City of Portland Official Notices: Council Priorities, Transit Equity Day, and Safety Advisories

Portland City Council: Data Privacy and Rental Support

The Portland City Council convenes today, Wednesday, February 4, 2026, for a high-priority morning session starting at 9:30 a.m. at City Hall. Key legislative items on the agenda include a proposed ordinance to establish a new City Data and Privacy Office. This initiative, introduced by the Council, aims to advance privacy protections for residents and minimize risks associated with data brokers and the uncontrolled sharing of personal information.

In addition to data privacy, the Council will address several community-focused resolutions:

• Housing Funds: Councilors will deliberate on the allocation of approximately $20.7 million in unspent Rental Services Office funds. The proposed resolution urges the Mayor to prioritize these funds in the upcoming budget to support housing stability.
• Public Accommodations: A second reading is scheduled for an ordinance requiring gender-neutral signage for single-occupant restrooms in places of public accommodation to ensure equal access.
• Infrastructure: Council will finalize the renaming of a portion of SW Jackson Street to SW Rose Hill Street, alongside updates to the City Code regarding street renaming authority.

Transit Equity Day: Fare-Free Service

In honor of Rosa Parks Day and the pursuit of transit equity, TriMet has announced that no fares will be collected today, February 4, 2026. This fare-free day applies to all TriMet buses, MAX light rail, WES commuter rail, and LIFT paratransit services. The Portland Streetcar and C-TRAN are also participating in the initiative. This annual tradition commemorates the legacy of the civil rights icon and encourages residents to utilize public transportation as a means of community connection and reflection.

Federal Court Order: Use of Munitions at South Waterfront

A federal temporary restraining order is currently in effect following a ruling by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Simon. For the next 14 days, federal agents stationed at the Portland Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility are prohibited from deploying tear gas, chemical munitions, or projectiles against protesters unless they face an imminent threat of physical harm. The order further restricts agents from firing munitions at the head, neck, or torso of any individual unless deadly force is legally justified. The ruling follows recent demonstrations in the South Waterfront neighborhood and concerns raised by local leadership regarding public safety conduct.

Public Health and Winter Preparedness

The Multnomah County Health Department has issued a reminder to families regarding the upcoming school vaccination deadline. "Exclusion Day" is set for February 25, 2026; students who are not up to date on required immunizations by this date will be ineligible to attend school or childcare. Additionally, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) urges residents to maintain winter weather readiness by clearing sidewalks of debris and preparing emergency kits for home and vehicles as the city moves through the peak of the winter season.