Higher taxes vs. library cuts in Multnomah Co.

PORTLAND, Ore. – Would you pay higher taxes to prevent library budget cuts?

Multnomah County Chair Jeff Cogen doesn’t think voters are willing to approve a tax increase right now. Cogen is proposing cutbacks on either library hours or staffing.

Multnomah County libraries, which are second only to New York City in circulation, are projecting an $11 million budget deficit this fiscal year due to Oregon’s Measure 5 restrictions on property tax collections.

The current library levy expires next summer and Cogen doesn’t think voters are ready for a new library tax district that includes a 32 percent rate hike.

“If there was any way I thought we could pass that I would be the one who’s rallying the flag. I just don’t, I think it’s going to lose,” said Cogen.

Cogen wants to extend the library levy for 3 years and wait to ask for a tax increase until 2014, when he expects an improved economy.

“Right now we’re in hard times and I just don’t think this is the right time to ask for a significant tax increase.”

But that means staff layoffs and reduced library hours, which library supporters say would be a huge mistake.

“I can’t say enough why libraries are important and I’d be glad to try to talk people into it,” said Juulie Downs.

Multnomah County commissioners will vote in January whether to ask voters for the same tax rate of 89 cents for every $1,000 in property value.

Library advocates say votes will support higher library taxes if given the chance.