In a recent move to address the challenges of homelessness, District 4 Commissioner Vince Jones-Dixon has called upon leaders from East County to collaborate on developing services for those in need. The commissioner's initiative focuses on reassessing the planned Gresham shelter and day center, taking into account the evolving landscape of community resources.
The conversation was spurred following a decision to halt construction on the new facility at the former Cook Plaza building, a structure that has repeatedly served as a severe weather shelter. Announced in September, the renovations had been unanimously approved by the Board of Commissioners.Despite this pause, the need for homelessness services remains critical, with the expansion of facilities such as those in Rockwood presenting both opportunities and setbacks. "We heard loud and clear from East County leaders their need to be meaningfully involved to ensure investments are made where they are needed most," Jones-Dixon told Multnomah County News.
Chair Jessica Vega Pederson remains steadfast in the commitment to these services, emphasizing continued dialogue and cooperation. "There continues to be a great need for these resources in East County," Vega Pederson affirmed, "We are committed to staying at the table with elected leaders and the community to make sure our strategic visions align so that we can move these resources forward together," as stated by Multnomah County. The collaborative effort is expected not only to refine the strategy but to strengthen the bond across various factions of local government and the public.
