METRO LOCAL SHARE FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY - City of Portland, Oregon
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FALL 2021 COM MU N IT Y IN PUT
FOCUS GROU P SUM M ARY
METRO LOCAL SHARE
PORTLANDPARKS.ORG
PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Contents
Overview of Focus Groups ..................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Relationship with Nature ....................................................................................................................................................................... 4
Shared Themes Across Focus Groups .................................................................................................................................................... 5
Variations Across Focus Groups ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
Akateko Summary Report...................................................................................................................................................................... 7
Black Community Summary Report..................................................................................................................................................... 10
Chinese/Cantonese Summary Report ................................................................................................................................................. 14
Mobile Home Resident Summary Report ............................................................................................................................................ 16
Native/Tribal Summary Report............................................................................................................................................................ 20
Russian/Ukranian Summary Report .................................................................................................................................................... 23
Spanish Summary Report .................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Vietnamese Summary Report.............................................................................................................................................................. 28
Gratitude and Thanks to Community .................................................................................................................................................. 30
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 1PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION Overview of Focus Groups In the fall of 2021, Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) partnered with Verde to design a focus group process to help determine community needs and priorities for how to invest in the City’s Local Share of Metro’s 2019 Parks and Nature Bond. The Local Share program gave PP&R access to $31.8 million for projects that meet Metro’s funding criteria. Funding criteria includes protecting habitat, connecting people to nature, and addressing racial equity and climate change. PP&R’s list of potential projects that meet Metro’s funding criteria totaled more than $57 million. The goal of the focus groups was to help PP&R staff understand what types of eligible projects best meet the community’s priorities and needs. The focus group discussions focused on understanding the needs and values of communities when experiencing and accessing local and regional parks. Input from this survey, along with input received from the online comment form, will help inform PP&R decisions on a final project list to recommend to Metro and City Council in early 2022. A total of eight focus groups were held, and each was about 1.5 – 2 hours long online via Zoom. Verde led the outreach and meetings with mobile home residents, Akateko speakers, Spanish speakers, and Black community members. PP&R contracted with Community Engagement Liaisons (CELs) to lead focus groups with Native/Tribal community members and Chinese, Russian, and Vietnamese speakers. All participants received a gift card for their time and participation. Groups were organized by cultural/language affiliation. For the groups focused on a specific language, the presentation and discussion were led in that language, and the group leader provided notes in English for PP&R after the meeting. PP&R staff attended all focus groups to be a resource to help answer questions. PAGE 2 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY
PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
A total of 67 participants attended the eight focus groups:
1. November 4 – Mobile home residents (English/Spanish)
2. November 10 – Spanish speakers
3. November 11 – Vietnamese speakers
4. November 16 – Black community members
5. November 17 – Russian speakers
6. November 20 – Chinese/Cantonese speakers
7. November 24 – Akateko (Mayan Indigenous language) speakers
8. November 29 – Native/Tribal community members
All of the focus groups followed the same format designed by Verde, starting with an intro question about
participants’ favorite park or natural area in Portland. A presentation about the Metro Local Share funding was
provided to introduce participants to the Metro and the Bond. The presentation outlined Metro’s criteria for
how the funding can be used and PP&R’s list of potential projects by category. This matched the information
provided on the webpage.
Following the presentation, the group leaders led a conversation with the following questions:
1. What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
2. What does access to nature mean to you? (Follow up if people have a hard time with this question:
How do you define a natural area?)
3. What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? follow
up: What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
4. From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
Below is a summary of some of the themes heard through the eight focus groups. Following that is a collection
of notes summarizing each individual focus group.
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 3PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Relationship with Nature
Each group began by talking about their relationship with nature and what access to nature means to them.
These discussions were rich, and participants had a lot to say. For all of the groups, there was a clear theme
that spending time in nature is a valuable part of their lives in Portland and a significant way that they spend
time with family and friends, especially during the pandemic.
Quotes from Participants
“It is important that people have places to go with their children. We need to care for the next generation.”
“I grew up on a farm in Pennsylvania. My connection to land was more like a chore when I was younger but
when I got older, I started to appreciate it and it made me feel more connected to my ancestors and my
past as well as those that will come in the future.”
“I remember my grandfather's voice, sitting on the stool while he milks the cows.”
“My relationship to nature is relatively new. It creates a sense of calm to be able to navigate through
nature and use all five senses. It’s the perfect free healing space.”
“I spent a lot of my childhood barefoot, climbing trees. Now you hardly hear kids outside. I want to hear
kids outside, they are missing out on that feeling and that connection, so healing – mind, body, and soul.”
“The Tribal community is strongly connected to the land/plants/environment. It is a teaching environment
for the people, food source and medicine.”
“In Oregon, it seems like access to nature is tied to this idea of whiteness, how do we shift that narrative, so
that it is also a place where we see ourselves and feel welcome.”
“There is a spiritual aspect. When I go hiking, I feel stress free and leave my problems in the parking lot.
Watching the wildlife, it brings me a sense of peace.”
“Nature is life, life is nature.”
PAGE 4 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Shared Themes Across Focus Groups
While each group and the individuals within each group expressed a wide range of priorities and opinions on
how to best allocate the Metro Local Share funds, there were some shared themes that emerged across the
focus groups.
Safety and lighting were the top themes. Every group mentioned safety as a major priority – this included
better lighting and feeling like a park is cared for and clean. Restrooms were also a big priority for nearly all
participants, especially if they are well maintained, accessible, and clean. Better accessibility for people with
disabilities and families using strollers was also a high priority across the groups, as many visit the parks with
elders and young children. Restoration and conservation were also shared themes across the groups. A
member of the Chinese group noted: “don’t overdo the park, maintain its natural ecology.” A participant in
the Native group observed that we cannot always restore natural areas to what they once were, but we can
enhance them.
Destination parks such as Forest Park are appreciated, but many noted that having nature accessible close to
where they live is a higher priority as they do not always have the time or transportation to go to places
farther away. One project that was a low priority for most was the Cathedral Park boat ramps, as many said
that park is far away from where they live and not a priority because they do not have a boat.
High Priorities for all:
• Lighting
• Safety / cleanliness
• Restrooms
• ADA accessibility
• Restoration and conservation of natural spaces
• Projects that are closest to home for people of color and improve access and quality of life for East
Portlanders
Low Priority for all:
• Cathedral Park river dock access
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 5PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION Variations Across Focus Groups For the Chinese, Spanish, Native/Indigenous, and Vietnamese groups, improved signage was a priority but a low priority for the Russian speaking and mobile home community members. The Vietnamese community mentioned signage that is multi-lingual and helps identify trail features like a loop route are most helpful; a Native community participant would like see interpretive signage that provides education about plants. Tree plantings were mentioned as priorities by the Akateko, Spanish, and mobile home communities. Many of these participants live in areas represented on the map as areas with lower tree canopy. Tree plantings were mentioned as low priorities for the Chinese community. A Black community participant said “even just one tree in a park helps you feel grounded.” Parking was a priority for the Akateko, Russian, and Native communities. Having free parking that is accessible and safe makes it easier for families to visit a natural area together. Bridge repairs and crossings were priorities in the Spanish, Russian, and Akateko conversations because they result in greater safety. A participant in the Black community group said they needed more info about trail bridges as they had not seen ones in poor condition. Groups also brought up issues that may not be able to be addressed by Metro Local Share funding opportunities but are important to note, including: more seating and covered areas, culturally-specific art, spaces to wash hands (especially important during the pandemic), call boxes for emergencies and park rangers for safety, and reducing the impacts of houselessness, trash, graffiti, and drug activity in parks. PAGE 6 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Akateko Summary Report
November 24, 2021
Facilitator - Malin Jimenez
Notetaker and Translation - Tomas Francisco
Introduction
• I enjoy Powell Butte and Mt. Tabor because the park is big and has many areas.
• I like Columbia Park because it is down the street
• The park I enjoy is Peninsula Park because it is near where I live. (down the block)
• Delta Park is my favorite because I’ve been going there for a long time with my kids
• I like Peninsula Park because it is pretty.
• I like Columbia park because I can exercise and walk with my daughter. It's the closest near me.
• Washington Park because it is big and there is space for sports and kids can play and also there are
roses
• McCoy Park. I like to go to the park with my children and cool off, but the park is not really maintained
that well
• Personally, for a park to be good, wildlife should be protected and for the land to also be protected,
because if it isn't taken care of, who is going to take care of it?
• In my opinion, parks need to be clean and we should not litter so that it becomes dirty, especially when
we go out with our kids. Back in my home country, it is clean. We are part of Portland, a big city, and
we should do our best to make it clean like how it is back in Guatemala. It should be clean so that we
and others can have a place to enjoy.
Questions
What is your (and/or your family or communities’) relationship with land and nature?
• We walk around the natural parks and there is fruit that we eat or that we use. They come from
natural land, for example trees, that provide oxygen. This summer, there wasn't as much heat because
there were trees. I saw that where I live, there wasn't as much heat.
• I have the same opinion. The trees give rain, but since there are no trees, there is no rain. In order for it
to rain there needs to be trees, and for trees to grow there needs to be rain, and also that is why it is
getting hotter
• I think about all the animals and also all the fruit that the earth brings. If there was no natural land,
then we would not have anything.
• Our land lets us eat and live. When the time comes, we will no longer have rain. There needs to be
plants and we need to take care of them so that we can have good land.
• If we didn't have land we would not have food. If there were no rain, then there would be no trees. We
would also not have food.
• Like everyone said if there was no land, we would not have food. Thanks to the land we are able to
have these things.
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 7PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
• I think that on the topic of parks, it is important that we people should have good places to go with
their children. We need to care for the next generation. We also need to care for wildlife and the earth.
It is important to take care of animals of any size
What will make a natural area or park feel more welcoming or safe for you or your community?
• Seeing where I live, kids should have more access to playgrounds. The parks near me do not have these
things.
• Like she said, it's good if they use the money to improve parks. Some are good and some are bad for
kids. There are some places that need more structures. People should also be able to cool off with
water.
• There are times where there is no access to the bathroom. The majority of people should have access
but sometimes there isn't. Sometimes kids also aren't able to use the bathroom. There should be
bathrooms because everyone needs to have a place to use it.
• The bathroom at Delta park is closed. The one park I recently went to did not have a bathroom. I would
like to see more bathroom access so that kids will have access. Delta Park is also dirty, and I would like
to see them cleaner. People have kids, and they should be able to use them.
• I would like the bathrooms to be cleaner. I would also like to see less trash to make the park cleaner.
People will not be scared to enjoy the park. I would also like to see more trees for shade.
• Bathrooms are important in my opinion, because we need a place to go, and also a place to take care
of ourselves and our families. Thank you for having me but, I have to go. I think that trees should be
planted so that kids can have shade and a place to rest. I also think that animals should be protected
because they are life. Also, lights should be repaired because at night some people can't see. Trees,
animals, and lights are my main concern, and we should do this to protect mother nature.
• There is a lot of trash but nowhere to throw it away. There is also a lot of drug usage which puts kids in
danger. There should be fines for people that do drugs, and it makes me scared for my kids when they
are around that type of environment.
• Lorenza - I think a park should be clean so that we don't get sick (COVID). Children don’t wash their
hands sometimes. There should be a place for children to wash their hands in these times of a
pandemic. This would make people feel safer to go to the parks.
From the slides of the project that were shred, what is one priority project for you/your community? What
is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
• A map would be good for people to navigate. Also having good walkways would be nice, and also the
protection of wildlife. It would be better for more lights and also to plant more trees, and more places
for those who are disabled to help them feel more included. It is better to clean up the park for the
sake of the wildlife in the area. Also, like everyone said, there are bathrooms, but they are dirty and
there is nowhere to wash our hands. Whoever runs the park bathrooms, they should do more to fix the
bathrooms. People should go to the park clean and come back home clean. When people go to parks,
they aren’t sure or don't feel safe because they might catch a disease. There are no places to wash
their hands.
PAGE 8 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
• It is very important for the lights and also for washing your hands. Sometimes the kids want to eat but
don't have places to wash their hands, which can lead to them getting an infection. We are speaking
out about this so that it gets fixed immediately for the sake of our children's safety. It is important,
especially for our kids. What will you do if there is no places for your children to wash their hands?
• The park on 42nd (Fernhill Park), when I get off work there are no lights. I am scared for my safety, and
sometimes people who exercise don't have a clear path of where to go. I would also like the parks to
be cleaner so that children mess with trash. Children are clumsy sometimes, and they shouldn’t be
messing around in a dirty park.
• Like they all said, trees for clean air and rain so that we have a place to relax for shade. It will attract
families to enjoy the time under the shade. Trees give us food and everything around us. I would also
like to see cleaner bathrooms, so parents don’t have to worry about their children finding a place to
use the bathroom. I also think access for the disabled is important
• I would like to see a parking lot and also a bridge so that our families can safely cross. There are
sometimes no places to park our cars. I think these are the more important things that should be
implemented. I also think that a place to wash are hands is important so that we can maintain good
health
• There should be no drug sign because parks should be for kids. There should also be a sign for masks so
that people will use them
• Some parks don’t have places for sports. Some kids just want to play sports like basketball or soccer,
but there aren't designated places for the sport they want to play.
• I think that the park should be clean. No one wants to go to a dirty park
• Some parks look beautiful, and don’t as much, and there should be a plan to make them look better
and attractive
What is a new park or natural area that you learned about tonight?
• I would like to go see Washington Park
• Same with me, I would like to go to Washington Park
• I would also like to go to Washington Park. I have lived in Portland for a long time.
• I learned about new parks today. The park in North Portland seems interesting and I would like to visit
it.
• I would like to visit Kelley Point Park if it gets cleaned up and be able to have a BBQ with my family and
have a good time.
• I’m really thankful for having this conversion and having our voices be heard.
• Thank you for having me here. It is my first time. I enjoyed learning about all the parks and the funding
that is going towards them
• Thank you for letting us share our opinions.
Three Main Concerns
• More trees need to be planted
• Cleaner bathrooms
• Lighting
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 9PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Black Community Summary Report
November 16, 2021
Alagia Conwell-Felix, Verde
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: Black/African American Community.
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 10 participants
Approximate age range of attendees? 25-60
What were the top messages or questions you heard from these communities?
1. Make neighborhood parks more accessible and focus on equity in terms of which parks are invested in.
Invest in neighborhood parks in East County.
2. More lighting, call boxes and park rangers important for safety
3. Include art to connect Black people to the park that reflect our culture, history, and ties to the area
4. ADA Access is important
5. More benches and covered areas make places more accessible
6. Prioritize investments in BIPOC and low-income communities for increased Canopy cover. Focus on
East Portland.
7. Create more access points for large natural areas like forest park that make it more accessible for short
hikes
8. Restoration and conservation of green spaces is important.
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
1. Security and safety at Parks
2. Making sure with new investments that we keep the natural areas mostly nature and make sure parks
still feel welcoming even with all the new infrastructure.
3. In Oregon is seems like access to nature is tied to this idea of whiteness, how do we shift that
narrative, so that it is also a place where we see ourselves and feel welcome.
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
• Interest in an outdoor classroom type space and more education opportunities
• Need more seating and covered areas at Cully Park
• River dock is not a super priority for folks (no access to boats, etc.)
You talked with a lot of people in your community, do you think they were receptive to the messages about
this project? How can we improve our messaging?
Yes, there was positive feedback about the focus group.
What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
• My relationship to nature is relatively new, in the NW, creates a sense of calm to be able to navigate
through nature and use all 5 senses, it’s the perfect free healing space. Grew up on a farm in
Pennsylvania, my connection to land was more like a chore when I was younger but when I got older, I
PAGE 10 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
started to appreciate it and it made me feel more connected to my ancestors and my past as well as
those that will come in the future.
• I appreciated both of those responses, feeling a healing and spiritual connection to land and nature, I
spent a lot of my childhood barefoot, climbing trees. Now you hardly hear kids outside. I want to hear
kids outside, they are missing out on that feeling and that connection, so healing -mind body and soul.
• It makes me think about mental health, reminds me of what has come before me, that the world keeps
spinning, I can take a breath, etc., reminds me of a higher power, higher connection, free for now ;)
o -ditto to each one of those comments. Grew up on a farm in SE Georgia, a large family farm,
walking out on the property and being in that space when I visit, the sense just goes. And yes,
the mental health piece - being connected to something that came before me. I remember my
grandfather's voice, sitting on the stool while he milks the cows.
• I loved all the answers, I resonate with that, it is so important to get our kids out there and in nature,
develop their personalities around that, not the internet, TV has a time and a purpose, our youth are
consumed with it. Nature is like a detox, personal health, growing food providing for yourself and your
health. A lot of different angles “if you ever lose yourself you can find yourself under a tree” Even just
one tree in a park, helps you feel grounded. There were times that I didn’t want to be in Portland, but I
wanted to be in Portland’s forests :)
• reminds me of my greater potential and what is possible. Anything that gets me connected with nature
and life, and nature does that for me.
• don’t want to share right now
• we are stewards of our land, care, protect the earth, we have this connection to it, it is a holy sacred
thing, shared between all our ancestors. In order to have that connection you have to have that love
from being out there. Growing up here in Portland, my parents had me volunteer with Friends of Trees,
etc, so I had a lot of exposure to nature, and appreciate it. Call and response of birds helps you notice
things. The whole essence of life and everything -our role is to protect and take care of it and help
others love and take care of it.
• I love to hike, because of Portland. I have been to Mt. Hood; I love it all. I think that more people
should have the knowledge and access to it. I think this program will bring more awareness to help
people move more. With the weather plummeting, how could this program here appeal to people?
Even with the weather right now.
What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? Follow up:
What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
• more streetlights, more lighting, maybe some more form of security to reassure people that someone
is watching.
• covered areas would help for year-round use. Park rangers! Some caution and thought should be given
to make sure we are leaving the park in its pristine state but still have access, not too many structures
so you still have that natural down to earth feeling. I have worked for USDA Forest Service, and I love
the outdoors here. I love what Portland does with it’s parks and how accessible they are. Making
neighborhood parks accessible.
• more access points for some of the bigger parks, like Forest Park, more entrances and access
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 11PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
• more access points in larger parks, I agree with that, so that you don’t get lost, or creating trails that
are accessible for people that can’t go that far would help make me feel safe.
• 4T trail near OHSU, QR code on sign where you can find a map would be helpful GPS type situation
would be helpful
• I have an idea - I agree with all of the slides, and maybe having some things like art or statues that help
tie our community to the park. Art that helps connect and engage people with where they are and a
good discussion starter. Educational history ties culture and community to the parks.
• composting stations at parks if you aren’t able to compost at your home. Places for BBQ’s and family
places to eat. Picnic areas.
• accessibility is the biggest thing, forest park is such a hike to get in there, how can it be less of a
commitment to be able to access it. Public transit access etc. I like the QR code ideas for maps on
hiking trails, compost bins. I like that too.
• accessibility and lighting and more call boxes to make you feel safe, as a female alone at night, signs to
tell you where they are at.
From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
• more benches and seating in Cully Park. Also another covered area would be good in that park since it
is very popular.
• Kelly Point Park bathroom improvement is a priority for me.
• benches, better lighting, compost bins, and more entrances/exits makes a lot of sense for the
community to me
• I like the idea of an outdoor classroom. ADA access is really important! Continuing to improve on that.
Tree planting in Parks is a good idea especially as you go farther east. Lighting, access, statues, and
monuments want to see ourselves in nature, seeing forests being for us. It seems like Oregon history
and access to nature is based on whiteness which is not accurate and not fair, the best way to shift that
is going out there but also having monuments and pieces of history that show that this has always
been collectively ALL of ours historically and into the future. Artistic.
• Making sure that even as we make new investments in parks that they are welcoming and not just new
shiny things, but ways to make people feel welcome.
• How to keep that sense of nature, you could talk about carvings or a bird bath designed in a certain
way, or a seating area done in a certain way, can still blend in to the feeling of nature. (when
considering how to integrate art into natural areas). Also another way to connect, African Americans
are left out of opportunities for the work and skills that we can bring to be some of the artists to
present. Like the TriMet stations where they had different artists commissioned, we need to make sure
we think about who is commissioned and who they represent, so that people feel welcome and
represented.
• Safer facilities, ADA accessibility, more benches and canopies.
• The statue/art idea was created by the thought of connecting black people to these spaces we're
historically left out of. Definitely don't want to take away from nature though)
PAGE 12 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
• More education and avenues targeted to people of color and in disenfranchised areas. Education is
particularly geared towards us, in person meetings like this but for POC, giving people knowledge. If I
hadn’t met Alagia I would have never known about this group for example.
• Access more public transportation near areas. Preservation of areas for global warming, more funding
to protect green spaces, and aiding in the recovery of the planet. Heat wave killed a lot of sea life in a
short span, and the fires, lots of stress on ecosystems. Protect and preserve what we have, and people
who don’t have access have access, lastly, education on the benefits of nature, plants and what we
have. Our ecosystem is diverse and awesome, and it is in a bit of trouble.
• That with new improvements we still feel like we have access to nature
• I would just love to know more about the trail bridges, the ones I have seen seem fine, but I don't know
the current conditions of them. The river dock access isn’t super high priority for me since I don’t have
a boat. I agree with XX. I don’t have objections to any of them but those two specifically were less
priority (to me).
• if there’s funding for all of it, it all sounds great. I had a similar thought about the dock project, in terms
of priority.
• Prioritize parks in East Portland and canopy cover. East county really needs the improvements, there
has been a large population shift to people without a lot of resources, car, boat etc. So that
neighborhood park that people can walk to or take the bus to really needs to be high priority so that
people can access nature near where they live. Important to think about when we think about equity.
• I'm not sure but I'm not for any projects located outside of BIMPoC communities. Prioritize low income
/ BIMPoC areas first.
• Great - thank you for the link! Also what Ms. Sallie said resonated. East county and neighborhood
parks.
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 13PORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Chinese/Cantonese Summary Report
November 20, 2021
Yvonne Li (CEL)
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: Chinese Cantonese
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 10
Approximate age range of attendees? Age ranges from 25 to 65
List the communities, venues, area, neighborhood or events (cultural, language communities, schools,
churches, temples, etc.) that you were able to provide outreach to regarding this project: Churches,
community center and social media
What were the top three messages or questions you heard from these communities?
1. Don’t overdo the park, maintain its natural ecology.
2. Provide more facility for different needs, such as family friendly.
3. Keep the park clean and accessible.
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
1. Address homeless issues
2. Maintain restroom cleanliness
3. More and better signage/map for parks
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
Yes, maintain local, neighborhood parks.
You talked with a lot of people in your community, do you think they were receptive to the messages about
this project? How can we improve our messaging?
Yes, the community was receptive, people are excited how to better the parks. The materials are informative
and educational.
Do you have suggestions for us and other CELs on how to better to reach people and changing the way we
share messages?
Social media is a good platform to share the message. Attend more community events to talk to people.
List three thing that you think could be improved for future engagement/outreach?
1. Flyers for the event
2. Formal invite from Portland Parks & Recreation
3. Information in their own language
Do you think the information we shared with you at the orientation was sufficient to keep your community
informed?
Yes, it provided us timeline and specifications. The presentation slide in advance is helpful.
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What is your (and/or your family or communities’) relationship with land and nature?
Most people think that their relationship with land and nature is feeling comfortable and relaxed, enjoy what
the nature has to offer, good air quality, trees, and flowers. Maintain its natural habitats, safety, and
cleanliness. Some think exploring parks give you knowledge, it’s a good way to learn.
What does access to nature mean to you? (Follow up if people have a hard time with this question: How do
you define a natural area?)
It is important to have access to nature, it makes them happy, free and reduce stress.
What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? follow up:
What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
To feel safe, clean up homeless issues, restroom maintain clean, handle park trash, add sensor lights, and add
emergency phones. To feel welcome, provide more parking spots, better signage of walking paths, dangerous
wildlife, provide more benches to rest.
From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
Priority:
• 1 voted for updated lighting
• 5 voted for new and easier to read signs in natural areas
• 2 voted for improved ADA access
• 1 voted for new access point in existing natural areas,
• 1 voted for safety and cleanliness
Not priority:
• 2 voted for restroom roof repairs in parks
• 8 voted for more tree planting in parks
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Mobile Home Resident Summary Report
November 4, 2021
Anna Gordon and Mayra Torres, Verde
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: Residents of NE Portland’s Cully neighborhood that
reside in different mobile home parks. We had two Spanish speaking Latinx attendees and three English
speaking White attendees.
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 5
Approximate age range of attendees? 35-60 years old
List the communities, venues, area, neighborhood, or events (cultural, language communities, schools,
churches, temples, etc.) that you were able to provide outreach to regarding this project: We focused on
outreach to residents of Mobile Home Parks in the Cully Neighborhood for this focus group.
What were the top three messages or questions you heard from these communities?
1. Making parks more accessible means accommodating larger families with more seating and wider trails
for strollers.
2. Helping people be able to access nature close to home is a priority. Nature means many things, it can
be a neighborhood park, a community garden, and is a place to destress, connect spiritually, and be at
peace.
3. Lighting and safety at parks are a priority.
4. Tree planting is a priority for the bond funding especially in areas with low canopy cover.
5. ADA Access and restroom maintenance are a priority.
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
1. Concerns about safety in parks. Safety meant different things to different people. Some people
suggested park rangers could make people feel safer, but some people shared those authorities could
make certain communities feel less safe. Some people shared trees are great, but can also make you
feel less safe if you don’t have good sightlines. People agreed we need more lighting to help people
feel safe. Feeling welcome and identifying with other people at a park also helps you feel safe and like
that park is for your community.
2. Not so keen on golf courses for their water usage, but the trails seem okay.
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
1. Is it possible to create another entrance to Cully Park? There is a lot of traffic, and it feels unsafe. The
road is narrow and with cars parked along the street, there is limited space to walk. It would be helpful
to have more accessible areas to walk into the park.
2. People also asked about future baseball fields at Cully Park, and suggested additional tables, benches
be added to the Park.
You talked with a lot of people in your community, do you think they were receptive to the messages about
this project? How can we improve our messaging?
Yes, I think that the group was very engaged and enjoyed the meeting.
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Do you have suggestions for us and other CELs on how to better to reach people and changing the way we
share messages?
N/A
List three thing that you think could be improved for future engagement/outreach?
1. Question 2 was sort of repetitive
2. Would have been great to have a few more participants but not everyone was able to attend
Do you think the information we shared with you at the orientation was sufficient to keep your community
informed? Yes.
What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
English Breakout
• I am from the woods, it is everything to me, I take it very seriously, there is the physical aspect and the
spiritual aspect. For me it’s spiritual. As a mom there is also the transactional aspect we exist in these
markets, $ does make up a part of it. I am grateful to be a part of this and have a chance to advocate
on behalf of other species and their needs.
• I agree there is a spiritual aspect, when I go hiking I feel stress free and leave my problems in the
parking lot watching the wildlife, it brings me a sense of peace. I was so thrilled when they built Cully
Park someplace close by and I would bike in the Park and begin to interact with the geese. That was
something I looked forward to every morning. Very spiritual, out of the concrete jungle even though
you are still in it. Very important for mental health. Parks are a gift.
• My relationship with nature -I am from the country, Boring Oregon. When you were showing the slides
of the trails and bridges, 15-20% of them I helped build those trails. I love the trails.
Spanish Breakout
• We love nature, that is where our food comes from.
• It is important because we should take care of nature - I have been fortunate to participate in a
community garden - it has allowed me to save money on groceries, grow my own vegetables, I stay
busy and it is a good opportunity to spend time with my children and share and teach them about
gardening.
What does access to nature mean to you? (Follow up if people have a hard time with this question: How do
you define a natural area?)
English Breakout
• We didn’t have sidewalks growing up, so in this urban setting having urban parks, the median side of
the sidewalk strip, the small stuff is important! But bigger picture urban planning, even under the most
strenuous situations having a plant in your window. Sure we want nature that is wood, without city
lights, far away but that doesn’t limit access to nature that we have in small ways here in the city.
• I like hiking trails, squirrels and other animals doing their thing. Brings me peace and makes me realize
there is a bigger planet out there than buildings and traffic and noise. Go out there and it is quiet.
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When I think of parks, I think of duck ponds. Would be great to have a bike trail or something at
Colwood!
Spanish Breakout
• For me, it is important because it's a place to breathe fresh air, enjoy the trees, walking outside in
nature relieves stress, it is life giving.
What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? follow up:
What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
English Breakout
• I have noticed that the majority of parks in Cully and the one on 42nd, I don’t see a lot of park rangers
in the parks. The sight of the park rangers is nice to help people feel safer. I have lived on 75th and
Killingsworth for 30 years. If the parks had a park ranger just once a day it would be great to make
people feel more safe.
• The word safety is ringing in my ears. As a white female, the cops don’t make me feel more safe. But
what does access really mean? I am thinking of Cully Park. I lived in a house right near there, and there
was this striking difference between the people that lived there and the people that went to the park.
What makes people feel welcome is being seen and represented in Park. Cully park lots of rich people
would go there and make neighbors feel less welcome.
• More lighting would make me feel safe. LED, I like that option. I go to the park in the morning because I
feel safer. More lighting and more people made me feel safer.
Spanish Breakout
• For me, I would appreciate wider trails/walking paths where I can push a stroller for example at Mt
Tabor Park that can be difficult. Having space to walk with my family all together
• More lighting and also safety. Having a secure park is important- Cully Park is an example because
there are homeless people now living at Cully and neighbors are concerned and worried about safety -
Adding trees is also something that I think is valuable but on the other hand, also having an open park
and not having places where people can live in the park and find hiding places is something to think
about. You want to walk with your children and family and not be fearful.
• For services - more tables and seating areas. I have a large family and it would be nice to have more
seating. Cully Park is an example of that need. Most of the seating is towards the front of the park and
people congregate at the entrance and it would be good to have more seating spread throughout.
From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
English Breakout
• More trees! Especially in Oregon. We need more tree cover for climate etc. Signage is not that
important for me, there is adequate signage at the parks I have visited, but that is just my opinion.
PAGE 18 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
• I absolutely agree about the trees! The best time to plant an orchard is twenty years ago! When I was
looking at the map, the clarification about the airport made me feel better. I want to make sure the
trees are near where people live. I am not too into municipal golf courses because of water use etc.
• I like the trail bridges! Only because I work on those :) I build trails. Not too keen on the signage.
Spanish Breakout
• I think the most important is accessibility - Improved ADA access. Secondly - trails and paths
• Lighting is very important, and improved ADA access, and the bathrooms and maintenance of
facilities.
• Not so important - I think all are important so I can't really choose.
• Not so important - For me, I am looking at needs in my area, where I live. Even though the project
might be important like Cathedral Park, it is far from me so I would not likely access that park.
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Native/Tribal Summary Report
November 29,2021
Alvey Seeyouma (CEL)
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: (Tribal Members) Native American
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 6
Approximate age range of attendees? 27-75
List the communities, venues, area, neighborhood, or events (cultural, language communities, schools,
churches, temples, etc.) that you were able to provide outreach to regarding this project: Portland Native
Community, Friends, NACAC (Native Organization)
What were the top three messages or questions you heard from these communities?
1. Tribal members have a strong connection to the land, plants, and wildlife. Adults take their
children/students out to educate and teach them about nature. How to make crafts from natural
elements.
2. Families attend parks together for mental health. They compare the quality of the parks and will drive
a distance to enjoy a favorite park.
3. Why are some parks more developed that others?
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
1. Homeowner use of chemicals polluting the surrounding areas and how that affects water/land
stewardship.
2. Elder and children feeling safe in the park. Well defined trails.
3. Lighting of the park for safety reasons.
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
• Safe pet friendly spaces.
• Bike paths for kids-safety.
• Hazards of used syringes, houseless camps and unknown dangers.
• Rest areas with seating for the elders as they tire or places to enjoy the landscape and conversation
with people.
• Restroom access while at the park.
• Play spaces for children to explore or encourage curiosity. Playground equipment.
• Plant more flowers/native species.
• ADA access for those with physical challenges.
• Upkeep existing parks so they can continue to be used.
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You talked with a lot of people in your community, do you think they were receptive to the messages about
this project? How can we improve our messaging?
I had a difficult time recruiting for this focus group. Yes, on behalf of those that attended. It gave them a
chance to express themselves and gave different perspectives how they use the parks spaces. Continued
outreach.
Do you have suggestions for us and other CELs on how to better to reach people and changing the way we
share messages?
• Hire/train interns from the different communities to engage with their community.
• Attend community event with the CELs/Intern went it is possible to return to those activities.
List three thing that you think could be improved for future engagement/outreach?
1. Recruit interns from the specific communities.
2. Active listening from community voices.
3. Provide material to CELs to share with their community members.
Do you think the information we shared with you at the orientation was sufficient to keep your community
informed?
Based on the conversation I heard from the participants, I think there needs to be more information sharing.
What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
The Tribal community is strongly connected to the land/plants/environment. It is a teaching environment for
the people, food source and medicine.
What does access to nature mean to you? (Follow up if people have a hard time with this question: How do
you define a natural area?)
There are some natural areas that people are willing to drive to and enjoy versus developed parks without the
elements to develop curiosity or peaceful enjoyment.
What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? follow up:
What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
• ADA access for the elderly.
• Available restrooms.
• Defined trails.
• Benches (rest areas) for people to sit when tired.
• Lighting along the trails at night.
• No haphazardness material on the ground for injury. No houseless camps in the area, risk of injury.
• Signage of rules for visitors to see.
• Communication within the park organization about group gatherings.
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From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
Priorities
• Improved ADA access in parks and natural areas.
• Lighting that serves people and keeps skies above dark for animals.
Low Priority
• Improved dock access on the Willamette River for non-motorized boating or fishing
PAGE 22 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Russian/Ukranian Summary Report
November 17, 2021
Hanna Grishkevich (CEL)
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: Russian, Ukrainian
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 12
Approximate age range of attendees: 20-60
List the communities, venues, area, neighborhood or events (cultural, language communities, schools,
churches, temples, etc.) that you were able to provide outreach to regarding this project:
Word of Life Church, Russian Community (NW Portland), IRCO, Revival Church
What were the top three messages or questions you heard from these communities?
1. Keep parks safe and clean
2. Keep access free, reduce parking cost, have enough parking
3. Deal with the homelessness situation
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
1. How to reduce homelessness
2. How to make parks and access to parks safe for the whole family
3. How to protect parks from litter. How to keep bathrooms open even during winter (for families with
children especially)
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
• Homelessness and trash was a major concern.
• Repair of old playgrounds (members with children)
You talked with a lot of people in your community, do you think they were receptive to the messages about
this project? How can we improve our messaging?
People felt privileged to be invited. Out of 12 people only 2 heard of PPR meetings before. This was a new
engagement for most. Enjoyed the topic and expertise of people present.
Do you have suggestions for us and other CELs on how to better to reach people and changing the way we
share messages?
Through email, Word of mouth, Facebook, Radio/media (Slavic family) = They do live FB, chats, radio ads, and
a magazine. One media company covering several mediums.
List three thing that you think could be improved for future engagement/outreach?
1. This is just my personal feedback to myself. Send the zoom invitation to people who confirmed and not
allow people to share it with anyone else. I had 1-2 people who invited other people. Which was fine.
But I would still like to know about it ahead of time and have them be confirmed. One of the ladies
(that I did not recruit) was actually super instrumental to discussion. She leads community gardens for
Slavic people in Portland. Has been doing it for years. I am sure someone felt led and inspired to invite
her. I just wish I was informed ahead of time. I have now started a database of people who are
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instrumental, in leadership positions, with a lot to say and weigh in. It was a very productive,
professional, respectful meeting.
2. If funds permitted, invite more people. Can reduce stipend to be consistent with other projects (but
invite more people)?
3. Invite people who are active in parks, who volunteer, who plant trees, who are interested in passing on
the message of what goes on in the city and its parks/nature areas. Invite a guest speaker to highlight
one natural area (like Powell Bute). Why so special, what’s the significance, the history, the meaning
and importance of this natural area.
Do you think the information we shared with you at the orientation was sufficient to keep your community
informed?
Absolutely, and the presentation was spot on.
What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
Generationally very connected
• Love nature
• Love gardening
• Connecting to everything outdoors, feeling special bond with nature and animals (birds, etc.)
What does access to nature mean to you? (Follow up if people have a hard time with this question: How do
you define a natural area?)
• Parks, forests, green zones. People love to walk and hike. People witch children discussed accessibility
being important for little bikes, reg bikes, strollers.
• Older people miss wide alleys (from home countries) with trees but also benches along the pathways.
A healthy discussion about benches in natural areas took place.
What would make a natural area or park feel welcoming and safe for you and your community? follow up:
What amenities would help you be able to spend more time at a park or natural area?
• Safety
• No homeless camps
• No needles
• Good light
• Park rangers (people mentioned feeling uneasy if they could not see any security in the parks)
• Clean bathrooms and having them open during winter months (no place to wash hands when you have
toddlers for example).
From the slides of the projects that were shared, what is one priority project for you/your community?
What is a project that is not your priority for this round of funding?
Priority:
Cleanness and Safety, Updated and safe playgrounds, Variety of features for all ages, Bridges updated – yes,
with traction for walking during wet months
Not a Priority:
signage updates
PAGE 24 METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARYPORTLAND PARKS & RECREATION
Spanish Summary Report
November 10, 2021
Pedro Moreno, Vedro
Language and/or cultural communities you represent: This group was with the Latinx community and was
held in Spanish.
Number of attendees at Focus Group: 9 attendees
Approximate age range of attendees? 18 – 50 years old
List the communities, venues, area, neighborhood or events (cultural, language communities, schools,
churches, temples, etc.) that you were able to provide outreach to regarding this project: Outreach was
done through community connections with the Latinx community across Portland. Focus group participants
were from areas across the City, mostly NE, North and SE Portland.
What were the top three messages or questions you heard from these communities?
• Lighting is very important for parks to be accessible and feel safe, especially at this time of year when it
gets dark early. It is hard for people who work all day to get outside and enjoy the parks safely if there
is no lighting.
• There are barriers to accessing parks that are far from home, including transportation and time to go
there. Priority should be given to care for neighborhood parks, more maintenance, lighting, and
amenities so that people can access nature close to home.
• Planting trees is a priority.
• Bathroom/restroom repair is very important to make parks accessible as well as ADA access.
What were the top three concerns you learned from your community?
• Parks don’t feel safe at night without adequate lighting.
• Trash, graffiti and lack of lighting at Parks are issues that make people feel less safe.
• Need more working bathrooms for handwashing during the pandemic.
Did your focus group express any major issue that was not listed on the questionnaire? If so, what are they?
Trenton Park in North Portland could use upgraded lighting, new play area and more trees planted.
What is your (and/or your family or communities)’ relationship with land and nature?
• I enjoy the parks mostly for my children
• I use the park during the day, if the park is clean, and has walking paths and safe.
• Now that it gets darker earlier, I prefer to walk in a park that is well lighted for safety.
• Nature is important to me because when I go out, I like playing golf. Having access to go to parks near
me is very nice to have.
• Parks are important for me because you can connect with outside and breather clean air. Now it’s
getting dark early, so the lights are important. I live near Trenton Park and Roosevelt HS. And Columbia
Park. We need lights, if want to go walking it’s important to have lights.
METRO LOCAL SHARE | FALL 2021 COMMUNITY INPUT | FOCUS GROUP SUMMARY PAGE 25You can also read
