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August 27, 2026

Why a Third of Portland's Shelter Beds Are Vanishing. Plus, Oregon's Shadiest Sheriff, and a Burlesque Tribute to Dolly Parton

City Cast Portland

Why a Third of Portland's Shelter Beds Are Vanishing. Plus, Oregon's Shadiest Sheriff, and a Burlesque Tribute to Dolly Parton

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We’re talking about why Portland area leaders are undoing a homeless shelter system they just developed — as well as the surprising and historic unanimous vote to expel a County Sheriff. Joining host Claudia Meza are Oregonian homelessness and mental health reporter Lillian Mongeau Hughes and Willamette Week reporter and author Brianna Wheeler. 

Discussed in today's episode:

Portland area leaders are dismantling a third of the homeless shelter system they just built [Oregonian]

A photographer, chef and artist went from ‘living the high life’ to sleeping on a cardboard box [Oregonian]

‘There’s hope out there,’ formerly homeless woman wants others like her to know [Oregonian]

After a life spent largely on the streets, Portland shelter offered her stability [Oregonian]

Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association Votes to Expel Curry County Sheriff John Ward [Oregon Journalism Project] 

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Learn more about the sponsors of this August 27th episode:

Rose City Comic Con

Northwest Children's Theater - Use code SUMMERSALE for 20% off tickets

Stacked Piercing - Take 20% off your first booking with code CITYCAST20

Montavilla Jazz

Grand Central Bakery

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