City Council Study Session 5/12/2026

The City Council of Milwaukie, Oregon, held a study session on May 12, 2026, primarily focused on discussing the Oregon Moderate Income Revolving Loan Program (Muro). Staff presented detailed information and responses to council questions regarding the program's implementation challenges, including concerns about compliance, financial liability, default risks, and administrative capacity. The council deliberated on the feasibility of adopting the program, particularly emphasizing the potential for nonprofit developers to administer projects to mitigate risk. They also discussed the need for clearer state guidance, legislative fixes, and possible collaboration with Clackamas County for program administration. The council considered sending a letter to the county to encourage coordinated administration and alignment of the program. No formal vote to adopt the program was taken, but the council expressed the need for clear direction on whether to move forward, with a suggestion to revisit the issue after the county's June 2 meeting. Additionally, the council briefly discussed supporting a regional solid waste advisory letter and local economic development activities. Overall, the meeting highlighted significant procurement-related concerns about the loan program's structure, risk management, and administrative burden on the city.