Task force splits sustainability into development standards and program viability

Jul 1, 2026

The task force agreed to two sustainability definitions: a development-focused standard (projects meet or exceed Portland building/energy codes) and a social-services standard focused on programmatic viability beyond the grant period. Both definitions passed by voice vote.

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Members agreed sustainability should be defined differently for development projects and social services. For development, committee members recommended aligning with existing city building and energy codes and awarding points for projects that exceed those standards (for example, LEED or solar where applicable). "If something has to meet the city's green building ordinance and receipt of CDBG funding of more than $50,000 requires a project to meet the city's green building ordinance," Mary noted.

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