Michael Kebede’s Oct. 7 commentary on the Portland Charter Commission’s proposed Questions 2 and 3 is a slick piece of propaganda, but not persuasive.
He cites the city manager overruling three councilors on the recent food truck controversy. Has he considered that the strong mayor envisioned by the charter would have the power to do exactly the same thing?
It’s ludicrous to think that the supposed “checks” on the mayor’s power Mr. Kebede cites – such as requiring nine of 12 councilors to override a mayor’s action – reflect a democratic balance of power.
There’s a reason 15 former Portland mayors, along with four of the charter commission’s own members, oppose this dangerous proposal. The plan reduces the city council to a token role whose only real power would be a sharply limited veto.
Too much power in the hands of a single individual is a recipe for trouble. That’s the road ahead if the charter commission recommendations are adapted.
Tim Wallace
Portland
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