News of interest to the Maplewood neighborhood will appear here
Gas leaf blower ban coming on January 1st
Starting next year, the only time gas leaf blowers will be allowed to be used in the city of Portland will be during the wet season of Oct – Dec of 2026 and 2027. Starting in 2028, gas blowers will be banned for good. Start looking now for an electric or battery operated one and be sure to tell any contractors or property managers that you hire. The property owner is responsible for any violations, not the contractor or property manager. More information here.
Oregon Invasive Species Online Hotline
Have you seen something suspicious in your backyard or neighborhood? Are you having trouble identifying something you’ve found? Report potential invasive species you’ve found to the Online Hotline. Your submission will provide vital early detection information to the experts working to stop the next invasion before it starts!
Firewise Community Program
The Firewise Community Program is all about helping neighborhoods work together to prepare for wildfires—because wildfires can affect everyone, whether you’re near forests, parks, or even in the suburbs. It’s a team effort supported by Portland Fire & Rescue and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to make homes and neighborhoods more wildfire-resilient. The idea is to take proactive steps to reduce risks now so you’re ready if a wildfire ever comes your way. More information here.
Multnomah County Community Budget Advisory Committees
Multnomah County is recruiting for the FY 26-27 Community Budget Advisory Committees (CBAC). CBACs are one way to get involved in the county budget process. Please help us get the word out to the residents in your neighborhood.
We have a new application for all 10 CBACs and still have CBAC positions until they are filled!
No budgeting or financial expertise is necessary! CBACs are groups of community members that review and make recommendations on county departmental budgets and operations. Meetings are focused on the bigger picture – understanding the county’s programs and services, discussing challenges and opportunities that departments are considering in their budget process, and providing input on key budget decisions for the next year.
Applicants select the top three department or office CBACs that most align with their interests and experience. Departments select participants based on application answers and, often, an interview. Once selected, CBAC members will hear directly from department directors and frontline staff about county programs and services. Working in a cohort model, CBAC members co-create and present recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners near the end of the budget cycle.
