Item A: Adoption of 2007 Legislative Policies

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Recommendation: 1. Oppose any efforts to erode local flexibility in initiating revenue sources. 3. LOCAL AUTHORITY Local governments and the State are partners in serving the needs of Oregon's citizens. Local and state governments recognize the distinct role each plays, and that certain services are best provided at the state level, while other services must be responsive to the unique needs of each community. This partnership becomes dysfunctional when the Legislature preempts certain revenue- raising authority enjoyed by local government. This occurred in 1997 when local governments were prohibited from implementing a local real estate transfer tax and in 1995 when the Legislature preempted Eugene's ability to collect a voter- passed video poker tax. In both cases, the impact was to divest local government of one more tool — a necessary tool given property tax limitations — to meet the costs of services demanded by residents. It remains crucial for city residents, through their officials, to be able to determine the types and levels of services needed. The City of Eugene will oppose Local Government Funding legislation that restricts cities' ability to diversify their income base. With the passage of Measure 50 in 1997 and Any local government authority to raise P Measure 5 in 1990, our options for revenue should not be preempted by the funding services needed and/or desired Legislature. by our citizens are constrained. Cities' authority to impose local option sales, use, business, income and premium Terminate State preemption of local taxes. P taxes must be maintained, as well as their ability to impose vehicle, license Oppose any effort to restrict cities' ability P and regulatory fees, fines and penalties. to diversify their income base. Recommendations: 1. Oppose any efforts by the Legislature to preempt local government authority to City of Eugene Legislative Policies, 2007 Session With IGR Mtg 10/17 and 10/26 Amendments C:\Documents and Settings\ceexelf\Local Settings\Temporary Internet Files\OLK10B\LegPol2007Sesxx1.doc Updated on: 11/6/2006 By: Last saved by ceexmfw 15