‘Opinion: Councilors insult everyone working to deal with Portland encampments’
Beginning an op-ed (Sweeping encampments is antiquated, inhumane), as Portland City Councilors Victoria Pelletier and Anna Trevorrow did in these pages on Dec. 27, 2023, with a quote from Confederate General Robert E. Lee, then applied to all of us who oppose the continued presence of homeless encampments on Portland public property, is a slap in the face.
As a retired paralegal from the Portland Office of Corporation Council, Nancy English, shares her frustration and disappointment with Pelletier and Trevorrow in their op-ed piece. She highlights the racist nature of Lee’s judgment and argues that by equating those against homeless encampments with unconscious bias, the councilors are disrespecting the hard work and dedication of everyone trying to address the issue.
English emphasizes the challenges faced by the city and its residents due to the presence of approximately 200 homeless people camping illegally on public property. She mentions the issues of police calls, missing bicycles, trash buildup, and threats to local businesses and individuals. She also addresses the problems related to addiction, overdoses, mental health crises, and sex trafficking that occur within these encampments.
Contrary to the councilors’ viewpoint, English argues that enabling chaos and disorder only worsens the situation. She expresses her support for the rule of law and commends the Portland administration for their efforts to provide shelter, food, counseling, and housing placement assistance to the homeless population. English is grateful for the progress made by the city in addressing the problem of illegal encampments, despite the relentless criticism they face.
In conclusion, English calls for compassion and effective solutions to help those in need, while also recognizing the importance of maintaining order and adhering to the law. She emphasizes the responsibility of residents in addressing the challenges posed by homelessness but highlights the need for a balanced approach that respects the rights and well-being of all individuals involved.
The issue of homeless encampments in Portland continues to be a divisive and complex problem. While the councilors and their supporters believe in a different approach, Nancy English’s perspective sheds light on the impact these encampments have on the residents and the efforts made by the city administration to address the issue. Finding a solution that considers the concerns of all stakeholders remains a priority in moving forward.
