Salem, Ore. — Results of the City of Salem 2024 Priorities and Preferences Survey show a community that is divided on adding new funding through property tax levies to support important public services. 

The survey, commissioned by the City of Salem, engaged more than 400 potential voters on the issue of future funding options for the City of Salem’s General Fund. The survey found that while Salem residents support public safety, parks, and library services, 60% of respondents expressed hesitation to raise taxes to fund these services at this time. 

Key findings of the survey specifically gauged support for two potential property tax increases:

• Livability Levy: A proposed levy to support ongoing and expanded operations for Salem’s libraries, Center 50+, and park maintenance. The majority of respondents, about 59%, opposed the proposed increase in taxes for these services. At least 33% of respondents expressed support for this initiative, highlighting the importance of accessible public spaces, senior services, and a robust library in maintaining the quality of life in Salem. 
  
   
• Public Safety Levy: About 58%, indicated a negative view of increased taxes to restore funding or expand police, fire, and emergency response services. At least 34% of residents indicated support for the proposed levy citing concerns about crime reduction, lengthening emergency response times, and maintaining a strong public safety infrastructure.

These questions were alternated to help address possible bias issues. 

“We will continue to be proactive and look for cost savings as we manage your tax dollars,” says City Manager Keith Stahley, “While current revenues don’t cover day-to-day costs to operate the City, we will continue to share what we learn about the funding challenges ahead, listening to the community about their preferences for our city and how we approach these systemic issues going forward.”

Next Steps:

The survey data will be presented to the City Council for further discussion as part of the 2024 budget planning process. This feedback is vital as city leaders weigh potential choices or seek information on alternative funding mechanisms to set priorities for next year's budget process.

The community is invited to attend the scheduled City Council work session on October 21, 2024, or watch online on YouTube to learn more about the results.

Despite the community’s hesitation to approve tax increases at this time, the survey confirmed the value residents place on the services the City of Salem provides. Respondents emphasized the need to ensure Salem remains a safe and livable city, even as budget constraints impact the staff and service level of the programs included in the City of Salem’s General Fund. 

More information on addressing the City of Salem’s budget needs and the survey poll results are available on the City of Salem’s website at www.CityofSalem.net/ServingSalem.