Justin Grafton to Seek Astoria Ward 3 Seat
The construction veteran and photographer challenges incumbent Elisabeth Adams in the November 3 election.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in City Hall
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Justin Grafton is challenging incumbent Elisabeth Adams for the Astoria City Council Ward 3 seat in the upcoming November 3 election. Grafton, a former construction worker and professional photographer, is running on a platform focused on reducing bureaucratic red tape.
Why it matters
Grafton entered the race following a personal dispute with the city over a permitting process. He aims to shift local governance by improving communication regarding tax spending and streamlining municipal requirements.
Grafton opposes three specific local ballot measures: 4-247 regarding a tax on homes vacant for 183 days, 4-244 concerning the addition of two council seats, and 4-245 regarding mayoral appointment approval.
The players
Justin Grafton
He is an Astoria City Council candidate who previously worked in heavy construction for 24 years.
Elisabeth Adams
She is the incumbent Astoria City Council member for Ward 3 who is seeking reelection.
The details
Grafton cites his 24 years in heavy construction as the foundation for his critique of current city permitting practices. He plans to analyze House Bill 2984, which went into effect in 2024, to determine if its provisions could improve local municipal processes.
Timeline
1995: Grafton graduated from Astoria High School.
2011: Grafton began working as a full-time professional photographer.
2014-2017: Grafton served on the United Way board.
2021: Grafton purchased his home in the South Slope neighborhood.
2024: House Bill 2984 went into effect.
Political Context
Opponents of Grafton likely point to the potential disruption of established municipal workflows if his anti-red tape initiatives move forward. Critics of his platform argue that the proposed ballot measures he opposes are necessary for city growth and administrative oversight.
Residents of Ward 3 will see direct impacts on local taxation and governance depending on whether the ballot measures Grafton opposes are passed by voters. His proposed changes to permitting processes could alter the speed and cost of home construction and renovation projects.
The takeaway
Voters should review the specific language of the three ballot measures to understand how Grafton's opposition aligns with their own interests. Evaluating the candidate's professional background in construction can provide context on how he may handle future city infrastructure projects.
Further reading
For more on local leadership changes, visit the Astoria City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Astorian.
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Do you believe local building regulations in your area should be simplified for homeowners?
