Rent board forms two-member subcommittee to review tenant notice form and referral to city committee

The Portland Rent Board on June 25 voted to refer a written public comment about rent increase notices to a subcommittee of two board members for further investigation and recommendation.

The board discussed whether the city ordinance requires a tenant signature on a landlord’s rent-increase notice and whether the board’s example form or best-practice guidance should be revised to strengthen proof of notice. Board members noted the Housing and Economic Development Committee of city council (HEDC) is also reviewing related procedural and legal issues involving rent notices, and suggested coordination.

Why it matters: The change would not by itself alter city law. The rent board’s form is a suggested template only; any binding change to notice requirements would require city council or voter action if the ordinance is altered. The subcommittee’s work could produce a clearer model form and a memo to HEDC recommending procedural or legislative solutions.

What the board did: By unanimous vote the board referred the item to a two-member subcommittee. Board members Austin and Matthew Lacks volunteered to serve; Laura also volunteered to help if needed. The board directed staff to provide the subcommittee with relevant background and to track HEDC agendas for related action (noted upcoming HEDC meeting dates were July 1 and July 15). The board also suggested the subcommittee consult city corporation counsel before finalizing any formal recommendations.

Ending: The board’s motion recorded a plan for the subcommittee to review options — including requiring certified mail, updating the board’s example form to incorporate a clearer acknowledgment of receipt, or drafting a request for HEDC — and to report back at a future meeting.