September 9, 2005

Candidates better able to compete

Fresh air enters Portland politics this fall, with voter-owned elections, opposed by some business interests. We in the environmental community support voter-owned elections. We work with community leaders who have great ideas and are dedicated to improving Portland. They do their homework, talk with their neighbors and voice their opinions about decisions that affect the health of the city's residents. These are involved, informed citizens who should be able to run for office.

Unfortunately, when wealthy special interests provide large portions of campaign coffers, it's difficult for candidates who are committed to clean air, clean water and healthy neighborhoods to compete. It also is challenging for average voters to be heard when money dominates the political process.

We applaud the City Council for adopting voter-owned elections. It levels the playing field and ensures that talented citizens have a chance to put their ideas into action.

MAUREEN KIRK, OSPIRG, Southeast Portland

BOB JENKS, Citizens Utility Board, Southwest Portland

WES KEMPFER, Sierra Club-Columbia Group, Southeast Portland

SAM BLACKMAN, Multnomah County chapter Oregon League of Conservation Voters, Southwest Portland