Suggested cuts to parks and recreation in Northeast Portland had tempers flaring at a city council meeting Tuesday night.
While Mayor Ted Wheeler said no decisions had been made in regards to the latest budgets, which aims to narrow a $6.3 million shortfall, residents were nevertheless enraged over suggestions to close several local community centers and a pool.
“Columbia Pool isn’t just a building to me and my neighborhood,” said one woman. “It’s an opportunity to improve lives for ourselves and our children.”
The Portland NBC affiliate reported that people were heartbroken over the possible closure of Columbia Pool, while others were saddened to learn that the Sellwood Community Center could be shuttered.
Many of those who attended the meeting also participated in a rally beforehand.
“Our community centers are the heart of our community,” said one woman, while Kelsey Owens said the proposed cuts were not “inclusive, equitable or just.”
Wheeler is set to propose his budget in early May. The city council is expected to adopt it a month after that.
