Reference Library

The LOC offers a wide variety of resources to help municipal officials, both elected and appointed, support their cities effectively and legally.

There are six resource types: Guidebooks, Models, FAQs, White Papers, Research Reports, and the Oregon Municipal Handbook. Guidebooks are comprehensive explanations on one particular area of municipal law. Models are sample ordinances or policies for cities to use in developing their own ordinances and policies. FAQs are short, easy-to-read resources that answer questions posed to the LOC by member cities. White Papers are the equivalent of a legal memorandum where complicated legal issues are dissected and explained. Research Reports are the compilation of up-to-date data on the needs and resources of Oregon cities. The Oregon Municipal Handbook is a comprehensive resource providing city officials, from elected representatives to essential employees, an understanding of the purpose, structure, authority, and nuances of municipal governance in Oregon. The Handbook is broken out into easy-to-digest chapters based on issue area or can also be downloaded into a combined PDF.