In his inaugural State of the City address, Mayor Keith Wilson outlined a forward-looking vision for Portland as a city committed to rebuilding infrastructure, revitalizing our economy, restoring public safety, and providing compassionate solutions to homelessness.
Wilson’s address set the stage for a challenging yet purposeful budget proposal to be unveiled on Monday and called upon every resident and partner to unite in creating Portland's renaissance.
Expanding Housing and Revitalizing Portland’s Economy
Gov. Tina Kotek and Wilson recently announced the 5,000-Unit Challenge, a bold initiative aimed at accelerating housing construction in Portland. This partnership seeks to remove bureaucratic barriers and streamline development, ensuring that more housing becomes available to all Portlanders
Reflecting on the devastation of Jan. 3, 2024, when a fire decimated the historic Mercado — a former hub for local jobs and communal gatherings — Wilson recalled, “Restoring the Mercado was a formidable challenge, but one we embraced with unwavering determination.” In partnership with Hacienda CDC and with strategic funding from Prosper Portland, the Mercado is slated to reopen next year, even as food carts continue to serve the community amid reconstruction.
Adding to this momentum is the eagerly awaited James Beard Public Market, poised to become an economic catalyst hosting nearly 40 businesses as part of a larger downtown revitalization. Wilson also celebrated a host of innovative local initiatives and collaborations that underscore the city’s industry resilience and creative spirit.
Strengthening Public Safety and Community Trust
Wilson emphasized that a secure city is built on visible action and sustained trust. He outlined transformative measures aimed at reinforcing public safety and accountability, including:
- Enhanced Response and Service: An investment of $1 million will expand the Portland Street Response team with 14 new positions, along with reinforced support for the Public Environment Management Office to address graffiti, illegal dumping, and abandoned vehicles.
- Rebuilding Law Enforcement Capacity: Increased funding for the Portland Police Bureau will restore critical staffing levels needed to combat human trafficking and violent crime. Meanwhile, continued support for the Office of Violence Prevention and Ceasefire has already contributed to a dramatic year-over-year reduction in homicide rates.
Addressing the Homelessness Crisis with a Comprehensive Approach
With nearly 7,000 individuals unsheltered and 456 street-related deaths recorded in 2023, Wilson’s address was both urgent and compassionate. He unveiled a fully funded blueprint — backed by external resources — to end unsheltered homelessness in Portland. Key initiatives include:
- Expanding Emergency Shelter Capacity: The Mayor’s plan ensures that every Portlander will have access to a safe bed by Dec. 1, with a clear deadline in 213 days. Two new shelters have been announced, along with plans to gain capacity at the downtown SAFES Shelter, thus expanding the City's system by 230 additional beds.
- Collaborative Partnerships: Recognizing that no single entity can resolve this crisis alone, Wilson called upon state agencies, regional partners, and local nonprofits to share the investment responsibility and work together to restore dignity and quality of life on our streets.
- Reunification Program: The mayor highlighted the City’s Reunification Program designed to rapidly reunite Portlanders with their loved ones and support networks — a key step toward long-term stability and community healing. Eight people have been connected to their families since the beginning of this year. Mayor Wilson recognized Nate Takara of Portland Solutions, a key figure in the City’s Reunification Program. “When someone is ready to be reunited with a loved one, Nate Takara is often the one who takes the call,” Wilson said.
A Balanced Approach to Fiscal Responsibility and Workforce Investment
Facing fiscal challenges head-on, Wilson introduced a balanced and forward-thinking city budget designed to maximize every dollar while recalibrating resource allocation across city bureaus.
“Every dollar spent is a commitment to our families, our schools, and our neighborhoods,” he remarked.
Although staff reductions are needed amid current financial pressures, these decisions will be executed with purpose and pragmatism. Wilson thanked affected employees, expressing sincere thanks to leadership figures like President Kari Koch of the City of Portland Professional Workers union for their guidance.
Forging Strong Partnerships and Looking Ahead with Optimism
Concluding his address, Wilson extended heartfelt thanks to the state legislature, whose active engagement through shelter tours, home visits, and personal dialogues has reinforced a shared commitment to Portland’s future. He also expressed deep gratitude to Kotek for her steadfast support during critical initiatives aimed at confronting homelessness and revitalizing the local economy.
You can watch the Mayor's full address here: