Councilor Dan Ryan introduced a resolution for a Storefront Support Program aimed at helping small businesses in Portland. A press release said the resolution will be reviewed by the Arts & Economy Committee on September 23, according to the City of Portland.
Portland Councilor Ryan announced a plan to support storefront businesses facing higher costs, vandalism, and closures. The proposal includes tracking commercial vacancies, coordinating City bureaus to address business-related issues, and using exit interviews to gather information on why businesses are closing. Ryan stated, “Local storefronts are more than businesses—they are anchors of community identity and vitality. When they suffer, our neighborhoods, our tourism, and our city’s economy suffers,” as reported by the City of Portland.
Ryan said the city’s budget is under strain because of declines in business license revenue and outlined measures to support local businesses. “We’ve heard the concerns from small business owners loud and clear. They need a City that shows up, coordinates and responds,” Ryan added. “Business license revenue declines are directly related to our budget shortfalls. This is red alert time for our city’s services to steward our storefronts.” The proposal includes working with Prosper Portland and community groups, with the City Administrator set to present detailed plans and possible funding options by January 31, 2026, for the FY 2026–27 budget, as stated by the City of Portland.
