Portland city leaders are expressing frustration over the limitations they face in addressing the drug and homeless crises in the city and are now urging legislators to take action. Mayor Ted Wheeler and other officials argue that state laws and court rulings have hindered their efforts to clean up the streets and provide necessary services to those affected by addiction and homelessness.
The Portland City Council has passed two ordinances in the past year aimed at tackling drug use and homeless camps, but both have faced obstacles. An ordinance banning public drug use was unanimously approved in September, but it cannot be enforced until state lawmakers pass legislation granting the city the authority to do so. Commissioner Mingus Mapps criticized the situation, pointing out that the city can regulate where people smoke cigarettes but lacks the ability to regulate where fentanyl is used.
Furthermore, an ordinance passed last June to prevent people from blocking access to businesses and sidewalks with tents was met with a lawsuit from the Oregon Law Center, which argued that the restrictions violated existing laws. A circuit court judge subsequently blocked the city from enforcing the ban. Commissioner Dan Ryan emphasized the need to provide services for people on the streets during the day and to ensure public spaces are accessible.
The upcoming legislative session in Oregon, set to begin on February 5, will focus on reforming Measure 110, a voter-approved law that decriminalized possession of small amounts of all drugs. The current system allows offenders to receive a $100 citation, which can be waived if they complete a treatment assessment. However, this approach has not been effective in curbing drug use and overdoses, particularly in areas like Portland. Several polls indicate that Oregonians support re-criminalizing hard drugs and making treatment mandatory.
Lawmakers on the Democrat-controlled Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response have proposed making drug possession a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by up to 30 days in jail and a $1,250 fine. Oregon Republicans, on the other hand, want to classify possession of drugs like fentanyl, heroin, and meth as a Class A misdemeanor, carrying a potential sentence of up to a year in jail and a $6,250 fine. The special session will provide lawmakers with just 35 days to reach an agreement.
Mayor Wheeler emphasized the need for collaboration between the city, state government, and county government to address the issues facing Portland. He called on Governor Tina Kotek and other political players to align their views with those of the city council in order to bring about meaningful change. Despite the challenges, the mayor expressed optimism about the progress made in terms of public safety and livability, citing decreases in homicides, shootings, assaults, and car thefts.
While staffing shortages continue to impact the Portland Police Bureau, the city council has funded private sector security in key areas. Mayor Wheeler highlighted the efforts to hire more police officers, expand patrols, and reinstate foot patrols in the central city.
Portland’s city leaders are determined to find solutions to the drug and homeless crises, even if it means working around existing limitations. They are hopeful that legislators will recognize the urgency of the situation and work towards a collaborative approach that prioritizes the well-being of the community.
