Amended Budget Approval Underscores Rifts Among Portland City Councilors

The Portland City Council approved an $8. 5 billion budget for 2025-26 after extensive discussions and 126 proposed amendments from councilors. The budget allocates $602 million for the city's public safety bureaus and nearly $25 million for 1,500 homeless shelter beds, reflecting a push to address the city's homelessness crisis. Mayor Keith Wilson's original plan aimed to close a $93 million deficit, proposing increased funding for police while making significant cuts to the permitting department and parks services. The council reduced the proposed increase for the police budget from $4 million to $2 million and preserved 31 jobs in the permitting department using reserve funds.

Amid debates, councilors found some compromises, especially regarding funding for economic development and transportation initiatives. The council also approved amendments aimed at improving oversight of city spending. Public testimony highlighted parks-related concerns, leading to further discussions planned for June 11. Final adoption of the budget is scheduled for June 18, underscoring the ongoing challenges in balancing city finances.