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Downtown business owners tell Multnomah County commissioners security costs threaten storefronts
Summary
Multiple downtown business representatives told the Multnomah County Board that businesses are bearing heavy security costs and regulatory burdens, with some citing recent violent incidents and urging more public safety resources to support economic activity in Portland’s core.
Pete Colton, speaking on behalf of convenience store owner Karen Chiray, told Multnomah County commissioners that downtown Portland proprietors face mounting regulatory and security costs that make operating unsustainable. “A guy pulled a gun on her employee,” Colton said, describing a recent violent incident and urging the board to acknowledge the “immense hardships” felt by businesses.
Two other presenters in the public‑comment period reinforced Colton’s account. Michelle Mila of Stadium Hood said owners are forced to spend scarce operating dollars on surveillance systems, alarm systems and cash‑handling protections, diverting resources from hiring and growth. “By placing that onus of security on businesses, the local government is effectively transferring the responsibility for public safety from the community to the private sector,” Mila said.
Laura Curry, also speaking for Karen Chiray, framed the problem as a failure of public services. Curry warned that persistent security concerns drive closures and job losses and said taxpayers expect local government to maintain safe commercial corridors. “When the county fails to address the security concerns of businesses in Downtown Portland … taxpayers are left to their own devices,” she said.
Commissioners heard the testimony during the board’s non‑agenda public comment period. Commissioners and staff did not take immediate action during the meeting but discussed the need for continued outreach and coordination with city partners and law enforcement during later agenda items.
Why it matters: Downtown businesses contribute to local jobs and tax revenue; owners told the board they are paying privately for security measures that they say should be supported as public safety obligations. County officials acknowledged the concerns and noted they will continue to coordinate with cities and agencies as part of broader public safety and economic strategies.
What’s next: Commissioners took no formal action on the public comments. Related budget, public safety or outreach changes would require staff follow‑up or future agenda items.
