Homelessness:

Commissioner Ryan has already built seven Safe Rest Villages, exceeding his promise. However, he acknowledges that more needs to be done. He pledges not to stop until there is shelter and services for everyone suffering on the streets. Ryan emphasizes the success of Safe Rest Villages in providing safe and stable temporary shelters with comprehensive services, and is proud it has become the regional model.

Housing:

Housing continues to be a need, and as a Councill, we must continue to remove barriers that slow building down. Ryan is committed to implementing strategic policies and streamlining processes to accelerate housing production in Portland, ensuring accessible and affordable homes for our community.

Public Safety:

Ryan admits that the idea of defunding the police was a mistake, and he will continue to advocate the need for police while emphasizing the possibility of changing the culture of the police force. 

Ryan also criticizes the failed roll-out of Measure 110 and proposes reforming Measure 110 without considering it a war on drugs, drawing from my personal experience with addiction. 

Permitting:

As the first city commissioner to streamline permitting by unifying eight bureaus, Commissioner Ryan highlights the improvements achieved under his watch. Real-time data and measurable goals led to a 35% reduction in wait times, translating to faster permits, less frustration, and lower costs. There is more work to be done to provide better service to Portlanders.

Downtown & Neighborhood Main Streets:

While downtown isn't part of his new district, Commissioner Ryan views it as a shared responsibility of the entire city government. He emphasizes the importance of downtown Portland to the regional economy and pledges to support small businesses on neighborhood main streets, focusing on their resilience during challenging times.

Kids and Education:

Commissioner Ryan has led the campaign to renew the Portland Children's Levy, securing support for education and after-school programs. His commitment to economically mobile children and youth aims to stop the decline in family population and school enrollment.

Arts, Music, Sports - Entertainment:

Ryan advocates for supporting residential arts, music, and sports organizations to activate and sustain the city's economy. He envisions a robust arts and entertainment ecosystem that defines the Portland we want to be.

Neighborhoods and Parks:

Commissioner Ryan prioritized neighborhood associations and ensured their importance in the new form of government. He plans to build a stable funding model for much-needed deferred maintenance in parks, bringing communities joy, pride, and better health.

Stability & Thoughtful Collaboration:

As the only current council member seeking election to the newly constituted Portland City government, Commissioner Ryan pledges to bring his results-focused work ethic to the team. He aims to help new members acclimate to pressing issues and actively engage with neighborhoods to achieve city-wide results.