Pamplin Media Group May 18 2021
A perfect storm of money and creativity is coming together, but we must have solid metrics to measure success.
Clarification: An earlier version of this editorial was unclear on the source of Multnomah County funding for homeless services. The money budgeted for the 1,300 housing placements and alternative shelters is coming from the county s share of the Metro funds, not federal dollars. Federal dollars are supporting motels and other temporary shelters; the continued distribution of food, water, sanitizer and supplies; funding for Portland Street Medicine; funding for new hygiene facilities; and increases in eviction prevention rent assistance.
Multnomah County extends residential eviction ban until July
Updated Dec 18, 2020;
Multnomah County commissioners voted unanimously Thursday to extend the county’s residential eviction ban until July 2, providing assurance that tenants won’t lose their homes even if Oregon doesn’t extend its statewide eviction moratorium past the end of the year.
The Oregon Legislature is due to meet in a one-day special session next week to consider extending the statewide moratorium and provide aid to landlords whose tenants are behind on rent. Multnomah County commissioners said they acted Thursday, in conjunction with renewing the county’s emergency declaration, because it remains unclear whether a statewide measure will pass next week.
Applications open for $2,500 pandemic relief grants for businesses in east Multnomah County
Updated Dec 10, 2020;
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Small businesses in east Multnomah County that have been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic can begin applying Thursday for $2,500 grants from a new $1 million relief fund.
To qualify for the grants, businesses must be in the cities of Fairview, Gresham, Troutdale, Wood Village or in surrounding areas of unincorporated east Multnomah County. The grants are limited to businesses whose revenue did not exceed $2 million in 2019.
The grant selection process will prioritize businesses most impacted by Gov. Kate Brown’s recent public health closures, such as gyms, restaurants and retailers.