I also support Tim Boyle's recent stand on safety and livability concerns in Portland ("Portland leaders must address safety issues downtown," Nov. 10). I've been here two and a half years now. and I believe livability has significantly deteriorated in the last year. I walk the city and take public transit almost daily. Theft, littering, disorderly conduct, and open drug use are rampant. It doesn't matter what the perpetrators' living situation is. Criminal behaviors must be dealt with appropriately. Reports on Next Door.com mention sophisticated methods of electronic car break-ins. One doesn't need to have items visible in a car for a break-in to occur. The amount of trash strewn about Portland by people rooting through trash bins for recycling is ridiculous. Store clerks say shoplifting is brazen.

The city certainly does need more trained police and more enforcement, but a larger police force does not equate with more violence. The police and park rangers that I have met are very capable and professional. Large cities simply require more services and enforcement. Portland's level of services has not kept pace with the growth experienced here. The mayor and commissioners need to ensure that Portland is a safer and cleaner city for all residents and visitors.

Janet Cubar, Northwest Portland