VOTE411 Voter Guide

Special districts in Oregon are formed to provide specific local government needs. They are created by a vote of the people in the local area being served. Examples include people’s utility districts, library districts, water districts, fire protection districts, and more. They are governed by a board of directors, which is responsible for management and financial accountability. Special districts are empowered to levy any necessary taxes and fees to fulfill their mandate. Board members are not paid but may receive a per diem reimbursement.Water districts are responsible for building and maintaining the infrastructure necessary to deliver potable water to homes and businesses in their service area. The board manages the budget and administers personnel.Qualifications: If the district has 100 or more voters, a candidate must be a registered voter in the district and a landowner in the district. ORS 264.410Term: 4 years