In a significant joint session held today, the City of Portland and Multnomah County officials convened to discuss the ongoing efforts to combat homelessness in the region. This marked the fourth collaborative meeting aimed at addressing the pressing issue, with both in-person and virtual participation from various stakeholders.

The meeting commenced with a focus on the progress made under the Homelessness Response Action Plan (HREP), which has seen two-thirds of its action items completed in less than three months. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum and refining strategies to ensure sustainable solutions to homelessness.

Chair Begga Peterson highlighted the collaborative spirit between the city and county, urging participants to set aside differences and work towards common goals. She noted the establishment of a steering and oversight committee, which includes key city and county leaders, to facilitate ongoing discussions and policy alignment.

Mayor Ted Wheeler, despite battling a sore throat from a recent trip to Japan, expressed gratitude for the dedication shown by both city and county staff. He acknowledged the initial successes since the approval of the intergovernmental agreement and stressed the need for continued cooperation to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.

The meeting's agenda included a brief presentation outlining both achievements and the obstacles that remain in the fight against homelessness. Officials underscored the necessity of actionable outcomes and innovative solutions to transform service delivery across the county and city.

As the session progressed, attendees were encouraged to engage in discussions about the next steps in the partnership, reinforcing the commitment to reducing homelessness in the community. The collaborative efforts between Portland and Multnomah County reflect a unified approach to a complex issue, with leaders optimistic about the path forward.