By Nancy Hiser
Two Linnton events held on May 5th and June 1st provided a venue for District 4 city council candidates to engage with residents. Tank the Tanks provided overviews of early Linnton and walking tours of the CEI Hub, then a total of 13 candidates and 3 mayoral candidates gave individual introductory remarks. For a more personal connection, candidates then rotated between small groups to answer residents’ questions.
Shawn Looney talking with city council candidates and residents. Photo Credit: Pam Nicholls, Tank the Tanks
To inform City Council candidates about the CEI Hub, Tank the Tanks shared a 1-page information sheet with candidates in all four districts. A follow-up meeting in late May created an opportunity for candidates to ask questions about the Hub and make comments. A panel of 10 community advocates/experts covering diverse subject areas – legal, environmental, equity, health, safety, community rights, financial – responded and provided their contact information to build relationships. This was not a
public event.
Our goal is to ensure City Council members are informed about the Hub, able to answer campaign questions, think about City solutions to reduce the Hub dangers, and know there are knowledgeable and expert community supporters available to partner with them. In conversations with them, we’ve been candid about the City’s failure to respond to our concerns. We’re encouraging them to break down the silos that obstruct communication and reach out to all levels of government to work collaboratively.
Everyone needs to understand that the CEI Hub is not just our hyperlocal issue because a CEI Hub disaster will severely impact all of Portland and the entire state.
The incoming City Council, to be elected in November, has an opportunity to make Portland more responsive to community concerns and solve problems, including CEI Hub dangers.
Next issue: Sept 4th LNA Meeting with City Council Candidates and Ranked-Choice Voting