Local Culture and Fighting Climate Change

Portland needs 21st-century policies that put local businesses, arts, and culture at the center of our city's future. We've already lost too many unique places and businesses to outdated development priorities.

The cities that thrive this century will protect and nurture their local identity. By prioritizing local culture alongside global investment, we can create win-win solutions that benefit everyone.

I was amazed by the adventurous and volunteer-oriented people when I came to this city. We have immeasurable knowledge, know how, and human energy here.

I believe that local district representatives can connect our human resources with our districts goals.

We can create volunteer opportunities and social opportunities that help solve or mitigate problems we have locally.

We can facilitate connections through the government apparatus so that local sub-cultures and Portlanders of all ages are included and given an important place in making District 3 a fun marketplace of ideas and in-person human experiences.

Demolishing historic buildings and mature trees for generic redevelopment is not a sustainable climate strategy. We should prioritize adaptive reuse and build around existing structures.

Transform auto-oriented corridors like Powell and 82nd Avenue into walkable, bikeable, mixed-use neighborhoods rather than concentrating redevelopment in our unique main streets and cultural districts.

Use existing tax incentives and grants to convert underused downtown buildings into innovative housing and live/work spaces, revitalizing downtown while preserving Portland’s character.

Protecting our cultural identity also protects jobs, tourism, and our creative economy.

Finally, invest in incentives that get people out of cars and onto bikes. Portland should strive to become the Amsterdam of North America!