Portland City Council Housing & Permitting Committee 07/21/26

The Portland City Council Housing & Permitting Committee convened on July 21, 2026, to discuss several housing-related issues including community feedback on housing and permitting, a committee letter to the planning commission regarding zoning amendments, regional housing and homelessness strategies, and foreclosure actions on multiple properties. The committee considered a letter proposing zoning changes to increase housing density and affordability incentives, with some members expressing concerns about the scope and process. Metro Council President Juan Carlos Gonzalez and Metro Director of Government Relations Andy Shaw presented on regional investments in affordable housing and homelessness services, highlighting successes, challenges, and the need for continued collaboration and transparency to maintain public trust and funding support. The committee also reviewed foreclosure actions on 17 properties with delinquent city liens related to code enforcement violations, discussing individual cases and deferring final votes to a future meeting to allow further engagement with property owners. The meeting emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, accountability, and community engagement in addressing Portland's housing crisis.