Portland is not among the cities where President Trump has suggested he’ll deploy National Guard troops, but Mayor Mark Dion thinks the national debate on crime applies to local issues.

Dion say Portland has its own problems that influence the mood of the public.

“That’s the psychological reaction to what they’re seeing out there, whether it’s vandalism, litter, human waste, people passed out from drug use on a sidewalk or in a doorway,” said Dion. “Those send strong messages that I’m not necessarily safe here.”

Dion says there are some positive signs in Portland, with the city is beginning to make progress with its homeless issue.

“I think the participation of the Portland Downtown District, the retail and hospitality sector, and citizens in community groups, we’re going to take that journey back now,” Dion said. “And I I think we’re turning around. We’re seeing some positive indicators.”

Dion says they’ve removed about 460 homeless tents this year.

But he says there’s still pushback from some city councilors who think he’s too harsh in his efforts to clear the streets, and get people through the courts and into appropriate treatment, while holding them accountable.