Portland parks levy continues to lead in polls Wednesday

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – It appears the City of Portland parks levy is likely to pass as 'Yes' votes continue to lead the polls by nearly 10% on Wednesday.

If passed, Measure 26-260 would replace the existing levy. It is currently leading at 54.6% with 73,152 votes in favor of the ballot measure. The votes in opposition rest at 45.4% with 60,825 votes.

However, ballots postmarked by 8 p.m. are allowed to be counted until November 12.

The 5-year levy that aims to help the Portland Parks Bureau maintain the city’s many parks and pay for necessary repairs.

While some have shown support, saying that the parks will deteriorate without the funding, opponents say that they are already paying too much in taxes and fees and that the Parks Bureau doesn’t have a long-term financial plan.

If passed, the new property tax would begin in 2026, raising $456 million over a five-year-period. This would raise the current parks levy by 75%, costing the average homeowner an extra $133 per year.

Stay with KOIN 6 News, Your Local Election Headquarters, as we continue to follow this story.