Keizer officials address population trends and staffing challenges at city meeting

During a recent meeting of the Long Range Planning Task Force in Keizer, Oregon, city officials discussed critical trends affecting the community's growth and staffing challenges. A notable point raised was the slight decline in population growth, which has implications for city services and revenue. The city has experienced an average growth rate of 0.65% per year over the last decade, but recent data suggests a leveling off since early 2021. This trend raises concerns about the city's ability to provide adequate services as the population increases.

City Manager Tim Brown highlighted the ongoing staffing issues, particularly in the police department, where retirements and turnover have created significant vacancies. The average years of service among city employees has decreased, indicating a potential loss of experienced personnel. Brown emphasized the importance of attracting and retaining staff, especially in law enforcement, where recruitment challenges are prevalent statewide.

The meeting also addressed the financial implications of inflation on city operations. Officials noted that salary adjustments are necessary to remain competitive with other municipalities. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the previous year was reported at 2.7%, with police union negotiations already resulting in a 3.5% salary increase. This situation underscores the city's commitment to maintaining fair compensation for its employees while navigating budget constraints.

Additionally, the discussion included the rising costs associated with the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Contributions are expected to increase significantly, potentially reaching $3 million by mid-2025. City officials are considering establishing a site account to prepay some of these liabilities, aiming to mitigate future financial impacts.

Overall, the meeting underscored the interconnectedness of population trends, staffing challenges, and financial sustainability in Keizer. As the city navigates these issues, officials remain focused on ensuring that they can continue to provide essential services to the community.