Portland cuts 950 jobs, faces $100 million shortfall

Portland Parks & Recreration has taken the biggest hit from COVID-19 services cuts so far.

 PMG file photo

Portland city officials say the cost of the coronavirus outbreak could exceed $100 million in lost revenue as of the beginning of April and have cut 950 jobs amid the financial fallout.

Widespread shutdowns to slow the spread of the virus have cut into some of the city's key funding streams, including taxes paid by hotels. Tourism officials say demand for rooms at Portland hotels is 80% lower now than a year ago. The taxes on those hotel stays help pay for essential city services, including police and parks.