Multnomah County Commissioner, District 4
Carla Piluso
PO Box 3400
Gresham, OR 97030
971-212-6295
carla@carlapiluso.com
www.carlapiluso.com
Chief of Police City of Gresham, Chair of Multnomah County Commission on Children, Families and Community, Human Solutions Board President, B.S. Willamette University
What are the shortcomings in Multnomah County’s emergency preparedness and how should they be addressed?
Multnomah County’s emergency preparedness program has drastically improved over the last few years. There is still much to be accomplished. We need to work with FEMA, the state of Oregon, our surrounding counties, and the cities in which we live to achieve a regional emergency plan. We have been reminded too often that a region without cooperation suffers the worst of consequences. The time to work together for a comprehensive plan is now.
What is the best way to fund needed improvement of infrastructure?
Some aspects of our transportation system are in dire need of repair. The cost associated with fixing these problems is growing out of control. The cost of letting our infrastructure fail is too high for us to pay. We must work with the State and surrounding communities to bring the monies needed to repair these problems. It is time to step up and support projects that make our community safer and more livable.
What are your priorities for funding social services under the current budget restrictions?
Many depend on services that the county provides. Unfortunately there is a disparity of services throughout our county. The demographics of poverty have shifted to the East side of the County. Social services must follow to insure that our community remains healthy and safe. We must look more closely at programs to eliminate waste and provide services to those who need them the most.