Dear Neighbors,
Last week was a powerful reminder of why community matters. From testifying before the Finance Committee to ensure accountability in our city budget, to connecting directly with residents at our District 1 Town Hall, I remain deeply committed to making sure your voices shape the work we do every day.
It was also an honor to join fellow leaders at the Black Community Town Hall, where we discussed pressing issues impacting Portland’s Black community, and to stand in solidarity during the City’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month recognition. These moments reflect the heart of our city—people coming together to listen, collaborate, and act.
As we look ahead, let’s continue building momentum toward a more equitable, safe, and connected Portland. Your voice truly matters—and it’s shaping the future of District 1.
Warm regards,
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
 What Happened in Council Last Week?
Council Week Updates
Last week was an active Council week full of important discussions, legislative progress, and community collaboration. Here’s a recap of what happened across committees and City Council.
Advancing Equity Through the Disparity Studies Resolution
Last week, I was proud to introduce and champion the Disparity Studies Resolution—a key step toward ensuring fairness and opportunity in Portland’s contracting and workforce practices.
This legislation directs the City Administrator to launch two comprehensive studies—one focused on City contracting and another on workforce participation—to identify inequities and guide future policy reforms.
The studies will:
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Use data from the State of Oregon, Prosper Portland, and the Port of Portland.
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Engage historically marginalized communities and small business owners.
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Deliver actionable recommendations by March 1, 2026.
As I shared during Council deliberations, this work is not just about compliance—it’s about commitment. Equity must be measured, visible, and built into the way we do business.
The resolution will return to Council for a final vote on October 30. This is a meaningful step toward making Portland’s systems more inclusive and accountable.
City Council Meeting Highlights
Climate, Resilience & Land Use
The Committee reviewed progress on the Portland Clean Energy Fund’s Climate Investment Plan (CIP)—a major effort funding sustainability projects and climate justice initiatives citywide.
🔗 Watch the meeting here
Governance Committee
The Committee discussed proposed measures to improve how Council identifies strategic priorities and assigns legislative items to the consent agenda—aimed at creating a more efficient, transparent process.
Homelessness & Housing
The Committee approved six new members to the Development Review Advisory Committee (DRAC), a key community body that advises on land use, housing, transportation, and permitting.
These appointments will help ensure a broad range of voices are represented in shaping how Portland grows and develops.
Community & Public Safety
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we heard powerful presentations from local advocates and service providers who shared critical resources and strategies for prevention and support.
We also reviewed a Public Safety Call Allocation Study on how emergency and non-emergency calls are handled and received an update on Portland Police Bureau’s overtime management.
🔗 Watch the discussion on YouTube
Finance Committee
I testified before the Committee on the Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO)—a key part of Portland’s annual budget review.
I raised several concerns about the process, including the need for more time to review, the lack of a detailed work session, and questions around $18.5 million in carryover requests.
Because of these concerns, the Committee voted to delay deliberations until more information could be provided by the City Budget Office.
Additionally, the Committee approved a proposal to issue $41 million in bonds to fund essential repairs and restoration of the City’s fleet maintenance facilities.
It was great to see District 1 constituents come and testify alongside me.
 Testifying before committee Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO)
Celebrating Women of Vision
Last week, I had the honor of attending the Daily Journal of Commerce’s Women of Vision Awards, an inspiring celebration recognizing the leadership, innovation, and impact of women shaping Oregon’s built environment.
The event highlighted the incredible contributions of women in architecture, engineering, construction, and community development—industries that continue to transform the landscape of our city.
I was deeply moved by the stories of perseverance, creativity, and mentorship shared throughout the evening. Congratulations to all the honorees for paving the way and empowering future generations of leaders.
Honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Last Wednesday, I joined Councilor Jamie Dunphy, the Mayor’s Office, DCA Dhanapal, Pink Lemonade Project, OHSU, and the American Cancer Society for a pre-gavel and proclamation ceremony honoring Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
It was a moving morning filled with reflection, unity, and hope — as we stood in solidarity with survivors, patients, families, and advocates across our community.
Thank you to everyone who came together to raise awareness and support those impacted by breast cancer. Together, we continue to honor their strength and push for greater access to care, research, and healing.
  🏛 District 1 Town Hall at PCC East Portland
Thank you to everyone who joined me for our District 1 Town Hall at PCC East Portland. Your voices, stories, and ideas are what make this work meaningful.
This conversation centered on the priorities that matter most to our community—livability, safety, and economic vitality. I’m grateful to the residents, small business owners, and community partners who showed up to share their perspectives and collaborate on solutions that strengthen East Portland.
Our team is committed to keeping these conversations going and turning your feedback into action. Together, we’re shaping a more responsive and resilient District 1.
Black Community Town Hall
On Saturday, I joined U.S. Congresswoman Janelle Bynum, Senator Lew Frederick, and Multnomah County Commissioner Vince Jones-Dixon at the Black Community Town Hall hosted by the Albina Ministerial Alliance and the Interfaith Peace and Action Collaborative.
This powerful gathering brought together community members, clergy, and local leaders to discuss ICE enforcement actions, federal budget cuts, and the presidential federalization of the National Guard—critical issues impacting Portland’s Black community.
I emphasized the importance of collaboration and civic engagement, reminding attendees that our strength lies in showing up, speaking out, and shaping the policies that affect our lives.”
  
 
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