During the first public listening session addressing Portland's budget crisis, residents voiced strong opposition to proposed cuts, including the closure of community centers. The session highlighted community concerns prioritizing youth services, exemplified by parent Chavre Monette’s plea for more investments. She underscored how community centers provide vital opportunities and support for children and families, thus reducing parents' stress. The city's proposed budget cuts and their impact on community infrastructure sparked a passionate response from residents who value these essential services.
Portlanders pushed back against recommendations to shutter community centers and cut other services to close a $157 million shortfall in the next city budget during the first of four public listening sessions on Tuesday, Narch 18.
"We have to invest more in our youth. We have to invest in our youth," Chavre Monette said, referring to the Montavilla Community Center where her children take classes. "This opens up the opportunities, so the parents don't have to stress as much, you know, allow the kids to come, as well as a safe place for the kids, especially nowadays."
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