"City Hall Week" - A Forum for State and Local Policy Makers

KEIZER - 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 Keizer, City Hall Week will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2016 at the Keizer Community Center, 930 Chemawa Rd NE, Keizer beginning at 6:00 p.m.   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:

  • Introducing a constitutional amendment allowing the option to have a local option levy outside compression;

  • Restoring equity in Oregon’s property tax system by resetting assessed value to real market value when a property is sold or constructed; and

  • 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.  

“City officials know best the issues that impact their communities,” said Mayor Cathy Clark.  “Local officials have been elected to represent their communities and legislators are elected to represent the same constituents.  City Hall Week will ensure that local voices gain the attention of legislators and candidates.”