Salem, OR – Chemeketa Community College officials are urging local voters to approve the renewal of existing property taxes in the upcoming May 20 election. The renewal, which will continue to fund critical campus construction projects, is seen as essential for the college to maintain its growth and provide students with state-of-the-art facilities.
The proposed tax renewal would extend the current levy, which has been in place for years, to support the construction and renovation of various campus buildings across the college’s multiple locations. Chemeketa Community College, which serves a diverse student population, has seen a surge in enrollment and program offerings in recent years. The tax revenue has played a crucial role in expanding and modernizing the college’s infrastructure, ensuring that it can meet the evolving needs of students and faculty.
“We’ve been fortunate to have the support of our community in the past, and we’re hopeful that voters will continue to back us in this upcoming election,” said Dr. Jessica Howard, President of Chemeketa Community College. “These funds are not just for construction; they’re about improving the overall student experience, from updated classrooms to enhanced learning environments that support our students’ success.”
The proposed measure would authorize the continuation of the current property tax rate, which amounts to a specific amount per $1,000 of assessed property value. The funds generated will go toward a range of projects, including building upgrades, new classrooms, and specialized learning spaces for various academic programs. According to the college, these improvements will help provide cutting-edge facilities in fields such as health sciences, technology, and the arts, ensuring that Chemeketa students are well-equipped for the demands of the modern workforce.
In addition to the academic benefits, college leaders argue that the tax renewal will also provide a long-term economic boost to the local community. By enhancing educational opportunities and facilities, Chemeketa Community College will continue to produce skilled graduates who contribute to the local economy and workforce.
While the tax renewal has generally received broad support in the past, it is expected that some voters may express concerns about the financial impact. However, college officials emphasize that the proposed measure does not represent an increase in taxes but rather the continuation of an existing levy. They assert that the renewal is critical for maintaining the college’s infrastructure and ensuring that Chemeketa remains a competitive institution for years to come.
“We recognize that everyone’s financial situation is different, but we believe this is an investment in our future,” Dr. Howard added. “By renewing this levy, voters are helping to strengthen our community and provide our students with the tools they need to succeed.”
The vote on the tax renewal measure will take place on May 20, 2025, as part of the upcoming election. Chemeketa Community College leaders are encouraging eligible voters to make their voices heard, either by voting in person or through absentee ballots. The outcome of the vote will determine whether the college can continue to make necessary improvements to its facilities and support its growing student body.
