Click here to signup for Paul's Newsletter!
Public Comments - Speeches
Legislative Testimony
Oregon State Capitol, Salem OR
March 6, 2001Mr. Chairman - members of the committee - thank you very much, for the opportunity to be here this morning.
I am Paul Evans. I live at 744 East Main Street in Monmouth, Oregon - where I serve as mayor.
I am here today to speak in favor of the "Payment In-Lieu of Taxes" proposal before you.
Before I begin, I want to say very clearly, that Monmouth is proud to be the home of Western Oregon University, the Oregon Military Academy, and the Public Safety Academy.
We view these state agencies, as more than partners, even more than neighbors - each is a member of our family - a family we hope to keep together.
Mr. Chairman, I was asked to be here today by the League of Oregon Cities because of the philosophical underpinnings of the PILOT proposal.
In a sense, I am here representing the communities within our state that have large investments of state-owned properties within municipal service delivery boundaries.
Put another way, I am here today to stand up for Portland, Salem, Eugene, Corvallis, Monmouth, Ashland, La Grande, and all the others around the state that provide services for state functions - services that are currently paid for out of hide.
Now obviously, each of our communities benefit from the jobs and the economic intangibles sustained by a state presence.
However, as a matter of fiscal principal - we all know that costs are never "free."
As my grandfather used to tell me: "Somebody, somewhere, pays the price..."
In my community, over half of the potential assessed valuation is non-taxable.
I say this not because we are not supportive of, indeed protective of, the investments Oregon has made in our community, but rather as background for your consideration.
Let me provide you with some specifics. First, our fire district maintains an aerial ladder truck and a "support pumper" largely because of the structures "on-campus."
Second, Monmouth must seek out new funding sources every year - to continue to stretch our dollars so that we can maintain current service levels.
As I recently commented in my State of the City Address: for years we have gotten by on a shoestring and a smile - but budgets are getting tighter and the risk of cutting service - service levels to paying and non-paying properties alike, is omnipresent.
Third, as a community we cannot provide the kinds of services we would like to provide, could and would provide, with just a little help.
With help, my community could provide what I call "force multipliers" for University, OMA, and DPSST functions.
Transportation, infrastructure enhancements, technology services could and would all provide state agencies with added reach.
Mr. Chairman, I know your plate is full and your time is short.
I came here today to provide you with a perspective on the issue before you.
Monmouth is proud to play the role we have been allowed to play - and in truth - we hope to play a larger role should DPSST opt for expansion within our community.
I believe that as a matter of principle, state agencies - wherever they may be - should help pay for the services they require.
I also believe that as a matter of practicality, our communities will continue to do our level best to provide the best service possible.
In conclusion, as you prioritize your policy choices, I ask only that you consider the principles being advanced by the budget you pass.
Principle-driven policy is more than just a good idea, it's good governance.
