Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District puts first tax measure on Nov. 5 ballot, seeking stable funding source

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District said Monday it has placed Measure 9-176 on the Nov. 5 ballot, asking Deschutes County voters to approve a permanent tax rate at a limit of six cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. If approved, the measure would provide a stable funding source for the district’s conservation projects and services across Deschutes County.

Here's their full announcement about the request of voters:

DSWCD works to protect and enhance natural resources throughout Deschutes County. The proposed levy would be used to expand the district’s efforts in water conservation, wildfire risk reduction, and land restoration, among other initiatives. Currently funded through short-term grants, DSWCD does not make or enforce regulations, but instead focuses on voluntary conservation efforts.

If the measure passes, the estimated cost for the median taxpayer with a home assessed at $238,000 would be approximately $1.19 per month, or $14.28 per year. The levy would not be subject to increases beyond the proposed $0.06 rate. If the measure is not approved, the proposed property tax increase would not occur, and the specific projects outlined would not be completed.

The funding from the proposed measure would be allocated to various projects aimed at addressing natural resource needs identified by the district, including:

• Water Conservation and Drought Resilience for Farmers and Ranchers: Boosting irrigation efficiency, piping of shared private laterals, flood to sprinkler and sprinkler to drip conversions, and irrigation water management plans.
• Forest Health/Wildfire Risk Reduction: Developing forest management plans with landowners, addressing risk from insects and disease, and restoring lands after wildfires to protect homes and communities.
• Neighborhood and Urban Green Spaces: Enhancing green spaces, supporting community gardens, and converting landscapes to drought resistant and native pollinator landscapes.

DSWCD promotes wise use and conservation of Oregon’s natural resources within Deschutes County. The District provides local leadership, technical assistance, information, and access to state and federal cost-share programs to make positive changes on your land.

Deschutes SWCD Board of Director – At Large # 2, Brian Lepore

“Deschutes County citizens care about protecting what makes this place special.  This is reflected by the high demand by rural and urban residents for Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District's support for conservation projects on their property.  This levy will help the district sustain and expand outreach to better meet the needs of the community and sustain the natural beauty of our county for generations to come.”

Deschutes SWCD Board of Director – Zone 3 – Tumalo, Jeff Rola

“This measure gives the people of Deschutes County an opportunity to invest in a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment going forward.”

For more information, contact Erin Kilcullen Deschutes SWCD District Manager.