City Council - Regular Meeting

Call to Order

Roll Call

Pledge of Allegiance

Options for City Operations Fee Restructuring and Cost Analysis of Service Expansions

Ward(s): All Wards Councilor(s): All Councillors Neighborhood(s): All Neighborhoods Result Area(s): Good Governance; Natural Environment Stewardship; Safe and Healthy Community; Safe, Reliable and Efficient Infrastructure; Strong and Diverse Economy; Welcoming and Livable Community. Recommendation: Information only. Summary: This work session will focus on improving fairness in operations fee across account types and sizes, particularly non-residential accounts, and seek council guidance on the methodology for restructuring the Operations Fee. Staff will research options using the new utility billing system to better reflect each property's impact on city services. Staff will also engage the community and return to Council in future meetings to refine and finalize the proposed structure. The session also highlights cost analysis of potential service expansions, including expanded public safety, community health, and service enhancements as Salem continues to grow. Council will have further in-depth discussions and determine funding priorities at future meetings after staff provide updates on community feedback and implementation research. Attachments: City Operations Fee Motion - December 8, 2025.pdf Rate History