Multnomah County has procured a site for its much-debated drug 'deflection' center, set to open on September 1 as part of a new approach to drug-related offenses. The 24-hour facility, designed to be an entry point for those in need of addiction treatment, will be located at 900 Southeast Sandy Boulevard in Portland’s Central Eastside Industrial District. The move comes following the recriminalization of simple drug possession in Oregon and the corresponding directive to establish alternatives to incarceration for substance abusers.
The county's ambitious plan intends to provide "screenings, basic need services, and connection to treatment and recovery services," a statement that Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson made, as reported by KGW8. Law enforcement officials will have the option to drop off individuals arrested for simple drug possession at the center to seriously begin their treatment process rather than take them to jail. This effort emphasizes a shift in strategy toward recovery rather than punitive action for drug offenses.
Multnomah County's decision, however, has not been without criticism and community concern. In a letter to a group that included county officials, state Rep. Dan Rayfield expressed his skepticism, saying, "I do not believe Multnomah County’s proposal to have people sign into what has been described as ‘a drop off center of sorts’ without a screening or follow-up plan complies with either best practices or the requirements of the bill," as quoted by Willamette Week. Additionally, locals from the Buckman neighborhood have voiced unease over the lack of community engagement before the decision.
"There was no on-the-ground involvement from anyone in the neighborhood," Susan Lindsay, co-chair of the Buckman Community Association articulated, as per Willamette Week, signaling a discontented response to the process. The site's location also prompted reactions due to its proximity to several upscale venues, including Soho House, spotlighting the contrasts within the neighborhood. Notably, a SolTerra executive stated that they are committed to maintaining a "peaceful and orderly environment" in light of leasing the property to the county.
The announcement indicates a significant shift in the county's approach to drug-related crimes amid controversial legislative changes. As part of this pivot, the deflection center is aimed to "connect individuals who would otherwise be arrested for possession of a controlled substance to a behavioral health pathway and recovery", as disclosed in remarks from county policy adviser Alicia Temple, cited by Willamette Week.
