Ali Beaudoin — Candidate for City Council, District 3
Endorsed 350PDX CJ platform? No
Will you support PCEF? Yes
Candidate statement:
As a candidate for Portland City Council District 3, I believe Portland needs to continue taking meaningful action on climate change while making sure those policies are realistic, affordable, and equitable.
Our approach needs to recognize the different circumstances people are living with and make sure the transition to a cleaner city works for everyone.
One of my priorities would be expanding access to clean energy and improving energy efficiency. I support moving away from fossil fuels and investing in electrification, energy-efficient buildings, and renewable energy. At the same time, we need financial assistance and incentives for households and small businesses that may not otherwise be able to afford those improvements. Climate policy should improve quality of life and reduce long-term costs, not simply create another expense for people who are already struggling.
Transportation is another major part of this conversation. We need a city where people can get to work, school, appointments, and community activities without having to depend entirely on a car. That means investing in reliable public transportation, safer sidewalks and crossings, protected bike infrastructure, and better connections throughout East Portland. I especially want to see continued attention to areas that have historically received less investment. A cleaner transportation system only works if people have safe, convenient, and affordable options.
Environmental justice also means paying attention to differences between neighborhoods. We should continue investing in Portland’s tree canopy, parks, green spaces, and other ways to reduce the impact of extreme heat. Those investments should prioritize neighborhoods that have historically been underserved, while giving residents a meaningful voice in determining what their communities need.
I also see sustainability as an economic opportunity. Portland can support local businesses, workforce development, and good jobs connected to clean energy, building efficiency, transportation, and environmental improvements. We should find ways to make our climate investments work for both our environment and our local economy.
I am not going to pretend that I have every answer on climate policy. I am running for office because I believe local government works best when leaders listen to the people who live here and learn from the experts and organizations already doing this work. I want to bring my background in business, finance, education, and working with local communities to the conversation while continuing to learn.
My goal is to support practical policies that reduce emissions, improve our neighborhoods, protect vulnerable communities, and build a healthier and more sustainable Portland for the future.
