PDX Agenda Tracker: Tense Talk & Tight Budgets | May 5-8, 2025
Street Wonk Voter Guide Update... Forest Park vs. PGE... Sidewalks for East & SW Portland... Transportation Projects... Equity... Fair Wages... and Budgets! Budgets! Budgets!
Dear Readers,
Here’s this week’s agenda—a little later than I would like to get it out, but it's still worth the read. A lot is going on, especially with budgets, as the end of our fiscal year draws to a close. Budget season is always a slog, but I did my best to break it down into a digestible form.
Another notable item this week is the PBOT amendment on sidewalk maintenance and construction. While writing up this week’s issue this morning, I listened to very tense and rushed Council deliberations about a proposed amendment by Councilor Avalos that would have removed prescriptive language targeting investment in East and Southwest Portland. I was surprised by some of the negativity directed at Councilor Avalos, given that she’s a Black and Latina woman, an East Portland resident, and a fierce advocate for equity and justice in every arena. I understood her reasoning and believe a district-neutral resolution could have been crafted to achieve the results everyone wants—that we focus resources on the communities experiencing the most harm due to the lack of safe pedestrian infrastructure. I also understand how passionate some Councilors were about keeping the language; I’m just disappointed that some didn’t seem to grasp her intent or give her the benefit of the doubt.
In case you didn’t crack open last week’s Street Wonk Voter Guide, check it out now! And for everyone who did, I inadvertently left out the Multnomah Education Service District, Position 2 race. My pick is Susie Jones, a retired educator and former MESD board member. Jones spent three decades in public education, teaching in North Clackamas and David Douglas before serving 12 years on the Mt. Hood Community College faculty. A steadfast advocate for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ students, she brings deep institutional knowledge and is committed to defending civil rights in education. Jones is ready to return to the MESD Board and hit the ground running.
As we head into this packed stretch of committee meetings and budget decisions, it’s worth remembering: these processes may be dry, but they shape our future as a city. Budgets are values made visible. Who gets funded, what gets delayed, and what gets quietly cut reflect choices about whose needs matter. I’ll keep watching, breaking it down, and pushing for a city that works for all of us.
As always, I appreciate your likes, comments, restacks, shares, and subscriptions!
With hope, love & solidarity,
Chloe
P.S. Just in time for Older Americans month—my birthday is this week! If you’re wondering what to get the Street Wonk who has everything, sharing this newsletter with your friends or becoming a paid subscriber would be the perfect gift!
Hello! If you’ve been thinking about becoming a paid subscriber, now’s the time. If money’s tight, try the budget option: $3/month or $30/year.
Doing alright? Choose the standard: $6/month or $60/year.
Feeling generous? Become a sustainer: $100/year.Portland City Council
Wednesday, May 7th | 9:30am
Time Certain
3: Consider appeal by Forest Park Neighborhood Association and Forest Park Conservancy against the Hearings Officer’s decision to approve with conditions an Environmental Review, Conditional Use Review, and two Greenway Reviews for the upgrade and expansion of transmission lines in Forest Park (Report). City Council will revisit the appeal from the Forest Park Neighborhood Association and Forest Park Conservancy challenging the Hearings Officer’s decision to approve PGE’s proposed transmission line upgrades through Forest Park and the Harborton Substation. The project requires multiple land use reviews, including a Type III Environmental Review, because it represents an exception to the Forest Park Natural Resource Management Plan. Opponents argue that PGE overlooked viable non-park alternatives, that the project’s ecological damage can’t be fully mitigated, and that it undermines the goal of maintaining a self-sustaining ancient forest.
At the initial hearing on April 17, the Council tentatively granted the appeal, siding with the neighborhood and conservancy. On May 7 at 9:45 a.m., Council will return to formally adopt findings to overturn the Hearings Officer’s decision. This is a critical procedural step—finalizing the Council’s position against the proposed development.
This case highlights the growing friction between climate adaptation efforts and environmental protection, particularly when corporate utilities seek to expand infrastructure through sensitive public lands.
Further Reading
City Council to Overturn Hearings Officer's Approval of PGE Forest Park Plan (Portland Mercury)
Regular Agenda
9: Direct Bureau of Transportation to construct and maintain sidewalks while addressing pavement maintenance deficiencies throughout Portland, improving safety and accessibility for all residents through the Sidewalk Improvement and Paving Program (Resolution). City Council will take up continued discussion and potential adoption of the resolution establishing SIPP—a long-overdue initiative directing PBOT to construct and maintain sidewalks and address widespread pavement deficiencies citywide. The program prioritizes East and Southwest Portland (Districts 1 and 4), where the majority of missing sidewalks and deteriorating roads are concentrated. PBOT estimates that nearly two-thirds of local streets and over half of busy roads are in poor or very poor condition, with stark disparities in walkability and safety.
This resolution outlines a 4-year plan to create ADA-compliant sidewalks, enhance accessibility, and improve active transportation infrastructure. It’s framed as a system-wide equity initiative that will also generate youth employment, enable greener materials (like solar sidewalks), and attract federal and PCEF funding.
What’s missing so far? The money. This resolution is the first of three related legislative actions. It does not yet allocate funding but directs PBOT to identify specific projects, create a delivery framework, and return to the Council with budget and bond options. The fiscal challenges are real—PBOT faces a $203M revenue shortfall over five years, so upcoming funding decisions will determine whether this ambitious plan becomes a reality or another shelved vision for equity.
10: Authorize revenue bonds in an amount sufficient to provide not more than $80 million to finance curb, ramp and street improvement projects (Ordinance). City Council is set to approve issuing up to $81.2 million in revenue bonds to fund curb, ramp, and street improvements, with budget adjustments to support the Transportation Bureau. The bonds are backed by existing city revenues (not new taxes) and may include interim financing and refunding. This is standard infrastructure financing authority with delegated power to staff for bond issuance and management.
21: Add Fair Wage Policy Code for certain City service contracts (add Code Chapter 5.70) (Ordinance). City Council will vote on reinstating and strengthening Portland’s Fair Wage Policy, repealed by the previous Council. The original policy, in place since 2000, guaranteed that workers performing janitorial, security, and parking garage services under City contracts were paid a minimum fair wage. Its repeal in late 2024 left low-wage contract workers vulnerable to pay cuts, high turnover, and economic instability.
This ordinance restores those protections, sets the wage floor at $19.80/hour for FY 2024–25, and ties future increases to the Consumer Price Index. It also directs the City Administrator to issue administrative rules and publicly report annual wage adjustments. Worker protections against retaliation and a framework for transparency are also included.
Labor unions and worker advocates back the move, and it is especially vital for workers of color, immigrants, and people with disabilities—groups overrepresented in contracted low-wage positions. The ordinance also reinforces the City’s equity goals by ensuring public dollars do not subsidize poverty wages.
Thursday, May 8th | 2:00pm
Time Certain
31 (2pm): Insights Survey and Budget Listening Session presentation (Presentation). The City Budget Office and Civic Life will present findings from Portland’s Insights Survey, which gathers public feedback on priorities and perceptions of city services. This is intended to shape how the Council approaches the upcoming budget.
32 (2:45pm): Council convenes as Prosper Portland Budget Committee to receive the Prosper Portland FY 2025-26 Proposed Budget and hold a public hearing (Report). Council reconvenes as the Prosper Portland Budget Committee to hear the agency’s proposed FY 2025–26 budget and take public testimony. Prosper Portland—once known as the Portland Development Commission—oversees economic development, tax increment financing, and business support programs. The hearing is a key opportunity to weigh in on how (and where) public dollars flow for business and real estate development in Portland.
Multnomah County Board of Commissioners
Thursday, May 8th | 9:30 am
Consent Agenda
Investing in Public Health, Despite the National Retreat
While public health is under attack nationally—through funding cuts, anti-science policies, and backlash against basic health equity—Multnomah County continues to invest in programs that protect the most vulnerable. This week’s consent agenda includes over $837,000 in public health funding that reflects a local commitment to science, justice, and community care:
C.1 $375,672 for Healthy Families Oregon
Expands home visiting for new parents and babies, a proven program that supports early childhood development, prevents abuse, and improves long-term outcomes.
C.2 $136,656 for Portland Harbor Fish Consumption Advisory Outreach
Funds culturally appropriate outreach to communities—especially Black, Indigenous, and immigrant residents—impacted by toxic pollution in the Willamette River. It ensures people know which fish are unsafe to eat and why.
C.3 $223,118 for the Healthy Homes Environmental Justice program
Supports families living in unsafe or unhealthy housing—especially renters in neglected or older buildings—with interventions to reduce asthma triggers, mold, pests, and other environmental risks.
C.4 $102,091 for additional Healthy Families supports
Expands services for parenting education, health screenings, and referrals for low-income households.
These are modest investments with outsized impacts. In a moment when other states are defunding public health or pushing harmful misinformation, Multnomah County’s continued support for maternal health, environmental justice, and housing-based interventions is an act of resistance—and a vital lifeline for thousands of residents.
Regular Agenda
Chair Jessica Vega Pederson’s proposed $3.88 billion budget for FY 2026 focuses on stabilizing core services, strengthening safety nets, and addressing structural deficits—all while grappling with rising needs and declining discretionary revenue.
Key Priorities
Homelessness & Housing Stability:
Continues significant investments in the Joint Office of Homeless Services, including shelter operations, rent assistance, and behavioral health services.Public Health & Behavioral Health:
Sustains critical community mental health and addiction services, with added support for school-based health centers and overdose prevention.Community Safety:
Maintains investments in violence prevention and jail operations, but signals long-term need to reimagine public safety under tight budgets.Libraries & Capital Projects:
Advances library bond-funded construction, including Holgate and Midland, and continues courthouse and infrastructure improvements.
Challenges
A projected $35.5 million General Fund gap driven by slowing tax revenue and rising costs (primarily labor and housing-related services).
Increased demand for health and housing services across nearly every department.
One-time federal relief funds are gone, leaving the County to absorb ongoing costs with limited flexibility.
Structural Fixes in Progress
Departmental reviews and performance audits to reduce duplication and find savings
A long-term fiscal planning initiative to align resources with core values and mandates
Increased transparency and collaboration through Budget Workgroups
The Big Picture
This transitional budget protects services while preparing for a tougher financial terrain ahead. It reflects a shift from crisis response to long-term sustainability—but not without tradeoffs.
The Library District’s proposed $341.2 million budget for FY 2026 reflects continued transformation fueled by the $387 million voter-approved bond passed in 2020. This year’s focus is on construction, modernization, and sustaining vital services during a period of enormous change.
Key Focus Areas
Capital Projects:
Major construction continues at eight libraries (including Holgate, Midland, and Albina), with planning underway for the new flagship East County Library. These projects will significantly expand access in historically underserved areas.Operations & Staffing:
Maintains core staffing levels and public services during disruption caused by construction. Prioritizes safety, security, and employee well-being amid rising workplace challenges.Digital Equity & Access:
Sustains investments in WiFi hotspots, Chromebooks, and tech help programs, addressing the digital divide across communities.Programming & Outreach:
Supports early literacy, workforce development, immigrant and refugee services, and culturally responsive programming.
Challenges & Constraints
Construction timelines, inflation, and market conditions continue to strain bond dollars.
Maintaining quality service amid temporary closures, relocations, and facility changes requires ongoing adaptability.
Community needs remain high, particularly in housing-insecure and immigrant communities.
Bottom Line
This is a bridge year—balancing bold infrastructure expansion with the need to keep services running and staff supported. By next fiscal year, several libraries will reopen, bringing the bond’s long-promised improvements to life.
May Proclamations from Multnomah County
In a time when many of the communities and causes honored here are underfunded, overlooked, or actively under attack, these proclamations are more than symbolic. They’re public affirmations of belonging, care, and accountability. Multnomah County issued seven proclamations this week recognizing cultural heritage, mental health, public service, and community contributions:
Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Celebrating the richness, resilience, and diversity of AANHPI communities.Public Service Recognition Week (May 4–10)
Honoring the often-invisible work of those who keep local government running, especially through crises.Mental Health Awareness Month
A call to end stigma and invest in accessible, community-rooted care.
Older Americans Month
Recognizing the contributions and rights of elders to age with dignity, inclusion, and support.Provider Appreciation Day (May 9)
Uplifting child care providers and their foundational role in family and economic well-being.
These proclamations matter. They reflect our values as a county and set the tone for advocacy, funding, and program decisions. Let’s make sure they’re more than ceremonial.
Metro Council
Thursday, May 8th | 10:30 am
Consent Agenda
3.2 Adding a New ODOT Public Transportation Awarded Project to the 2024-27 MTIP for TriMet (Resolution) This resolution adds a federally funded TriMet project to the Metropolitan Transportation Improvement Program (MTIP), ensuring continued support for elderly and disabled transit riders. This routine amendment enables funding to move forward and services to remain uninterrupted.
3.3 Amending the 2024-27 MTIP to Meet Federal Project Delivery Requirements
Three transportation projects will be added, amended, or canceled to meet federal compliance rules. One key addition supports ADA-safe crossings throughout Oregon, including Metro’s jurisdiction. These adjustments help maintain funding eligibility while advancing accessibility.
Presentations
4.1 Results of First Opportunity Target Area Audit: Metro Auditor Brian Evans will present findings from an audit of how Metro applies equity targets in Parks and Nature bond spending. The audit reveals inconsistent use of “First Opportunity Target Area” criteria and calls for clearer guidance and stronger accountability to ensure that underserved communities are prioritized as promised.
4.2 Waste Prevention and Environmental Services FY 2025–26 Budget Engagement Report Out: Mary Nolan and staff will report on what community members want from the upcoming waste prevention budget: more reuse and repair programs, equity-focused investments, and educational outreach. These findings will shape how funds are spent in the coming year.
Resolutions
5.1 Adopting the Metro Investment Policy for FY 2024–25: Metro will adopt its annual investment policy to guide how public funds are managed. It emphasizes safety, liquidity, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Other Business
6.1 FY 2025–26 Approved Budget (Council Discussion)
Metro’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer will present the FY 2025–26 Approved Budget and lead a final discussion before adoption. The $2 billion budget outlines funding for housing, climate, parks, transit, and regional services.
6.1.1 Public Hearing FY 2025–26 Approved Budget
Community members will have a final opportunity to provide testimony on Metro’s approved budget before it heads to formal adoption in June.
Wonk Out!
🏛 Budget Season
How Economists Invented Austerity and Paved the Way to Fascism (Pitchfork Economics Podcast): Economist Clara Mattei discusses her book, The Capital Order, arguing that austerity is not merely an economic policy but a deliberate political strategy. She posits that austerity measures—such as cutting public services and suppressing wages—maintain capitalist structures by weakening labor movements and consolidating wealth and power among elites. Mattei traces the origins of modern austerity to post-World War I Britain and Italy, illustrating how these policies were employed to suppress working-class uprisings and prevent alternative economic systems from emerging. The conversation highlights the role of economists in promoting austerity as a means to preserve the status quo, often at the expense of democratic ideals and social equity. This discussion is particularly relevant in the context of current budget debates and the impact of fiscal policies on marginalized communities.
The Privatization of Everything—How the Plunder of Public Goods Transformed America and How We Can Fight Back by Donald Cohen & Allen Mikaelian: Essential for understanding how neoliberal policies gut public services—shifting risk and cost to individuals while claiming efficiency.
🚶🏾 Pedestrian Infrastructure
Right of Way—Race, Class, and the Silent Epidemic of Pedestrian Deaths in America by Angie Schmitt: Examines how race, class, and inequality are embedded in transportation infrastructure—and why pedestrian safety is a political issue.
🌱 Environmental Justice
As Long as Grass Grows—The Indigenous Fight for Environmental Justice, from Colonization to Standing Rock by Dina Gilio-Whitaker: Looks at Indigenous resistance to environmental injustice, especially around land rights, conservation, and settler frameworks.
Re: "I was surprised by some of the negativity directed at Councilor Avalos, given that she’s a Black and Latina woman, an East Portland resident, and a fierce advocate for equity and justice in every arena."
Racism lives!
And isn't it amazing that, with all of the lip-flap about sidewalks, no one seems to care about the 50 miles of "pirate pavement" and gravel? Am I missing something here? (Oh, yah: PBOT hates automobile transportation and would like to impede it with thousands of gallons of paint, street-candy, and other irritations...as the businesses along Division have learned at their expense.)
Chloe, the Council wasn’t necessarily racist in arguing with Commissioner Avalos. Sidewalk paving for part of the East and West sides has been discussed for years, and neighborhoods both East and West have pressed for sidewalks for a long, long time. I think that Progressives on City Council need to pick their battles with more sensitivity to what can raise ire in the public.