 Hello District 1 Community,
Last week was a pivotal moment for our city and especially for East Portland. After days of rigorous debate, the Fall Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO) passed, allowing the City to move forward with essential budget updates. While my amendment, Smith 2, did not pass, it sparked important conversations and pushed our colleagues to more clearly address the concerns and needs of District 1. That advocacy matters, and it will continue.
This week’s newsletter is a reflection of the work we fought hard for, from committee meetings to neighborhood conversations, from budget negotiations to public safety discussions. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made and even more committed to ensuring District 1 remains at the center of our city’s decisions.
Every meeting, every partnership, and every conversation brings us closer to a stronger, safer, and more connected District 1. Thank you for staying engaged and for continuing to show up for your community.
Let’s keep the momentum going.
In service,
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
 What Happened in Council Last Week?
Council Week Updates
This past week, City Council convened for two full sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, continuing our work on budget accountability, public safety, economic development, and the City’s long-term financial health. As your District 1 Councilor, I remained focused on ensuring that every decision reflects clarity, transparency, and real outcomes for East Portland.
Fall Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO)
A major focus of last week’s meetings was the Fall Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO). I introduced Smith 2, an amendment designed to strengthen accountability, improve transparency, and provide clearer information around mid-year budget adjustments.
While Smith 2 did not pass, I am proud of the important conversations it sparked. My intent was simple: ensure that every dollar is traceable, purposeful, and aligned with community needs, especially in under-resourced districts like ours.
The TAO ultimately passed in its original form, and I remain committed to pushing for better budget reporting and stronger tools for Council oversight in future cycles.
Pictured: Proposing Smith 2 TAO amendment
Community & Public Safety Committee
Last week during the Community & Public Safety Committee, I had the privilege of welcoming both new appointments and reappointments to the Portland Committee on Community-Engaged Policing (PCCEP).
Hearing directly from these community members reaffirmed just how deeply committed they are to advancing safety, equity, and transparent policing practices across Portland. Their willingness to step forward and serve reflects the strength of community leadership and the shared desire to build a safer, more accountable city.
New Appointees:
• Kaitlyn Davidson
• Robin Wisner
• Vanessa M. Perry
• Andrew Hopp
• Fariya Vasquez-Potter
• Fasika Bekele
Reappointments:
• Kip Silverman
• Tia Palafox
I’m grateful for each person’s dedication and look forward to partnering with them as we continue strengthening trust, safety, and accountability across our neighborhoods.
Arts & Economy Committee
This week, during the Arts & Economy Committee meeting, we discussed strengthening Portland’s creative sector and supporting the small businesses that keep our neighborhoods vibrant.
Our discussion centered on expanding access to arts programming, improving economic opportunities for creative workers, and ensuring that culturally specific organizations receive the support they need to thrive. There were many District 1 constituents that spoke strongly about the needs for arts, culture, and economic recovery in District 1.
Meeting with Bravio Communications & Uber
This week, I met with Nicole Palmateer Hazelbaker of Bravio Communications and Allison Ford with Uber to discuss ongoing concerns within Portland’s rideshare ecosystem, particularly the challenges impacting immigrant and non-English-speaking drivers across our city.
During our conversation, we discussed drivers being suddenly deactivated from Uber or Lyft without a clear explanation and the barriers within the appeal process. For many drivers, rideshare driving isn’t supplemental income, it’s how they pay rent, buy groceries, and care for their children.
I shared the importance of transparency, fairness, and due process, especially when someone’s livelihood is at stake.
Drivers are organizing, raising their voices, and calling for reforms that ensure fairness. I’m committed to ensuring Portland plays its part in building a system that protects workers, strengthens accountability, and supports a safe and reliable transportation network.
This is the beginning of a broader, essential conversation, one rooted in dignity, fairness, and economic security for the people who keep our city moving.
Pictured: Left to Right Nicole Palmateer Hazelbaker, Bravio Communications and Allison Ford, Uber
National League of Cities Summit
My Chief of Staff Elijah Crawford attended the recent NLC City Summit, where city leaders and partners gathered to advance public investment and strengthen municipal operations. He brought back key take-aways on how increased staff capacity and strategic funding can translate into tangible results for District 1, especially in workforce development, public safety, and economic renewal.
The insights from this summit reinforce our commitment: to invest intentionally, build team capacity, and ensure District 1 receives the resources and attention it deserves.
Pictured: Chief of Staff Elijah Crawford at the National League of Cities in Salt Lake City.
|
