We have thousands of empty buildings downtown and in other areas of the city, since people can now work remotely. What is taking so long for the city to broker a deal to turn some of these empty spaces into welfare hotels for the houseless? That way, when sweeps are done, people actually have a place to go. The spaces could also provide health care, mental health care, clothing closets, warm meals and resources to get a job. In addition, turn more buildings into low-income housing so that people can avoid becoming houseless. I want to be able to go on the bike paths and the Eastbank Esplanade again. This city used to be wonderful and can be again. Get moving on this. Winter is coming.

Marcee Meijer, Portland