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Dear Portlander,

The summer months historically see a tragic surge in gun violence in Portland and across the nation. In order to effectively help address the problem at-scale, we must take coordinated action with experts and the local community to ensure that we’re better prepared to address the summer months and beyond.

Here’s my plan:

  1. I’m moving city-led offices that work to address gun violence under the Community Safety Division. This will align the Office of Violence Prevention and Crime Prevention together under one roof.

  2. I'm announcing a ceasefire team, a newly assembled group of professionals with a wide range of experience in strategic violence prevention. This group has hands-on experience addressing violence locally and internationally.

  3. This partnership connects local professionals with a global expert to bring a fresh perspective on these issues and sets the foundation for an upcoming Emergency Declaration focused on reducing gun violence.

Portland mayor announces ‘Safer Summer PDX’ initiative to curb gun violence

Watch: KPTV FOX 12 “Portland mayor announces ‘Safer Summer PDX’ initiative to curb gun violence”

These actions build upon my recent investments to refocus, reform, and re-staff Portland’s community safety network, which includes:

  • Expanding 311’s hours to 24/7 coverage and expanding staffing to reduce 911 wait times.

  • Diversifying our types of responders by fully funding Portland Street Responses’ 24/7 citywide expansion and expanding the park ranger program.

  • Increasing funding for community-led policing and accountability via the Portland Committee on Community-Engaged Policing (PCCEP), implementing body worn cameras and staffing for the Focused Intervention Team Community Oversight Group (FITCOG).

  • Continuing to recruit officers and staff for the Portland Police Bureau and also increasing the number of permanent unarmed Public Safety Specialists (PS3) positions.

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I am proud to welcome this distinguished team of professionals who combine global expertise with a wide range of local experience. Together, we will continue to work to save lives and make for a safer Portland.

Sincerely,

Ted Wheeler