Dear Neighbors,
This month has been a full one, filled with moments of joy, tough conversations, and important decisions that will shape our community’s future.
We’ve celebrated together at neighborhood events, supported local businesses, and engaged directly with residents about issues like street safety under Vision Zero. In City Council, we’ve also navigated challenging votes, including the recent tie-breaking rule change where my proposed amendment did not pass.
My commitment to advocating for District 1 remains steadfast. I believe in showing up—in the council chambers, at your community gatherings, and anywhere your voices need to be heard.
In this newsletter, you’ll find updates on our policy work, highlights from community events, and opportunities to connect in the weeks ahead. I hope you’ll read, reflect, and join me in continuing the work of building a safer, more equitable, and more connected East Portland.
In service,
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
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You're Invited to:
Councilor Smith's District 1 Office Grand Opening in East Portland!
 Vision Zero Action Plan
We must begin by honoring the lives tragically lost on Portland’s streets mothers, children, elders, friends whose absence we continue to feel. My vote for Vision Zero was not just a commitment to a policy, but a promise: no one should die simply going about their day.
In 2023, Portland experienced a record-breaking 69 traffic-related fatalities, the highest in decades, despite our bold Vision Zero goals. By 2024, the numbers dipped slightly to 58, a 16% reduction, but the improvement doesn’t lessen the urgency.
We mourn each life lost, and we acknowledge the grief and disruption these tragedies cause in families and communities across District 1—especially on our high-crash corridors.
Our resolve remains unwavering. Vision Zero calls for changes in street design, legal enforcement, community outreach, and accountability. PBOT’s work, like speed cameras, safer crossings, and targeted improvements on dangerous streets, represents progress, but we must recommit to doing more, faster.
I’m dedicated to keeping this issue front of mind—not just in our transportation budgets, but in how we legislate, design, and protect every Portlander.
Governance Update: Tie-Breaking Rule Amendment Did Not Pass
Last month, the City Council amended the Council Organization and Procedure Code, adding a formal rule setting when the mayor can cast a tie-breaking vote, specifically in non-emergency or quasi-judicial matters.
I sponsored an amendment that I believed would better reflect fair and transparent governance—defining exactly how a tie is determined, including how absences and abstentions are counted. Unfortunately my amendment did not pass.
I remain committed to ensuring our new governance model serves all Portlanders effectively. I am dedicated to pushing for clarity and consistency in our rules, voting matters when they matter most.
If you want to follow the conversation, the link below will show you all of our recent work on this matter.
Carts on the Square Visit with Council President
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Last week, I joined Council President Elana Pirtle-Guiney for a visit to Carts on the Square in District 4! From bold flavors to passionate entrepreneurs, food carts like these are the heart of our local economy and a reminder of the creativity thriving across our city.
I’m committed to supporting small businesses and uplifting the stories behind them. Each week, I’ll be highlighting one local food cart to share the flavors, faces, and passion that make our food scene so special.
We want to hear from you! Tell us which food carts you’re visiting and send your photos to councilorsmith@portlandoregon.gov so we can feature your favorites.
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PBDG Annual Cookout: Where Community Comes to the Table
Last Thursday I was honored to join the PBDG (Professional Business Development Group) Annual Cookout at Northwest Infrastructure, an evening that felt like a backyard reunion for our entire community.
It was more than just BBQ and music. It was: A chance to reconnect, an invitation to see how inclusion, equity, and support fuel success and a testament to the power of simple moments!
Thank you, PBDG, for bringing us together in such a spirited, welcoming way. And to everyone who shared a story, grabbed a plate, or offered a handshake — you are the heartbeat of our city.
Let’s carry this energy forward. When community feels like something we cook up and savor together, we all rise.
First Friday Food Carts with Friends – Brooklyn Carreta
The Smith Team joined neighbors and fellow foodies at the newly opened Brooklyn Carreta food cart pod for First Friday Food Carts with Friends hosted by the East Portland Chamber of Commerce.
We sampled delicious new flavors, supported local food cart owners, and most importantly, spent time connecting with constituents in a relaxed, welcoming setting. From casual lunchtime conversations to hearing directly about community priorities, events like this help us stay grounded in the voices and experiences of the people we serve.
We look forward to continuing to join these monthly gatherings and discovering more of the food and fellowship that make Portland so special.
Stay connected with the East Portland Chamber of Commerce to find out where they will be next month!
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Soul Stroll - Returning Home to Dawson Park
The Soul Stroll is happening on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Dawson Park.
Hosted by The Miracles Club, Soul Stroll celebrates health, culture, and community through movement. What began as a local tradition over 20 years ago continues today as a vibrant space to walk, connect, and promote wellness, especially within Portland’s Black community.
Registration is $20 and includes a t-shirt, refreshments, and access to the full experience. Free shuttle transportation will be provided from the NE Health Center and East Portland Community Center starting at 7:30 AM.
This event is about more than fitness, it’s about healing, unity, and joyful action. I’ll be there, and I’d love to see our District 1 neighbors show up strong!
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Free Lunch + Play program
Summer is in full swing, and so is the Free Lunch + Play program! Did you know that Gateway Discovery Park, located right next door to our District 1 office, hosts this joyful, family-friendly event every weekday?
Last Friday, Team Smith had an incredible time connecting with our constituents, enjoying live performances, music, games, and good food. It was a beautiful reminder of what it means to center joy, wellness, and community in public spaces.
Here’s what you need to know:
🕒 Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
👧🏽 For youth ages 18 & under
🎨 Live performances, DJs, games, and rotating activities daily.
No registration needed. Just show up, bring your energy, and let’s make summer count.
Let’s keep our kids fed, active, and smiling all summer long.
🔗 Learn more & see the full schedule:
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