Patty Burkett is running for Portland mayor. Burkett is a “consummate self-indulgent student of multiple disciplines,” according to her filing of candidacy.
Here are her responses to Street Roots' candidates pop quiz — a mix of short-answer, yes-or-no, and multiple-choice questions. (Read other candidates' responses.)
QUESTION 1
You only have $10 million to spend. The fire bureau says that without $5 million, call times for critical services will be hampered, potentially costing people’s lives. Social-service agencies need $5 million because rent increases mean they can’t place people into housing, creating a backlog of people waiting to get off the streets. Both the police and the parks bureaus need critical support for services totaling $7 million. What do you do? (150 words or less)
This scenario speaks to fiscal administrative issues. There is more than enough funding available to protect all the priorities above with ease. A non issue to me. This schematic of an insinuation is, in my view, a quirky political football at best. The players, of which are pretty much every city employee and administrator, are responsible for: discipline, structure, including detailed specificity in whatever coordination efforts are required, to allow them to perform their duties with distinction. It is imperative that all persons throughout the city must be treated with respect for a job well done! THAT is a BIG DEAL to me! And so, in my view, their success is predicated on the leadership of the mayor, Council and administration. Good!
QUESTION 2
The Portland Police Bureau’s contract with the city says police officers involved in an incident using deadly force must receive 48 hours’ notice before being compelled to speak to bureau investigators. Average citizens, however, are questioned often immediately on the grounds of capturing the best memory of events. Yes or No: Would you abolish the 48-hour rule?
Yes.
QUESTION 3
Yes or No: As mayor, will you end the practice of contracting for military and militarized equipment for use by our police bureau?
Yes.
QUESTION 4
Please place the following items in order of priority as mayor. Note with 1, 2 and 3.
• Increase parking
• Bike infrastructure
• Low or no-fare public transit
1. Low- or no-fare public transit
2. Bike infrastructure
3. Increase parking
QUESTION 5
Choose the item in each pairing that is more suited to you:
1. Uber or Radio Cab
2. Raincoat or Umbrella
3. Adidas or Nike
4. Maple Bacon Doughnut or Kale
1. Radio Cab
2. Raincoat
3. Adidas
4. Maple Bacon Doughnut (With all due respect to Kale, I much prefer the Maple!)
QUESTION 6
Complete this sentence with the following options: I smoke marijuana ____________
a. For medicinal purposes only.
b. To decompress after a stressful day.
c. Recreationally. Hey, it’s legal.
d. Rarely.
e. Never.
Yes!
QUESTION 7
Make one promise to the city’s people of color that you will deliver on as mayor. Street Roots will check on its status every year.
When you pay your gift and estate taxes correctly, you will be thrilled with the significant fiduciary results! I can prove that quite succinctly.
QUESTION 8
How will you ensure young people of color will succeed in Portland?
By ensuring that they have all the knowledge they require to Change the World! Very doable! Somewhat difficult; because we all have to, you know, study (includes reading). I can assure you without a doubt! The results are stellar!
QUESTION 9
In one sentence, state something you will do as mayor to ease the burden on Portland’s small businesses.
Teach them to prosper in the World of Commerce by exercising their fiscal responsibilities, specific needs and financial rewards through the provisions inherent in Uniform Commercial Code.
QUESTION 10
Pair the issue with the sentiment. Use each sentiment only once:
1. Sit-lie sidewalk law
2. Public campaign finance option
3. Expanded light rail transit into Washington St.
4. PPB Horse Patrol
a. Great idea
b. Good idea
c. Needs work
d. Nope
1. Sit-lie sidewalk law – d. Nope
2. Public campaign finance – c. Needs work
3. Expanded light rail – b. Good idea
4. PPB Horse Patrol – a. Great idea
QUESTION 11
Portland is losing significant, large trees at a rapid pace to development. In 50 words or less, what will you do to save these legacy trees?
STOP!
QUESTION 12
Yes or No: Understanding we’re going to have street homelessness, do you support tent cities?
No.
QUESTION 13
Select a local artist – professional or amateur – to draw your favorite thing about Portland.