September 2024 NewsletterDear Friends and Neighbors, I hope everyone had a great summer, and that those back in school are off to a strong start! As we approach the 2025 legislative session, I want to remind you that this will be my last newsletter until after the general election on November 5th. From September 6th until November 5th, the Legislature enters the “blackout period,” meaning legislators running for office are prohibited from using state resources for mass communications with constituents. While I can’t send newsletters during this time, you are always welcome to reach out to my office directly. Additionally, September legislative days are coming up from the 23rd to the 25th. It’s a great opportunity to come to the Capitol, meet your legislators, and make your voice heard!
Around The DistrictJoint Town Hall with Rep. McLain 
Thank you to everyone who joined our August Joint Town Hall with State Representative Susan McLain. We had a great discussion on our 2025 priorities—transportation, education, consumer protection, and Oregon’s growing semiconductor industry—plus key local projects for our community’s future. Special thanks to Rep. McLain for her partnership and insights. Your feedback is invaluable as we prepare for the upcoming legislative session, and we’re grateful to all who participated! Expanded Max Line in Hillsboro
I had the pleasure of joining fellow legislators for TriMet’s kickoff of the MAX Red Line ‘A Better Red’ expansion. This project will improve convenience and reliability with new one-seat ride stops between Washington County and PDX, enhancing our 60-mile light rail system. A major step toward a more efficient and accessible transportation network for all Oregonians! Expanded MAX Red Line Service in Hillsboro Begins August 28 | News & Announcements | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov)
Celebrate Latino & Hispanic Heritage Month!
Graphic – courtesy of EMORY Business From September 15 to October 15, we highlight the achievements and contributions of Latino & Hispanic Americans who inspire us.
Upcoming Events in and Around HD 30Indoor Pix in the Park - Oct. 5th: Dracula / Creature from the Black Lagoon
Indoor Pix in the Park: Creature Double Feature | Event Calendar | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov) Hillsboro Farmers Markets- Every Saturday through October 26th; 9am-1pm
Downtown Hillsboro Saturday Farmers’ Market — Hillsboro Farmers’ Markets — Hillsboro, Oregon (hillsboromarkets.org) Orenco Farmers Markets- Every Sunday through October 27th; 10am-2pm
Orenco Station — Hillsboro Farmers’ Markets — Hillsboro, Oregon (hillsboromarkets.org)
Community Announcements 
Back to School SafetySchool is back in session! Please stay alert for children walking or biking, especially near crosswalks and school buses. Remember to follow school zone speed limits and drive safely to help keep our students safe. Let’s all do our part to ensure a smooth and safe start to the school year! Free School MealsAs the school year begins, nearly 90% of Oregon schools, including Beaverton and Hillsboro School Districts, will offer free breakfast and lunch to all students! This is possible due to expanded federal eligibility and additional state funding. School Meals for All reports that one in six children in Oregon face food insecurity, with disparities based on location. By supporting our students and schools, we can help end child hunger and give every student the chance to succeed. Look out for more efforts in the 2025 legislative session to ensure free meals for all Oregon students!
Opportunity for Artists in Recovery The Center for Addictions Triage and Treatment Center (CATT) in Washington County was developed by the community, to serve the community. That is why they are seeking works of art that celebrate personal journeys of recovery to display in the new center. Artists will be compensated for their work. The deadline for submissions is September 30th. SUBMIT ART – CALLS TO ARTISTS — Studio Art Direct :: Corporate Art Consultants
Free Food Market: September 10th, Oct. 8th - Beaverton-Hillsboro DHS Free Food Market 5300 NE Elam Young Pkwy Hillsboro OR 97124
- Shop for free, fresh, and healthy fruits, vegetables, and pantry staples.
- This food is free, and anybody is welcome
- No identification, name, or address needed
- Please bring bags or boxes
Free Food Market: Every Second Tuesday of the Month | News & Announcements | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov)
Proposed Water Rate Increases: Share Your FeedbackThe City of Hillsboro Water Department is proposing a water rate increase for all customers in 2025 and 2026. If approved by the Hillsboro Utilities Commission, the drinking water portion of the monthly utility bill for a typical residential customer would increase by $2.84 on January 1, 2025, and $3.04 on January 1, 2026. Water Rate Information: Facts & Resources | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov) Utility Bill AssistanceThe City of Hillsboro is committed to helping customers in need. If you are having trouble paying your utility bill, visit the City’s Utility Assistance webpage or call 503-681-6163 to see if you qualify for a flexible payment plan or bill relief options. You can also visit our Community Resources webpage to find information on reduced garbage rates, energy & rent assistance, food pantries, weatherization programs, and more.
Managing Hot WeatherAs we anticipate excessive heat and fire danger over the next few days, it is important to be aware of your nearest county operated cooling shelters. If experiencing extreme heat in the coming months, Washington County maintains five cooling centers with hours that extend into the evening and two 24-hour, no-turn-away shelters in Beaverton and Hillsboro. See StayCoolWashingtonCounty.com for details. 
2024 Burn BanTo reduce wildfire risk, a High-Fire-Danger Burn Ban was enacted across Washington County beginning July 1, 2024, and will remain in effect indefinitely. High-Fire Danger Burn Ban Enacted Across Washington County | News & Announcements | City of Hillsboro, OR (hillsboro-oregon.gov)
Notable Press ClippingsOregon’s ban on ‘ghost guns’ takes effect this weekend Oregon Economic Outlook: ‘It’s encouraging to see that our economy continues to be stable’ TriMet takes steps to enforce Oregon’s new drug possession law on public transit
October Constituent Coffee | I will be hosting a constituent coffee on October 12th from 9:00 am-10:30 am at Insomnia Coffee located at 5389 E Main Street Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 |
I look forward to connecting on issues that are important to you and your families as we prep for the 2025 Legislative Session. I hope you will stop by, say hello, and join me for a cup of coffee.
Don’t forget to contact my office with any questions or feedback. During the interim, our office in Salem is not staffed. Your best way to connect with us is via email: Rep.NathanSosa@oregonlegislature.gov Take care! 
Capitol Phone: 503-986-1430
Capitol Address: 900 Court St. NE, H-280, Salem, Oregon 97301 | 
