The Hillsboro City Council convened on December 3, 2024, to discuss pressing issues surrounding housing and homelessness in the community, as well as anticipated changes in federal administration that may impact local policies.

The meeting began with a focus on the upcoming 2025 ballot and the potential changes in administration. Council members expressed uncertainty about how these changes might affect housing support and local governance. Staff member Andy provided insights into the anticipated actions of the new administration, noting that executive orders could face legal challenges, which may lead to further uncertainty in policy implementation.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on the region's homelessness crisis. Council members highlighted that Hillsboro has seen a concentration of homelessness, with the local population of approximately 2,000 individuals experiencing homelessness, compared to Portland's 500. This prompted calls for additional strategies to address the issue, particularly as funding for homeless services may face cuts due to anticipated reductions in revenue.

The council acknowledged the importance of local funding, emphasizing that the region has made substantial investments in addressing homelessness, with the largest per capita investment in the nation. However, concerns were raised about the sustainability of these efforts, especially as funding sources may dwindle in the coming years.

Members discussed the need for a balanced approach to affordable housing, recognizing that while regulated affordable housing is crucial, it cannot be the sole solution. The council is exploring various funding mechanisms, including partnerships with private developers, to increase the availability of affordable units. They noted that the region needs to build 150,000 housing units over the next two decades to meet demand.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue engaging with community partners and stakeholders to refine strategies for addressing homelessness and housing shortages. The council plans to monitor the evolving financial landscape closely and adapt their approaches to ensure effective service delivery in the face of potential funding challenges.