Tigard Votes 2026: Round Two

GABRIEL ELIJIO VELÁSQUEZ

Question #1: 

I am honored to have support from proponents and opponents of this bond; both sides want to see Tigard residents save money. A $150 million price tag was simply too high. Any new designs or plans must be led directly by our community, not a design firm.
Future plans must focus on two practical priorities: saving money by storing all police evidence in-house rather than paying outside fees, and properly sheltering our public works equipment so previous taxpayer investments withstand harsh elements and last much longer. We need a transparent, fiscal-first approach that protects both municipal assets and household budgets. 

Question #2: 

The last budget process was brutal and heartbreaking for many residents. My top priority is retaining the dedicated staff who make Tigard amazing and deliver the essential services our community relies on every day. To identify cost savings, we need to carefully examine our latest budget and compare line items directly against what was actually spent. By identifying where funds were over-earmarked or unused, we can correct those estimates for next year’s budget. This practical comparison will ensure our fiscal outlook is realistic, accurate, and transparent without making unnecessary cuts to Tigard’s budget.

KATE RISTAU

Question #1: 

I support a smaller scope, with reduced spending, implemented over time through a phased plan. I also support starting over with meaningful community engagement, from defining the scope to evaluating options and deciding what comes next. Residents should have a real voice in shaping the proposal before the city moves forward. The need for safe, functional facilities for city workers is real, but the $150 million proposal was too large for our community to support when many are struggling economically. We need to determine what is most urgent and what we can realistically afford, addressing the most pressing needs first.

Question #2: 

My priorities are 1) maintaining core city services, 2) protecting the library, parks and trails; and 3) making responsible investments in infrastructure and public safety. I want Tigard to remain a great place to live and thrive – affordably. I support the Council’s review of individual department’s minimum service levels to identify savings while protecting essential services. With that analysis, I would evaluate major capital projects, contracts, and other expenses, looking for efficiency and opportunities to phase spending. Residents should see a clear return on their tax dollars, with spending that has a clear, meaningful impact on their lives.

SHAWNE MARTINEZ

Question #1: 

As a former diesel mechanic and fabrication shop foreman, I know that we need to consider function over form when designing fleet maintenance facilities. Our Public Works folks need to be safe and comfortable when working on equipment,  but the building doesn’t need to go beyond that. Let’s reconsider the building design for both departments.  Private automobile storage and the associated stormwater facilities can be a considerable cost. Employee programs that encourage travel modes other than a single occupancy car (public transit, e-bike, carpool) can lower construction costs making the project more palatable to taxpayers.

Question #2: 

Housing and transportation are the highest costs for most folks in Tigard. Creating a more walkable and bikeable city reduces car trips, saving money at the pump. Some folks could even live a car-lite lifestyle by switching from a two car household to a one car household with the help of e-bikes and public transit. Reducing VMT (Vehicle Miles Traveled) lowers road maintenance costs. Our road system is one of our biggest investments. Taxpayers spend a lot of money on upkeep.  I’ve bicycled every street in Tigard and I know that we need to prioritize a healthy, active transportation plan.

SUE GARINO

Question #1: 

While the need for new police and public works facilities did not disappear when the bond measure failed, the voters’ decision must be respected. That’s why I support a new proposal that is more affordable for Tigard residents. Options could include building one facility at a time, reducing the size or scope, or finding alternative funding sources. We should also evaluate existing buildings and land to see whether they could be sold to help fund construction or used for separate facilities. If elected, I will work with residents and the business community to find an affordable path forward.

Question #2: 

My top priorities are essential services: public safety, infrastructure, parks, and other services residents rely on every day. But even essential services should be scrutinized for opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency. I will look for duplication, eliminate unnecessary spending, and require measurable results to ensure programs are achieving their intended goals. I will also stop using one-time money for ongoing programs. The City must use the dollars it already receives responsibly and efficiently while limiting the growth of taxes, fees, and spending. That will help keep Tigard affordable for seniors, working families, and local businesses.

JOHN GOODHOUSE

Question #1: 

The police Department is a much needed and long overdue promise to our officers who serve the City of Tigard. Our Police Department has made due with a failing building for years close to decades which has now lead to issues storing records, and even recruiting new officers. The least we can do is have a proper department facility that is adequate to a city Tigard’s size that is growing. We cannot expect our Police force to do their jobs when they don’t have the adequate resources at their hands. 

Question #2: 

We need to get back to the basics as a City, focus on the core services the City is meant to provide. We need to focus on keeping our city safe with fully staffed Police Department. Make our community livable and affordable. Support and retain our local businesses. Make our community accessible by safe paths, sidewalks and bike lanes. Encourage and simplify the process for private entities to hold events throughout the City of Tigard

JEFF DARLAND

Question #1: 

Voters rejected the price and scope, not public safety or public works. I support separating the projects.

Police: Keep police downtown for response times and visibility, in a right-sized facility.

Public Works: Phased project, with a transparent site comparison.

Wall Street site: Bought with water-fund money but not serving a water-system purpose.  We need clarity and public input.  I oppose a sale that locks in a loss and drives up the next land purchase.
I would like to see it used for community benefit, with the use chosen through an open process. 

Question #2: 

We should prioritize maintaining the services, infrastructure, and quality of life that existing Tigard residents and businesses rely on every day. Police, library, roads, parks.

For cost reductions, I’d scrutinize discretionary and duplicative spending citywide before touching core services, and push harder to ensure growth-related work is funded by development fees, not the general fund. Outsourcing specific functions may be worth studying case by case, but it often costs more and raises real equity concerns for the community it’s meant to serve.

TOM ANDERSON

Question #1: 

Tigard lacks the revenue to fund a new police building or public works facility without a voter-approved bond. Because voters rejected the last combined project due to its high price tag, City Council must adapt. The police facilities are our most immediate and critical need. Therefore, I support pursuing a police-only bond measure within the next four years, postponing the public works yard to a later date.

Question #2: 

Currently the external economic environment is more uncertain and structurally constrained than in prior periods. Having participated in the 2026–27 budget process that cut over $6 million across all departments, I know future forecasts demand even greater discipline. Tigard needs to focus on core services and do them well. Keeping the city safe, clean, and functional will keep us a desirable place to live. We will have to lean on our generous community partners to fill out our social services and non-essential services while the budget remains tight.

YOUSEF ALLOUZI

Question #1: 

Following the defeat of the $150 million bond for a combined police and public works facility, what specific path forward do you support?

I support a transparent, community-centered approach that prioritizes essential public safety and infrastructure needs without burdening Tigard taxpayers. We should reassess facility needs, engage residents in discussing priorities, and consider other funding options. Rather than rushing into another large bond, we need a clear, financially responsible plan that addresses the city’s most important needs while reflecting community input.

Question #2: 

My top priorities are safe streets, housing affordability, and city policies that put people first. I want to invest in pedestrian safety, parks and schools, and solutions that help families afford to live in Tigard. Every city expense should be considered for its impact and value to residents. I would search for savings in administrative costs, overlapping services, and lower-priority projects while protecting essential services. Taxpayers deserve transparency and confidence that their money is being spent wisely.