City Selects Prospective New Enhanced Services Districts in all Four Council Districts

The City of Portland selected four groups to explore new Enhanced Services Districts (ESDs) across all four Council Districts. The first group will initiate its exploration efforts in July 2025, while a second group is set to begin in early 2026, depending on available resources. ESDs allow property and business owners to fund extra services, including trash cleanup and public art, enhancing local communities. Non-profit business associations must demonstrate interest and submit a Letter of Request to receive City support for forming an ESD. A selection advisory committee reviewed nine applications to choose the four groups.

Ultimately, City Council must approve the formation of any new ESD, as mandated by City code. Interested organizations can independently start exploring ESD establishment using the City-recommended process. Future City resources may also be available to support additional ESD explorations.