Portland City Council debates $2M police budget increase amid parks maintenance concerns

Portland City Council has taken a significant step towards addressing the maintenance of public parks by approving a balanced amendment that reallocates $2 million from the police budget to parks maintenance. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about public safety and the need for well-maintained community spaces.

During the meeting on May 21, 2025, Councilor Avalos emphasized the importance of maintaining parks as safe gathering places for families, highlighting that well-kept facilities contribute to community safety. He expressed concern over the impact of maintenance cuts, particularly in District 1, where new parks have not even opened yet but are already facing budget reductions. Avalos argued that the amendment would help preserve essential services that ensure parks remain accessible and safe for residents.

The council's discussions revealed a divide among members regarding the implications of reallocating funds from the police budget. Some councilors, like Novick and Ryan, voiced their concerns about the potential negative impact on police operations and public safety services. Chief of Police Bob Day confirmed that any budget cuts would lead to a reduction in police services, which could affect recruitment and ongoing crime reduction initiatives.

Despite the pushback, Avalos and other supporters of the amendment argued that the police budget had sufficient funding, with many vacant positions remaining unfilled. They contended that the amendment would not diminish police effectiveness but rather promote a balanced approach to public safety that includes maintaining community spaces.

The council also discussed the broader implications of funding decisions, with some members suggesting that the Portland Metro Chamber's stance on budget allocations could influence future funding for parks. The conversation highlighted the ongoing challenge of balancing public safety needs with community infrastructure maintenance.

As the council moves forward, the decision to reallocate funds underscores the importance of maintaining public parks while navigating the complexities of public safety funding. The outcome of this amendment is expected to have lasting effects on both community spaces and police operations in Portland.