Columbia County jail levy renewal passes

Columbia County voters have passed the jail levy renewal measure 5-304. The vote took place on Tuesday, May 20, with preliminary results showing 7,327 “yes” votes to 4,133 “no” votes. Ballots were still being counted at the time of press.

Measure 5-304 was originally approved in 2014 and then renewed in 2017 and 2020. A levy increase was on the ballot twice in 2024 as a way to help cover rising jail operation costs, failing to pass both times.

This latest ballot measure will not increase costs for residents but will maintain the existing levy rate and will apply for the next four years. Columbia County Sheriff Brian Pixley has relayed pursuing additional methods to raise funds.