Mayor-Elect Ted Wheeler Reacts to Police Protests

Just because Portland's mayor-elect Ted Wheeler is still serving out his term as state treasurer doesn't mean he's not keeping close tabs on what's going on in the city. On Thursday, he chimed in the on the protests that had gripped the city the day before.

"The dialogue about policing in Portland cannot begin and end with yesterday's contract vote," he tweeted.

Wheeler was referring to the vote Wednesday where the city council approved a new contract with the union representing police officers. Activists had tried to persuade council members to put off voting on the contract until Wheeler took office.

Mayor Hales responded to the protests by moving the council to a closed-off conference room and barring the public. He then ordered police to clear the building, which led to clashes and then people getting arrested.

Wheeler - in a series of tweets - indicated he might take a slightly different approach.

"As mayor, I will engage in good faith, in forums where we all feel our voices are heard and our views have a tangible effect on decision making," Wheeler wrote.

Wheeler said that he has been in touch with all sides as the issue played out.

"I have been and will be in communication with community advocates, my future colleagues on the City Council, Police Chief Marshman, PPA President Turner, and Mayor Hales," he wrote. "No one believes our work is complete. During my campaign, I out forward a vision for policing in Portland.

"I am committed to that vision. And I am dedicated to direct, inclusive engagement between elected leaders, law enforcement, and our citizens to get it done."