Oct 14, 2026 - News

Portland ballot measure leaves key questions open

Meira Gebel

Photo illustration of a name plate with dollar signs over a circle with a grid and the map of Portland in the background. — Photo illustration: Lindsey Bailey/Axios

Portlanders will weigh in on only one ballot measure this election season — a proposal to give residents more say in how the city spends a portion of its budget — yet many of its key details have yet to be ironed out.

The big picture: Measure 26-267, also known as the "Your 2 Cents" initiative, would let residents propose and vote on projects that would be funded by 2% of Portland's discretionary fund, or roughly $16 million annually.

Yes, but: The measure doesn't explicitly note how certain proposed projects would be vetted and narrowed down, who would be eligible to vote on them, or where the money would come from, per Willamette Week.

While the initiative calls for an oversight committee, selected by the City Council, to run the program, its procedures — including basics like how ideas would be submitted — wouldn't be determined until after the measure passed.

What they're saying: Opponents, including Mayor Keith Wilson, argue the proposal would strain existing funds for essential city services like fire stations, police and park maintenance.

The other side: Campaign manager Eddie Kurtz told WW residents should have more control over investments in their neighborhoods.

He also said the lack of specifics was intentional to give flexibility rather than locking them into the charter.

What we're watching: Portland just closed a $170 million budget gap this year. Another shortfall is expected next year, too.

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Portland ballot measure leaves key questions open

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