Letter: It’s a duck

Published 12:15 am Friday, May 24, 2024

We know the old saying about looking and quacking like a duck … it’s a duck!

The city of Cannon Beach has worked hard to avoid calling its $33.6 million borrowing a bond. They insist it’s just a financing agreement!

Oregon Statute 287A is titled “Local Government Borrowing.” Section 287A.001 specifies the definitions. It defines various bonds. Hint: there are only two. The first, general obligation bonds clearly require a citizen vote. The second kind — all other bonds simply grouped as revenue bonds — allow for a public notice period for citizens to petition for a vote.

The city refers to its “bond” as a “financing agreement” under a much different section of Oregon law, ORS 271.390. The title of this section looks simple: “Lease or purchase of real estate by public body or council of governments.” More telling, however, is the title of Chapter 271: “Use and Disposition of Public Lands Generally.”

It is clear, the only purpose to invoke this statute is to skirt voters’ rights. This duck is a bond, citizens deserve their vote!

RANDY NEAL

Cannon Beach