During the Portland City Council meeting on May 21, 2025, community members passionately voiced their concerns regarding the proposed closure of the Multnomah Arts Center (MAC) and the Community Music Center (CMC). The discussions highlighted the centers' vital roles in fostering community, creativity, and mental well-being, particularly in a city facing budget shortfalls.

Sariah Goh, a registered nurse and long-time resident, emphasized the importance of the MAC as a sanctuary for mental and physical health. She cited evidence from over 3,000 studies that demonstrate the arts' significant role in illness prevention and health promotion. Goh urged the council to consider the negative impact of closing such a vital community resource, which she described as a place for learning, expression, and building friendships.

Sarah Salvi echoed these sentiments, calling the potential closure a "shortsighted idea" that would harm a thriving nonprofit that serves diverse age groups. She highlighted the arts' importance in providing outlets for individuals with mental health challenges, including her own son, who has benefited from the MAC's programs.

Alexandra Beebe, a college student, shared her personal journey with the MAC, describing it as a haven for those who feel marginalized. She recounted how the center helped her build lifelong friendships and provided a supportive environment for youth facing various challenges. Beebe stressed that the council's decision would significantly impact the lives of many young people who rely on the MAC for community and support.

Other speakers, including Samantha Noffler and Martha McCall, reinforced the MAC's role as a cultural hub in Multnomah Village. They pointed out that the facilities are well-maintained and equipped for various artistic disciplines, making it impractical to relocate these resources elsewhere. McCall urged the council to explore solutions to any structural issues rather than resorting to closure.

The meeting underscored a broader conversation about the value of arts and community centers in Portland, particularly in light of national trends that threaten funding and support for the arts. As the council deliberates on this issue, the voices of community members serve as a reminder of the profound impact these centers have on individual lives and the community as a whole. The outcome of this decision will not only affect the MAC and CMC but also set a precedent for how the city prioritizes arts and community engagement in the future.