Early election results show the measure failing by a wide margin, more from KAST:
Gearhart voters say no to the annexation of the Highlands and Palisades communities. No votes total 312 or 74.46%. Yes votes total 107 or 25.54%. Thje figures are from the final unofficial tally from the Clatsop County Elections Department. Mayor Kent Smith says the opposition was very well organized: “Their communications with the public were very persuasive.” The Highlands gated community favored annexation, but opponents including residents of the Palisades didn’t like the idea of a gated community. Opponents also say sentiment hadn’t changed since annexation was turned down about eight or nine years ago. Palisades residents were also concerned that the city might put a road or street in to connect both the Palisades and the Highlands. Mayor Smith says Gearhart only loses about $56,000 in tax revenue from the loss of the additional tax base. Only Gearhart voters voted ion the issue.
Related: City of Gearhart to annex the Highlands & Pacific Palisades?
