What my platform stands on:
Brave leadership. Real solutions.
No one needs to tell you how things are falling apart - you just need to look around to see where our institutions are failing all of us, especially failing those who need help the most. And while the City of Portland is trying, even contorting itself to cover much of the work the County is responsible for, it feels like Multnomah County has forgotten what its job is entirely. And it’s not about funding, it’s about using the dollars we have to find real solutions to urgent challenges.
To understand the roles and responsibilities of the City of Portland vs Multnomah County, the City is responsible for the health of the infrastructure (ex: roads, water, permits) and first responders; the County is responsible for the health of the citizens (ex: Oregon Health Plan, SNAP benefits, shelters and affordable housing, addiction services, mental health services). Knowing this, you can probably understand why I’ve decided to run for Multnomah County Commissioner.
01
We must make it easy for people to make the best decision for themselves.
1. Dramatically increase the number of walk-in shelters and create a central database of available shelter beds that can be accessed by the public. No one should have to call every shelter to find a bed when the technology exists to make this easier. Hotels use this kind of system… why can’t shelters?
2. Make it easier to access detox & rehab programs when people are ready and not when it’s too late.
3. Streamline access to mental health care treatment for people in crisis to get treatment now.
02
WE MUST PRIORITIZE THE MOST EFFECTIVE PROGRAMS USING HARD DATA, NOT WISHFUL THINKING, TO DRIVE OUR DECISIONS.
1. Fully fund sobering centers in all four districts of the County
2. Fully fund the Strategic Prosecution Unit
3. Use of SMART Goals for all programs, and demand accountability for every dollar spent and unspent.
03
We must create a system that serves the public, is open to ideas, innovation and feedback.
1. Work with Private Sector to Build Housing Faster, prioritizing supportive housing.
2. Look to what other cities/counties/state do and be open to implementing successful programs from outside of the area
3. Lift up the community members and groups who know their neighborhoods and business districts and know what will work for them.