Even after three years of tough budgets, Portland’s city government cannot expect much of a break.

The same recession-driven loss of commercial development and cuts in state aid can be expected to continue for at least a few more years.

But Portland’s response shouldn’t be just more budget trimming and service cuts. The city also should be developing a forward-thinking vision for what it can become despite the bad economy.

When that conversation happens, council candidate Will Mitchell should be at the table. He is our choice to represent District 3, the Stroudwater, Libbytown, Oakdale and Rosemont neighborhoods.

Mitchell is fairly new to Portland, but he already has made a contribution to the city by bringing his high-tech mapping startup here.

It was a company that he could have run anywhere, but he chose Portland because it was where he wanted to live and raise his children.

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This type of economic development is how Portland will be able to leverage its strengths and grow, even as traditional industries are struggling. That’s why it is valuable to have someone on the council with Mitchell’s experience who understands the concerns of the entrepreneurs who might follow him into the city.

Mitchell understands that the city should better market itself and address the regulatory process that gives Portland a reputation as a difficult place to do business. He also understands that good schools and healthy neighborhoods are major selling points for the community and should not be sacrificed.

On these issues, he differs little from his opponent, former city councilor and state representative Ed Suslovic.

Suslovic has worked hard for the city and has many good ideas, but his advocacy often led the council into division when he last served.

What the council needs now is a team player, and we think Mitchell would best provide that at this time.

ANTON AND DUSON AT-LARGE

In a three-way race for two at-large seats, we support the two incumbents, John Anton and Jill Duson.

Despite some rocky patches, the current council seems to have developed a good working relationship. With what lies ahead, they will need it, so we support Anton and Duson’s re-election.

 


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