oregon Capital Chronicle reported Thursday that voters approved 13 of 16 fire funding proposals and eight of nine school bond or levy proposals considered across the state.
