Gresham Charter Amendment - Proposed Amendment to Urban Renewal Plan Decisions

Summary

The Gresham Charter, adopted in 1978 and last amended in 2012, is the constitution of the City of Gresham. If approved, this measure would amend the Charter to be consistent with existing state law, allowing the City Council, as the governing body charged with the powers authorized by state law, to perform any act or carry out any function to approve Urban Renewal Plans and substantial changes to Urban Renewal Plans. Amending the Charter allows Gresham to be more efficient and responsive to: - Job creation opportunities - Public safety investments - Investments in public infrastructure - Changes in the economy - Changes in community needs and priorities State law assures voters are involved with Urban Renewal Plan decisions. City is required to conduct public outreach and hold a public hearing before approving a new plan or making substantial changes to an existing plan. Urban Renewal is not a new or additional tax. This amendment does not authorize the creation of a new tax. Additional information is available at GreshamOregon.gov/Urban-Renewal.

A Yes vote amends the Charter so that the City Council shall have the powers to perform or carry out any Urban Renewal act or function authorized or permitted by state law (ORS 457), as it now exists or may hereafter be amended, to approve Urban Renewal Plans and substantial changes to Urban Renewal Plans. A Yes vote will not raise taxes; does not authorize the creation of a new tax.

A No vote retains existing Charter language limiting Gresham's ability to respond quickly to meet evolving community needs related to job creation opportunities, public safety investments or investments in public infrastructure. A No vote will not lower taxes.

Measure Details