May 8, 2019

Today, Council approved a new agreement that governs how the City, including the Portland Police Bureau, protects public safety and works with law enforcement partners. You can read Nick's statement below:

"During my 10 years of service on this Council, I have voted on our participation in the JTTF three times. And I’ve seen many examples of our community’s successful participation in the JTTF.

In February, I voted to remain in the JTTF. I believe that we have better outcomes with our federal partners when we work together, rather than working in silos. We see that in our bureaus and among our Council offices. There is a great value in collaboration.

By participating in the JTTF, we also bring Portland values to the table. Our local law enforcement officers have a lot to offer – experience, an understanding of state and local law, and relationships in our community.

Finally – and, most importantly, I believe we continue to be safer when we have a relationship and share information with the FBI.

Other progressive cities, such as Seattle, Boston, Denver, Oakland, and New York, have formed partnerships between their police bureaus and the FBI, without sacrificing civil liberties.

I believe we can do the same.

That said, a majority of the Council disagrees with the Mayor and me. Therefore, I believe the Resolution before us today is a thoughtful alternative.

It will allow the City to continue working with the FBI on an as-needed basis. It requires detailed annual reports, something that has been, and remains, very important to me. Our police chief or deputy chief will serve as a liaison to the JTTF.

I want to thank the Mayor for his leadership and Commissioner Hardesty for her collaboration in the development of this resolution. I know that their two offices, especially Nicole Grant and Derek Bradley, worked tirelessly on this, and I am pleased with this compromise.

I vote aye."