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Research for Library District Ballot Measure

Creating effective and compliant ballot measure language is a critical first step. Based on your request and the provided context, here is research on a similar measure and a breakdown of the key components you'll need.

Research: Wallowa County Library District Measure (2018)

A relevant and successful example is from Wallowa County.

  • Measure: 32-003, "Forms Wallowa County Library District, sets permanent tax rate."
  • Election: May 15, 2018
  • Result: Passed (63.5% Yes, 36.5% No)
  • Key Language: The question posed to voters was direct and contained the most critical information: > "Shall the Wallowa County Library District be formed with a permanent tax rate limit of $0.45 per $1,000 of assessed value?"

This measure is an excellent model because it's recent, was successful in a rural Oregon county, and its language is clear and compliant.

Key Components of a Library District Ballot Measure

Based on Oregon law (ORS Chapter 198) and successful examples, your draft ballot measure for the petition should contain the following elements.

  1. Caption: A short, official title (max 10 words). This is what people see first.

    • Voter Focus: Must be simple and state the core purpose. E.g., "Forms Grant County Library District with Permanent Tax Rate."
    • Legal Requirement: Must accurately reflect the measure's content.

  2. Question: The direct yes/no question for the voter (max 20 words).

    • Voter Focus: This is the most important part. It must be unambiguous.
    • Legal Requirement: Must ask about both formation and the permanent rate limit.

  3. Summary: A neutral, impartial explanation of the measure (max 175 words). This is what appears in the Voters' Pamphlet.

    • Voter Focus: Explains what a "yes" or "no" vote means. It should describe the new governing body (an elected board), the services to be provided, and the financial impact.
    • Legal Requirement: Must be certified by the County Clerk and must not be an argument for or against the measure. It must state what the measure does if passed.

Draft Ballot Measure Language

Here is a draft you can use as a starting point for your petition sheets. This text is modeled on successful measures and tailored to your situation.

Disclaimer: This is a draft for discussion and petitioning purposes only. The final ballot measure text must be reviewed by legal counsel and the Grant County Clerk to ensure full compliance with state and local election laws before submission.