By Nancy Hiser
Twenty community leaders were appointed in December 2020 to the Charter Commission that worked for 18 months, studying alternatives to Portland’s form of government. After a city-wide public engagement process, the Charter proposal was approved by 57% of the voters. What does our new system look like?
Four geographic districts were created and each will elect 3 city council members to represent them, expanding Portland’s City Council to 12 members. They will set policy and engage the community. It is hoped that having 3 councilors will improve public access and increase their responsiveness and accountability. Linnton is in District 4 where 18 candidates have begun campaigning for those 3 positions.
In the November 2024 election, voters will rate their preference for candidates in a system called ranked-choice voting. This allows people to vote for multiple candidates, in order of preference. The candidate with the majority (more than 50%) of first-choice votes wins outright.
The mayor, elected citywide, will oversee daily operations along with a city administrator.
All District 4 candidates have been sent information and our concerns about the CEI Hub. Some are already quite knowledgeable, most have expressed motivation to learn more. We want to insure that after elected, city councilors are aware of the facts and are prepared to advocate for the safety and health of all Portlanders.
July-August Newsletter will include information on Mayor, County, and State candidates