The Portland City Council convened on May 21, 2025, to address several pressing issues affecting the community, including budget allocations, arts funding, and public safety concerns related to the cannabis industry.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the proposed budget cuts, particularly Amendment 45, which aims to close the Multnomah Arts Center (MAC) and the Community Music Center. Dana Grigsby, a resident of District 4, passionately opposed the amendment, highlighting the significant impact these centers have had on her family and the broader community. She emphasized the intergenerational value of the MAC and urged council members to visit the center before making a decision, warning that its closure would irreparably harm the local arts scene.

Phil Keim, a cannabis advocate and policy coordinator, expressed concerns over the elimination of his position within the cannabis program and called for increased city support for Portland's cannabis community. He noted that public safety remains a critical issue for cannabis businesses, which are disproportionately targeted for crime. Keim urged the council to reflect public safety resources in the budget and to support small business assistance through Prosper Portland.

Jessica Green, executive director of the Portland Parks Foundation, addressed the council regarding the future of the city's park system amidst budget constraints. She called for a unified vision for parks and urged the council to prioritize investments in existing facilities to prevent them from becoming unusable. Green advocated for a strategic approach to public-private partnerships and emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate funding for parks as essential infrastructure.

Jamie Partridge, a retired letter carrier, supported an amendment proposed by Councilors Green and Dumfey to reallocate funding from Prosper Portland. He criticized the organization for its lack of public oversight and its prioritization of wealthy interests over community needs. Partridge argued that the reallocation would redirect funds to community priorities, such as maintaining parks programs, without cutting existing services.

The meeting concluded with a series of public testimonies, reflecting the community's concerns and hopes for the future of Portland's arts, cannabis, and park systems. The council's decisions in the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the city's support for these vital areas.