Oregon’s Livability Team Sparks Debate Over Homelessness and Drug Policy

Oregon’s livability crackdown has come under fire from the state’s full-time livability team for its focus on clearing homeless encampments. This approach has led to millions of arrests. Officer Paul Verling handily orchestrated four grown men on to the sidewalk. He then handcuffed them behind their backs and rifled through their pockets. Critics have been vocal about the dangers of this approach. In this regard, one of the most compelling voices is that of a 43-year-old unhoused woman arrested four times since October mostly for the crime of camping. She contends that the team operates under the assumption that “every person on the street is a drug addict,” which she asserts is not true. Critics argue that the team’s methods represent a “violation of their constitutional rights” and are part of a broader effort to recriminalize drug possession in Oregon.

>The livability team’s work is viewed as a compromise between law enforcement and community groups, aiming to engage individuals and encourage them to seek treatment. To the unbelieving, their world-shaping work sometimes seems a foolish venture. They claim that these initiatives ignore the underlying causes of homelessness and addiction. The steps that the team took further illustrate what’s becoming a national discussion surrounding the systemic disinvestment in behavioral health services. They are adding to the national debate over Measure 110, Oregon’s drug decriminalization measure passed last year.

Community Reactions and Criticisms

The livability team’s unconventional approach was met with mixed reactions from their community. Detractors contend that their approach is misguided and fails to deal with the root causes.

“It’s not fair, it’s unethical, it’s a fucking scam,” – Nikki

She expressed her anger at being continually harassed for camping infractions, alone.

Politician Christopher De Falco voiced doubts about the effectiveness of mandating people to treatment programs.

“Until the person truly wants to quit, they’re not going to. Forcing people into treatment, it’s against our will and unjust.” – Christopher De Falco

Clint Oborn, the executive director of the Southern Oregon Public Defender Inc (SOPD), raised alarms over potential violations of constitutional rights.

“It’s a violation of their constitutional rights. Some people plead guilty and never get an attorney, or if they want one, they’re put on a waiting list.” – Clint Oborn

Efforts to Address Complex Issues

Even through the harsh critiques, the livability team is still determined to tackle these complicated subjects of homelessness and addiction. Their efforts are being pursued in the spirit of holding people accountable, while motivating them to get help.

“They want to hold people accountable because we know drug crime is not just about addiction, it leads to theft and disorderly behavior and victimization.” – Lt Rebecca Pietila

Crystal Bilyeu, involved in efforts to assist vulnerable populations, emphasizes the importance of empathy in addressing these challenges.

“We meet people where they are at. I think empathy matters. I’ve been there before and I can help them with an open mind and no judgment.” – Crystal Bilyeu

The team’s overall goal is to assist people in returning to their communities and the lives they desire through treatment and supportive services.

Ongoing Debate Over Measure 110

The livability team’s enforcement actions have become the focus of a larger controversy and debate over Measure 110, the 2020 ballot measure that decriminalized drug possession across Oregon. Those in favor of the measure make the case that it has had a significant, positive effect on lowering jail incarceration rates and increasing use of alternatives to punishment. Yet, opponents argue that its implementation has resulted in higher crime rates and does not adequately address the root causes of addiction.

As Oregon continues to navigate these complex issues, the livability team remains at the forefront of efforts to balance enforcement with community support and treatment opportunities.