Oregon Voters Weigh In on Special Election Measures
PORTLAND, Ore. — A special election on May 20, 2025, saw Oregonians across all 36 counties casting ballots on various local measures, with education-related bonds emerging as a central focus. Despite the typical low turnout rate of around 20-30% for special elections, this year recorded just 14.4% participation.
The standout item was Portland Public Schools’ nearly $1.83 billion construction bond, which is set to address critical issues in school infrastructure. Preliminary results indicate strong support, with 54% of voters in favor. Julia Brim-Edwards, a board member, expressed optimism, calling it “a generational investment” vital for improving school conditions from leaky roofs to outdated science labs.
The bond maintains a property tax rate of about $2.50 per $1,000 of assessed value, directing funds toward renovations of high schools and other necessary upgrades in the district.
In contrast, Mount Hood Community College’s seventh attempt to secure a $136 million funding measure fell flat, reflecting mixed support for educational bonds statewide. Other districts, like Tigard-Tualatin, showed early signs of failure with a $421 million bond aimed at significant infrastructure improvements.
While Chemeketa Community College’s $140 million bond measure remains too close to call, some coastal districts fared better. In Tillamook County, voters approved an $11 million levy for Neah-Kah-Nie School District and a $23 million bond for facility improvements in the Tillamook School District. Lincoln County also saw strong support for a $73 million bond to enhance school facilities, leveraging $6 million in state funding.
Additionally, measures for fire protection and public safety attracted mixed responses, with counties like Columbia and Jackson successfully securing levies, while others did not.
The results reflect a complex landscape of community priorities as Oregon navigates crucial improvements in public services.
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