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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
'Your 2 Cents PDX' Campaign Supports Participatory Budgeting
The 'Your 2 Cents PDX' campaign is championing Ballot Measure 26-267, asserting that it would enhance Portland democracy by empowering residents with a greater say over the city's finances. The measure, set for a public vote during the November 3 midterm elections, proposes a participatory budgeting system allowing citizens to determine how 2% of the City of Portland’s annual budget is spent.
Details of Ballot Measure 26-267
If approved, the measure would go into effect in July 2027. According to information provided in the state elections voters’ pamphlet, Measure 26-267 would authorize the allocation of 2% of the city budget—an estimated $16.4 million for fiscal year 2027-28 and $17 million for 2028-29—through direct community decision-making. An oversight committee would be formed, accepting funding proposals from any Portland resident, provided those proposals are feasible.
Differing Views on Budget Allocation and Local Governance
The campaign highlights a coalition of democracy organizations supporting the measure as a response to what they see as the shortcomings of top-down governance. "Whether it’s the Moda Center deal, whether it’s the closing of the schools, whether it’s the lost money for arts tax or housing money, things are not going well from the top-down in our city," said Eddie Kurtz, Campaign Manager for Your 2 Cents PDX. "We need some more bottom-up power." Supporters canvassed throughout the weekend to promote the measure.
Mayor Keith Wilson's Opposition and Budget Deficit Concerns
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson has voiced strong opposition to the ballot measure, stating that diverting 2% of the current city budget could exacerbate existing financial strains on essential services. On Tuesday, Wilson canvassed neighborhoods, asking residents to vote "no" on Measure 26-267. He cited a $160 million budget deficit from the previous year and warned that added cost pressures could affect services like police, parks, and the fire department. Wilson's position reflects that of the "Protect Our City Services" counter-campaign.
Public Trust and Community Funding Initiatives
Advocates for the measure argue that participatory budgeting could help restore public trust in city government by granting citizens direct control over some aspects of budget allocation. Kurtz emphasized, "There’s 98% still here for elected officials to do. We just know that when you take a little bit out of that system, and you let the people of Portland decide, it’ll actually increase trust in government." Campaign supporters state that this process could reduce the influence of lobbyists and increase investment in neighborhood improvement projects or other proposals put forth by community members.
Next Steps for Portland Voters
The participatory budgeting initiative is positioned by its proponents as an important tool for increasing public involvement in local governance. Portland voters are anticipated to decide the fate of Measure 26-267 on November 3, potentially shaping the city's budget process for years to come.
Source: koin.com.
