January 3, 2011

Congratulations to the Portland Housing Bureau team working on Block 49, the project to bring South Waterfront its first affordable homes.

The project took an important step forward in December when the Council formalized a development agreement with nonprofit REACH CDC, and earned praise from the Street Roots Editorial Board in their year-end roundup.

"The City of Portland," the Board writes, "led by Commissioner Nick Fish, turned an almost impossible and complex situation on the South Waterfront into a positive for people experiencing homelessness and poverty - especially veterans."

The building on Block 49 will house 209 affordable apartments and reserve 42 units for low-income veterans.

"It's clear that we don't have all the tools in the toolbox to end homelessness and poverty in our community," the Board writes, but the work of the Portland Housing Bureau and the Council to bring this and other projects to fruition means "a fighting chance."

Read more

"South Waterfront affordable housing poised to move forward"

"Affordable housing project has new developer"

"City OKs S. Waterfront projects"

January 5, 2011

Today, I officially begin my first four-year term on the City Council. Auditor Lavonne Griffin-Valade administered the oath of office in Council chambers.

Many people made this day possible. First and foremost, thanks to the people of Portland, who placed their faith in me. To my family and friends, thank you for your love and support.

Finally, it is a privilege to serve with the many dedicated public servants at the City.

Over the next four years, we will face many challenges together.

Providing homes for all Portlanders. Protecting our parks, trails, and natural areas for future generations. Supporting our neighborhood small businesses, the engine of job growth. Standing up for our most vulnerable.

I pledge to work hard, to seek the common ground, and to fight for our shared values and vision.

Inspired by the remarkable people who call Portland home, I am confident of better days ahead. Thank you for the honor of serving you on the Council.

January 6, 2011

For 12 years, Jill Fuglister has worked with the Coalition for a Livable Future to promote healthy and sustainable communities. Through research, policy advocacy, and public education, CLF elevates the conversation around equity in our community.

During her time with CLF, Jill tackled tough policy issues and spearheaded the development of CLF's signature project, the Regional Equity Atlas.

This month, Jill will join the Meyer Memorial Trust as a Program Officer. Jill has been a pleasure to work with - we wish her the best in this exciting new role and look forward to continuing to work with her.

January 6, 2011

There are so many great groups working to help Portlanders connect with local food growers, access opportunities to grow their own food, and learn more about urban agriculture in Portland.

We recently learned about GardenNet, a partnership of the Central Northeast Neighbors and Portland State University. The GardenNet website is a great resource - it offers a map of local community gardens, links to helpful sites, and information about upcoming events.

One fun event coming up is the January Potluck. Join your neighbors at CNN (4415 NE 87th) between 6:30 and 8:30 and be part of this great group of folks helping promote access to healthy and affordable foods!

RSVP to sandral@cnn.coalition.com or (503) 823-2780.

January 7, 2011

• Foreclosure protection in Oregon KGW spotlights the good work of local nonprofit Proud Ground, which helps low-income Portlanders purchase their first homes

• Worthy Causes The Portland Tribune's regular feature highlights Street Roots newspaper

• Annual Community Center and Pool Survey Reflects Customer Satisfaction Congratulations to our Parks team for all their great work!