October Recap: Community Events, Housing Updates, and Upcoming Election

Post #5

Oct 30, 2024

Hi everyone,

I hope this message finds you well. October has been a pretty busy month here in District 32, and I wanted to fill you in on what's been going on.

New Substack Newsletter

First, I’m excited to introduce a new forum for sharing more of these updates, as well as my takes on current events, legislative ideas, district issues, and more. I’ve started a Substack newsletter to keep the conversation going beyond just these monthly updates. You can subscribe to stay informed and get a closer look at the work we’re doing here in District 32. I hope to see you there!

Young's Bay Gangway Ribbon Cutting

I got to attend the ribbon cutting for the Young's Bay Gangway in Astoria. This new infrastructure is going to help our hardworking gillnet fishers by making things safer and easier for them. Supporting our local industries is so important, and it was awesome to see this project finally come together.

Housing and Infrastructure Priorities

In my first term, I've been proud to secure funding for several key infrastructure projects and promote housing initiatives in District 32. From a new wastewater treatment facility in Manzanita to efforts to cut red tape on housing developments, we've made strides—but there's more to do.

Looking ahead, I hope to continue advocating for policies that promote housing growth, such as expanding urban growth boundaries and reducing costs for builders. I'm also working on addressing the high cost of living, homelessness, and a more balanced use of transient lodging tax funds to support our communities.

For more details on my housing and infrastructure plans, you can read the full article here.

A photo-realistic scene inside a school cafeteria during lunchtime. A diverse group of children are happily eating nutritious meals at their tables, with trays filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and balanced meals. In the background, a friendly cafeteria worker serves food with a warm smile. The environment feels welcoming and positive, emphasizing the importance of access to healthy meals for all students, regardless of family income. Natural light streams in from large windows, adding to the sense of well-being and community.

School Meals Bill

Another bill I'm working on is about making sure every student gets school breakfast and lunch. It’s so important that every kid has access to nutritious meals so they can learn and grow, no matter their family's income. This bill will make sure school meal programs are fully funded, so no kid has to worry about going hungry.

May be an image of 9 people, clarinet and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Columbia Memorial Hospital Expansion Groundbreaking

I also had the privilege of attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of Columbia Memorial Hospital in Astoria. This expansion is a major step forward for healthcare in our community, ensuring that residents have access to quality medical care close to home. It's wonderful to see investments being made in our local healthcare infrastructure, and I can't wait to see the positive impact this will have on our district.

Seaside Rotary Halloween Event

I also got to attend the Seaside Rotary's Halloween Event, and it was such a fun night! Tens of thousands of dollars were raised to distribute as scholarships for deserving students. The costumes were creative, the activities were a blast, and the sense of community was amazing. Events like this really remind me how lucky we are to live in such a connected and vibrant place. Thanks to everyone who made it happen!

Upcoming Election - November 5th

Looking ahead, the upcoming election is on November 5th. It’s important to get out and vote to help shape our community. Here are my quick recommendations on the ballot measures:

Measure 115: Impeachment for State Executives - Yes. This measure gives the legislature the authority to impeach executive officials, ensuring accountability.
Measure 116: Public Service Compensation Commission - No. This would remove salary decisions from the legislature, reducing accountability.
Measure 117: Ranked-Choice Voting - No. This system complicates elections without clear benefits.
Measure 118: Corporate Tax Rebates - No. This could harm local businesses and increase costs for consumers.
Measure 119: Labor Agreements for Cannabis Businesses - No. Mandating labor agreements could stifle growth in the cannabis sector.

Your participation is vital to ensuring that our district continues to thrive.

AAUW Candidate Forum

It was a great opportunity to discuss key issues like housing development, affordability, environmental concerns, and reproductive rights. My opponent, Astoria City Councilor Andy Davis, and I shared our perspectives on these important topics, and I truly appreciate the respectful and thoughtful questions from the audience. Community feedback is what keeps us on track.

Read the full story in the Daily Astorian here.

A symbolic image of a stormy sea, with dark waves crashing under a cloudy sky. Floating in the water are bright life preservers, symbolizing hope and life-saving efforts amidst the ongoing opioid crisis. The life preservers are gently illuminated to contrast with the turbulent sea, suggesting that help is available even in dark times. In the distance, a faint light on the horizon hints at recovery and future solutions. The scene is conceptual, evoking a mixture of struggle, hope, and resilience.

Overdose Crisis Update

Despite an encouraging national dip in overdose deaths over the past year, it's troubling to see that many Western states, including Oregon, are still seeing rising numbers. The epicenter of the nation’s overdose crisis has shifted toward the Pacific Coast, where fentanyl and methamphetamine are having a devastating impact.

Oregon has moved into the top 10 states for overdose death rates since 2023, according to recent CDC data. Deaths have increased by 22% here, showing just how much work we still need to do. Some states are seeing progress through harm reduction strategies, while others are getting tougher on prosecutions. In Oregon, we need a balanced approach—one that supports those struggling with addiction while also holding those responsible for trafficking these dangerous substances accountable. This crisis requires all of us to stay informed, advocate for effective policies, and support those impacted in our community.

Currently Reading

I also wanted to share a few books I've been reading lately: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius, American Covenant by Yuval Levin, and Reading the Constitution by Stephen Breyer. These books have given me some great insights into philosophy, governance, and our constitutional system—definitely a lot to think about as I continue my work for our district.

Thanks so much for your continued support. As always, feel free to reach out to my office with any questions or concerns—I’m always here to listen.

Warm regards,
Cyrus Javadi
State Representative, District 32