District 1 Update: Council Recess, Community & What’s Ahead

City of Portland, Oregon sent this bulletin at 08/18/2026 02:26 PM PDT

Dear Neighbors,

As we head into our City Council recess, I am filled with such gratitude reflecting on all we’ve accomplished together! It has been a busy and rewarding season, from ensuring the Trail Blazers stay home at the Moda Center to successfully passing the "No Turn on Red" ordinance, my focus remains steadfast on delivering real, impactful results for District 1.

But the momentum doesn't stop there! I have some exciting updates to share, including a well-deserved promotion within Team Smith and a look ahead to upcoming opportunities to connect, like our next "Coffee with a Cop & Community" event and the important discussions surrounding the Cesar Chavez Blvd name change.

Thank you for continuing to show up, stay engaged, and make your voices heard and I hope you know your partnership makes all the difference.

– Councilor Loretta Smith
Portland City Council – District 1

From the Desk of Councilor Smith:
"No Turn on Red"

My No Turn on Red Ordinance passed city council with a 12-0 vote, developed in partnership with Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane.

This issue is especially personal for District 1, which has experienced the highest number of traffic deaths of any council district in Portland, it was time to find a solution. This ordinance takes a targeted approach to improving safety at dangerous intersections and protecting pedestrians, bicyclists, children, seniors, and everyone who uses our streets.

Every Portlander deserves to get home safely.

Pictured: Joined by Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane as we worked together to advance safer streets for all Portlanders.

Moda Center:
Moving Portland Forward

Last week, August 12th, I voted and supported an initial Moda Center term sheet, and the entire Council voted 8 to 4. This is an important step towards the future of one of Portland’s most significant public assets at the City Of Portland throughout this process.

I have asked the tough questions about accountability. I understand that the Moda Center is owned by the City Of Portland and it is critical that we invest in the improvement of that asset.

I believe we can support the future of an expanded Moda Center lease for 20 years and support the trailblazers while ensuring the public interest remain at the center of our decision decisions with a fair deal.

Pictured: Councilor Dan Ryan thanking me for my support for the MODA center

Welcoming New Voices to City Leadership

I was proud to join the newly appointed and reappointed members of the New Portlanders Policy Commission (NPPC), which advises the City on issues impacting Portland’s immigrant and refugee communities.

Their voices and lived experiences are important as we work to improve access to City services, strengthen civic participation, and ensure Portland remains a welcoming city for all.

Pictured: I joined members of the New Portlanders Policy Commission as we welcomed them into their new terms of service.

Coming to Council:
Cesar Chavez Blvd Name Change Coming to City Council

On September 2, my proposed Campesinos Boulevard ordinance is scheduled to come before City Council for its first reading.

There will not be a vote during the first reading, but this is an important opportunity for Portlanders to stay informed and participate in the public process through testimony.

We invite you to come and testify, learn more about the proposal, and make your voices heard.

August Coffee with a Cop & Community

Join me for this month's Coffee with a Cop & Community, a discussion with
Public Safety Support Specialist (PS3) & Portland Street Response!
Please come connect with local public safety officials and community leaders to share your concerns.

Coffee with a Cop & Community Public Safety
Friday, August 21st
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

📍 Our Just Future
10550 NE Halsey St.

Coffee will be provided

Register today!

Plan Ahead: Brace for 5 weeks of major construction on I-5

Major construction is coming to I-5 southbound beginning September 11, with a full closure between I-405 and I-84 lasting up to five weeks. Travel times may take two to three times longer than usual, with impacts expected on nearby streets and regional routes.

Please review the map, plan alternate routes, allow extra time, and stay informed before traveling through the Rose Quarter area.

🌟 District 1 Spotlight:
Congratulations Malynda!

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Malynda Valentine to the position of Director of Constituent Services and Office Manager.

Malynda brings a wealth of experience to this leadership role, having established a diverse professional background as both a small business owner and a property manager. These roles have honed her customer service and organizational skills and her ability to navigate complex challenges with precision.

Most importantly, Malynda has already demonstrated a deep commitment to our community through her many years of volunteering, and effective community service over the years and in her current position as an assistant to Councilor Loretta Smith. Her transition into this new capacity ensures that our office will continue to provide exceptional support and advocacy for all constituents. We look forward to the continued impact of her leadership in this expanded role.

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

Bluesky: CouncilorSmith.bsky.social

Website: Councilor Loretta Smith | Portland.gov

Email: Councilor.Smith@portlandoregon.gov

Newsletter Editor: Tali.Reed@portlandoregon.gov

📣 Stay Connected

I encourage you to stay engaged:

Coffee with a Cop & Community - Friday, August 21st 2026 9:00 - 11:00 am
Continue sharing your thoughts and priorities with my office

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Translation and Interpretation: 311

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