Join your neighbors for a discussion on equitable access to resources across Portland and Multnomah County, a conversation that seems especially timely in light of the recent Willamette Week article on disparities between schools in different parts of the city.

From event press release:

You’re invited to a public hearing on equitable access to services, as part of the process of developing the 2010-2015 Consolidated Plan. Your input will inform how federal dollars are spent on programs addressing equitable access to services for households in Multnomah County.
Where:          King Elementary School Cafeteria
Date:           Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Time:           6:00-8:00 pm
Trimet:         Bus lines 6 & 72 (www.trimet.org)

All residents of our community deserve equal access to services and opportunities. The trouble is that good jobs, high performing schools, social service agencies, and even grocery stores are not always conveniently located. Census data shows that poverty now extends past the inner Portland neighborhoods to the County’s outer reaches. Yet, basic amenities and services such as parks, sidewalks, health clinics, and social service agencies are still concentrated in Portland’s inner core. Language and other cultural barriers may also stand in the way of people of color and immigrant communities seeking to connect with these vital resources.

 Your input will inform how federal dollars are spent on programs addressing equitable access to services for households in Multnomah County.

If you can’t attend this hearing, there are four other convenient ways to comment.

1. You can write a letter:
Pat Mobley, Housing & Community Development Commission Chair
421 SW 6th Avenue, Suite 1100
Portland, OR 97204

2. Send an e-mail:

bryan.swisshelm@ci.portland.or.us

3. Leave a voicemail message:
503-823-2396
503-823-6868 TTY

4. Comment Online:
www.portlandonline.com/phb/conplan

Questions?
Please visit the Consolidated Plan website: www.portlandonline.com/phb/conplan for more information on this hearing.