The shooting of Douglas Ivers outside Multnomah County’s Central Library has ignited fierce debate among public officials about security and safety in Portland’s downtown public spaces.
On July 1, 50-year-old Ivers was shot in broad daylight, allegedly by 26-year-old Hassan Mohamed Muse outside the library on 10th Avenue.
This incident stands out amid the rising tide of gun violence in the U.S., particularly due to its location in front of a major public facility.
Ivers’ death has intensified an ongoing struggle over responsibility for security in public spaces, with officials debating whether police, private security, or other resources are best suited to patrol the area.
This disagreement mirrors the protracted conflict between the city and Multnomah County regarding homelessness management, as both sides trade sharp letters in the wake of the shooting.
Multnomah County Commissioner Meghan Moyer recently criticized the Portland Police Bureau’s security recommendations in a letter to Mayor Keith Wilson and Police Chief Bob Day.
Moyer asserted that while the shooting occurred in a public area—specifically on a city sidewalk—library staff lacked the authority and capacity to enforce security on city property.
In reply, Mayor Wilson supported the Police Bureau’s stance, highlighting that restoring safety at the library falls within Multnomah County’s purview.
The tension between city and county officials is set against a backdrop of rampant concerns about safety at and around the Central Library, with local businesses pushing for action to address the deteriorating conditions.
Emails reveal ongoing conversations dating back to late 2024, discussing the need for increased patrols around the Central Library, as reported by organizations like the Portland Metro Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Portland Clean & Safe.
These organizations have identified a rise in incidents such as drug dealing and property damage near the library as critical issues requiring attention.
Increased security measures by private firms, such as GardaWorld Security, have been implemented in the area, yet challenges persist.
Inter-Con Security, the library’s contracted service, has been criticized for failing to adopt effective strategies suggested by GardaWorld, which has contributed to the library’s troubled atmosphere.
Reports of violent incidents, such as an attack on a woman near the library, prompted further concern among local leaders.
As recent as May, Metro Chamber president Andrew Hoan expressed these worries in correspondence with Multnomah County library officials, emphasizing that conditions had not improved and required an urgent meeting to develop effective responses.
Hoan demanded a collaborative approach with law enforcement and stricter measures regarding drug use on library premises, reflecting a growing demand for heightened security there.
In a tragic turn of events, just weeks after these discussions, the altercation between Muse and Ivers escalated, resulting in Ivers being shot twice after the two men left the library.
Eyewitness accounts describe Ivers brandishing bear spray before he was shot.
In the aftermath, the Police Bureau issued a list of safety recommendations for the Central Library that suggested implementing measures like metal detectors, limiting exterior Wi-Fi access, and increasing police response rates in the area.
The library has agreed to some changes, including disabling Wi-Fi after hours and considering the removal of outdoor benches that have become hotspots for illicit activity.
Amid these discussions, Commissioner Moyer has asserted the importance of keeping the Central Library welcoming and accessible, rejecting the idea of transforming it into a heavily fortified facility.
Moyer maintains that the library should remain an inviting space in the community and highlighted her ongoing requests for increased police involvement and rapid response to issues surrounding the library.
In reaction to calls for local law enforcement engagement, the Portland Police Bureau issued a memorandum stating that officer presence in the vicinity has increased significantly since last year.
Despite these efforts, the bureau pointed to the broader issue of a permissive environment around the library contributing to illegal behaviors, emphasizing that a shift in security measures will be necessary.
While addressing the community’s needs, Moyer has expressed her concern that enhanced security should not alienate library patrons.
“I do not want to turn Central Library into a fortress that is uninviting and intimidating,” Moyer reiterated.
Previous improvements to the library that emphasize beauty and utility must not be overshadowed by fears of violence and safety.
The aftermath of Ivers’ tragic death will likely fuel ongoing discourse and scrutiny of public safety measures in Portland’s critical community spaces as leaders strive to balance security with a welcoming atmosphere.
The conflict between city and county will continue to reveal the complexities inherent in ensuring public safety without compromising the open nature of community resources like the library.
image source from：wweek
