City Commissioner Nick Fish expressed concerns about damage to Portland’s Lownsdale Square and Chapman Square on Monday, October 17. These concerns are important to the city and its residents, as these beautiful and historic public spaces are invaluable. Many people of Occupy Portland share these concerns, respect the people who have called attention to them, and seek a positive outcome for all stakeholders.

The issue of damage to these squares—the result of thousands of public visitors—has been a serious concern to Occupy Portland organizers since starting their conversations about issues of economic justice in our community. Mayor Sam Adam’s team was made aware of informal plans by the occupiers to provide money and/or labor for the purpose of rehabilitating these historic public spaces on Saturday, October 8.

There is historical significance to this space. According to the Portland Parks & Recreation main website, Lownsdale & Chapman Squares, “The plaza blocks were lively places where orators held forth and citizens assembled.” It is important to remember that the damage to this public space has resulted from free association by thousands of taxpaying citizens, in line with its historical use. People are participating in the non-violent exercise of their First Amendment rights and the public spaces remain open and accessible to the public and to all city institutions. The Portland Police Bureau’s acting Chief of Police has made several visits to the parks with senior lieutenants and commanders. Their officers maintain a presence on street corners and walk through the parks to ensure public safety.

Representatives from the Portland Parks & Recreation Bureau are welcome, just as any other person, to enter these public spaces at any time. Occupy Portland protesters have held constructive and civil conversations with official and informal community organizations to share the space as necessary. These are still public spaces, and the community is still welcome. Persons involved in organizing the occupation understand the city faces budget cuts and scheduling issues, and wish to assist city personnel with any necessary inspections.

In the mean time, the Occupy Portland media and outreach volunteers encourage the city to provide to the Occupy Portland General Assembly any concerns or specific action plans that occupiers may consider and assist with. Anyone may stop by the information booth to ensure this information is received and distributed in a timely manner.

Occupy Portland volunteers and committees remain open to suggestions, concerns and comments, and many occupiers have expressed a willingness to find a solution to any damage the park may receive as a result of the occupation. The protection and preservation of this public space as a forum for First Amendment expressions should be a principal goal of the entire community.

***This statement is not an official statement from the General Assembly***

The Original Open Letter To Occupy Portland from Commissioner Nick Fish