DA claims Multnomah Co. chair's budget cuts public safety in favor of homeless services

Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson proposed a $4 billion budget that includes cuts to several departments, drawing sharp criticism from District Attorney Nathan Vasquez. Vasquez asserts that the cuts to his office are deeper than the reported 3%, claiming they actually reflect a 5% reduction due to "creative accounting" practices. The county's budget deficit results from lower-than-expected revenue from a high-income earners tax, which previously funded various services. In response to rising homelessness, Vega Pederson shifted nearly $30 million in general fund dollars to the homeless services department, which will still face a 22% cut. She maintains that public safety remains a priority, with no cuts to the Sheriff’s Office and minimal reductions to the DA's budget.

The proposed budget must undergo review by the full commission, with public comments allowed before finalization in early June. Vasquez criticized the reallocation of funds, stating it undermines public safety. The budget year begins on July 1 and extends until June 30, 2026.