Shei’Meka (BeUtee) As-Salaam — Candidate for Mayor
Candidate statement:
Prevention/Intervention.
One of the top priorities must be to develop a plan to relocate dangerous fuels from the CEI Hub and ensure our communities are safe from its harms! In the event of a seismic event, experts predict one of the world’s largest oil spills. It would be an ecological, economic, and social disaster that would be impossible for Portland to fully recover from.
We need to examine all available options. Connect & collaborate with others who already have done the research. Being intentional about seeking knowledge from a cross section of experts including boots on the ground grassroots organizations. We can look into and learn from how similar situations may have been successfully resolved in other parts of the world, as well as looking at new innovative & creative solutions that may be Portland specific.
We MUST be VERY clear on the fact that Bicycles,Climate change, Climate resilience, Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub, Electrification, energy transition, Emissions reduction, Environmental justice, Freeway usage/expansion (I-5 Bridge replacement), Oil by rail, Pedestrians (safety, walkability), Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), Public health,Shade equity,Transit, Solar & Zenith Energy…are ALL interconnected & equally important issues that deserve equal. The key is to ensure there is a parallel process for gaining more information & implementation. As we make steady moves towards reform simultaneously, immediately & Sustainably.
The only way to do that is through a commitment to authentic collaboration between the County, and City Government. Where we must especially model collaborative amiability while choosing to work together, as we function in our new roles as separate branches (Legislative & Executive) of a unified municipality!
Will you ensure the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF) remains climate-focused in line with what voters intended?
Yes
