Question 5: Renters' Rights and Rental Assistance—Can the City Help?

Both the city and county approach housing insecurity in different ways. I remember renting rooms for $75 a month, but that's nowhere near the reality today. One of the most effective ways to keep people housed is by providing rental assistance—something that I believe the city and county should do more of. It’s shocking how many city employees can’t afford to live in Portland. What’s the point of all this if, in five to ten years time, our own kids can’t afford to live here?

I grew up in a city that embraced and challenged me, and that’s what I want for future generations in Portland.

Right now, the average Black family can’t afford to rent in any of Portland’s 95 neighborhoods. We’ve priced many people of color out of this city. I support renters' rights—many elements of the Renters Bill of Rights are just common sense. But we also have to be cautious about over-regulating and driving out mom-and-pop landlords who help keep housing affordable. Tiny homes are part of the solution too. We need a balanced, diverse housing market that works for everyone.