BEND, OR -- about a dozen people attended Monday night’s informational open house on Bend's proposed 5-cent-a-gallon gas tax to help fund road maintenance. Presentations from the city’s Finance Director and City Manager addressed the $80 million in deferred road maintenance, and how street funding fits into the overall city budget.
Bend resident J.D. Lewis made up his mind on the issue before attending the informational open house. He told KBND News, “I understand the need to improve our roads. I’m happy to pay a gas tax, to be honest. But it doesn’t appear the City Council has laid out a solution that gets the system healthy. They’re just laying out reasons for a tax. And I don’t see how, with the passage of a tax, it creates sustainable road maintenance for Bend.”
Wayne Heigle told officials he thinks the most damage to city streets is done by large trucks. “And if anybody ever thought about it, and I’m sure they do, they would know that the damage is coming from those heavy haulers. And that’s what’s tearing up our roads. Nobody says, 'Well, let’s make sure they’re paying their fair share.'”
The complete presentations by city officials from last night’s open house are available on the city’s website, or click HERE.
Wednesday, March 2, is the last day to mail your ballot for the March 8 gas tax special election. After that, you’ll need take your ballot to an official drop site.
