Portland’s Congressman: Time to go, Mr. President

One Key Voice on Presidential Retirement

Portland’s retiring congressman has weighed in on the high-stakes question facing Democrats. U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer, the dean of the Oregon delegation, says President Biden should join him in quitting politics this year: “It is a painful and difficult conclusion but there is no question in my mind that we will all be better served if the president steps aside as the Democratic nominee.” [Earl Blumenauer Press Release/The Hill]

NW Natural Fails to Hit Climate Targets

The regional gas utility NW Natural has failed to acquire enough renewable natural gas to hit its climate targets. In 2023, less than a percentage of its natural gas was RNG — even as its goal was 5%. The supply of RNG is limited and it costs more than natural gas. But some environmental advocates argue that the utility’s focus on renewable natural gas simply gets in the way of adopting climate-friendly electricity like solar power. [OPB]

Metro Housing Ballot Measure in May?

The regional Metro homeless services tax is bringing in much more revenue than expected — by 2029, probably a full billion dollars extra. Also, the three counties are having trouble spending the funding available to them. So the regional government is preparing to ask voters next May to lower the tax rate, to allow for spending on construction (not just services), and to extend the tax beyond 2030. [OPB]

I delight in hearing reader perspectives — and sharing them with all of you. Here’s an update from your fellow newsletter subscribers:

Now That We Can Go Outside Again

Last month I asked for details on your favorite neighborhood walks:

Tigard parks: “Woodard Park and Dirksen Park in Tigard. They are next to one another. Fanno Creek runs through both beautiful green spaces with several footbridges over the creek. Want to center yourself? Walk these magnificent park paths.” — Billie Wright

Favorite spots in Sellwood: “I’m kinda new to Portland (August 2023) but have some favorite walks already. First is the ‘Goat House,’ someone has made their front yard into a mini-farm that includes chickens and tiny goats you can scratch. Next is the ‘treat stop,’ a tiny library that offers three different size treats provided by a giant mastiff sitting on the porch enjoying watching other dogs get something yummy. My dogs recognize this stop a block away. Finally my wife and I walk the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge trail at least twice a week where on occasion we spot deer, blue herons, ducks and if we’re lucky a bald eagle.” — Bobby

An alley walk: “My neighbor’s son helps maintain a sweet alley north of Going St near 27th. They have signage for the native plants. You know you’re close when you see dots painted on Going mid-block.” — Noelle

Pets in Summer

The newsletter featured advice for keeping dogs safe in the heat, including a warning against leaving them in cars, but apparently not all cars are dangerous:

“Teslas have a Pet Mode where it keeps the car at below 70° and shows the temperature of the cab on the screen. It also notifies the car owner on their phone if the [car] battery is getting too low while in Pet Mode. People shouldn’t be alarmed if they see this.” — Rachael

And here’s a recommendation for indoor pet fun during the next heat wave:

“The Buckman neighborhood has an indoor dog park at Good Dog PDX. I rented the space a few years ago for my birthday party so all the dog park friends could play without worrying about the heat. The store/park owner is very nice.” — Skip Johnson

What Portland’s Government Watchdog Has Her Eye On

The city auditor is the ultimate watchdog of local government with the job of identifying what’s working, what isn’t, and how to fix the problems. Simone Rede, the current holder of that office, explains her ambitious plans for this next year — looking into everything from the city’s programs to address homelessness and gun violence, to the arts tax.