Portland City Council Community & Public Safety Committee 06/16/26

The Portland City Council Community & Public Safety Committee met on June 16, 2026, focusing primarily on restorative justice programs and public safety policies related to firearms. The committee heard detailed presentations from various restorative justice organizations, including Lutheran Community Services, Restorative Roots Project, and Regroup, highlighting their efforts, challenges with system partner referrals, and the need for increased funding and institutional support. Data was shared demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in reducing recidivism and saving prison costs. The Portland Police Bureau's Focused Intervention Team (FIT) and its community oversight group (FITCOG) also presented on their gun violence reduction efforts, training, community engagement, and oversight activities. The committee then discussed a proposed ordinance to amend city code to prohibit concealed handguns in city buildings during official public meetings, removing the affirmative defense for concealed handgun license holders. The discussion included legal clarifications that violations would be misdemeanors, not felonies, and debated the balance between public safety and rights of licensed carriers. An amendment clarifying language about pepper spray and related items was approved unanimously. The committee acknowledged the need for further discussion and involvement of legal and security staff before finalizing the ordinance. No votes on the underlying ordinance were taken during this meeting.