City Bulletin: Housing Budget Hearings and Public Health Alerts for February 19, 2026

City Council Session: Housing and Rental Funding Priorities

The Portland City Council is scheduled to meet today, Thursday, February 19, 2026, for a hybrid session starting at 2:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 1221 SW Fourth Avenue. A primary focus of the afternoon session is Resolution 2025-478, introduced by Councilor Candace Avalos and Council President Jamie Dunphy. This resolution aims to establish council priorities for the allocation of approximately $20,700,000 in unspent funds from the Rental Services Office, with a formal request for the Mayor to reflect these priorities in the upcoming proposed budget.

Additionally, the Council will consider Ordinance 2026-010 and Emergency Ordinance 2026-070. These measures seek to adopt a supplemental budget for the Portland Housing Bureau for the 2025-26 fiscal year. Community members wishing to provide testimony on these housing initiatives must register at least one hour before the meeting for virtual participation or sign up in person before the agenda item is heard.

Public Health Alerts: Measles and Canine Outbreak

Multnomah County health officials have issued two critical advisories. Following a reported increase in measles cases across Oregon earlier this month, residents are reminded that the annual school exclusion day is February 25, 2026. Children who are not up to date on their required vaccinations or who do not have a valid exemption will be unable to attend school or childcare starting next Wednesday.

In animal health news, Multnomah County Animal Services (MCAS) remains under a temporary quarantine due to an outbreak of Streptococcus zooepidemicus, or "Strep Zoo." This highly contagious canine respiratory illness has forced the closure of all dog intake and adoption programs. While owners may still reclaim lost pets, MCAS recommends immediate veterinary consultation for any animals leaving the facility. MCAS staff are currently focused on disinfection and increasing veterinary checkups to manage the outbreak.

Travel Advisory: Winter Weather and Infrastructure Projects

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the Portland West Hills through noon today. National Weather Service reports indicate that wet snow and slushy conditions may impact higher elevations, potentially making overpasses and steep roads hazardous. Drivers are encouraged to carry a winter emergency kit and exercise caution during the midday commute.

Ongoing infrastructure projects also impact regional travel today:

• I-5 Northbound: Nightly width restrictions of 14 feet are in place near the I-405 interchange through February 20.
• I-205 Southbound: The Exit 8 off-ramp to OR-43 will experience intermittent closures between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. as part of the Abernethy Bridge project.
• County Roads: Safety improvements continue on 257th Avenue, while the emergency bridge repair at 223rd and Marine Drive is expected to reach completion by the end of this week.

Community Service Announcements

Portland residents are invited to the Community Resiliency Fair this coming Saturday, February 21, at Centennial High School. The event will feature a repair café, a clothing swap, and resources for emergency preparedness. Locally, the Bureau of Transportation reminds the public that while the annual snowplow naming contest has concluded, crews remain on standby for potential ice and snow response throughout the weekend.