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Portland officials say city has "run out of tools" to address downtown homelessness; call for county, state help
Summary
City leaders and councilors described sustained efforts — expanded shelters, outreach and policing — but said local resources have been exhausted and urged residents to press county and state authorities for support.
Portland city leaders told residents at a council meeting that the city has expanded shelter capacity and behavioral‑health outreach but lacks the legal and fiscal tools to solve persistent street homelessness and related public‑safety concerns downtown.
The mayor said the city has increased outreach and enforcement while adding shelter and behavioral‑health staff, but “we are at the end of our toolbox,” and “we don't have any more money,” calling on the county and state for help. The mayor also urged residents to “help us push up” by pressuring county and state officials for resources and policy changes.
Councilors…
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