Part 7/12:
Despite the colossal expenditure—$724 million in 2024 alone—the results have been underwhelming at best. A recent report shows that funding is primarily allocated to services in Multnomah County, the core region of Portland, with a significant portion (43%) stemming from regional taxes dedicated specifically to homelessness.
Critics point out that this massive investment has failed to produce tangible improvements. Homeless populations continue to grow, encampments expand, and public safety concerns persist. The lack of clear metrics to evaluate program success exacerbates fears that funds are being wasted or diverted into administrative salaries rather than proven strategies to reduce homelessness.