Portland Wants “Boom-Loop” Thinking

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Dear friends, 

We know Portland hasn’t always led the pack in economic development. That’s why we need everyday champions of “boom loop” thinking. Our airport is just the latest example – every visitor and homebound traveler is welcomed with the incredible creativity, innovation, and green leadership that define our region.  

“Boom loop” is a simple, powerful idea. One good governance decision, one local investment, one act of service, or one show of faith in our neighbors encourages others to follow and do the same.  

It’s time for Portland to dream big again. That’s why you’ll see me cheering for the Portland Diamond Project, the groundwork for high-speed rail, projects and new businesses across the city, big and small, and budget priorities that unlock our community’s true economic potential.  

There’s no easy way to say this, but it’s time to shed the last of our “doom loop” thinking. “Doom loop” thinking treats graffiti removal and cleaning our streets like a line item instead of a powerful symbol of how we treat our city, our people, and our guests. “Doom loop” thinking views break-ins, illegal dumping, vandalism, and traffic violence as victimless crimes. “Doom loop” thinking says it’s okay for Portland to slide down the list of best places to visit, move to, build in, start companies, hire workers, or invest. 

We know what we want from Portland. We want a Portland where you can ride in a bike lane without popping a tire, run a shop without replacing windows and guarding tip jars, and public transportation that feels safe and accessible to everyone.  

Our upcoming budget must reflect our priorities and values: safety, livability, equity, and an end to the terrible humanitarian crisis on our streets. 

Did you know homeless services can also benefit from “boom loop” thinking? Every night in a warm, safe shelter is another chance for a phone call to a loved one, a chance to say “yes” to substance abuse or wound treatment, and a chance to save a life instead of losing it alone in a tent. 

Getting to the “boom loop” we all want isn’t complex. We need to get the basics right, provide a safe bed for everyone in Portland, enforce our laws on camping and unsafe RVs, and repair, restore, and revitalize the city we love. 

Gratefully,

Mayor Keith Wilson

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