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This past month has reminded me what it means to serve, both in the streets and in the community.
One day, our City is standing up in Federal Court against an overreaching administration determined to send troops into our neighborhoods. The next day, we’re collaborating with our neighbors in Gateway on ideas for economic development, grocery stores, and community spaces. These seemingly unrelated moments come down to the same thing: Portlanders taking care of each other, standing up for our values, and shaping the future of our city together.
Let me start with the latest updates on the courts and our efforts to keep the National Guard out of Portland. The 9th Circuit Court has temporarily suspended their ruling on the National Guard's deployment to Portland while they assess if a larger panel of judges should rehear the case in a process called "en banc" review. This is just one step in the legal process, and we’re prepared to use every tool available to protect Portland from unnecessary and unlawful federal intervention. The Trump administration’s effort to deploy the National Guard is not only a waste of taxpayer dollars, but it’s also based on false claims about our city. Portland is not “at war.” Portland is a community that shows up for one another, peacefully and powerfully, every single day.
Our position remains firm. We will continue making the case that this kind of federal overreach has no place in our city. Courts can move slowly, but they remain one of the best venues we have to hold power accountable and to make sure Portlanders’ rights and voices are protected.
At our Gateway Townhall earlier this month with Councilor Avalos, East Portland residents made their voices loud and clear.Over 150 neighbors came together to share ideas for the future of the Gateway District. We outlined a possible community-led Gateway Town Center that fills the void left by closing of Fred Meyer. Folks want sidewalks and safer streets that actually connect families to schools and parks, and accessible grocery stores that end the food desert east of I-205.
Many people also called for an ongoing structure for community input in development decisions, and I couldn’t agree more. They proposed creative, community-driven ideas for growth, like social housing, family-friendly mixed-use spaces, a new East Portland community center, even a “City Hall East” to make local government more accessible.
These are not small dreams. They’re the blueprint for a stronger, more connected city.
So as we continue pushing back against federal overreach in the courts, we’re also pushing forward local policies that come from the community up, not the top down.
In the weeks ahead, all three of your District 1 Councilors (Avalos, Dunphy, Smith) will be working with partners at Prosper Portland, PBOT, TriMet, and across City Hall to make sure the energy and ideas from Gateway turn into real next steps.
That’s what my understanding of Portland is about. It’s neighbors caring for neighbors, standing up for what’s right, and a city that still believes democracy works best when everyone has a seat at the table.
 Report Problems Near the ICE Facility
I’ve been hearing from a lot of neighbors with concerns about ICE activity in our community. I hear you, and I share your frustration.
We know that the presence of federal law enforcement has caused fear and harm for many Portlanders, especially our immigrant and refugee communities.
That’s why the City has built a webpage to make it easier to report concerns. It also connects you with resources for legal support and guidance on how to file formal complaints against the Portland Police Bureau and the Department of Homeland Security.
Our community’s safety depends on transparency and accountability. That starts with making sure every Portlander has access to clear reporting tools for when something isn’t right.
Together, we can keep pushing for a city where everyone feels protected, respected, and at home.
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