Why are you running for city councilor, and what do you bring to the table that your opponents do not?
Two years ago, three of the four councilor positions were up for election. I ran for the two-year position to offer my experience in public governance, fiscal stewardship, and dedication to serving our growing community. My work as a councilor has strengthened those skills and I’m excited to be part of Tigard’s leadership team as it expands under the 2024 Charter adoption.
This past year, I led the campaign to renew Tigard’s Public Safety Levy. I worked closely with police officers who volunteered their time to assist with our efforts. Tigard voters overwhelmingly approved the renewal. The police association shared this about my candidacy:
“The Tigard Police Officers’ Association enthusiastically endorses Maureen Wolf for re-election to the Tigard City Council. In her two years on the Council, she has become a proven leader through her engagement with the public. With her willingness to listen and learn, she led the push to a resounding approval of our Public Safety Renewal Levy. Councilor Wolf embodies the core values that guide our department; her ability to lead with integrity, hard work, and a can-do attitude make it easy for us to support her re-election to a four-year council position.”
— Tigard Police Officers Association
What is your #1 priority, and what are you proposing we do about it?
My #1 priority will be Sustainable Housing Solutions.
Tigard led the state in adopting affordable housing strategies before state law changed how all communities address the housing shortage. I support Tigard’s strategies to expand affordable housing. Tigard offers many exemptions from system development charges and construction excise taxes. Tigard used pandemic relief funds to create a sustainable Middle Housing Revolving Loan Fund providing short-term lending for middle housing construction. To ensure energy saving measures are used, loan recipients must also consult with Energy Trust of Oregon. All are important tools that have supported the development of over 600 new affordable homes during the past five years.
Tigard is considered severely rent-burdened with 25% of our renters spending at least 50% of their income on rent. State and federal resources play an important role in providing rent assistance programs. I will continue to work with our regional partners to advocate for resources needed in Tigard.
River Terrace 2.0 is Tigard’s newest planned development, totaling over 500 acres with an estimated 4,500 new homes. The city is currently in the planning phase; we must balance the needs of housing with livability. Residents must have options to bike, walk, drive, or use public transit to get where they want to go.
As we plan for future developments, we must also balance the use of land while preserving natural areas. I have championed Tigard’s needs as Washington County develops transportation plans that impact our community.
Housing Solutions must also address the needs of community members who don’t have shelter and need services. I am pleased that two providers which deliver support and shelter for homeless individuals– Washington County’s Center for Addictions Triage & Treatment and Just Compassion in Tigard–will open in the coming year. Both will play a critical role in equipping individuals to find and retain housing.
Learn more about Maureen Wolf’s campaign on Facebook: Maureen Wolf for Tigard City Council; Instagram: maureenwolffortigard or contact Councilor Wolf directly at 503-720-0692 or Maureen.jefvertwolf@gmail.com
