Power Moves A Community Organization is Calling the Shots in One of Portlands Oldest Neighborhoods

Portland's Old Town neighborhood is on the verge of a significant transformation, driven by redevelopment projects including Made in Old Town, which plans to create a multi-building sportswear campus. The Old Town Community Association (OTCA) has been influential in these developments, with president Jessie Burke and treasurer Jonathan Cohen at the forefront. Their dual roles as community leaders and business owners have sparked concerns about conflicts of interest, particularly after OTCA facilitated a $2 million state grant for Made in Old Town. The project aims to revitalize the area by attracting footwear manufacturers, with interest from multiple companies already reported. Critics argue that OTCA's close ties to major projects may skew funding decisions, leading to questions about the appropriateness of public financial support.

The city’s economic development agency, Prosper Portland, provided a $7 million low-interest loan to the initiative, further complicating the financial landscape. Local officials are now grappling with the implications of OTCA's power in budget discussions. This development could reshape the economic future of Old Town and set precedents for community involvement in urban planning.