What to know about Portland's May special election
All of Oregon's 36 counties have a special election next week, and Portland voters will weigh in on four school board seats and whether to renew a bond essential to renovating older schools vulnerable to earthquakes.
Why it matters: If renewed, the bond is expected to raise $1.8 million to be used in large part for modernization projects at three high schools — Ida B. Wells, Cleveland and Jefferson — without increasing the current tax rate.
Yes, but: Critics of the measure argue Portland Public Schools has mismanaged past bond funds and is building more unneeded capacity due to declining student enrollment.
Despite initial strong support from the public, recent polling is less clear.
https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2025/05/12/portland-school-bond-board-election-2025