PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — On Monday, housing advocates and Multnomah County leaders gathered outside the county courthouse, pressing lawmakers to fully back Governor Kotek’s eviction prevention proposal.
The push comes after progress on the Oregon Housing and Community Services budget.
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Current funding plans fall well short of the $173.2 million the governor recommended for eviction prevention.
So far, only $33.6 million is set aside—nearly $100 million below the existing budget.
“It will create the need for more shelter, which is the least cost-effective tool we have. It is much cheaper to help someone stay in housing than get back into housing once they fall into homelessness,” Singleton said.
People who’ve benefited from the program shared their experiences at the event.
Erin Meechan, a tenant in Gresham, said her family could be forced out if funding doesn’t increase.
“I’m scared,” she said. “Wages don’t match what it costs to pay bills and what it costs to live here today.”
Organizers are urging Oregonians to contact their legislators and demand full funding for Gov. Kotek’s plan.
The final budget is expected to be approved by the end of the 2025 legislative session on June 29.
