Clackamas County Sheriff Puts Public Safety Funding Back on the Ballot

Clackamas County residents will see a critical decision on their May ballots, as Sheriff Angela Brandenburg formally requests the renewal of a key public safety operating levy. The measure, which first passed in 2020, provides funding directly to the Sheriff’s Office for patrols, investigations, and jail operations.

If approved, the renewed levy would maintain current property tax rates, not increase them, to preserve services Oregonians have come to rely on. Sheriff Brandenburg emphasizes this is not a new tax but a continuation of existing funding that supports over 70 sworn positions, including deputies on the streets and detectives working cases.

“This levy is about keeping our communities safe and secure,” stated Sheriff Brandenburg in a release. “It allows us to respond to emergencies, investigate crimes, and manage our jail. A failure to renew would mean significant cuts to these essential services that protect families across the county.”

The original levy was passed by voters four years ago to address staffing shortages and bolster law enforcement capabilities. Its potential expiration has county officials concerned about backsliding. The funds are designated specifically for the Sheriff’s Office and cannot be diverted to other county budgets.

As the May election approaches, expect a public information campaign from the Sheriff’s Office detailing exactly where the levy dollars go. For voters in Oregon City, Happy Valley, and the unincorporated areas of the county, the choice will center on whether to lock in current law enforcement service levels for another five-year cycle.