URGENT UPDATE: A homeless encampment near Portland High School was cleared by Portland Police on Monday, raising immediate safety concerns among students and parents. The encampment, located on Lancaster Street, where many students park their cars, has prompted calls for action from the city as fears over student security mount.
Officials report that individuals living in the encampment were asked to pack up and leave, with local residents expressing anxiety about their safety while walking near the school. Mayor Mark Dion acknowledged the challenges in addressing the situation, stating, “They’re refusing services. So there’s the dilemma.”
Despite available shelter options, including plans for a new day shelter, many individuals remain reluctant to accept help. “It’s a cycle,” Dion added. The mayor’s comments reflect the complexity of homelessness in the area and the difficulties in finding effective solutions.
Parents within the district are demanding stronger measures to protect students. Dion pointed out that the lack of school resource officers, a strategy previously implemented but discontinued in 2020, has exacerbated the problem. “I wish I had them today, as then they could focus on that directly,” he said. The absence of officers has left a significant gap in safety measures for the school community.
Portland schools did not respond immediately to inquiries about the potential reinstatement of school resource officers, leaving parents and community members anxious for answers. Dion also noted a staffing shortage with 27 officers down from full capacity, emphasizing the broader implications for public safety.
As this situation develops, community members are urged to stay informed and engaged. The conversation around homelessness, safety, and student welfare in Portland is escalating, with officials expected to reassess strategies in the coming days.
This urgent issue is not just about addressing homelessness but also about safeguarding the future of Portland’s students. Families are calling for immediate actions that reflect the community’s commitment to providing a safe learning environment. Stay tuned for updates as the city navigates this pressing challenge.
