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Fighting to save parks, public safety, and core services for Portlanders
Together, we fought to save as many front line positions as possible in parks, public safety, and across the city that deliver core services that Portlanders rely on every day.
Throughout the FY 2026-27 budget process, many councilors, unions, and residents expressed concern about the Mayor's proposed cuts to critical positions and services.
Since the release of the Mayor's proposed budget in the springtime, we fought to restore frontline services eliminated in the Mayor's FY 2026-27 budget and ensure future workforce reductions are supported by transparent analysis and public accountability. I joined fellow councilors to introduce multiple budget amendments and compromises, including the latest Save Our Services supplemental budget ordinance.
Unfortunately, opposing councilors rejected our comprehensive packages that sought to minimize disruptions to city services, including our final attempt through the Save Our Services ordinance before the layoff deadline. On Wednesday July 22nd, Save Our Services failed on a 6 – 7 vote (including a mayor tie-break against it).
After our ordinance failed, there was no other opportunity to save these services for Portlanders, so I voted to support the competing ordinance. This restores 30 jobs instead of 55. This fell far short of my expectations, but it was the last attempt to minimize harm.
The 25 positions we weren't able to restore represent years of experience and decades of hard work on behalf of Portlanders. These terminations mean extended closures of pools and community centers, thousands of unmaintained acres of Park property, slower responses. We're cutting trainers, recruiters, and internship pipelines to fund "efficiency," making future hiring slower and more expensive.
The Save Our Services ordinance had more capability that it preserved for the City of Portland. It's a huge slap in the face to Portlanders who just approved a Parks Levy to cut parks maintenance, and the competing ordinance does validate deep cuts in the Parks Bureau, full stop. Many councilors decided they are not comfortable using money that we have available, and that's a choice.
I do want to note that last week Council passed an amendment to strike any reference to the Office of Community Based Police Accountability in the competing ordinance, though we must remain attentive and ready to ensure this is carried out by the Mayor and the administration.
While this wasn't the outcome Portlanders deserved, I am glad that we were able to prevent some cuts to jobs and services. I am grateful to everyone who's stuck with us, and to every single worker for their service to the City we love.
Thank you to the Portlanders and workers who have spoken up and reached out to their councilors through this often-frustrating budget process.
Our fight is not over. I will continue to do everything in my power to deliver on the services and resources Portlanders expect and deserve. If you would like to hear more of my thoughts on the budget process, I hope you will join me on Tuesday, July 28th for a conversation with Commissioner Moyer (see below for details).
Join me on Tuesday for City, County, Coffee with Commissioner Moyer
We're just a couple days away from our constituent event next Tuesday July 28th, and this is one you won't want to miss. I'm joining Multnomah County Commissioner Meghan Moyer for a forum about what's happening in our districts (think Moda, budgets, city and county services) at Bold Coffee & Books, a cozy coffee shop nestled in the Goose Hollow neighborhood.
If you're not already familiar with Commissioner Moyer, she represents Multnomah County District 1 and is, "a social services policy expert with 20 years of experience in creating policies that respect the dignity and well-being of our citizens and serve the most vulnerable in our communities."
Our districts overlap, so I'm excited to dive into a conversation with the Commissioner and you about our shared priorities. ASL interpreters will also be joining us.
Please RSVP so we have an idea of how many people to expect, I hope to see you there.
Pride weekend and e-bike world record is broken
This weekend was iconic in more ways than one – not only was its Portland's annual Pride parade and celebration, but we broke a Guiness World Record for the largest e-bike party and ride in the world.
In celebration of Bike Town's 10th birthday, 1,060 Portlanders gathered at the Waterfront Park for a slow and celebratory ride, surpassing Seattle's previous title by more than 600 people. The sun came out just as riders crossed the starting line and were able to enjoy the two-mile scenic loop.
Didn't make it out? No worries, there are many other fun and family friendly opportunities to hop on a bike and enjoy the sunshine.
Upcoming bike events:
- North Portland Sunday Parkways (August 2)
- City Bike Bus (August 26)
- Shift's Bike Summer (Pedalpalooza) ride calendar (rides run through the end of August)
Bike programs and resources to keep the fun going:
Walk with District 4 Councilors
Live in District 4 (NW/SW and Eastmoreland) in Portland? You're invited to join myself, Vice President Olivia Clark and Councilor Eric Zimmerman for a walk hosted by Oregon Walks on July 16th.
Connect and discuss ideas for walking & rolling, RSVP today by emailing info@oregonwalks.org
Opportunities to engage
Summer Free for All is in full swing
Summer Free For All builds community through free, inclusive, and family-friendly activities that celebrate Portland's diverse cultures and local artists.
There are many chances to still enjoy a movie or concert across the city. On Friday, July 31st enjoy Story & Tune, an eclectic harmony, deeply rooted in traditional folk/Americana storytelling at Spring Garden Park in southwest.
Portland is planting 8,500 trees – this is how you can participate
A greener and cooler Portland starts with you - apply for your free tree today. Whether you are a Portland renter, homeowner, business owner, or educator, we have free trees for you.
A Portland Parks team member will visit your property to evaluate the space and mark planting spots. They'll handle the planting the following winter and the watering for the next three years—free of charge.
Tree planting is funded by the Portland Clean Energy Fund (PCEF). PCEF funds are generated through a 1% surcharge on billion-dollar corporations (not your paychecks)! Community members and voters made this possible.
Comment period is open for the detention facility impact fee
Portlanders are demanding that we take action to protect our communities from our authoritarian Federal government. I introduced The Detention Facility Impact Fee alongside Councilor Morillo in 2025 with this urgency in mind.
The City of Portland incurs significant costs when detention facilities operate within city limits, including police overtime, traffic management, fire and emergency medical responses, and environmental remediation. The Detention Facility Fee creates an annual impact fee levied on private property owners who lease or permit their property to be used as detention facilities.
Council adopted this impact fee in December of 2025, and now there is an important opportunity for you to weigh in.
The proposed policy sets processes and fines related to the release of chemical residues or other substances beyond a detention facility's premises. Written comments are welcome through Sunday, July 26.
Give public comment on detention impact fee
Free tool libraries
Did you know Portland has six free tool libraries? Whether you're tackling a home repair, starting a garden project, or trying a new DIY skill, you can borrow the tools you need at no cost.