 Hello District 1,
Welcome to the Monday, August 15th newsletter! Each edition is a chance to share updates from City Hall, highlight the work happening across our community, and keep you connected to the decisions shaping our future.
As your Councilor, I believe in bringing transparency, accountability, and action to the issues that matter most—whether it’s supporting small businesses, strengthening community safety, or investing in the places that make East Portland such a vibrant part of our city.
Thank you for staying engaged and for continuing to lend your voice to this work. Together, we’re building a stronger, safer, and more connected District 1.
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
 What Happened in Council Last Week?
Council in Action: Governance, Growth & Community Safety
Last Thursday, the Labor and Workforce Development Committee, chaired by Councilor Loretta Smith, held a powerful meeting commemorating the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Led by the Portland Fire Fighters Association, the committee honored the lives lost and highlighted the heroic response of Portland firefighters who assisted in the aftermath. The presentation explored the long-term impacts on the fire service and the health effects still felt by first responders today. Councilor Smith emphasized the importance of continued support for emergency personnel and preparedness across our city.
Remembering September 11th at Fire & Rescue Station 1
On September 11th, I went to a ceremony at Portland Fire & Rescue Station 1 to honor the lives lost and the courage of first responders. Let's give a huge welcome to Chief Lauren Johnson, Portland Fire & Rescue’s new Chief, whose leadership reminds us of the sacrifice and service that continue to protect our communities.
Governance Committee: Committee Structure Reforms
The Governance Committee continued discussions about reorganizing Council’s committee structure now that City Council will be meeting weekly. No resolution has been reached yet, but this is drawing attention in the media as Council weighs how to balance efficiency with meaningful engagement.
🔑 My perspective: More meetings can help Council accomplish its work, but committees are functioning well enough now. Reorganization might be better addressed in January. Importantly, more downtown meetings also mean less time spent out in the District.
Finance Committee: Safe Routes to School Sidewalk Construction on NE Shaver
The Finance Committee authorized acquisition of property rights needed to complete sidewalk construction along NE Shaver from 102nd to 115th—an area where 1,700 students walk daily to Parkrose schools. This is part of PBOT’s Safe Routes to School initiative.
🔑 My perspective: This is exactly the kind of project District 1 families need under the Sidewalk Improvement & Paving Program (SIPP). Completing sidewalks around schools improves safety and strengthens neighborhoods.
Governance Committee: Advisory Bodies & Small Donor Elections
The Committee also discussed two big engagement tools: the Advisory Bodies Enhancement Project and reforms to the Small Donor Elections program.
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Advisory Bodies help Portlanders directly shape city policy, and reforms aim to ensure these groups are more effective and aligned with the new Council structure.
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Small Donor Elections lowers barriers to running for office by amplifying grassroots fundraising. Proposals for reform are still being reviewed, with costs yet to be determined.
🔑 My perspective: Both reforms are critical to ensuring community voices remain central to Portland’s government.
This Week at Council — Join the Conversation
This week is a City Council Week, which means Council will be meeting in regular sessions to vote on ordinances, hear public testimony, and make key decisions for our city. These meetings are open to the public and are one of the best ways to see local government in action.
Here’s the schedule:
Wednesday, September 17
Thursday, September 18
🌿✨ Discovering Hidden Gems in District 1 Leach Botanical Gardens
Last week, I had the pleasure of touring Leach Botanical Garden with Executive Director Renee and board member Michael, a true treasure right here in District 1.
This space is more than just beautiful gardens and trails, it’s a sanctuary of nature, history, and community in East Portland. It’s a place that reminds us how deeply connected we are to our environment and to one another.
I’m grateful for the staff, board, and volunteers whose dedication ensures this gem continues to flourish for our city. If you haven’t visited yet, I encourage you to explore this District 1 treasure and experience the incredible work happening here.
✂️ Albina One Ribbon Cutting
Ccommunity leaders and partners came together to celebrate the ribbon cutting of Albina One, a landmark housing development led by Albina Vision Trust.
Albina One is more than new housing—it represents the first step in a long-term vision to restore and reinvest in Portland’s historic Albina neighborhood, a community deeply impacted by decades of displacement. The project delivers affordable homes, community space, and a foundation for future growth rooted in equity and cultural resilience.
🎶 Global Music with the Somali Community
Councilor Smith also joined the Portland Parks Bureau and the Somali community for a Global Music event. This celebration highlighted the power of culture, music, and community to bring people together. It was a joyful reminder of how Portland’s diversity is one of our city’s greatest strengths.
Stronger Together: Division Midway Alliance in District 1
On Friday, I had the opportunity to connect with the incredible team at Division Midway Alliance.
Located right here in District 1, DMA is dedicated to revitalizing the Division Street corridor through small business support, cultural events, youth programming, and community building. Their work goes far beyond economic development, it’s about creating a place where residents, families, and entrepreneurs feel seen, supported, and able to thrive.
I was inspired by their commitment to advancing equity, celebrating cultural diversity, and lifting up the voices of our immigrant and refugee communities. Organizations like Division Midway Alliance remind me that real change happens when neighbors come together with a shared vision for the future.
I’m grateful for their leadership and partnership in building a stronger District 1.
🌟 Sunshine Under the Stars Benefit Reception
The Smith Team attended the Sunshine Under the Stars Benefit Reception hosted by Sunshine Division at their future headquarters on NW Front Avenue.
The evening brought together community members, nonprofit leaders, and city partners for a fundraiser filled with light bites, specialty drinks, and a first look at Sunshine Division’s new space that will soon serve Portland families in need.
Sunshine Division has been a trusted lifeline in our city for decades—providing free food and clothing to Portlanders facing hardship. Their expanded headquarters will allow them to continue meeting growing demand while serving even more households across our city.
We are grateful for Sunshine Division’s leadership, and we’re proud to stand alongside partners working to address food insecurity and strengthen community support systems in Portland.
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