PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Metro Chamber is urging residents and business stakeholders to testify on May 18 regarding proposed amendments to the City of Portland budget, warning that changes under consideration could affect funding for downtown activation efforts, public safety services, and shelter programs.
In a message circulated to members on May 18, the Chamber responded to a series of budget amendments introduced by members of the Portland City Council, including proposals that would reduce or redirect funding tied to downtown marketing initiatives and homelessness-related services.
The Chamber characterized the council process as compressed and urged public participation during the final stages of budget deliberations, encouraging both in-person and written testimony.
Downtown funding proposal draws opposition
One of the amendments highlighted by the Chamber was introduced by Council President Mingus Mapps Dunphy, which would eliminate funding for the city’s Downtown Marketing Initiative. The program supports seasonal events and promotional campaigns intended to increase foot traffic and support local businesses in the central city.
According to the Chamber, the initiative has contributed to downtown recovery efforts through events and activations designed to attract visitors and support economic activity. The organization warned that reducing funding could slow momentum in the area’s post-pandemic recovery.
Shelter policy amendment raises concerns
The Chamber also opposed an amendment attributed to Councilor Candace Green, which would shift the city’s approach to certain shelter operations. The Chamber argued that autonomous or self-governed shelter models have previously faced operational challenges and emphasized the need for structured services addressing behavioral health and substance use.
City officials and policy advocates remain divided on the most effective models for addressing homelessness, with ongoing debate over funding allocation and service design.
Support for public safety funding restoration
In contrast, the Chamber voiced support for an amendment from Councilor Eric Clark that would restore funding for several public safety-related programs, including fire and rescue staffing, emergency response resources, and victim services.
The proposal reportedly reallocates existing general fund dollars without increasing overall spending, with the goal of maintaining core emergency and public safety capacity across the city.
Additional workforce and education funding
The Chamber also supported an amendment from Councilor Renee Smith that would increase funding for workforce development programming aimed at communities impacted by cannabis prohibition, financed through adjustments to the city’s Cannabis Tax Contingency Fund.
Public testimony encouraged
The Chamber is encouraging residents, business owners, and community members to engage in the budget process by submitting testimony during the council’s amendment review period. It emphasized that decisions made during the budget process will have long-term implications for downtown recovery, public safety services, and social programs across the city.
City officials are expected to continue deliberations on the proposed amendments before final adoption of the upcoming fiscal year budget.
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