OPINION: Vote yes for Wilsonville Town Center revitalization

Wilsonville is a wonderful place to live because of thoughtful planning and vision. Strategic planning and smart financing of infrastructure, including effective industrial areas that have built and diversified our tax base, serve all aspects of our city, from Charbonneau to Frog Pond.

One area of town drastically needs our help: the Town Center. Today, Town Center has sprawling, mostly empty parking lots that make it difficult to access businesses. Also problematic are large, vacant buildings.

Based on voluminous input from residents and businesses, Town Center is ready for new improved streets and infrastructure, including new parking facilities, so it can develop into a healthy, commercial hub for shopping, socializing, dining, culture and recreation.

Urban Renewal is the financing tool recommended by a citizen led task force and the City Council to develop public infrastructure that attracts businesses to develop Town Center into an enjoyable experience for all. This is not a new tax nor is it a tax increase; it is a proven funding mechanism that succeeded for Wilsonville since 1990.

Please join me in voting YES for Measure 3-605. Go to www.WilsonvilleTownCenter.com for more information about the plan.

Caroline Berry

Wilsonville