East County Group Funds Portland Measure 26-267 Campaign
The nonprofit contributed $1.38 million to the ballot measure campaign, fueling local debate over participatory budgeting.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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The East County Rising Action Fund has contributed $1.38 million to the campaign supporting Portland Measure 26-267. This ballot measure proposes allocating 2% of the city general fund toward participatory budgeting programs.
Why it matters
Proponents argue the measure increases resident influence in municipal financial decisions, while opponents warn it could pull vital resources away from emergency services.
The pro-measure campaign raised $2 million in total, supported by a $1.38 million contribution from the East County Rising Action Fund. Conversely, the opposition campaign has raised $88,000 as voters weigh the 2% general fund allocation proposal.
The players
East County Rising Action Fund
This nonprofit organization focuses on advocacy efforts within East Multnomah County.
Keith Wilson
As the Mayor of Portland, he is actively leading the opposition campaign against the ballot measure.
Laurie Wimmer
A prominent lobbyist who is co-leading the opposition campaign against the measure.
The details
The East County Rising Action Fund provided $292,000 for signature gathering and $1.1 million for the ballot campaign, covering advertising, polling, and staff via in-kind donations. These funds originated from the Movement Voter Project and the Solidaire Network, sparking criticism from opponents regarding the use of these contributions.
Timeline
2022: Portland charter overhaul election took place.
2024: An unsuccessful ranked-choice voting campaign occurred.
2025-2026: East County Rising Action Fund made its campaign donations.
November 2026: Measure 26-267 election scheduled.
Political Context
Opponents argue that the massive funding for Measure 26-267 reflects an attempt to bypass traditional democratic discourse in favor of a rigid budgetary mandate. These critics, led by Mayor Keith Wilson and lobbyist Laurie Wimmer, maintain that such spending obscures the true policy trade-offs at stake.
If passed, the measure would shift 2% of the city general fund into participatory budgeting, potentially altering local spending priorities. Residents should consider how this reallocation might affect their city services as the election approaches.
The takeaway
Voters should examine both the specific funding sources behind ballot initiatives and the projected impacts on municipal service budgets. Understanding these details helps clarify the long-term governance goals supported by different advocacy groups.
Further reading
Find more details on local ballot initiatives in the Portland Civic Engagement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oregon Live.
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