Levy renewal funds SPRD programs

A local option levy that supports programing of Sisters Park & Recreation District (SPRD) is before voters for renewal.

Measure 9-160 will appear on the May 16 election ballot in the amount of 15 cents per $1,000 of assessed property valuation. This is the same amount voters approved in 2018.

According to SPRD Executive Director Jennifer Holland, the funds will support programming in three areas: child care; seniors; and youth athletics/recreation. The funds will also support District operations generally, and ongoing facility costs. Holland emphasized that the Board’s priority is to keep SPRD programs affordable to everyone in the district through scholarships and subsidies for programs catering to families.

Passage of the local option levy will also allow the Board of Directors to work on converting the existing Sisters Elementary School building to a multipurpose community center over the next five years. See related story: https://www.nuggetnews.com/story/2023/04/26/education/ballots-mailed-out-for-school-election/35093.html.

Holland notes that citizens’ tax rate would not go up with passage of the levy since it is a renewal of the existing levy. Currently the revenues derived from the 2018 local option levy constitute 20 percent of SPRD’s budget.

Measure 9-160:

Shall SPRD renew its 15 cents per $1,000 assessed valuation levy to maintain recreation programs and facilities?

Key election dates:

• April 26: Ballots mailed to voters.

• April 28: All Deschutes County drop boxes open (drop box located in front of City Hall, 511 E. Cascade Ave.)

• May 11: Last day for election officials to mail replacement ballots to voters.

• May 16: Election Day

Remember to sign your ballot return envelope.