Portlanders Say "Yes" to Parks Levy in Early Special Election Results

Portland voters have approved a new parks levy, with nearly 54% supporting Measure 26-260 according to early results. The new property tax will be set at $1. 40 per $1,000 of assessed value, costing the average homeowner around $310 annually. Voter turnout for this special election was approximately 29. 7%, slightly higher than the 27% seen in May's special election.

If implemented, the levy is projected to raise $456 million over five years, focusing on maintaining parks and recreation operations. The current parks levy, approved in 2020, had a lower tax rate of 80 cents per $1,000, costing homeowners about $177 per year. Support for the new measure spans various organizations, including the Portland Metro Chamber and many city council members, with the exception of Councilor Dan Ryan. Tony Morse, campaign manager for Portlanders for Parks, celebrated the results, emphasizing a sustainable future for community spaces. Jessica Green from the Portland Parks Foundation noted that the outcome reflects Portlanders' value for public parks and spaces.