Portland City Council Housing & Permitting Committee 05/05/26

The Portland City Council Housing & Permitting Committee met on May 5, 2026, to discuss several key housing-related procurement and policy issues. The meeting included public comments on affordable housing challenges, highlighting the need for long-term investment and stabilization funding for affordable housing providers. A significant procurement action was the authorization of the conveyance of a city-owned 3-acre property to Habitat for Humanity Portland/Metro East for the True North project, which will develop 50 affordable homeownership units with a mix of income restrictions and family-sized homes. The committee unanimously recommended the ordinance for full council approval. Additionally, the committee reviewed and recommended updates to the Portland Permitting and Development fee schedule to align with the mayor's proposed budget, aiming to maintain service levels amid declining construction market revenues. The fee adjustments, generally between 5-9%, were presented as necessary to avoid staffing cuts and service delays. The meeting also featured a panel discussion with affordable housing providers addressing operational challenges such as rising costs, tenant needs, vacancy issues, and community safety concerns. The discussion underscored the need for increased funding, regulatory reform, and enhanced resident services to sustain affordable housing quality and accessibility.