Portland Voters Will Decide Measure 267 in November

Residents will vote this November on a proposal to mandate 2% of the city general fund for participatory budgeting.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Portland Voters Will Decide Measure 267 in November

Live Poll

Should the city mandate a participatory budget program if it risks funding for public safety?

In the upcoming November 2026 election, Portland voters will determine the fate of Measure 267. The proposal would establish a participatory budgeting program, requiring the city to allocate 2% of its general fund annually.

Why it matters

Proponents believe the measure will foster government trust by allowing residents to direct taxpayer spending, while opponents fear it could force service cuts to public safety amid expected budget deficits.

The measure mandates an annual budget estimated to exceed $16 million. This requirement follows the city's closure of a $170 million budget deficit earlier this year.

The players

Keith Wilson

Keith Wilson is the current Mayor of Portland who opposes the passage of Measure 267.

Portland City Council

The Portland City Council consists of members who oppose the measure and retain authority over the city budget.

The details

If passed, the program would form an oversight committee with representation from each City Council district to collect project ideas and hold elections for funding. While the measure dictates the funding level, the City Council would retain final authority over which specific departments or services are reduced to meet the expenditure.

Portland voters will decide on Measure 267 in November 2026.
The city expects to face a new budget deficit in 2027.
Portland voters passed Measure 110 in 2020.
Lawmakers reversed the previous Measure 110 in 2024.

Political Context

Opponents including police and fire labor unions warn that the mandatory funding structure could lead to reduced resources for public safety services. This reflects a broader debate among critics who argue that fixed budget mandates restrict the city's ability to respond to fiscal emergencies.

If Measure 267 passes, residents will gain direct influence over the selection of specific community projects funded by the city. However, taxpayers may face potential reductions in core city services due to the mandatory $16 million annual expenditure.

The takeaway

Voters should weigh the benefits of increased community involvement against the financial risks of a fixed spending mandate. Understanding how the budget is balanced in 2027 will be critical for residents evaluating the impact of this new program.