Eugene staff outline levy options as library funding faces June 2026 expiration

Eugene Public Library Director Angela Ocana and Joshua Bates, executive director of Library, Recreation and Cultural Services, briefed the Eugene City Council at a Sept. 22 work session on options for renewing the library local option levy, which currently expires in June 2026. Ocana told councilors the levy generates $2,850,000 annually and pays for 18.4 staff positions, the materials budget and programs across the downtown, Bethel and Sheldon branches.

The presentation reviewed the levy's history and impact: a 2015 local option measure (referred to in the presentation as Measure 2235) passed with 52% of the vote and restored hours and materials after the recession; a 2020 renewal, passed with 76% support during the COVID-19 period, maintained 160 operational hours across the three locations and expanded programs. Bates said staff will pursue polling and community engagement and return to council with possible levy packages and rate scenarios. Staff identified a timeline that includes council discussion on Oct. 27, polling results in January, possible council action to place a measure on the May 2026 ballot, and a final council deadline to adopt a resolution to place a measure on the May ballot on Feb. 18.

Why this matters: Councilors and presenters said the levy underpins…