In the 2024 state of the city address, Mayor Bob Gallagher says the city's population grew by almost 18% from 2010 to 2020. He says if that trend continues, the city would expand by "voluntary annexation" of land just outside city limits.
"If a residential developer purchased a farm and wanted to put 150 new single family homes on that farm over the next five to ten years, that person may say, 'hey city, we want your services, we want your low taxes, we want your police and fire protection, we want your sewer system, we don't want to put in septic, can we come in to the city?'"
Gallagher says the city hired more firefighters and made progress on the biggest public works project in its history last year.
The Forest Grove Drive Reconstruction Project began in 2022. Last year, the roundabouts near the TBK Bank Sports Complex reopened.
Gallagher says the city will start construction this year on a bridge over Middle Road for pedestrians and bikers.
He says the city is in a good place financially. While this year's budget isn't finalized yet, he says the tax rate may increase slightly to make up for rising costs and property tax changes made at the state level.
"Over the last ten years, the state property tax policy has reduced our taxable value, as a percentage of actual value, from 62% to 51%."
Residents can learn more about the budget and get an estimate of their property taxes for next year on the city's website.
