TIGARD,Ore.– The Oregon Legislature has awarded the City of Tigard $3 million toward improvements. The goal is to protect first responders so they can continue protecting you. The ask from voters is $150 million. Homeowners will pay about $100 per year . Basically,they will fund the majority of the general obligation bond.
Photo from City of Tigard
The community depends on first responders in police and public works to keep the city safe and livable. But right now, the work of those departments is being impaired by outdated, inadequate facilities. First responders are spread across nine locations, some of which risk exposing them to safety hazards. Perhaps most concerning, these facilities will seriously compromise our ability to respond to a crisis. In an ice storm, flood, or earthquake, our response could be delayed and even impossible if first responders can’t access the equipment they need or are trapped in an unsafe building.
This bond will fund a new, integrated home for police and public works personnel. Response will be faster and more effective to everyday issues and in times of crisis – particularly through a new earthquake-ready emergency operations center. It will serve our community for decades to come and help city employees serve you better.
The City is working to build facilities that grow with Tigard, supporting community’s needs today and tomorrow. Improving our police and public works buildings are one part of that long-term plan, and something we’ve been planning thoughtfully for years. This includes several facility assessments and purchasing 9.5 acres of undeveloped land on SW Wall Street near Hunziker Road that will be the future home of the new combined police and public works facility. If the voters approve the measure construction will begin right away. Completion could happen in mid 2028.
*** Some material gathered from the City of Tigard***