 Happy Labor Day!
After a two-week recess, I’m feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to dive back in with all of you. Those pauses are so important, they give us a chance to step back, reflect, and come back with clearer focus and renewed energy.
In this edition, I’ll share updates on some exciting conversations I’ve had recently, including a meeting with Prosper Portland’s new Executive Director, Cornell Wesley, and how his vision connects to the future of District 1. I’ll also talk about the transportation special session happening at the state level and why it matters for our city, give you a quick rundown of this week’s Council agenda, and reflect on the EPAP Summer Picnic, which was such a beautiful reminder of our community’s strength. We’ve got a Town Hall coming up in October, and there are plenty of other community events on the horizon that I hope you’ll join me for.
I’m so glad you’re here and staying connected. Let’s jump in and keep building together.
In Service,
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cornell Wesley, Prosper Portland’s new Executive Director. From the moment we started talking, it was clear that he brings not only a wealth of experience but also a deep passion for building thriving, inclusive communities.
Cornell’s background is impressive, he’s led major economic development initiatives, including driving more than a billion dollars in growth investment during his time in Birmingham, Alabama. But what struck me most was his focus on equity and his desire to listen and learn from the people who make up the neighborhoods he serves.
Our conversation was all about District 1’s potential—how we can better support small businesses, bring more investment to East Portland, and ensure that our growth reflects the diversity and resilience of the people who live here. I’m encouraged by Cornell’s vision and excited about what’s ahead as we work together to make Portland’s economy stronger and more connected for everyone.
 A Councilor Close to Home
I’m proud to share a recent OPB feature that highlights the work my team and I are doing to make District 1 feel more connected to City Hall.
Since taking office, I’ve been intentional about showing up in person—from knocking on doors to hosting open office hours to being present at community events across East Portland. For too long, our neighborhoods felt distant from city decision-making. I’m committed to changing that by building trust, listening deeply, and ensuring our voices are not only heard but centered in Portland’s future.
Having a District 1 office right here in the community is part of that mission. I want you to know you have a councilor who’s not only representing you at City Hall but is also present in your neighborhoods, ready to walk alongside you in building a stronger, more connected East Portland.
State Matters
Why the Transportation Special Session Matters for District 1
The special legislative session in Salem isn’t just about numbers, it’s about the future of safety, mobility, and access in neighborhoods like ours. District 1 has long carried the weight of underfunded roads, missing sidewalks, and aging infrastructure. For many of us, something as simple as walking to school, getting to work, or crossing a busy street can feel unsafe.
The decisions being debated this week including new funding for road safety, public transit, and major corridor improvements, could directly affect projects in East Portland. These investments mean safer routes on streets like 82nd Avenue, stronger transit connections, and infrastructure that reflects the needs of every resident, not just those in the city center.
I’m following this session closely because I know that transportation is a lifeline—it connects families to jobs, students to schools, and neighbors to one another. District 1 deserves an infrastructure plan that finally matches our resilience and growth.
This Week at Council — Join the Conversation
This week is a Council Week, and I’d love for you to join us as we dig into important city business and community priorities.
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Wed, Sept 3: Morning session at 9:30 AM; evening session at 6:00 PM
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City Administrator update
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Temporary permit requirement changes
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Approval of minutes and board appointments
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82nd Avenue safety improvements
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Council code updates: tie-breaker rules & meeting schedules
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Thu, Sept 4: Afternoon session at 2:00 PM
First Friday Food Carts with Friends
I love getting to see neighbors face-to-face, share a meal, and celebrate the heart of District 1. This week, the East Portland Chamber of Commerce is hosting a fun, casual gathering I’d love for you to be part of:
First Friday Food Carts with Friends
📍 ArborLook Carts, 5916 N Greeley Ave, Portland, OR 97217
📅 Friday, September 5, 2025 | 12:00 PM
This monthly event is a wonderful way to connect with local business owners, network with other community members, and enjoy some of Portland’s best food carts. Each month, the Chamber takes us to a different pod, helping us support small businesses while making space for conversation and connection.
Building Community — “Da Gathering” at Jackie’s
Last week Team Smith had the privilege of joining Portland’s vibrant network of Black professionals for “Da Gathering” at Jackie’s. This event is all about celebrating Black excellence, supporting Black-owned businesses, and creating space for connection and opportunity.
For young Black professionals in Portland, this is a powerful chance to meet current and future employers, business partners, and civic leaders. It’s more than just a networking event, it’s about building real relationships, lifting each other up, and strengthening our community.
If you haven’t attended before, I encourage you to join us next time. It’s an evening full of inspiration, conversation, and pride in Portland’s Black community.
EPAP Summer Picnic
Malynda Valentine- Team Smith's business liaison had a wonderful time at the East Portland Action Plan (EPAP) Summer Picnic at Gateway Discovery Park last week! It was a beautiful day filled with neighbors, community leaders, and local organizations coming together to celebrate and connect.
It’s moments like these that remind me why East Portland is so special. Thank you to the EPAP team and all the community partners who make this event a success year after year. Your dedication to building a stronger, more connected East Portland inspires me every day.
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