Major Players in Portland Music Community Pack City Hall in Support of Dunphys Music Policy Vision

Councilor Jaime Dunphy announced initiatives to strengthen Portland's music economy during a lively City Hall presentation. Musicians showed support for the policies, which aim to protect rehearsal spaces and streamline permitting for small venues. MusicPortland founder Meara McLaughlin highlighted the sector’s significant economic impact, noting it generates 22,997 jobs and nearly $3. 8 billion in revenue statewide, with 80 percent concentrated in Portland. Grammy-winning artist esperanza spalding reflected on the importance of community music programs, emphasizing the need for support amid economic challenges.

Beverley Whitrick from the UK’s Music Venue Trust proposed adopting the “Agent of Change” principle to safeguard music venues during urban development. Derek Trost, vice chair of the Music Policy Council, stressed the need for updated city codes to support home music spaces. Councilor Dunphy will hold roundtables and listening sessions to refine the proposed policies, including a Venue Protection Plan and support for home-based musicians. These initiatives seek to officially recognize Portland as a Music City and promote music tourism.