Sunday, April 21, 2024

The Oregonian,

“Elections, as they say, have consequences. The May 21 election for Multnomah County Board of Commissioners has the chance to be the most consequential in recent years.

“…residents tired of the county's aimless governance can vote into office a slate of action-minded candidates with a mandate for change.

“They can send an unambiguous message to chair Jessica Vega Peterson and other local leaders that the dithering around our homelessness and behavioral health crisis cannot continue.

“Voters should not sleep on this opportunity to parlay their votes into progress.

“We recommend voters elect… former Portland Mayor Sam Adams for District 2…

“…as [one of] the combination of [endorsed] candidates who show the discipline, confidence and follow through needed to steer the county out of chaos. Collectively, they can work with, or if necessary, outvote Vega Peterson to ensure the county takes a more strategic direction and deliver the results and accountability this community needs.

“…Adams also keenly understands the mechanics of government, is willing to push innovative – – even controversial – – issues and has shown tenacity and commitment that persists, despite fiscal, political, and social media headwinds.

“While working for Wheeler Adams put forward a proposal to build mass sanction camping sites for up to 1000 homeless people with access to services along with a push to restrict camping on public land. Despite intense criticism… the proposal has since evolved into smaller "Temporary Alternative Shelter Sites " that many now credit for their effectiveness and connecting people to permanent housing.

“That willingness to advance out-of-the-box ideas and force a broader discussion is exactly what the county needs to help break out of its paralysis.

He has also called out the issues in collaboration between the city and county as well as structural flaws in how the county commission operates.

“He supports a unified budgeting approach across the county, its cities, and the Home Forward housing authority for spending homeless and behavioral health dollars to better plan and ensure that the community is providing a spectrum of services. And he lists several other priorities that showcase his ability to pinpoint needs—a reason why many have continued to support him...

“Four other competitors are vying for District 2 seat… But none can hit the ground running and spearhead the urgent change the county needs like Adams.

To make the most of the abbreviated term available to the district to winner, voters should look for the candidate who has proven the ability to get big things done and cast their ballots for Adams.