During a recent Portland City Council meeting, officials celebrated significant progress in the implementation of the city's housing bond, which was passed by voters in 2016. The bond, which allocated $258 million to create 1,300 permanently affordable homes, has exceeded expectations by delivering 1,859 units to date.

Deputy City Administrator Oliveira opened the session by acknowledging the collaborative efforts of the bond oversight committee and the Portland Housing Bureau (PHB) in ensuring that the bond funds are utilized effectively and in alignment with community needs. The committee, composed of community members, has been instrumental in monitoring the bond's progress and ensuring adherence to its policy framework.

Megan Grillo, the bond housing program coordinator, presented the 2023 progress report, highlighting that all bond resources have been committed to 15 projects, surpassing production goals across various categories, including deeply affordable and family-sized units. Notably, 83% of new units are located in high-opportunity areas, and 39% are situated in regions at risk of gentrification, demonstrating a commitment to preventing displacement.

The report also emphasized the bond's economic impact, injecting $289 million into the local economy and achieving a 32% participation rate from disadvantaged, minority-owned, and women-owned businesses in contracting. Furthermore, the bond has made strides in workforce diversity, with significant labor hours worked by BIPOC individuals and women.

A key highlight of the meeting was the presentation from \"Our Just Future,\" a partner organization involved in the development of the Aurora, a housing project that provides 93 units of affordable housing. Representatives from the organization shared insights into the project's design, community partnerships, and the importance of wraparound services for residents, particularly those transitioning from homelessness.

Resident Charles Bishop also spoke about his family's experience at the Aurora, emphasizing the stability and support the housing has provided during a challenging time. His testimony underscored the human impact of the housing bond, illustrating how access to stable housing can foster resilience and community connection.

In closing, Helmy Hissarek, director of the Portland Housing Bureau, expressed gratitude to the oversight committee, partners, and city council members for their ongoing support in addressing Portland's housing crisis. The meeting highlighted not only the successes of the housing bond but also the continued need for collaborative efforts to ensure affordable housing remains accessible to those in need.