Following Mayor Keith Wilson's recent State of the City address, Councilor Candace Avalos has voiced both her support and concerns for Portland's future, a blend of optimism and a call for concrete action. In a statement released on the City of Portland, Avalos commended the mayor's dedication to tackling core issues such as housing, homelessness, and economic recovery. Yet, she didn't shy away from emphasizing the need for tangible results, citing the daily struggles of her constituents.
Avalos, who chairs the Housing and Homelessness Committee, remarked, "I'm focused on ensuring our investments reflect not just speed, but dignity, long-term stability, and real coordination across governments." She underscored a shared urgency to provide shelter to every unsheltered Portlander by December 1, a commitment Avalos insists the council should be held accountable for. However, she also expressed concerns that rapid housing production should not undermine equity, advocating for a balanced approach that includes public investment, tenant protections, and community-based solutions.
Moreover, Avalos welcomed Mayor Wilson's assurance to preserve the Portland Clean Energy Fund's intended purpose. "Communities fought hard for those dollars, and we owe it to them to stay focused on frontline-led climate solutions that build a greener and more just city," she stated, highlighting the importance of environmental justice in the city's fiscal planning.
The upcoming budget deliberations appear to be a key arena where Avalos's scrutiny will play out. She pointed out that East Portland continues to bear the brunt of underinvestment, spanning critical areas such as parks, public safety, housing, and youth programs. According to her, "It’s time to shift that balance and fund the future we’ve all been promised."
Avalos concluded her response with a motivating message, recognizing her like-minded colleagues on the council and the opportunity before them. "Together, we have a real opportunity to show Portlanders that we can govern with both vision and follow-through," she relayed.
