Portland City Council to Debate Data Privacy Office and $20 Million Housing Fund Today
City Council Convenes for Busy Wednesday Session
The Portland City Council is scheduled to meet today, Wednesday, February 4, 2026, starting at 9:30 a.m. at City Hall. The session features a heavy legislative agenda that includes the potential establishment of a new city office, significant shifts in housing bureau funding, and updates to the city's police accountability framework. Today's meeting is expected to last until at least 12:30 p.m. and will be held in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and virtual participation.
Establishing a City Data and Privacy Office
One of the primary items on today’s agenda is a proposal to establish a formal City Data and Privacy Office. Introduced by Councilors Angelita Morillo and Steve Novick, the ordinance aims to create a dedicated department to manage the city's data assets and enhance privacy protections for residents. The proposed office would be tasked with minimizing risks associated with data brokers and ensuring that personal information collected by city services is not shared without strict controls. Supporters argue this is a necessary step to modernize Portland’s digital infrastructure and protect civil liberties in an increasingly data-driven environment.
Allocation of $20.7 Million in Rental Services Funds
Council will also consider a major resolution regarding housing affordability. Introduced by Councilors Candace Avalos, Jamie Dunphy, and Loretta Smith, the resolution seeks to establish priorities for approximately $20.7 million in unspent Rental Services Office funds. The sponsors are urging Mayor Keith Wilson to reflect these priorities in the upcoming Proposed Budget. The debate is expected to focus on how to best utilize these one-time funds to support vulnerable tenants and improve the stability of the local rental market.
Police Accountability and Public Facilities
Mayor Keith Wilson has introduced a report to adjust the membership of the Community Board for Police Accountability. This involves accepting removals due to ineligibility and appointing alternates to ensure the board remains functional. Additionally, the council will vote on a time-certain ordinance at 9:45 a.m. regarding restroom accessibility. The measure would require gender-neutral signage for all single-occupant restrooms in places of public accommodation, a move intended to ensure equal access and nondiscrimination across the city.
Oversight and Transparency
Later in the session, Councilors Mitch Green, Angelita Morillo, and Candace Avalos will present a resolution requiring the City Administrator to release public records concerning unspent surplus funds. This resolution also calls for the scheduling of an official oversight hearing. The council's push for transparency comes amid broader discussions regarding fiscal responsibility and the effective management of city resources.
How to Participate
Portlanders can watch the proceedings live on the city’s official YouTube channel or via cable on Xfinity Channels 30 and 330. While the morning session concludes in the early afternoon, additional government activities continue this evening, including a Multnomah County budget workshop scheduled for 6:00 p.m. at the Gresham Library.