Why are you running for city councilor, and what do you bring to the table that your opponents do not?
I am interested in the Tigard City Council position as I am passionate about contributing to the community where I live and enhancing the quality of life for all residents, as it has done for me. This role presents an opportunity to make a tangible impact, shaping the future of Tigard through thoughtful policymaking and my commitment to serving the community through public service.
I have always been committed to community development and civic engagement. Throughout my life, I have been actively involved in various local initiatives and organizations that aim to improve our city’s infrastructure, education system, and public services. Serving on the City Council would allow me to leverage my experience, diverse perspective and dedication to effect positive change on a larger scale.
My upbringing was anything but stable, and while I won’t delve into the darker aspects, it gave me a clear understanding of just how fragile the support systems we depend on can be for the most vulnerable. Now, as an adult who’s come through that experience, I want to use this perspective to serve the community by advocating for more inclusive policies.
What is your #1 priority, and what are you proposing we do about it?
Addressing Affordable Housing: The most pressing issue facing the 2024 (and ongoing) Tigard City Council is the lack of affordable housing. This challenge is critical because it directly affects the quality of life for many residents, influences economic stability, and impacts the overall social fabric of our community that reverbs without limitat Without affordable housing options, families are at risk of displacement, crime and homelessness increases, and local businesses struggle to attract and retain workers. This domino affect makes it harder to entice and keep businesses and residents attracted to Tigard.
We need to continue to move residents of Tigard from being “severely rent burdened” to long term affordable housing. I will continue to work with our local and regional counterparts to address the various degrees of affordability. I will continue to push zoning measures to be inclusionary and that there are rent stability protections for those who continue to rent. I will continue to support streamlining the development process and reduce regulatory barriers and lastly, engaging with the community and bringing awareness and transparency on what is being accomplished.
Learn more about Shar Banerjee’s campaign at Sharfortigard.com, or contact Shar directly at shar.banerjee@gmail.com
