The Multnomah County Regular Meeting on November 14, 2024, featured a range of discussions, with a focus on public safety and community concerns. The meeting included remarks from various community members, highlighting issues related to local activism and health risks.

One of the most notable contributions came from Jared Esig Benoit, who addressed the designation of the San Madoon Palestinian Prisoner Solidarity Network as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. and Canadian governments. Benoit emphasized the group's alleged connections to the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), which has been labeled a terrorist organization by the U.S. since the late 1990s. He expressed concerns about the group's activities in Portland, linking them to broader issues of crime and public safety in the city.

Benoit also referenced recent protests and actions taken by local activists, suggesting that these events have contributed to a decline in community safety and business viability. He called for stronger leadership and a formal declaration regarding these issues from the county commissioners.

In addition to Benoit's remarks, Melanie Plaut, a retired medical doctor, raised concerns about health risks associated with the CEI Hub, a facility in the area. She echoed sentiments shared by Commissioner Brim Edwards, stressing the importance of addressing public health issues and the dangers of neglecting them.

The meeting underscored ongoing tensions in the community regarding safety, activism, and health, reflecting a complex landscape that local leaders will need to navigate in the coming months. As discussions continue, the county's response to these pressing issues will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders alike.