On Thursday, Multnomah County's Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to approve a $100,000 one-time investment to begin developing an economic revitalization strategy. The decision is intended to support economic growth across the county. Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards, in collaboration with Chair Jessica Vega Pederson, proposed the plan, which includes an Economic Development Landscape Analysis and Report to guide future efforts, according to the Multnomah County.
Multnomah County has primarily focused on human and social services, while the City of Portland handled economic development. As Brim-Edwards explained, "the City of Portland had the economic development strategy, while the County focused on human services and other areas." Recently, the county has shifted its approach to include all cities in the county in efforts to promote economic and employment growth. Bryan Hockaday, the Commissioner's chief of staff, pointed out the uneven economic recovery since 2020, with particular difficulties in downtown Portland, where high commercial lease rates indicate economic challenges. He emphasized the need for a strategy that integrates safety net services and local business growth to support the region’s overall stability.
The analysis, set to be completed by August 2025, will create a roadmap for action. "The intent here is not just to commission a report alone, but we want to create a road map for action," said Hockaday. The focus is on retaining businesses, improving workforce development, and promoting wealth-building, with an emphasis on diversity and economic empowerment. Multnomah County will work with "a broad coalition of local, regional and state partners," including neighborhood business districts, the Port of Portland, and neighboring counties, to support economic growth and benefit local residents and businesses, as reported by the Multnomah County.
