  Dear Neighbors,
This week, we reconvene for City Council meetings and a work session centered on progress and accountability.
Continue below for “This Week in City Council,” where you can find meeting dates, times, and ways to watch live.
And don’t forget to sign up for two important upcoming events: the Joint Budget Listening Session with Councilor Elana Pirtle-Guiney and Coffee with a Cop.
These are meaningful opportunities to stay informed, share your voice, and connect with your community.
– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1
District 1:
Make Your Voice Heard
This week at council, we will be discussing the FY 2025–26 Technical Adjustment Ordinance (TAO) during the City Council meeting on
Wednesday, April 8 at 9:30 AM.
As part of this, I’ve introduced an amendment (Smith 1) that directs $45 million toward rent assistance, eviction prevention, and pathways to homeownership, with targeted support for District 1 families.
This is about making sure our budget reflects real needs, keeping people housed and creating pathways to stability.
You can share your perspective by submitting written testimony or signing up to give verbal testimony.
👉 Sign up or submit testimony here:
https://www.portland.gov/council-clerk/testimony-registration?doc_id=59993
District 1, we need to hear from you.
From Councilor Smith’s Desk:
TUF & Infrastructure Investment
Last week, during the Finance and Governance Committee of the Whole, we began discussions on the Transportation Utility Fee (TUF),a tool to fund long-overdue sidewalk and street improvements.
This is important.
Through SIPP, we are directing $50 million annually toward infrastructure in District 1. TUF would generate an estimated $22–$46 million annually to support safer streets, sidewalks, and basic maintenance.
This proposal also includes relief for lower-income households.
This is about follow-through, and making sure every neighborhood has safe, accessible infrastructure.
The TUF will return to the Finance and Governance Committee of the Whole on the 15th for a vote.
Pictured: On the dais I made it clear: equity means safe streets and sidewalks, and it’s time to invest in District 1.
📍 This Week in City Council
Stay informed and engaged with the work happening this week at City Hall.
Join us, whether in person or virtually and be part of the conversations shaping our city.
In Person:
City Council Chambers
1221 SW Fourth Avenue
Second Floor Auditorium
Portland, OR 97204
Virtual:
Community and Public Safety Committee Meeting
📅 Date: Tuesday, April 7
🕘 Time: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
City Council Meeting
📅 Date: Wednesday, April 8
🕘 Time: 9:30 am - 1:30 pm
City Council Work Session
Forecast Update & Service Area Follow-up
📅 Date: Wednesday, April 1
🕘 Time: 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Finance and Governance Committee of the Whole
📅 Date: Thursday, April 2
🕘 Time: 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
I encourage you to tune in, stay informed, and follow along as we continue advancing work that impacts our community.
Homeownership Opportunities in District 1
The struggle is real for families trying to access affordable housing, especially in East Portland.
PCRI has broken ground on new homes in District 1, creating real pathways from rental instability to homeownership as part of Pathway 1000, an effort to deliver 1,000 new homes, with 800 reserved for first-time buyers.
When we create pathways to ownership, we create stability and generational wealth.
Pictured: Giving remarks at the Halsey Street Homes groundbreaking.
This is about more than housing. It’s about health, wealth, and long-term prosperity.
Stay connected and watch for application windows and eligibility details from PCRI.
In the Community: Elevate Oregon
The Smith team met with Donell Morgan, Executive Director of Elevate Oregon, to learn more about the work they’re leading right here in District 1.
We also had the opportunity to attend Elevate Our Future, an event highlighting the impact of their work and the importance of investing in young people.
Their focus on mentorship, education, and long-term opportunity reflects the kind of investment our community needs. We look forward to continuing the conversation and supporting efforts that create real pathways for our youth.
Pictured: Donell Morgan visiting the District 1 Office.
Pictured: Elevate Our Future event hosted by Elevate Oregon.
🌟 District 1 Spotlight!
This summer at the Parklane Park ribbon cutting, Rory, a young and thoughtful community member who reminded me exactly why this work matters, pulled me aside and asked,
“Why aren’t there any sidewalks when I walk to school?”
A few weeks later, she showed me, walking me along her route and sharing her experience firsthand.
This is why the Safe Routes and Sidewalks Improvement Program (SIPP) matters. It’s about safety, access, and making sure every child can get to school safely.
Rory, thank you for speaking up. Your voice is making a difference.
Pictured: (left to right) Rory’s mother and Rory at Parklane Park where we first met.
Upcoming Event: Budget Listening Session this Saturday!
District 1 & District 2 Joint Budget Listening Session
with Councilor Loretta Smith and Councilor Elana Pirtle-Guiney
Join us for a community conversation on the Mayor’s proposed budget. This is an opportunity to share your priorities, ask questions, and help guide how resources are allocated in our city.
📅 Saturday, April 11
⏰ 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 House of Healing
4046 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
April Coffee with a Cop
Join me for the April Coffee with a Cop with PPB East Precinct!
Come connect with local police, share concerns, and strengthen community safety.
Coffee with a Cop
Public Safety
Friday, April 17
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍 Our Just Future
10550 NE Halsey St.
Coffee will be provided.
📣 Stay Connected
I encourage you to stay engaged:
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Join Coffee with a Cop (every 3rd Friday)
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Attend upcoming community events
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Continue sharing your thoughts and priorities with my office
We want to hear from you!
📣 Are you part of an organization in District 1 that wants to share resources or community events? Send us an email, and we’ll make sure to include your update in our next newsletter!
Instagram: @Councilorlorettasmith
Website: portland.gov/council/smith
Email: councilor.smith@portlandoregon.gov
Newsletter Editor: Tali.Reed@portlandoregon.gov
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