These budgetary concerns were outlined ahead of an upcoming Salem City Council work session scheduled for Monday.
The Salem City Council is grappling with the possibility of severe cutbacks over the next few years
The Salem City Council had previously adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget in June with the understanding that amendments might be necessary if new revenue sources weren’t found.
To address the budget shortfall, the Salem City Council had proposed a payroll tax, which faced opposition. However, the fate of the tax now rests in the hands of voters, who will decide during a special election on November 7. The payroll tax, if approved, is expected to generate $27.9 million annually.
The potential cuts, if implemented by Salem City Council, would have a significant impact on city services, including homelessness initiatives, public safety, and library services
Supporters of the tax argue that it is essential to prevent these detrimental service reductions. However, opponents believe that the tax is too high and lacks clarity on how the funds will be utilized.
As the November election approaches, both sides of the debate are actively campaigning to sway voters’ opinions on the matter. The Salem City Council will continue discussions on how to address the budget challenges, with public hearings and a vote on proposed changes expected before fiscal year 2024 begins.
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