Beaverton, Who Are We?

One of the things I love most about Beaverton is that there is no single way to describe who we are.

We are a city of families who have lived here for generations and families who just arrived. We are a city of small businesses, neighborhood parks, school communities, faith communities, artists, volunteers, public servants, and people who bring traditions from all over the world into our shared civic life.

You can see that especially clearly in the summer.

In Beaverton, summer is not just about good weather. It is when our community becomes more visible to itself. We see each other at concerts, markets, neighborhood gatherings, library programs, parks, splash pads, and community celebrations. We hear different languages. We try new foods. We run into people we know and meet people we might not have met otherwise.

Those moments matter.

A strong city is not only measured by roads, buildings, budgets, or services, though all of those things matter too. A strong city is also measured by whether people feel connected to the place they live and to the people around them.

That connection does not happen by accident.

It grows when we make time for one another. It grows when we stay curious. It grows when we welcome new neighbors and honor the people who helped shape Beaverton long before us.

This month, I hope you find a few chances to experience Beaverton in that way. Attend the Night Market on August 8. Visit a local business you have not tried before. Spend time in a park. Say hello to someone new.

The best parts of Beaverton are not hidden. They are all around us, and they are created every day by the people who call this city home.

—Lacey

Lacey Beaty was re-elected Mayor of Beaverton in 2024. Prior to serving as Mayor, she served for six years on the Beaverton City Council.