Mayor Ted Wheeler Declares a State of Emergency

Due to the progression of COVID-19 on the west coast, Mayor Ted Wheeler has declared a State of Emergency in the City of Portland. Mayor Wheeler signed the Emergency Declaration on Thursday, March 12, 2020. The declaration gives the City additional powers to properly address the threat of infection and harm including—but not limited to—limiting mass public gatherings if necessary to stop the potential spread of infection. It also gives the City the tools necessary to support the County, the State and city employees. Portland City Code describes the powers afforded the Mayor in a declared State of Emergency.

Here are the latest actions the City is specifically taking:

• During the State of Emergency, water service will not be disconnected for non-payment of sewer/stormwater/water bills.
• They will convene a COVID-19 Economic Impact Task Force to generate ideas for a stimulus package to help small and large businesses recoup losses from canceled events and loss of business.
• Community hygiene stations are expanding citywide.
• Shelter providers will receive assistance to keep winter shelters open.
• Non-essential work gatherings are postponed or canceled for city employees.
• There will be no non-essential travel for meetings and conferences and the City is encouraging vulnerable employees to stay home for as long as they need to.

There are likely more actions to come. For updates, visit the City of Portland's Mayor's Office webpage.