Councilors Morillo, Avalos, Green, Kanal, and Koyama-Lane Propose an Ordinance to Protect Frontline Workers and Restore Services

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Councilor Angelita Morillo, along with Councilors Mitch Green, Candace Avalos, Sameer Kanal, and Tiffany Koyama-Lane, introduced an ordinance to restore frontline services reduced in the FY 2026-27 budget, protect workers, and require more thorough analysis before any future workforce reductions. The ordinance builds on Councilor Morillo's previous efforts to pause Core Services Realignment and the broader Services First amendment introduced by Councilors Morillo, Avalos, and Green.

While Services First aimed to protect 96 frontline positions, this new ordinance is a targeted compromise that restores high-impact services, protects 48 frontline positions, and offers transition support for affected employees. The proposal would restore essential public services, including park maintenance and operations, 311 customer service capacity, Public Safety Support Specialists, full operational hours for three Portland Fire & Rescue vehicles, and the Senior Center Project, which serves older adults with disabilities. It also reinstates positions across multiple bureaus.

"Portland cannot serve everyone if we cut essential workers who make our city better," said Councilor Angelita Morillo. "This Ordinance protects the people who provide the services our communities rely on. These employees take care of our parks, answer 311 calls, help with emergency response, and keep the city running every day. Any cuts should be evidence-based and show respect for those doing the work. We owe it to Portlanders to get this right the first time."

The ordinance requires the city to conduct a position-by-position service impact analysis and consult with affected employees and labor organizations before making future recommendations. This addresses a key concern raised during the budget process: major workforce reductions should not proceed without clear information on the work that will be lost, the communities affected, and changes to service delivery.

Councilor Morillo initially raised concerns about Core Services Realignment through an amendment to protect 46 frontline city positions and require a worker-centered review process before permanent cuts. The new ordinance continues this effort by preserving core services, protecting workers, and establishing a more transparent process.

Media Contact:

Amane Badhasso, Communications Advisor

Office of Councilor Angelita Morillo

(971)-513-6927

[email protected]