Troutdale Road Maintenance Funding
The City of Troutdale is experiencing flat or declining revenues from its share of state gas tax revenues used to support local street maintenance. In response, the City has been looking for ways to increase and stabilize street maintenance funding. Options include enacting a local option gas tax, which would require a vote of the people to enact, or a street utility fee authorized by the City Council. The City understands the need for educating and engaging the public in this important funding decision and retained Barney & Worth to:
- Develop a strategic communication plan and public education materials for Troutdale’s street funding opportunity, focusing on clear messages for: the possible funding options; conditions of Troutdale’s streets and maintenance equipment; need for additional funds; and the benefits of properly funding street maintenance.
- Conduct public opinion research to gauge the attitudes and preferences of Troutdale voters regarding street maintenance needs and funding options, and confirm effective messaging.
- Augment the City of Troutdale’s staff communications capabilities to support the public communication program.
Barney & Worth’s efforts resulted in Troutdale City Council referring a 3¢ per gallon motor vehicle fuels tax approved by voters at the November 2015 election.
