
Keizer businesses would see jump in police fees under city plan
Keizer councilors, while agreeing a fee hike is necessary, also want to take the plan to the voters before implementing it.

Keizer councilors, while agreeing a fee hike is necessary, also want to take the plan to the voters before implementing it.

The Keizer City Council is scheduled to meet in a special work session Saturday, March 7. The council will consider reports on local police staffing and a recommendation to hike fees to cover policing costs.

Keizer Councilor Soraida Cross admitted improperly using her position and a sheriff’s private number after a harassment citation, agreeing to a $500 ethics fine while denying intentional wrongdoing. The Oregon Government Ethics Commission is expected to approve the deal on Friday.

A Keizer city task force has concluded that increasing a monthly fee is the best way to raise money to cover policing costs. The panel rejected the idea of a property tax levy. Two members want voters to have a say on the fee increase.

The survey, which will go to 3,000 homes and be available online, is intended to help inform the city's strategic planning.

In a council work session Monday, Jan. 12, company officials laid out plans for a more robust Keizer Little League Park operation and fielded questions from city councilors.

The Keizer City Council initially favored postponing a decision, but after hearing testimony from local youth sports nonprofits and company leaders voted 6-1 to approve new management for the sports complex at Keizer Little League Park.

The Keizer City Council has approved the sale of land for an oil change and car wash business, next to the transit center

The city's Strategic Plan Work Group will discuss plans at a meeting Friday, Dec. 5, at the Keizer Civic Center.