Nancy Leonard, Editor

Upper Rogue Independent

P. O. Box 900

Eagle Point, OR. 97524

Letter to the editor.

These questions are directed to the electorate who must determine how to cast their ballot for the upcoming Police User “FEE” per Shady Ordinance 03-210.

1. What circumstances under the Oregon State Constitution [Article XI Sec. 11b (2)(b)], elevate and define this Shady “FEE” to a “TAX”?

2. Why didn’t the council instead sponsor another police levy (TAX)?

3. Unlike a tax levy, can the council increase the “FEE” (tax) at any time and by any amount without the approval of the electorate?

4. Did Ordinance 03-210 establishing the “FEE” meet the procedures required by state law?

5. When the “FEE” ballot measure was filed with the county clerk, did it meet all state mandated legal, procedural and time frame requirements?

6. If the electorate approves this “FEE”, will the city council again redirect the “TAX” income` as they did with levy 15-80 by the passage of Ordinance 98-183?

7. Will the council revoke or repeal the promised “hardship consideration” just as they did on sewer “FEES”?

8. What % or $ of this “FEE” (tax) will be diverted to the Administrator’s budget?

9. Who establishes the Public Safety line items and amounts from this “FEE” (tax)?

10. Where will “surpluses” from this Public Safety “FEE” (tax) be directed?  (Will “surpluses” reimburse the bridge lighting loan because Public safety was given as reason for the need.)

  CAUTION: in the past, questioning city hall is alleged to have resulted in city hall reprisal and no answers.     

 Les Weaver

605 Scott’s Glen Drive.

Springfield, Oregon 97477

541 – 747-3064