City Council debates Portland Loo restroom model amid hygiene and crime concerns

The City Council of Anacortes convened on May 5, 2025, to discuss the potential replacement of public restrooms, focusing on the controversial "Portland Loo" model. Council members expressed a range of opinions regarding the effectiveness and practicality of this design in addressing issues of cleanliness, privacy, and community safety.

One council member raised concerns about the sanitation of existing Portland Loos, citing personal experiences that highlighted their lack of cleanliness. They questioned whether switching to this model would truly reduce vandalism or improve hygiene, suggesting that it might still result in unsanitary conditions. The member also noted that the design offers less privacy, which could be problematic for users, particularly families with small children.

Another significant point of discussion was the lack of concrete evidence supporting claims that Portland Loos effectively reduce crime and drug use. The council member referenced anecdotal reports from other cities, such as San Diego and Austin, where the installation of similar facilities did not lead to the anticipated improvements and, in some cases, resulted in increased loitering and drug-related activities.

Financial considerations were also a key topic. The council has a budget of $1 million allocated for restroom replacement, with estimates suggesting that a CXT unit would cost around $175,000. However, the cost of implementing Portland Loos remains uncertain, raising questions about the allocation of any remaining funds if expenses exceed initial projections.

City officials acknowledged the challenges associated with public restrooms, including maintenance and cleanliness. They noted that while the current CXT units have performed well, the council is open to exploring alternative designs if the community desires a shift in restroom philosophy.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the complexities involved in providing public restrooms and a commitment to further discussion on the best approach moving forward. The council aims to balance community needs with practical solutions to ensure safe and sanitary facilities for all residents and visitors.