In the heart of Tualatin's city hall, a significant dialogue unfolded during the City Council Work Session on September 22, 2025. County Commissioner Jason Snyder took the floor for his quarterly update, setting the stage for an interactive discussion that would touch on pressing issues affecting the community, particularly around library funding and public safety.

As the session commenced, Snyder acknowledged the ongoing feedback from council members regarding the county's funding allocations for libraries, especially concerning nonprofit libraries that serve urban unincorporated areas. Councilor Pratt raised a critical question about the fairness of funding these libraries while residents of incorporated cities, like Tualatin, already pay taxes for their own library services. This concern highlighted a broader issue of equity in resource distribution across the county.

Snyder explained that the county's funding model aims to address historical underfunding in certain areas, emphasizing that the allocation formula is designed to balance service demands. However, he acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that while cities contribute to their libraries, nonprofit libraries do not have a direct tax mechanism to support their operations. This has led to a reliance on county levies, which some council members argue disproportionately impacts residents of incorporated cities.

The conversation shifted to the anticipated 5% increase in funding for Tualatin's library, with concerns raised about the sustainability of such increases in the face of rising operational costs. Snyder reassured council members that the county intends to align future funding increases with property tax growth, though he cautioned against making absolute commitments due to unpredictable economic factors.

As the discussion progressed, the focus turned to the county's broader priorities, particularly in housing and mental health services. Snyder revealed that funding for these critical areas is becoming increasingly uncertain, prompting the county to explore new revenue streams. He pointed out that the county has not fully capitalized on potential revenue sources, such as franchise fees for the use of public rights-of-way, which could help bolster funding for essential services.

Council members expressed their concerns about the perceived inequities in service provision, particularly for residents in unincorporated areas who may feel overlooked. The dialogue underscored the need for a strategic plan to ensure that all communities receive equitable access to resources and services.

As the session drew to a close, the council's discussions reflected a community grappling with the complexities of funding and service delivery in a rapidly changing environment. The insights shared during this meeting will likely shape future conversations about how Tualatin and Washington County can work together to address the needs of all residents, ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of equitable services.