Why Is This Important?
Problem solver meetings are a unique approach to addressing challenges in the City of Portland that requires coordination across groups. Meetings bring together a broad range of stakeholders including: residents, business owners, neighborhood associations, non-profits, the Oregon Department of Transportation, Multnomah County, and various groups from the City of Portland (Public Environmental Management Office, the Graffiti Abatement team, the Public Waste and Compliance team, Portland Police, the Portland Fire Department, the Street Services Coordination Center). The work that is done at problem solver meetings identifies physical locations and specific challenges that need to be addressed and help generate ideas about how to solve the problems. Local residents and business owners host tours to show key stakeholders the issues and opportunities in their communities. The meetings focus on a variety of topics ranging from campsite assessment, graffiti removal, permitting, and working with local law enforcement.