In a recent City Commission Work Session held on September 9, 2025, in Oregon City, discussions centered around public safety measures and the management of behavior in public spaces. The meeting highlighted the city's ongoing challenges with homelessness and public conduct, particularly in areas like Liberty Plaza, where a blue tent had been pitched but remained unoccupied.

Commissioners expressed a need for additional tools to address behavioral issues in public areas without specifically targeting unhoused individuals. The conversation emphasized the importance of maintaining a minimum standard of behavior in the community while ensuring that law enforcement has the necessary resources to manage these situations effectively. One commissioner noted that the city has limited options available and stressed the importance of a structured process for addressing unacceptable behavior, rather than resorting to immediate exclusion without due process.

The discussion also touched on the potential for establishing designated boundaries for enforcement, with commissioners acknowledging that adjustments could be made in the future if necessary. This approach aims to balance public safety with compassion for individuals experiencing homelessness. The commissioners recognized that while the tools being discussed are intended for public safety, they must be applied judiciously to avoid unnecessary exclusion of individuals who may not be causing harm.

Additionally, the meeting addressed compliance with state laws regarding designated camping zones, particularly in light of House Bill 3115. The city has not yet established these zones, opting instead to focus on providing housing vouchers and social services to assist those in need. The commissioners reaffirmed their commitment to working with local partners to address homelessness, emphasizing that no citations for prohibited camping have been issued in recent years.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus among the commissioners to move forward with the proposed measures aimed at enhancing public safety while remaining sensitive to the needs of the community's most vulnerable members. The discussions underscored the city's ongoing efforts to navigate the complexities of public safety, homelessness, and community standards, with an eye toward future adjustments as circumstances evolve.