From Portland Police Chief—
(10-6-26) Because dispatch consolidation has been discussed in public meetings, I feel an obligation to share the written position I provided to City Council and BOW members in September 2026 via city email. (Letter is dated August after receiving the draft study)
I respect Council’s role as the legislative and funding authority.
However, I am concerned about comments of discontinuing funding for Portland Police Dispatch that have been raised more than once during public Council discussions. I respect Council’s budget responsibilities, but removing funding before a workable transition plan is established could disrupt essential services and create public-safety risks. To my knowledge, no finalized plan has been established among the Council, Board of Works, and County to address those consequences. Residents deserve assurance that dispatch coverage and the other services our dispatchers provide will continue without interruption.
The executive branch has separate responsibilities for department operations, with oversight through the Board of Works and Public Safety and daily management through police administration. Each role is important to serving our community.
My position opposing the removal of Portland Police Dispatch is based on the consultant’s findings and the department’s assessment of their implications for staffing, costs, and public service.
I am sharing the letter so residents can read the information, concerns, and recommendations already provided to Council and understand the basis for my position that was made public in last night’s meeting.
Dustin Mock
Chief of Police
