Meeting to focus on proposed road levy in Riverside

Residents of Riverside can learn about a proposed road levy on Thursday after a similar issue failed by fewer than 10 votes last year.

An informational meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at 5100 Springfield St., Suite 100.

“Right now, our streets are in disrepair,” said Riverside City Manager Mark Carpenter in a news release.

Riverside hired Pavement Management Group to conduct a study on the city’s roads in March. The study found that 70% of roads in Riverside are in fair or poor condition.

On Nov. 5, Riverside voters will get to decide on the 8-mill road levy. The new levy would cost someone who owns a $100,000 home an extra $280 in property taxes per year. It would also be a permanent levy, meaning neither council nor voters would vote on it again.

Pavement Management Group determined the city should spend about $3.25 million a year on roads to improve them from their poor or fair ratings. The levy would generate about $1.9 million for the city to invest in its streets.

The city currently puts around $800,000 per year into its roads.

“Improving roads can improve home values, help provide safe commutes for residents and help prevent vehicle damage,” Carpenter said. “Better roads are also an important part of attracting businesses to our community, and economic development is crucial for our city. Businesses look for places that are growing and thriving. Riverside is at a crossroads. It’s our choice.”

This levy is identical to the road levy voters saw in 2018. The levy was defeated by eight votes in that election, according to Riverside clerk of council Katie Lewallen.

If the levy passes, Pavement Management Group will provide the city with a 10-year road repair plan.