We, the undersigned residents and stakeholders near SE 34th & Powell in Portland, are taking action to implement visible, community-led deterrents following the next city sweep, scheduled for June 2–9, 2025.

For years, SE 34th & Powell has been trapped in a cycle. After each city sweep, the same RVs and tents return in days—bringing open drug use, weapons, trash, unleashed dogs and blocked sidewalks that prevent those with disabilities from safely commuting. The area becomes unsafe and unsanitary, and the city fails to enforce even basic standards.

Just days ago, police responded again to a noise disturbance at 4am. They took photos, confirmed illegal activity, weapons and told us directly: their hands are tied and enforcement is limited. They recommended community-led deterrents as the next step.

We’ve seen what works. On 35th Place, orange barricades ended re-encampment. Outside the Buddhist temple, flower pots restored order. This block deserves the same as do all.

One neighbor, a single mom with a 10-year-old child, has had to call out of work due to sleepless nights from blaring music and amplified instruments at 4 a.m. This kind of disruption is unacceptable—and it’s just one example of what residents here live with regularly. If you live in the area you likely have a story to tell as well. 

We are organizing to install visible deterrents—planters, barricades, and cones—immediately after the June 2–9 sweep. We’re asking the Kenilworth Neighborhood Association and the City of Portland for material support and public backing.

This is about restoring safety, dignity, and livability for the families, children, and businesses who live and work here.

We ask for:

Peace, safety, and consistent post-sweep enforcement—not temporary cleanup followed by another round of chaos.

Access to materials like planters and barricades

Public support from the Neighborhood Association, City and surrounding Businesses such as Symbiop and the Multnomah County Health Dept

Non-interference with any installation after the sweep.

Sign to support our neighborhood and this necessary action.