Salem, OR – Salem city officials are intensifying their efforts to secure state funding to address public safety costs, as the city grapples with a significant budget shortfall. In the 2025 legislative session, a bipartisan group of lawmakers introduced House Bill 2531, which seeks to provide $7 million annually to cover public safety expenses associated with state-owned properties in the city.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Tom Andersen, Rep. Kevin Mannix, and Sen. Deb Patterson, addresses the financial strain Salem faces due to the high costs of emergency services provided to state-run institutions such as the Oregon State Penitentiary and the State Hospital. These properties, exempt from local property taxes, place a significant burden on the city’s resources, particularly in the realm of police and fire services.
Governor Tina Kotek has expressed her support for the proposed funding, stating she would sign the bill if it passes through the legislature. With the state’s backing, Salem officials hope to alleviate the city’s financial woes and ensure the continued provision of essential services. If approved, the $7 million allocation would cover these public safety expenses for the next two years.
The city’s financial outlook has become increasingly dire, with a projected $13.8 million shortfall in the General Fund for the upcoming fiscal year. This budget gap is primarily attributed to inflationary pressures and limitations on the growth of property tax revenue. As a result, the city has already implemented a series of budget cuts, including reductions in parks operations, social services, and youth development programs.
In addition to the ongoing push for state funding, Salem officials are considering a ballot measure for May 2025 that would propose a levy to fund critical services, including library operations, park maintenance, and senior services. This effort comes as the city looks for sustainable solutions to its financial challenges, which have been exacerbated by the increasing demand for public safety and social services.
The funding request outlined in HB 2531 would play a crucial role in addressing the city’s budget deficit and ensuring the ongoing delivery of services to both Salem residents and state institutions. The Oregon Legislature is expected to review the bill during the current session, which runs through June 2025. If passed, the bill would provide much-needed relief to a city struggling to balance its books while maintaining public safety standards.
As lawmakers continue to debate the proposal, the city remains hopeful that the state will step in to support its efforts. With public safety on the line and an already stretched budget, the outcome of this legislative effort could have lasting implications for Salem’s financial future and the well-being of its residents.
