Clackamas County Coordinating Committee (C4) - May 2026

The Clackamas County Coordinating Committee (C4) meeting held on May 7, 2026, focused extensively on regional economic development and housing initiatives. A significant portion of the discussion centered on the Moderate Income Revolving Loan (MERL) program, a $75 million state-funded initiative designed to support affordable housing projects for moderate-income households. The program allows cities and counties to establish local revolving loan funds to fill financing gaps for housing developments, with flexibility in project types and repayment options, including tax increment financing or alternative funding sources. Attendees discussed program administration, developer eligibility, risk mitigation, and the potential for cities to collaborate with counties on administrative fees. Additionally, presentations from the Port of Portland and city managers highlighted local economic development strategies, including grant and loan programs aimed at business and property improvements, with an emphasis on job creation and urban revitalization. The meeting also covered transportation funding challenges, regional coordination efforts, and upcoming retreat planning. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were reported, but the discussions indicated ongoing and future procurement activities related to housing finance and economic development projects.