Elections

Modernizing Urban Renewal guidelines

Creating better government not higher taxes

Gresham voters said yes to the opportunity to make their city government more efficient and responsive, while ensuring voters maintain strict control over major changes to existing urban renewal plans or approving future plans. Measure 26-256 does not raise taxes or authorize the creation of a new tax.

Measure 26-256 is needed to make Gresham more responsive to community problems and needs, from public safety to job creation to infrastructure, and to align the City Charter with state laws regarding the management of current and future urban renewal districts. Without a Charter change, Gresham will be less competitive and more restrained in its ability to pursue projects that benefit city residents. 

The last time Gresham voters approved an urban renewal district was more than 20 years ago when they created the Rockwood-West district in 2003 to focus investments and kick-start revitalization in business, housing, parks, and streets to enhance community livability. A lot has changed in 20 years and our laws need to keep pace. One thing that will never change are strict requirements for extensive public input and meetings prior to any urban renewal changes and voter approval of any tax.

For more details on ballot measure 26-256, visit Multnomah County elections.

Changing the voter threshold for Charter changes

Before voters said yes, changing the City Charter required 60% of voters to say "yes." This amendment lowers this requirement to a simple majority – meaning more than half of the votes cast. This change makes Gresham’s process consistent with the Oregon Constitution and other cities across the state.

The City Charter, which was created in 1978, requires a review every eight years by a Charter Review Committee. The City is thankful for the time and effort the committee has put into this recent review to benefit all Gresham residents. 

For more details on ballot measure 26-255, visit Multnomah County elections.

Learn more about the Gresham City Charter. 

For more information, contact the City Attorney’s Office at 503-618-2506.

To qualify to run for Gresham City Council, you must be 18 years of age by the date of election and have resided in Gresham during the 12 months immediately preceding the election.  

All successful candidates are required by law to file an Annual Verified Statement of Economic Interest form (Oregon Revised Statute 244.050), which is distributed to elected officials by the State of Oregon in March each year in office.

Read more about Gresham's Mayor and City Council.

As part of the electoral process residents may propose matters to the local ballot for consideration by voters.

Visit the State of Oregon Elections Division website for information on how to begin the local initiative or referendum process.