Happy Friday,
As we close out another full month in District 1, I am reminded of the strength and resilience that comes from working side by side with community. From the joy of our District 1 Office Grand Opening, to the energy of Black Business Month celebrations, to important policy discussions around sidewalk safety, council meeting accessibility, and citywide accountability—this has been a season of both celebration and hard work.
What ties it all together is you. Your presence at community events, your advocacy for safer and more equitable neighborhoods, and your willingness to share your stories and ideas keep this work alive and grounded.
This newsletter is a reflection of where we’ve been and where we’re going—highlights, updates, and ways to stay engaged. Thank you for walking this journey with me. It’s an honor to serve you and to continue building a stronger, more connected District 1.
In service,
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
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Thank you to the neighbors, families, business owners, community leaders, and colleagues who came together to make this milestone so special.
Councilor Smith's District Office Grand Opening was an unforgettable day and it’s all because of you.
From powerful remarks by Mayor Wilson and Madam Council President Elana Pirtle Guiney, to a surprise visit from District Attorney Nathan Vasquez, the day was filled with reminders of how deeply connected our community truly is.
Special thanks to our partners, Scoop of Love, Pigin Hole Food Truck, Mr. Big Burger, JM Joints, and DJ George for bringing joy, flavor, and energy to the celebration.
Most importantly, thank you to the people of District 1. Your presence and support remind us that this office is not just a space—it’s a home base for your voice, your ideas, and your future.
📍 Our doors are open:
10540 NE Halsey St, Portland, OR 97220
Stop by anytime!
we can’t wait to welcome you in.
   Sidewalks Are Lifelines: Why SIPP Matters!
This week I had the privilege of walking alongside Rory and her mother as Rory led me on her daily route to school—a path not marked by safety, but by the absence of sidewalks.
As we stepped off the road into dirt and grass, her hand gently guiding mine, it struck me that this isn’t just about pavement. It’s about possibility. For too many kids in our neighborhoods, a walk to school feels like walking a tightrope, balancing between traffic and uneven ground when what they deserve is stability, security, and freedom.
That’s why SIPP—the Sidewalk Improvement & Paving Program matters. SIPP directs the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) to finally build sidewalks and safe alternative pathways, especially in District 1, where infrastructure has been historically under-invested.
This initiative is about more than concrete and funding. It’s about equity, climate resilience, and community connection. Sidewalks are lifelines. They are the difference between a walk home feeling like freedom or fear.
As Rory showed me the bumps, the gaps, and the places where a sidewalk should have been, I was reminded of this truth: when families feel safe, communities thrive. Let’s keep building infrastructure that honors every step and ensures every child in District 1 can walk with confidence and joy.
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Celebrating Black Business Month in Portland
August is Black Business Month, a time to honor and uplift Black entrepreneurs whose vision and creativity fuel innovation, culture, and economic growth across our city. Supporting these businesses isn’t just about commerce, it’s about investing in equity, representation, and the future of Portland.
Yesterday, we had the privilege of celebrating at the annual Pitch Black showcase, where Black founders and entrepreneurs shared their powerful ideas on stage. From bold pitches to inspiring stories, the event highlighted the brilliance, resilience, and leadership within our community.
✨ Congratulations to all of the pitchers and the winners, you did wonderful! Your courage and innovation inspire us all.
We encourage everyone to take part in Black Business Month by shopping locally, amplifying Black-owned businesses, and sharing their stories. Every dollar spent is a vote for equity, empowerment, and community growth.
A huge congratulations to Noori of Let Em Cook for winning this year’s event! 🎉✨ Your passion, creativity, and dedication truly shined on stage!
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I introduced an amendment aimed at increasing the frequency of City Council meetings to ensure more timely decision-making and greater community access.
The plan proposes:
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Weekly meetings every Wednesday
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Evening meetings once a month, on the third Wednesday at 6 PM, designed to make participation easier for community members who cannot attend daytime sessions.
This amendment reflects Councilor Smith’s commitment to transparency, accessibility, and community engagement in government. By creating more opportunities for residents to be present and heard, we can strengthen the connection between policy decisions and the people they impact.
The final vote on this amendment is scheduled for the regular council meeting on September 3rd.
Stay tuned for updates and if passed, we look forward to seeing more of you at these expanded meeting
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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