Oregon Historical Society Levy Renewal Leads Early Vote with 59% Support

*TL;DR: Early returns give Measure 26-261 more than 59% support, keeping the Oregon Historical Society levy on track.

Context Measure 26-261 is a five‑year local option tax in Multnomah County, set to begin in 2026. The levy adds five cents per $1,000 of assessed property value and has been approved three times since its 2021 debut. It funds the Oregon Historical Society’s downtown museum, research library, and statewide historical collections.

Key Facts - Early election tallies at 8 p.m. on May 19 show 59%‑plus of voters in favor. - The levy will generate about $3.9 million in its first year, climbing to roughly $4.4 million by fiscal year 2030‑31. - A home assessed at $250,000 will continue to pay approximately $12.50 annually, unchanged from the current rate. - Funding covers museum operations, free admission for Multnomah County residents and school groups, educational programming, preservation work, and support for four East Multnomah County historical groups. - Oversight remains with an independent citizens’ committee appointed by the county chair, plus annual public audits.

What It Means If the final count confirms the early lead, the Oregon Historical Society will retain roughly one‑third of its operating budget from the levy, supplementing grants, donations, and admissions revenue. The steady tax rate means property owners face no increase, while the society can continue offering free museum entry to local residents and school groups, a key public‑service component. Continued funding also sustains the Oregon Historical Quarterly and digital resources that attract over a million online visitors each year.

The measure’s passage would mark the fourth renewal, reinforcing a long‑term partnership between Multnomah County taxpayers and the state’s oldest cultural institution. Final results are still being tabulated, and officials will certify the vote later this week.

What to watch next Watch for the certified vote count and any legal challenges that could affect the levy’s implementation before the 2026 fiscal year begins.