Summary
Nearly $4 billion of tax-exempt nonprofit property sits off the tax rolls while the city raises taxes 4-7% a year. The council tried to create voluntary payments, but every major nonprofit in town opposed it and the policy died. Councilors warned they'll expect nonprofit help on shelters and services this winter.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 15, 2026.
Impact analysis
Supporters estimated taxing the full $4 billion could lower the property tax rate by almost 20%; the actual proposed program would have raised far less.
Nonprofits and the residents who rely on their services keep their funding intact.
Homeowners on fixed incomes continue to shoulder the cost of services the tax-exempt base consumes.
Mentions & discussions (5)
City Council - Jun 15, 2026
Nearly $4 billion of tax-exempt nonprofit property sits off the tax rolls while the city raises taxes 4-7% a year. The council tried to create voluntary payments, but every major nonprofit in town opposed it and the policy died. Councilors warned they'll expect nonprofit help on shelters and services this winter.
City Council - Jun 1, 2026
The payment-in-lieu-of-tax policy was postponed to June 15, leaving questions about nonprofit contributions to the city unresolved for two more weeks.
City Council - Mar 2, 2026
The long-in-development voluntary Payment-in-Lieu-of-Taxes policy — asking large tax-exempt institutions to contribute toward city services — was postponed to June 1. Postponing delays a potential new revenue stream for the city.
Legislative/Nominating Committee - Feb 27, 2026
A bill would let municipalities limit nonprofit property tax exemptions — potentially recovering tax revenue for Portland. The bill was reported dead in December.
City Council - Feb 23, 2026
The new Payment-in-Lieu-of-Tax policy — which sets what nonprofits pay the city — was pushed a week so residents get a proper public hearing. It comes back March 2.
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