Proposed Measure 24-504: Woodburn Community Center Bond
Proposed Upgrades for Woodburn Community Center
In November 2024, City of Woodburn voters will have the opportunity to vote on a bond measure which would upgrade and expand Woodburn’s Aquatic Center into a full-service community center.
If passed, Measure 24-504 would support expanded access to recreation, health, and wellness programming for all ages and abilities—kids, families, adults, and seniors—and provide an affordable space for large community events.
The measure would authorize an increase in property taxes of $0.99 per $1,000 of assessed property value, which would continue for 21 years. The owner of an average assessed value home would pay $15 per month or $180 per year.
Click below to watch the Woodburn Community Center Flythrough Video
Proposed Upgrades
If passed, Measure 24-504 would transform the current Aquatic Center into a full-service community center to create a safe and secure place for people of all ages and abilities to access recreation, wellness, and gathering opportunities. Upgrades would include:
- A new indoor walking and jogging track that could be used year-round for youth and adult fitness programs and exercise
- Weights, cardio and exercise facilities that would provide expanded health and wellness opportunities including fitness cardio and weight equipment, increased fitness class space and classes
- The addition of a warm-water pool that would be more accessible for seniors and people with disabilities and would be used for family recreation, swim lessons, therapy and exercise classes
- Repairs and improvements to the existing pool, including a new water slide, new pool surfacing, tiles, grating, paint, and improved natural lighting
- An event space and a community multi-purpose room with a commercial kitchen for groups and families to host large events
- A drop-in childcare center for people using the facility
- A two-court gymnasium for youth and adult sports leagues including basketball, pickleball, volleyball and other court sports
- Settlemier Park upgrades including a new universally inclusive playground, tennis courts, outdoor sports courts, a picnic shelter, and added pathways
- Completing ADA accessibility projects for the Center and Settlemier Park
Expanded Program Opportunities
A full-service community center would have more space for a wide array or programming opportunities, from swim lessons for kids to learn water safety skills, to after school programs for youth and teens to continue learning. A drop-in childcare center would also be available for people using the facility.
If passed, Measure 24-504 would also fund expanded programming and increased accessibility for seniors in our community. Use of the community center could be covered by Medicare Advantage plans, such as Silver and Fit – allowing seniors to have the cost of their community center membership covered through Medicare Advantage plans.
Project Background
First constructed in 1948, Woodburn’s original outdoor pool was rebuilt into the current Woodburn Aquatic Center in 1995. The Aquatic Center offers swimming and exercise facilities which have been well used by residents. As Woodburn’s population has expanded, it has become clear that the aging facility, along with neighboring Settlemier Park, falls short of meeting the community’s growing needs – including for accessibility requirements.
Woodburn has been exploring the idea of building a new Community Center since 2008. The project was developed through a multi-year process undertaken by the City with a wide array of community input and feedback to address the needs of our growing, diverse community. The project was developed to address a lack of indoor recreation spaces and places where groups and families can gather or host large events. In response to the recommendation of the Citizens Advisory Committee and community feedback, the City Council is moving forward with the project now.
Bond Details
If passed, Measure 24-504 would cost $0.99 per $1,000 of assessed property value, equivalent to $15 per month, or $180 per year, for the average homeowner in Woodburn. If passed, the tax would continue for 21 years.
The City has the opportunity to secure $15 million in matching funds from the state that would be available if the project is fully funded by Spring 2025.
The project would be overseen by a committee and audited annually for compliance with intended purposes and appropriate use of tax proceeds.
This information was reviewed by the Oregon Elections Division for compliance with ORS 260.432.
