Metro Councilor Robert Liberty Announces Run for Re-Election to Metro
Robert Liberty, who represents people in the southern half of Portland on the Metro Council (the area’s regional government), announced his decision to run for reelection to his Metro seat. While he seriously considered filing for the seat being vacated by City Commissioner Erik Sten, he decided that he would rather work on his unfinished regional projects.
“I’m proud of my record at Metro,” said Liberty. “And after my first term, I’m reaching the point where I can have a significant impact on the region’s future. I’m asking voters to give me the opportunity to continue my work to curb sprawl, fight climate change, protect farm and forestlands, keep nature near us in neighborhoods natural areas, support transportation choices, and build more sustainable and affordable neighborhoods.”
In his 2004 race for District 6, Liberty raised $170,000 from 700 contributors, defeating two opponents. District 6 has about 230,000 residents.
Liberty has been endorsed by various elected officials including former Governor Barbara Roberts, Metro Council President David Bragdon, State Representative Jackie Dingfelder, Clackamas County Commissioner Lynn Peterson and Multnomah County Commissioner Jeff Cogen, natural areas advocate Mike Houck, northeast Portland activists Linda Robinson and Arlene Kimura, and various other neighborhood leaders in southeast and southwest Portland.
Liberty said he also wanted to help make upcoming decisions on the Sellwood Bridge, solid waste and recycling, the Columbia River Crossing and the future of the Oregon Zoo.
Looking to the future, Liberty noted that by 2010 many of his Metro projects will be completed. At that time he will consider running for Portland City Council. The Metro Council Presidency will also be open, with David Bragdon finishing his second and last term.
More information about his campaign is available at libertyformetro.com.
Liberty has one filed opponent for the District 6 race.
