As a true non-partisan, Tootie stands behind the important issues that fairly represent the thoughts, opinions and desires of Clackamas County people.
Keeping Calm in Crisis
When I took office, the county was still dealing with the immediate aftermath of the wildfires that started in the summer of 2020 and the government-mandated closures of the COVID pandemic. We were then faced with devastating ice storms in early 2021 that left thousands of our residents without power, some for weeks at a time. County leadership and staff pulled together, rolled up our sleeves and started working. I’m pleased to report that we got through all three of those difficult situations and are better prepared for any future emergencies that may arise.
Protecting Your Pocketbook
One of the biggest reasons I ran for chair of the Clackamas County Board of Commissioners is that I was concerned about the unsustainable budget growth that was occurring. County residents were constantly being asked for higher taxes to pay consultants to do work that did nothing to improve the delivery of services. We are now back on the right track again. I have either voted no on new fees and taxes or deferred them to a later date.
Related articles:
Families Hurting as Most are Just Working at Paying the Bills
Preserving Our Autonomy
Over the years, Clackamas County has been subjected to experiments in regional governance. The results have been nothing short of disastrous when it comes to almost every major issue, from housing affordability to increased traffic congestion. I’ve had no problem standing up to Metro and demanding that our county residents get what they’re paying for out of that agency.
I opposed the 16% increase in tipping fees from Metro and I am now fighting back against Metro as they want to raise garbage collection fees by 50%.
Related articles:
A Common Sense Approach to Transportation
The Housing Crisis is Largely a Self-Inflicted Wound… And They’re Only Making it Worse
We want to hear from you on these issues!
Tootie listens to the people of Clackamas County, and we welcome your opinion, as well as donations and volunteers! Email us at tootie@tootiesmith.com