Portland City Council City Life Committee 04/28/26

The Portland City Council City Life Committee meeting on April 28, 2026, focused primarily on an overview of Prosper Portland's economic development role and a detailed discussion on proposed amendments to the city's Arts Education and Access Tax. Prosper Portland's new leadership presented their vision for supporting local businesses, economic development programs, and governance structure, emphasizing transparency, community engagement, and equitable investment, particularly in East Portland. The committee also reviewed a comprehensive proposal to reform the Arts Tax, which included raising the tax from $35 to $50, increasing income thresholds to exempt low-income residents, indexing the tax to inflation, and improving administration and oversight. Public testimony from arts leaders, educators, and community members highlighted the critical role of arts funding in supporting education and cultural organizations amid financial challenges. The committee discussed the balance between maintaining funding levels and reducing the tax burden on low-income Portlanders, with plans for ongoing evaluation and potential future adjustments to ensure long-term sustainability and equity.