Wheeler, Ted
Since 2017, Wheeler has served as Portland’s mayor. Jan. 1 marks the conclusion of his term.
When I think back on my two terms as mayor of Portland, I’m impressed by how much potential the city has ahead of it. This marks the start of something revolutionary rather than merely the end of an age. Over the last eight years, we have been navigating previously unheard-of issues and developing the systems and tools necessary to meet them head-on. With a new mayor and city council in charge, the emphasis now needs to be on the future: taking advantage of this opportunity to create a Portland that is safer, more just, and more energetic.
Portland is about to undergo a major transformation. The city is in a better position than ever to handle its most urgent issues thanks to the switch to district-based council representation and a revised governance framework. Leadership will be empowered to deliver on the things that Portlanders care about most thanks to this new framework’s clarity and accountability.
There are still many obstacles to overcome. Although they are complicated, concerns like homelessness, public safety, economic recovery, and livability are not intractable. The foundation has been established. Initiatives like Portland Street Response and Portland Solutions, the recently established city organization in charge of our homelessness and livability initiatives, have already demonstrated what can be achieved through creativity and teamwork. Now is the time to build on these achievements, improve what works, and produce outcomes that actually improve people’s lives.
I would advise Mayor-elect Keith Wilson and the new City Council to boldly embrace the future while maintaining the momentum we have already established. Continue as is. Built on the principles that make Portland special—equity, inventiveness, and compassion—the existing partnerships and programs are producing results.
Your efforts must continue to be centered on public safety. We have reconstructed the Portland Police Bureau in the last two years, adding more than 200 sworn officers and implementing cutting-edge initiatives like the Public Safety Support Specialist Program to effectively and compassionately handle non-violent emergencies. Crime has decreased in almost every area. According to police bureau data, there has been a nearly 50% decrease in auto theft, a 40% decrease in vandalism, and a 30% decrease in overall shooting occurrences during the past three years. Although our city is now safer thanks to these measures, more has to be done to restore confidence and guarantee safety in every community.
This generation will continue to be defined by the problem of homelessness. Under the auspices of Portland Solutions, the city of Portland is now running almost 900 shelter apartments for the first time. This includes the City Outreach Team, the Street resources Coordination Center, and the City Shelters Program, which collectively offer a compassionate and well-coordinated method of assisting thousands of individuals in stabilizing and gaining access to shelter, resources, and housing paths. The next step is to intensify these initiatives and make sure they continue to be robust, well-resourced, and committed to provide compassionate care to the most vulnerable citizens of our city. This work is having an impact, and it needs to be carried out with determination and urgency.
Portland’s future depends on its continued livability. Initiatives like the Public Environment Management Office, which deals with trash and graffiti, have demonstrated the effectiveness of modest but persistent work by clearing more than 900,000 square feet of graffiti, enhancing public areas, and reviving iconic sites like the Chinatown Gate. Restoring pride in our city and establishing areas where community can flourish are the goals of these initiatives, which go beyond simple aesthetics.
All of this activity is propelled by economic growth. The future of Portland’s economy is reflected in initiatives like Prosper Portland’s Advance Portland strategy and significant public and private redevelopment projects like the Broadway Corridor, Albina Vision Trust, and the proposed James Beard Public Market. All Portlanders will gain from the jobs, housing, and opportunities that these investments will generate.
There is a once-in-a-century chance to do things differently with this new form of government. Take advantage of it. Establish trusting bonds inside the new system, speak openly with the public, and remain committed to producing significant outcomes. Although there may be challenges along the way, the foundation and resources for success are already in place.
Portlanders, have faith in this city. It’s time to embrace our greatness and quit questioning our abilities. The ingenuity, tenacity, and resolve that characterize Portland will lead us into a safer, cleaner, and more prosperous future for all. Your opinions will continue to influence this city, so stay involved, maintain your optimism, and hold the leadership responsible for the audacious goal we all share.
I am full of hope as I leave the office. The greatest times in Portland’s history are still to come. The possibilities for advancement are endless, and the next chapter is only getting started. Let’s continue on our current path, cooperate, and make sure Portland has the best possible future.
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