Sutherlin council approves first reading of public safety fee ordinance; $9 monthly charge proposed

Sutherlin’s City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 1100 on a recorded vote, creating a monthly public safety fee of $9 per developed unit — $6 designated for police and $3 for fire — to appear as a line item on city utility bills.

The fee ordinance was presented by Chief Troy Mills, who told the council that long-term limits on property tax growth enacted by Measure 5 and Measure 50 have left the city with a funding gap and that a dedicated fee is a “sustainable and effective long term solution” to cover operations, equipment and personnel for public safety. “These services are critical to maintaining the safety, stability, and quality of life in our community,” Mills said during his presentation.

The fee would apply to each residential or nonresidential unit on developed property and, as drafted, was scheduled to begin on May 1, 2025. Councilor and staff…