City C ouncilors April Fournier, Former City Councilor Robert Rodriguez and Current Mayor Mark Dion Listen to Testimony Several Years Ago.

This evening the Portland City Council voted 5 – 4 to give Portlander’s a chance to increase the city’s minimum wage on the November ballot.

Those voting in favor of the $19/hour wage were:  April Fournier, Wesley Pelletier, Regina Philips, Anna Bullett and Kate Sykes.

Opponents of the proposal say its passage could force some businesses to lay off employees or even in some cases to close.  Supporters claim that Portland has become so expensive that it is unlivable for many; passage of this measure would make Portland more livable for many.

Mayor Mark Dion voted against the measure.  The vote followed a 2 l/2 hour discussion by the Council.