Mayor Kate Addresses Budget Challenges

First, let’s start with recognizing our hard-working staff as we celebrate Public Service Recognition Week! I’m continually impressed by their professionalism and service to our community. I deeply appreciate the work they do and hope you will join me in thanking them for all they do.

On to the budget update: we’re currently in the midst of one of the most challenging budget seasons our city has faced in years. As your mayor and a member of the budget committee, I want to be transparent about the tough choices ahead. Like many communities across Oregon, we’re grappling with rising costs and limited revenue — and every decision comes with tradeoffs that affect the services we all rely on.

Throughout this process, our dedicated city staff and budget committee members have been working incredibly hard to present thoughtful options, answer questions, and keep the conversation grounded in facts. I want to recognize their effort and commitment — it makes a real difference.

If you’re wondering how the city is funded or how budget decisions are made, I encourage you to be informed. Our budget documents, meeting schedules, and financial information are available on the city’s website, and we welcome the public to attend budget committee meetings — in person if you can, or online if that works better for you.

In times like these, it’s more important than ever to get your information straight from the source. Our city website is regularly updated with accurate, detailed information about the budget and other city matters. And if community members have questions, staff is always happy to help. While social media can be a place for conversation, it’s not always the most reliable place for facts. I encourage you to check in directly — we’re here to provide clarity and transparency.

Despite the difficult news with the budget, our city has much to look forward to and celebrate. Touch-A-Truck is this weekend, Independence Days will be here before we know it, and several projects are showing promising signs of moving forward. I believe in our community’s ability to work through hard things together — with honesty, care, and a shared commitment to making Independence the best it can be.

In service to our community,

Mayor Kate