PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE DISTRICTS

As a Democrat, you might consider several factors before voting on State Question 833, especially based on core values such as community empowerment, fairness, and transparency.

BALLOT TITLE

Legislative Referendum 376 | Public Infrastructure Districts

This measure adds a new section, section 9E, to article 10 of the Oklahoma Constitution. Section 9E will permit the creation of public infrastructure districts to provide support, organization, operation, and maintenance of services. To create such a district, proponents for creating the district must file a petition with the municipality. The petition must include the signatures of one hundred percent of all surface property owners falling within the district’s proposed boundaries. The municipality possesses the right to impose limitations on the district’s powers prior to approving the district. Once approved, the district will be governed by a board of trustees. Through the board, the district may issue bonds to pay for all or part of all public improvements implemented by and for the public infrastructure district. The district will be limited to issuing bonds issued for such improvements not exceeding ten (10) mills. For repayment of the bonds, the district, acting through its board of trustees, will levy and assess a special assessment on all property benefiting from the improvements in the district. Section 9E also authorizes the Legislature to enact laws necessary for the implementation of public infrastructure districts.

Shall The Proposal Be Approved?

• FOR THE PROPOSAL – YES

• AGAINST THE PROPOSAL – NO

Reasons to Vote "Yes":

1. Local Control and Flexibility: This measure allows property owners to decide on infrastructure improvements and fund them locally, ensuring that improvements benefit the immediate area.

2. Targeted Funding: A PID ensures that only those benefiting from the improvements pay for them, instead of spreading the costs across all taxpayers.

3. Public Oversight: Cities would retain oversight of these districts, ensuring some level of accountability in how funds are spent.

Reasons to Vote "No":

1. Increased Costs for Property Owners: This could increase the financial burden on property owners within the PID, particularly new owners who may be unaware of the associated costs.

2. Potential for Inequity: PIDs may benefit wealthier areas that can afford the extra assessment, leaving lower-income neighborhoods behind in terms of infrastructure development.

3. Long-Term Financial Risks: There could be risks if the housing market fluctuates, leaving developers or property owners unable to pay back the PID debt, which could impact future growth or municipal budgets.

The decision might come down to whether you feel the ability to create localized improvements justifies the potential risks and costs for residents within the district.