Council January 21, 2026

Portland City Council PM Session 01/21/26

Council redirected $20,700,000 to eviction defense and rent assistance. Public testimony pushed for urgent housing support, follow-up session scheduled.

Summary

The Portland City Council convened to discuss the allocation of approximately $20,700,000 in unspent Rental Services Office funds, focusing on housing stability and eviction prevention. Amendments proposed by Councilors Avalos, Dunphy, and Smith sought to redirect these funds to various housing-related initiatives, including eviction defense and rent assistance. The session included extensive public testimony, highlighting the community's urgent need for housing support and the impact of potential funding cuts on vulnerable populations. The council passed the proposed amendments, which aim to enhance housing stability across the city. The meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing housing insecurity and the complexities involved in fund allocation. A follow-up session was scheduled to finalize decisions on fund distribution.

Key Points

  • Discussion on the allocation of approximately $20,700,000 in unspent Rental Services Office funds
  • Introduction of amendments to reallocate funds for housing-related purposes
  • Public testimony on housing and eviction-related funding

Votes (1)

Passed

Amendments Avalos, Dunphy, Smith 1 and 2

Amendments to reallocate funds within the Rental Services Office for various housing-related purposes

Yes: 12 No: 0

Action Items

  • Further discussion and final vote on housing fund allocation scheduled for the next meeting
  • Review legal limitations on the usage of the Rental Services Office funds

Issues Discussed (5)