Coalition sues Portland over homeless policy

PORTLAND – A coalition of business and neighborhood groups are suing the city of Portland and Mayor Charlie Hales in an effort to overthrow a new policy that allows homeless people to camp and sleep overnight on sidewalks and public rights of way.

The Safe & Livable Portland coalition filed the suit Wednesday and called the policy an “abuse of power” and an “authoritarian act” that’s leading to crime, public safety risks and overall inhumane conditions.

The policy was enacted by Hales in February as a six-month “experiment” and came four months after the city declared a housing state of emergency.

The group argues the policy should’ve gone through a normal public comment process and vote by city council. Hales’ office said the mayor was unavailable for comment, and the city does not otherwise comment on pending litigation.