10/26/2022 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/26/2022 16:35
Portland, Ore.- Today, in a unanimous vote, Portland City Council approved amendments to City Code Chapter 7.07 that defines the program structure of the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF). The changes were first proposed by Commissioner Carmen Rubio on Sept. 15, 2022.
"Now that these code changes are approved, PCEF will be able to implement the necessary streamlined processes, accountability mechanisms, planning and measurement framework and administrative capacity," said Commissioner Carmen Rubio "These are the essential building blocks that PCEF needs to deliver carbon reduction and green workforce training projects that are led by, and serve, Portland communities living on the frontlines of climate change."
The new legislation enables PCEF to make investments at a greater scale while continuing to prioritize low-income communities and communities of color. The approved code amendments also enable more targeted funding in geographic areas of the city, such as east Portland, that have fewer neighborhood-based nonprofit organizations available to implement PCEF projects.
With today's approval by Council, the changes direct that:
Through the code changes, PCEF will have the ability to distribute funds through both grants and contracts. Grants will be limited to non-profits and government entities, whereas contract administration opportunities will be open to non-profits, government entities, and for-profit businesses. Eligibility will be further defined in the CIP.
For updates and notifications of community conversations and other opportunities to participate in the work of PCEF, sign up to receive email updates.
The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) develops creative and practical solutions to enhance Portland's livability, preserve distinctive places and plan for a resilient future. BPS collaborates with community partners to provide comprehensive land use, neighborhood, district, economic, historic and environmental planning, and urban design; research, policy and technical services to advance green building, energy efficiency and the use of solar and renewable energy, waste prevention, composting and recycling, and a sustainable food system; and policy and actions to address climate change.
The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) initiative was passed by 65% of Portland voters in November 2018. It provides a consistent, long-term funding source and oversight structure to ensure that our community's climate action efforts are implemented to support social, economic, and environmental benefits for all Portlanders, particularly communities of color and low-income residents. The initiative was supported by a broad coalition of groups and individuals and represents the first environmental initiative in Oregon led by communities of color.