Story Published:
Dec 25, 2006 at 2:11 PM PDT
Story Updated:
Apr 14, 2009 at 3:17 PM PDT
PORTLAND, Ore. - A northeast Portland motel infamous as a nexus of drugs and prostitution held an unusual dinner Sunday night.
New owner Alan Sanchez says he is really trying to change things at the Portland Pensione motel, and the dinner was both a peace offering to neighbors and a way to get to know them and ease tensions.
Sgt. Schmautz of the Portland Police Bureau confirms the motel is well known for drug dealers and prostitutes. Formerly, it was known as the Budget Motel and the San Rafael Motel.
Sanchez says he has taken steps to curbing illegal activities at the motel. Most residents who live nearby are not convinced, and most did not take Sanchez up on the Sunday meal invitation.
One neighbor says the invitation was a "snow job" by the owners to try and put a new face on an old problem.
Sanchez says the motel now sports new lights, security cameras, curfews on guests and new management.
Old managers reportedly took sex and drugs on trade for rent payments.
Despite the improvements, police were called to the hotel three times on Sunday for various disturbances.
Patrol officers are taking a special interest in seeing the place cleaned up, no matter who owns it.
Neighbors say they will wait and see if the situation improves.
