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Benton council discusses ballot measures: possible move to council–manager government and a multi‑year levy lift
Summary
Councilors directed staff to draft ballot language for two November measures — converting to a council–manager form of government and a multi‑year permanent property‑tax levy lift tied to CPI — and discussed costs, implementation and timing but took no final vote on placement.
The Benton City Council on June 16 heard staff briefings on two potential measures for the November general election and directed staff to prepare draft ballot language: a proposal to change the city’s form of government from a mayor–council (strong mayor) model to a council–manager model, and a property-tax “levy lift” (multi‑year permanent option tied to CPI was discussed as the favored approach).
Staff explained legal mechanics under state code (RC 35A and related provisions) and read statutory consequences that would follow voter approval: if implemented, the mayor would revert to a council position for the remainder of the term and a five‑member council could increase to seven members (statutory thresholds tied to population were discussed). Eric told the council the changes would be placed on the ballot as a proposition if the council decides to move forward; the city must finalize ballot titles and submit materials to county elections by the August deadline.
Council members asked detailed implementation questions. Several raised concerns about candidate recruitment for new council seats and about continuity of executive leadership under different forms of government. One staff estimate discussed in the meeting placed the annual additional cost to support a city manager at roughly $150,000–$225,000, although councilors asked staff to refine cost and funding options.
On the levy lift, staff presented comparisons of single‑year temporary, single‑year permanent and multi‑year permanent approaches, and noted new state legislation effective July 1 extends the maximum multi‑year period from six to 10 years subject to conditions. The council discussed tying a multi‑year permanent lift to CPI (a limiting factor) to restore lost purchasing power from long‑standing 1% levy limits and to stabilize revenues for services such as law enforcement, roads and park maintenance. Members noted the sheriff contract and deferred infrastructure needs as drivers for seeking additional revenue.
No final votes to place either measure on the ballot were taken; councilors agreed to proceed with drafting the proposals and returning with ballot titles and specifics for formal action before the county deadline.
Next steps: staff will draft ballot language, cost estimates and an implementation timeline for council review prior to any formal vote to place propositions on the November ballot.
