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Volunteers with the Friends of Washington County Kids Political Action Committee submitted a policy proposal to the Washington County Board of Commissioners asking them to place an initiative on the November 2020 ballot to fund the expansion and accessibility of Out of School Time programs throughout the County. The proposal asks for a modest property tax (approximately $104/yr for the average homeowner). If approved by voters, the initiative would raise about $23 million for each of five years.
Since 2009, Washington County Kids has been working to inform the public of the importance of out of school time programs and to find ways to increase access to these programs. This measure won’t provide universal access, but it should allow us to significantly move the dial to better meet the needs of our children and youth.
After individual meetings with County department heads and Commissioners, volunteers met with Chair Kathryn Harrington on June 25th and she agreed to put the group on the agenda to present the policy proposal to the full Board of County Commissioners.
Next Steps:
1. The proposal will be considered at their Work Session on Tuesday, July 21st.
2. They will vote on it at the Board meeting on Tuesday, July 28th.
3. If approved, the ballot language and title for the Voter’s Pamphlet will be finalized and submitted to the ballot.
4. The Friends of Washington County Kids Political Action Committee will raise money to fund the campaign and work to get out the vote.
Here’s How County Residents Can Help:
Show your support for the proposal in two ways.
1. The July 28th Board Meeting will be held via Zoom. You may attend virtually and sign up to speak.
2. Submit a Letter of Support.
To do either, contact Kevin_Moss@co.washington.or.us on or before July 26, 2020.
The full text of the proposal is available for your review here.
Susan Bender Phelps, President
Friends of Washington County Kids PAC
503-890-0971
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