The St. Johns Community Center, Montavilla Community Center, and Peninsula Park Community Center are facing potential closure due to proposed budget cuts in Portland. Established in 1940, the St. Johns Community Center has served as a vital resource for families in the North Portland neighborhood for many years. Streib, president of the St. Johns Boosters Business Association, has been utilizing the center for 15 years.
These community centers are included in a city document outlining measures to address a $93 million budget deficit, which suggests closing the facilities to reduce costs. The proposed budget cuts in Portland have raised significant concerns among residents and community leaders, particularly regarding the potential closure of essential community centers like St. Johns, Montavilla, and Peninsula Park. These centers play a crucial role in providing various services and programs that foster community engagement and support families.
On Page 27 of the proposal, it states, “This package would close a neighborhood community center, eliminating all programs and services currently provided to the community through this facility. Staff reductions will accompany this center closure, and recreation programs—including educational preschool and afterschool activities—will no longer be offered. Events, rentals, and other recreational programming will also be eliminated at this location. Examples include St. Johns Community Center, Montavilla Community Center, and Peninsula Park Community Center.”
The St. Johns Community Center offers a preschool, after-school programs, and various resources for families. According to Reimer, the center not only provides affordable childcare but also fosters community cohesion. Public forums are essential for community members to voice their concerns and influence decision-making processes regarding local services and resources.
With the St. Johns Library closed for renovations since October 2024, residents have expressed that the community center’s role is now even more critical. Community members wanting to voice their opinions on the proposed budget cuts can attend a budget listening session hosted by the Portland City Council on March 18.
