I talked to KOIN about the City's looming budget cuts

https://koin.com/.../mapps-portland-budget-cuts-timing.../

As Portland faces serious budget shortfalls, will need to make some hard decisions to address these challenges head-on. Nearly 400 city jobs could be on the line, and it’s a reality that’s tough for our entire community.

While these cuts won’t take immediate effect, by early next year we’ll need to make strategic changes to keep essential services strong as we move forward. On top of this, Portland’s upcoming government transition brings startup costs, adding to our need for thoughtful, proactive planning.

As mayor, I’ll make it a priority to stabilize our budget while finding new ways to bring revenue into the city. Let’s work together to make sure Portland is financially sound and resilient for the future.

To move Portland forward, both people and businesses need the opportunity to thrive. That’s why my approach includes several critical strategies. First, I’m committed to weeding out redundancy and streamlining our permitting system to accelerate both residential and commercial development, especially around transit corridors and in our business districts.

Public safety is also a cornerstone of this plan. My commitment to bringing in 100 new officers by the end of 2025 will support proactive community policing, ensuring that Portlanders feel safe in their neighborhoods. Tackling homelessness is another top priority—Since I now have the support of a majority of council, I am actively setting a roadmap to rebuild our partnership with the county to promote financial transparency and accountability on outcomes with real, effective services. This will enable cleaner, safer neighborhoods and business districts that can genuinely thrive.

Finally, I’m committed to funding these initiatives by pursuing innovative financial sources, from getting creative in pushing City programs to try to qualify for PCEF dollars to securing new state and federal support. In my time on council, I’ve brought hundreds of millions of dollars into Portland for both small and transformational projects—work I’m ready to continue, supporting new job growth and economic stability over the next decade.

The coming year will demand an experienced leader who is ready to tackle tough budget cycles with a long-term vision. I’m prepared to be that leader.