There is a lot of concern about the Portland Charter Commission process’ spasms and transparency as to who is driving the process; who is assisting in developing proposals, and the lack of willingness of the Charter Commission to provide cost estimates for proposals.

Case in point: fiscal autonomy for the school board, as proposed by Commissioner Marcques Houston. He has put forth a budget process proposal on behalf of the school board, with no cap on school spending, usurping the City Council’s taxation authority and obligation to all taxpayers in setting a responsible tax rate in context of the overall city obligations and needs. Handing over a blank check to the school board, with no measure of accountability, is irresponsible and does not guarantee better outcomes.

The better option is suggested by Commissioner Peter Eglinton, a former school board member, to establish a joint budget committee that promotes a more collaborative approach. It fixes the concerns raised over communication during the budget process.

Surely Commissioner Houston and fellow commissioners recognize that property taxes fund most of our city’s budget. All departments evaluate and prioritize their needs and expectations as part of building the city budget. Fiscal autonomy for one department is not what our city and its taxpayers need or can afford.

Joan Gildart
Portland

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