Public Works April 14, 2026

Portland City Council Public Works Committee 04/14/26

Summary

A $525 million bond issuance for water system capital improvements was approved, alongside a property rights ordinance for rockfall mitigation on West Burnside Road. The committee also received a comprehensive update on the Bull Run Filtration Project, highlighting cost adjustments and risk management strategies. Discussions on committee priorities and the structure of future meetings were also held, indicating a focus on maintaining oversight and accountability in city projects. The next steps include further negotiations on property acquisitions and advancing the filtration project with the updated financial strategies.

Key Points

Discussion on property rights ordinance for rockfall mitigation on West Burnside Road
Consideration of water revenue bonds for water system improvements and Bull Run Filtration Project update
Discussion on committee priorities and future agenda planning

Votes (2)

Passed

2020 6-133

Authorize the Bureau of Transportation to acquire certain permanent property rights for rockfall mitigation through eminent domain

Yes: 3 No: 1

Passed

2020 6-134

Authorize water revenue bonds to finance water system capital improvements up to $525 million and to refund outstanding water revenue bonds

Yes: 3 No: 1

Action Items

Schedule an executive session to discuss eminent domain processes.
Invite the Public Utility Board for a future meeting discussion.
Consider establishing an independent financial oversight panel for the Bull Run Filtration Project.