SE Precinct to reopen – but not for areas south of Powell

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, August 1, 2012

In a surprising announcement, Portland Police Bureau Chief Michael Reese disclosed on June 28 that Southeast Precinct offices would be reopening. He made the revelation at the grand opening of the new city Crime Prevention Center located next door.

In an exclusive interview with THE BEE, Reese explained, “Our plan — eventually, over the next five years — is to develop this back into a full-service precinct.

“In addition to having our district patrol officers, our detectives, non-sworn staff, and the administrative staff who work here, a robust command staff will be back in this building,” Reese said.

But, the police chief gave the caveat: “Our plan will go before the Portland City Council, to get their budget authority to do this.”

Asked, specifically about Inner Southeast neighborhoods, Reese said, “At this time, the change won’t extend that far south. As we add capacity, over the years, we hope to move [officers and command staff] back east across the Willamette River.”

Central Precinct Commander Robert Day later added that the reorganization of precinct coverage plans remain in flux. Currently Inner Southeast — between the Willamette River and S.E. 39th (Chavez) — is served by Central Precinct based downtown. East of that line, East Precinct takes over.

“I know that Sellwood and ‘the Morelands’ have a long-standing relationship with Southeast Precinct, and really felt connected,” Day commented, adding, “I’ve been trying to be more passionate about reaching out to that area — specifically to help them feel more connected with Central Precinct. I recognize that don’t always get the attention they deserve. I’m really trying to make a connection with them.”