The Salem City Council discussed a proposed property tax levy to fund community services, which will be on the May 2025 ballot. If approved by voters, the proposed property tax levy could fund park operations, library hours, recreation activities, and programs at Center 50+, according to the City of Salem.
The Salem City Council is considering a tax rate increase of $0.98 to $1.10 per $1,000 of assessed property value to fund reinstated services, costing households between $229 and $257 annually. They plan to place a livability levy on the May 2025 ballot and will review a detailed proposal on tax rates and service restoration at their February 10 meeting. This follows efforts to close a budget gap, including $4.7 million in mid-2024 budget cuts and $2 million in savings. Audits ensure the city's finances are managed well, and updated forecasts have reduced the expected budget shortfall for fiscal year 2026, as reported by the City of Salem.
Salem is facing a $13.8 million deficit and is exploring options to raise revenue, including a potential solid waste fee and payments from state-owned buildings. The city council is considering referring a five-year property tax increase to voters by February 28, to fund Parks and Recreation, the Library, and Center 50+, as stated by the City of Salem.
