Early results show Portlanders voted to approve a new levy to help fund the city's parks services. As of 10 pm on November 4, almost 54 percent of Portland voters said "yes" to Measure 26-260, which would set up a new parks levy to be in place for five years.

County data show roughly 29.7 percent of registered voters submitted ballots through Election Day. According to the county's statistics, the May special election saw a similarly low level of voter turnout (about 27 percent) while more than 70 percent of registered voters submitted ballots in last November's general election.  

If approved, a new property tax will be implemented at a rate of $1.40 per $1,000 of assessed property value, running the average Portland property owner about $310 annually. The current parks levy, which expires at the end of this year, was approved by voters in 2020. The current levy enacted a tax of 80 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, meaning the average Portland homeowner paid about $177 per year. 

Portland Parks & Recreation expects the new levy to bring in $456 million over its five-year lifespan. Most of the revenue will be directed toward maintaining parks and recreation operations. 

The new parks levy has been relatively uncontroversial, garnering support from groups including the Portland Metro Chamber and the local chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America. Most Portland City Council members have also come out in support of the measure, with the exception of Councilor Dan Ryan. 

A press release from parks levy campaign Portlanders for Parks celebrated the early returns.

"Together, we’ve ensured a strong, sustainable future for the parks, pools, and community centers that make Portland a great place to live, work, and play," said Tony Morse, campaign manager. 

Jessica Green, executive director of the Portland Parks Foundation and Portlanders for Parks' campaign chair, said the election results show how much Portlanders value the parks and public spaces that bring us together.  

"This victory keeps our parks open, clean, and safe for everyone," Green said. 

This post will be updated as more votes are counted.