How Would You Improve Your City?

Salem’s May 2025 ballot will contain a newly proposed tax. How would you improve your city? Stayton’s “If I Were Mayor…” contest and community improvement grants are now open for submissions. Then, spring performances hit the stage in March. You’re watching the “Local News Roundup,” brought to you by FASTSIGNS. I’m Connor Shreve. The Salem City Council unanimously voted to add a property tax mill levy increase on the May 20th ballot to fund community services. If approved, the 25 livability levy would tax 98 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. For example, a homeowner with an assessed value of $224,000 would owe 220 a year to support services like parks, libraries, rec programs, and programs for older adults above 50. 4th through 12th grade Stayton students are invited to imagine how they would improve their city in the “If I Were Mayor…” contest. Contest categories include poster entries for 5th and 6th graders, essays for 6th through 8th graders, and digital media presentations for high school students. Winners receive 50 to $150 for their classrooms, and each category winner will advance to the Oregon Mayor Association’s Statewide Competition for a chance to win the grand prize. Entry is due Friday, March 21. For contest details, visit the Stayton Sublimity Chamber of Commerce website. The Stayton City Council will offer community improvement grants of up to $5,000 to support nonprofits, businesses, and community groups. Eligible projects include those that improve external and shared spaces, support education and outreach programs, and enhance business properties. Applicants must live or own a business in Stayton. Applications are due Friday, March 28th, and funds must be used by Monday, June 30th. Visit the City of Stayton website to learn more. Corban University’s spring play, “Good Wives,” opens on Thursday, March 6th, and runs through Sunday, March 16th, at the Psalm Performing Arts Center. A sequel to Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women,” “Good Wives” continues the beloved story of the March sisters. Then, Pentacle Theatre’s production of the “Big Fish,” a musical about family and fantasy, runs from Friday, March 21, through Friday, April 11th. For tickets, visit Corban University and Pentacle Theatre’s websites. Learn more about these and other stories online at midvalleylocal.news. Thanks for watching this edition of the “Local News Roundup.” I’m Connor Shreve.