Revitalize Portland Coalition, in conjunction with NAIOP Oregon as co-organizers hosted a public safety-focused panel discussion on Tuesday, March 5th at the Armory in downtown Portland. Even though we had some last minute panel lineup changes, the room was packed with people.
It was inspiring to see so many people come out for this topic! You can view the entire forum thanks to KOIN 6 News & enjoy event photos below.
RPC issued this Media Statement regarding the planning of the forum and the refusal of the incumbent Multnomah County District Attorney to participate.
KOIN 6 News reporter Lisa Balick moderated the panel of local leaders, which included:
Portland Chief of Police Bob Day
Portland City Commissioner Rene Gonzalez
Multnomah County Commissioner Sharon Meieran
See what attendees said about the event:
"I returned to this role for many reasons, not the least of which is the broad community support for a safer city. The police can not do it alone, and I am encouraged every day by the diverse groups of Portlanders who ask me, "How can we help?" James Baldwin said, "Not everything we face can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." We are facing complex issues and making changes for the better a little each day." - Chief Bob Day, Portland Police Bureau
"The venue was buzzing with fellow Portlanders eager to delve into the pressing issues surrounding public safety in our neighborhoods."
- Emily Foltz, JHC
"It was an insightful session that shed light on the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. I am excited to see what the future holds for our beloved city and am looking forward to being a part of its growth." - Sky Wolfe, USI
This forum was intended to guide our members and the public on an exploration of the current state of crime and safety in our tri-county region, and in Portland, specifically. A big thank you to our expert moderator, Lisa Balick from KOIN News & our engaged panelists Portland Police Bureau Chief Bob Day, Portland City Commissioner Rene Gonzalez & Multnomah County Commissioner Sharon Meieran.
RPC would like to thank our partners in co-organizing the event: NAIOP Oregon, particularly Evan Lenneberg & Zach Kersten. Thanks to RPC board members Jose Cienfuegos, Kara Unger, & Evan Bernstein for making this happen. Thank you to KOIN 6 News & their expert News Director Rich Kurz for co-producing and providing the live stream of the event. We also thank our sponsors Pacific Echelon Protective Services. Last but not least, we'd like to thank all the staff at Portland Center Stage at The Armory, for a perfect convening space and for your warm hospitality in the heart of the Pearl District!
