Committee refers Prosper Portland reappointments to full council after questions on Albina settlement and oversight

The Committee of the Whole referred the mayor's reappointments of Marcelino Alvarez and Eric Kress to the Prosper Portland Board to the full City Council for consideration. Vice Chair Ryan moved the referral; Councilor Clark seconded and the motion passed on a roll call vote recorded as 11 ayes. Chair Kunal said he would coordinate to bring absent staff to the full council to answer outstanding questions.

Council members pressed Prosper Portland leadership about a high-profile Albina/Legacy Emanuel settlement and whether Prosper would increase a promised contribution. Executive Director Cornel Westley said Prosper's committed share remained $1,000,000 and summarized that “Prosper Portland has honored its commitment” while noting the agency has invested “more than $135,000,000 in North Northeast Portland.” Several councilors said they wanted further public discussion at the full council before taking a final vote on the reappointments.

The referral followed a broad Q&A on Prosper's mission and recent project performance. Councilors raised concerns about the agency's underwriting and oversight after the underperformance of projects such as Made in Old Town; Westley described structural reforms, independent audits, and steps to separate capital access from real estate functions. Board chair Gustavo Cruz and nominee Marcelino Alvarez emphasized the board's volunteer role and Alvarez described priorities including small‑business growth and waterfront access.