Problem solver meetings are a unique approach to addressing challenges in the City of Portland that requires coordination across groups. Meetings bring together a broad range of stakeholders including: residents, business owners, neighborhood associations, non-profits, the Oregon Department of Transportation, Multnomah County, and various groups from the City of Portland (Public Environmental Management Office, the Graffiti Abatement team, the Public Waste and Compliance team, Portland Police, the Portland Fire Department, the Street Services Coordination Center).

The work that is done at problem solver meetings identifies physical locations and specific challenges that need to be addressed and help generate ideas about how to solve the problems. Local residents and business owners host tours to show key stakeholders the issues and opportunities in their communities. The meetings focus on a variety of topics ranging from campsite assessment, graffiti removal, permitting, and working with local law enforcement.

The number of Problem Solver meetings decreased because the Old Town and NW Subdistrict meetings were combined. The number of site walks more than doubled in FY 2024-2025. Site walks and site visits are opportunities for City staff to see firsthand the livability related issues the community are experiencing. The site walks, and visits include meetings with contractors and city staff to find solutions to community concerns. Overall, the vast majority of site walks & visits include community members and business owners. 

PEMO provides education about how to report various issues, including but not limited to: graffiti, vandalism, camping, drug activity, trash, and abandoned vehicles. PEMO also assesses each site for stabilization and intervention. PEMO’s programming includes basic sidewalk cleaning, pedestrian level lighting, and space activation.

The data is collected by reviewing and adding up how many of each type of meeting happened in the given fiscal year.

Here is more information about the Public Environment Management Office and a list of related City resources.