Mariah Hudson — Candidate for City Council, District 2
Candidate statement:
My priorities are rooted in a lifelong passion for environmental protection and community engagement. My journey began at 17, working in a forest clear-cut, planting trees and restoring streams. That experience shaped my deep commitment to protecting the environment and involving communities in this important work. It’s this commitment that guides my vision for Portland’s future.
In my role as a sustainability officer, I wrote policies and facilitated green energy projects that not only addressed climate issues but also provided job training opportunities. These experiences taught me that practical, community-driven solutions are essential to making real progress. On the council, one of my key goals is to reduce diesel emissions and promote a shift toward lower-pollution transportation options. However, addressing traffic congestion, which increases emissions, is equally important. That’s why I support investing in smarter transportation infrastructure, including safe streets and routes to school, to make walking and biking more accessible and safer for everyone.
Portland has some of the worst air quality in the nation, and as a council member, I will continue the work I began as chair of the Northeast Coalition of Neighborhoods. In that role, I fought for clean air by advocating for the sunsetting of dirty diesel trucks and blocking the expansion of the Zenith Oil terminal. These efforts showed me the power of strong, community-led advocacy, and I will continue to stand up for clean air and environmental justice for all Portlanders.
I believe we must fully harness the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) to support projects that accelerate climate mitigation and resiliency, particularly in our most vulnerable communities. As we face more extreme weather events, addressing the impacts of climate change is a critical focus for me. Planting trees to cool neighborhoods and adding air conditioning to schools and homes are just a few of the ways we can build resilience and protect our communities.
I’m also committed to working with the state to develop a long-term plan to decommission the Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub, which poses a significant environmental threat to Portland. This plan must be developed in collaboration with local communities to ensure that environmental challenges are addressed equitably.
As a city council member, I will combine practical solutions, community advocacy, and long-term planning to create a more sustainable, resilient future for all Portlanders.
Will you ensure the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) remains climate-focused in line with what voters intended?
Yes
