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Portland Street Response hosted a virtual town hall on August 12, 2025, to discuss the program's current status and future vision while gathering community feedback. The event featured a panel of experts, including the Interim Program Manager and mental health responders. A recording of the town hall is available online for those who missed it.
Portland officials announced a land use proposal, LU 25-052295 DZ, set to begin on August 12, 2025. The event will address various categories, including business operations and historic site tours. Attendees can expect discussions on design review and land use translation.
The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability issued a notice regarding the land use decision LU 25-049932 AD. The decision, effective August 12, 2025, outlines modifications to land use regulations impacting various sectors, including business and finance.
City officials announced updated turnaround times for tree permitting services, effective September 30, 2025. Increased workloads and staff reductions are causing delays, with non-development tree permit decisions taking up to four weeks. The public can report tree emergencies by calling 503-823-TREE for immediate assistance.
City officials plan to reconfigure traffic flow around Couch Park to enhance public safety and protect cyclists and pedestrians. The initiative responds to rising concerns over crime, including narcotic activity and assaults in the area.
Portland's Problem Solver Network aims to facilitate resident participation in city policy discussions, but many residents remain unaware of its existence or how to engage. Recent scrutiny over traffic diverters has heightened public attention on the program, which has struggled with transparency and accessibility. City officials acknowledge the program's limitations while attempting to address community concerns.
The Affordable Housing Opportunities Project in Portland accepts public testimony on zoning changes aimed at increasing affordable housing before a Planning Commission hearing on August 26. The Code Alignment Project, focused on streamlining the permitting process, will also be discussed at a City Council hearing on September 3. Both initiatives reflect the city's commitment to enhancing housing accessibility and improving urban planning.
Multnomah County has declared a state of emergency due to an extreme heat wave, reopening three cooling centers and four libraries for residents seeking relief. The cooling centers will operate from noon to 9 pm Tuesday, allowing pets and providing food and water. Transportation to these centers is available without fare on TriMet from 11 am to 10 pm.
Portland City Council approved nearly $4 million to settle lawsuits against the Portland Police Bureau, including a $3.75 million payout for the family of Immanueal “Manny” Clark-Johnson, who was shot by police in 2022. Chief Bob Day stated that the police bureau has changed significantly over the past three years amid ongoing legal challenges. The city has paid out over $22.6 million in settlements related to nearly 900 lawsuits against the PPB in the last five years.
The City of Portland's police misconduct investigations must conclude within 180 days, with a recent report confirming substantial compliance with this timeline. An Independent Monitor, MPS & Associates, now oversees adherence to the Settlement Agreement, while one in-custody death was reported in Q2 2025.