The Senate Committee on Housing and Development convened on April 28, 2025, to discuss critical housing issues and budget priorities for the upcoming biennium. The meeting began with testimony from Marcus Sloop, the housing director for the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla, who highlighted the positive partnership between the tribes and the state. Sloop emphasized the shared housing needs of tribal members and Oregonians, noting the unique challenges faced in rural Eastern Oregon. He expressed gratitude for the collaboration that has enabled the development of housing for veterans and elders, as well as the utilization of various funding sources to address these needs.

Following Sloop's remarks, the committee transitioned to an informational session led by the Oregon Housing Alliance. Cameron Harrington introduced the coalition's budget priorities for 2025-2027, focusing on issues that had not previously been discussed in the Senate Housing Committee. The alliance, representing a broad spectrum of interests related to housing and homelessness, outlined their goals to prevent and respond to homelessness, expand affordable housing production, and stabilize existing affordable homes.

The meeting included a series of testimonies from coalition members, each addressing specific budget items aimed at enhancing housing access and affordability. The committee chair encouraged speakers to keep their remarks concise to allow for ample discussion time.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to addressing housing challenges in Oregon, with a focus on collaboration among various stakeholders to improve conditions for vulnerable populations. The next steps will involve further discussions on the proposed budget priorities and their implications for housing policy in the state.