Make an Informed Decision on the Recall – A Must Read

Make an Informed Decision on the Recall

You have heard arguments against the Recall of Parks and Recreation Commissioners. The Mayor has stated it is your right to vote.  However, do you have all the information needed to make an informed decision?

Accountability is a core democratic principal, and the recall process is an important recourse when accountability falls short. You have the right to express your opinion. As the Mayor’s Op-ed points out, over 15% of registered voters believed enough in the cause for action that they signed the petition to bring the recall to a vote and give you the opportunity to express your opinion.

The tactics of our political leaders are all too familiar: Call into question the intent of the petitioners, deride and dismiss their claims as “fake news,” and insist that a recall election is too expensive. Their claims overlook key fiscal mismanagement facts:

  • Oak Knoll Golf Course continues to require an operational subsidy of over $300,000 per year.
  • In 2013, the Parks and Recreation Fund had a $1,783,435 Ending Fund Balance, $484,435 above the Fund Balance Policy floor of $1,299,000, or 12.5 percent of revenues.
    • In 2015, this Ending Fund Balance dropped to $503,626, a 796,00 shortfall below the $1,299,000 floor.
    • At the same time department Personnel Services increased $379,000 or 12.2 percent.
  • The current biennium shows $8,338,144 in Parks and Recreation Personal Services, an annual average of $4,169,072, or another $713,707 per year, an increase of 20.5 percent.
  • In the 2017-2019 biennium, the contingency budget rose by $95,000 from the prior budget.
  • The cost of an election is projected at $30,000 or .2 percent of the $13,196,765 total appropriation. Contrary to some comments, ORS chapter 260, states that the elected official has two options: to resign or wait for the election.  Therefore, the commissioners are responsible for the cost of this election.

You have a right to vote; your voice needs to be heard.  A YES vote will send a clear message of financial accountability to elected officials and staff.  They must understand their fiduciary duty to efficiently spend OUR MONEY.

Chronicle Staff