I served two years on a school board; I have a bachelor of arts in government and legal studies; I voted for members of the Charter Commission in June 2021, listened to them debate and talked with them one on one. And yet, I still do not understand the pros and cons of school board autonomy or a strong mayor in Portland.

I do, however, understand one thing: The Charter Commission’s process was democratic, transparent and thorough. The Press Herald editorial board agreed that “the Charter Commission amendments were forged gradually, if not painstakingly, and in the public eye.”

That is precisely why I disagree with the editorial board’s endorsement of “no” votes on Questions 2 and 5. I am voting “yes” on Questions 1 through 8, because I trust the Charter Commission’s process.

Lauren Hickey
Portland