Michelle DePass — Candidate for City Council, District 2

Campaign site

Endorsed: Shade Equity Platform

Candidate statement:

Here is a short list of my climate justice priorities –

First, I envision a city where everyone has access to shelter, clean air and water, where it is safe for people to travel by alternative modes; hiking and walking, and a city that provides the supports and infrastructure that support that ideal. Because Portlanders value connectedness to nature, this vision includes access to greenspace for everyone whether that be nearby parks, or other public spaces that provide access to the nature we value so much.

The city of Portland can do more to protect residents from the negative health impacts of methane gas – we must strengthen regulations, reporting and enforcement by implementing and enforcing stricter regulations on industrial emissions, including methane and other harmful pollutants. We can transition to clean energy by incentivizing the transition from fossil fuels to clean, renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, particularly for people who cannot afford to make the shift. This could involve expanding incentives for residential and commercial adoption of renewable energy systems.

Invest in public transit and active transportation by reducing reliance on personal vehicles by investing in public transit, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure.
Implement urban green spaces, by prioritizing greening, and adding tree canopy in neighborhoods such as in East Portland.

By adopting these strategies, and serving all Portlanders, the City of Portland could take a more comprehensive approach to prioritizing climate justice, protect residents from the harmful effects of methane gas and other pollutants, and improve public health and quality of life.Will you ensure the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) remains climate-focused in line with what voters intended?

Yes