The crocuses are starting to emerge, the days are getting longer, and scattered showers are keeping us on our toes…the signs of Spring are all around our beautiful neighborhood. In this month’s edition of the KNA Newsletter, you’ll find an invite to join us at our next monthly meeting, check out upcoming happenings, and receive updates from our Environmental Committee.
We also invite you to spread the word about this newsletter. Text your bestie, mention it to your neighbor, and forward this edition to everyone you know!
March Monthly Meeting
The Kenton Neighborhood Association Monthly Meeting takes place every 2nd Wednesday of the month. There, the KNA board and residents gather to provide updates, share resources, discuss solutions to pressing issues, and create opportunities to gather and build community.
Join us for our General Meeting!
When: Wednesday, March 12, 7pm-8:30pm
Where: Historic Kenton Firehouse, 8105 N Brandon Ave
Learn more and access meeting materials here >
Come in person or join via Zoom. All are welcome. We hope to see you there!
Events & Happenings
Flyer courtesy of Twilight Theater
The Temperamentals
When: March 21-April 6
Where: Twilight Theater, 7515 N. Brandon Ave
Cost: $23-$25
Twilight Theater presents The Temperamentals by Jon Marans. The Temperamentals tells the story of two men—the communist Harry Hay and the Viennese refugee and designer Rudi Gernreich—as they fall in love while building the first gay rights organization in the pre-Stonewall United States. Directed by Roy Arauz (he/him). Preview on March 20 ($15 tickets).
Save the Date!
Concert in the Park Summer Free For All: Saturday, July 26, 4pm-8:30pm @ Kenton Park
Annual Kenton Neighborhood Community Garage Sale: Saturday, August 9 (9am-4pm) & Sunday, August 10 (9am-12pm)
Community Bulletin
Trashy Hour at Mayfly: Sunday, March 30, 11am-12pm @ 8350 N Fenwick Ave., Mayfly/Fenwick Plaza. More info >
Public Service Announcements
KNA Environmental Committee Updates
Portland International Raceway: HB 2738 – Representative Travis Nelson has introduced a bill to prohibit the use of leaded fuel. The bill received a hearing in the House Committee on Climate, Energy, and Environment on February 18. On March 21, the committee will vote on whether HB 2738 should advance to the legislative floor or "die" in committee. Although testimony is now closed, those concerned about the impact of lead on children's health and development can still contact committee members. Additionally, our Portland City Council members can support HB 2738 to help advance this important issue.
Noise Review Board PIR Subcommittee Report: The final report from the Noise Review Board’s Portland International Raceway (PIR) Subcommittee has been delivered and will be reviewed by the Portland City Council. This process is expected to take a few months.
Zenith – Explosive Trains in Our Neighborhood and the CEI Hub: The Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Hub is an area along the Willamette River containing outdated storage tanks filled with toxic materials. This location is in a known earthquake zone, posing a significant risk to the community. Since Mayor Wheeler did not take a stand against Zenith during the Land Use Compatibility (LUC) hearing, several state bills have been introduced to address the associated dangers: HB 3450 – CEI Hub Transition Plan; HB 2949 – Risk Bond Study; HB 2152 – Disaster Fuel Study Reserves; HB 2151 – Risk Mitigation Fund.
Contact Information for Our Elected Representatives
State of Oregon:
Representative Travis Nelson – Rep.TravisNelson@oregonlegislature.gov
Senator Lew Frederick – Sen.LewFrederick@oregonlegislature.gov
Portland City Council – District 2:
Elana Pirtle-Guiney – councilor.pirtle-guiney@portlandoregon.gov
Sameer Kanal – Councilor.kanal@portlandoregon.gov
Dan Ryan – councilor.ryan@portlandoregon.gov