City Council Mulling 4.3 Million Cut From Homeless Sweeps Budget

On November 7, Portland City Councilor Angelita Morillo proposed an amendment to cut over $4. 3 million from the city's homeless encampment removal budget. Instead, the funds would support housing, food assistance, and immigrant services amid rising financial pressures on residents. Morillo emphasized the urgency of local action in light of potential federal cuts to SNAP benefits. The proposal reallocates $1.

5 million in community grants and includes an additional $500,000 for East Portland's public safety infrastructure. The Impact Reduction Program, which has been a focal point of the city's homelessness strategy, must maintain a minimum budget of $10 million this year due to a 2022 lawsuit settlement. This settlement requires the city to prioritize encampment sweeps that obstruct public rights of way. Mayor Keith Wilson recently resumed enforcement of rules governing homeless residents in public spaces, aiming to connect individuals with shelter and services. The proposed amendment reflects a significant shift in the city's approach to homelessness and its funding priorities.