Elisabeth Adams to Seek Reelection in Astoria

The current Ward 3 councilor runs for a second term in the November 2026 election.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Elections

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a simplified brick civic building facade, evoking the institutional nature of local municipal government. — Astoria City Councilor Elisabeth Adams announced her bid for a second term on Tuesday, highlighting housing and infrastructure as key platform priorities. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Incumbent Astoria City Council member Elisabeth Adams is seeking reelection to the Ward 3 seat this November 2026. She faces challenger Justin Grafton in a race featuring three city charter amendments on the ballot.

Why it matters

Adams is prioritizing business development, local infrastructure improvements, and housing as key pillars of her platform. Her campaign seeks to address city growth and renter representation through the addition of at-large council seats.

There are eight total candidates vying for four available seats on the Astoria City Council. Voters will also decide on three charter amendments, including Measure 4-244, which proposes the creation of two new at-large councilor positions.

The players

Elisabeth Adams

She is the incumbent Ward 3 Astoria City Council member and a local small business owner who first won elected office in 2022.

Justin Grafton

He is the candidate challenging the incumbent for the Ward 3 seat on the Astoria City Council.

The details

Adams, who has served for four years and spent a decade on the Coastal Family Health Center board, advocates for a city communications department and securing state infrastructure funding from Salem. Her platform also supports the city's shelter-first policy, which has been in effect since July 15, 2026.

July 15, 2026: The city shelter-first policy went into effect.
November 2026: Voters decide on city charter amendments and council seats.

Political Context

The push to adjust mayoral powers via Measure 4-245 highlights a broader debate among residents regarding the balance of authority within city government. Opponents of these reforms often argue that such changes could potentially gridlock administrative appointments and increase bureaucratic friction.

Residents in Ward 3 will directly influence local housing policy and business development through their vote this November. The result will determine whether the city adds at-large seats, which would alter how effectively renters are represented in future council decisions.

The takeaway

Voters should review the specific language of the three charter amendments to understand how they impact mayoral authority and council representation. Implementing these changes requires public approval at the ballot box this November.