In a recent Multnomah County meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns about public safety, homelessness, and the effectiveness of local government responses. The atmosphere was charged as residents from the Stadium neighborhood, including David Gray, shared their frustrations and called for immediate action from elected officials.

Gray, yielding his time to fellow resident Karen Chiray, emphasized the need for decisive policies that prioritize public safety and sanitation. He urged county leaders to engage directly with constituents, stating, “Come walk our neighborhood and see what we are dealing with.” His plea highlighted a growing sentiment among residents that their voices are not being heard, particularly regarding the challenges posed by homelessness and drug addiction.

Chiray echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment in the county's current approach to public health and safety. She criticized the lack of accountability and transparency in local governance, urging officials to listen to the community's needs. “The homeless people don’t vote for you. We do,” she reminded the commissioners, reinforcing the idea that elected officials must prioritize the concerns of their constituents.

The meeting also featured comments from Pete Kult, who raised questions about the effectiveness of harm reduction strategies, such as needle exchanges. He called for more data to assess whether these programs are truly beneficial. Kult further suggested a radical restructuring of local governance, proposing that Portland separate from Multnomah County to better address the unique challenges faced by the city.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of the discussions underscored a community grappling with complex issues. Residents expressed a desire for collaboration and innovative solutions to restore the livability of their neighborhoods. The call for action was clear: local leaders must step out of their offices and engage with the realities faced by their constituents to create a safer, cleaner, and more welcoming Multnomah County.