Full Breakdown
Multnomah County Commissioners Push to Trim $35 Million County Share of Moda Center Renovation
7/22/2026, 12:33:35 PM
Proposed Funding Cuts to the Renovation Project
Two Multnomah County commissioners, Julia Brim-Edwards and Meghan Moyer, plan to introduce amendments that would slash the county’s proposed contribution to the Moda Center renovation by $35 million. The amendment would also require the county to secure a dedicated revenue stream of at least $4.5 million per year through 2049 to cover interest on the debt tied to the county’s share. If adopted, the county’s total cost to taxpayers would approach $140 million through 2049.
Funding Framework and Financial Stakes
County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson has recommended that Multnomah County commit roughly $100 million toward the arena’s upgrades and ongoing maintenance. Under the current proposal, Rip City Management LLC would pay $3 million annually, split evenly among the city of Portland, Multnomah County and Portland Public Schools. The Trail Blazers have previously projected a total public funding need of $573 million for the renovation. Brim-Edwards and Moyer argue that the $35 million cut could instead be redirected to address an anticipated $60 million county budget deficit over the next three years.
Official Reactions from County Leadership
Vega Pederson responded to the amendment plan via email, describing the lack of transparency as “disappointing” and indicating that a “robust conversation” will take place this week. She also signaled that she will introduce additional amendments at the upcoming board meeting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We're doing more than our share, more than our part, even at a reduced level,” — Commissioners Julia Brim-Edwards
- “I can't, in good conscience, give $35 million to a renovation and then turn around and know that I have to do another $35 million worth of cuts to really, really critical safety net services. So that's a line for me,” — Meghan Moyer
- “This lack of transparency and good faith negotiating is disappointing. I am sure we’ll have a robust conversation this week,” — Vega Pederson, multnomah county chair
- “Walking away from this community and leaving a blighted arena is also not the right answer,” — Commissioners Shannon Singleton
