On The Issues
Jake Mead for Hillsboro City Council
City Budgeting and Fiscal Responsibility
Effective financial stewardship is at the core of my beliefs. We need to prioritize judicious expenditure and strategic investments. Reflecting on projects like the 53rd Avenue/Hidden Creek park, while a commendable addition to our community, I believe we need more transparency and smarter financial decisions. Intellectual Property rights, for instance, should be a factor considered in our investments. It’s not just about today’s expenses but also potential costs in the future.
Urban Development and Housing
When it comes to housing, the principle guiding my decisions will be simple yet profound: equity. Housing should be accessible and beneficial for everyone in the community, not just those with the means to bypass regulations or take advantage of loopholes. I’m not in favor of regulations that can easily be manipulated by developers. Every housing project that comes before me will be evaluated based on its ability to serve the community equitably—prioritizing the needs of all residents, especially those who have been historically underserved or left out of the housing market.
Our city is facing unprecedented challenges in housing affordability and availability, and it’s time to acknowledge that the status quo simply isn’t working. We need to go back to the drawing board and seriously reevaluate all the tools and strategies available to us. Whether it’s reforming zoning laws, streamlining permitting processes, or incentivizing affordable housing, we must think creatively and boldly to address the crisis at hand.
Homeownership is the cornerstone of the American Dream, and it should be a realistic option for everyone, not just the few. It’s not enough to meet basic housing quotas or check regulatory boxes—we need housing solutions that address the community’s holistic needs, ensuring that all residents, regardless of income, background, or status, have the opportunity to live and thrive in our city. I’m committed to pushing for policies that move us closer to this goal and make Hillsboro a place where everyone can call home.
Public Safety and Infrastructure
Hillsboro’s infrastructure has not kept pace with our rapid growth, and we need to address key areas immediately. Firefighters have made it clear that we need three new fire stations to meet current demand, but only one is being built. Our aging water pipes, many from before 1970, are nearing the end of their life and need replacement. Additionally, Hillsboro lacks sufficient ER beds to serve our growing population, and there are no expansion plans in place.
Our community demands, expects and deserves safety in our infrastructure, and I promise to do everything in my power as the next city councilor to deliver on this promise.
Local Businesses and Economic Growth
Hillsboro’s business environment should be a hub for innovation and growth. We must build on the solid foundation laid down by long-standing partnerships, like with Intel, and expand our horizons. By showcasing Hillsboro’s robust infrastructure and our pro-business stance, we can attract diverse high-tech industries and fuel further economic growth.
It has become clear that we need to diversify our economy now to build resilience for the future, ensuring that our community can withstand economic challenges and thrive even when times get tough. By broadening our economic base and investing in a variety of industries, we can create a more stable and sustainable economy that supports long-term growth and opportunity for all residents.
Oregon’s agricultural industry is one of the largest and most vital sectors of our state’s economy, yet it has almost no representation within the city limits of Hillsboro. This lack of representation is concerning because agriculture plays a crucial role in feeding our communities, supporting jobs, and maintaining our state’s cultural and environmental heritage.
Unfortunately, society often pits high-tech industries and farming against one another, creating a false narrative that one must thrive at the expense of the other. This division is a disservice to both sectors. Agriculture and high industry are not mutually exclusive; they can, and should, coexist and complement each other. High-tech industries rely on sustainable practices, just as agriculture can benefit from technological advancements. As a city, we should work to create policies that honor both sectors and foster collaboration, ensuring that we support both the high-tech economy and our critical agricultural heritage for the future of Hillsboro.
Public Education and Local Schools
Education is the bedrock of any thriving community, shaping not only the future of our children but also the long-term success of the community as a whole. I am incredibly proud of the Hillsboro School District, which is arguably one of the best in Oregon. Our district has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, strong community involvement, and providing opportunities for all students to succeed.
With the new Superintendent in place, I see this as a pivotal moment to deepen the collaboration between the city and the school district. As a city councilor, I vow to maintain open and consistent channels of communication, ensuring that both entities work hand in hand to offer top-tier education and promote the overall growth of Hillsboro. Whether it’s in addressing the needs for supporting after-school programs, or ensuring that our schools have the resources they need, I am committed to advocating for policies that prioritize education. By working together, we can ensure that our schools remain a source of pride and continue to foster the leaders, innovators, and engaged citizens of tomorrow.
