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Explanatory Statement:
Measure 24-33, referred to the voters by the City Council as an alternative to measure 24-34, would amend the City Charter to require voter approval of annexations, with exceptions. Annexation of the exception areas would continue to require public notice, hearing and City Council approval, but would not be subject to the public vote requirement. The exceptions are:
• If the land to be annexed is located entirely within the city’s Urban Service Area. The Urban Service Area is established by the City Council following public notice and hearing. It includes only those areas where required sewer, water, transportation, storm drainage, and park facilities already exist or are fully committed.
• If the annexation is for land which is funded or committed for a public use, such as for schools, streets, parks, fire stations, or water reservoirs.
• If the annexation is for lots or parcels less than three acres in size, when such lots or parcels were in existence on or before the date of the election (May 16, 2000).
• If the annexation is for unincorporated territory surrounded on all sides by the city (sometimes referred to as “county island” or “enclave” annexations).
• If the land has been petitioned for annexation on or before the date of the election (May 16, 2000).
• If the annexation is required to alleviate a danger to public health, pursuant to state law. This would allow an annexation without a public vote if the annexation were required to provide connection to public water or sewage systems for the elimination of health hazards, such as polluted wells or failing septic systems.
Submitted by:
Salem City Council
No arguments in favor of this measure were filed. |