As of tonight, a source close to the talks informed the Mercury, those negotiations have been put to bed. All sides are expected to announce a deal at 12:30 pm Monday. The deal, as we've reported, would move the Old Town rest area from NW 4th and Burnside, see a lawsuit filed against the city dropped, and see the city waive more than $20,000 in code violation fines—levied because the city declared the site an illegal "recreational" campground.
It's a major breakthrough in a nearly two-year spat with the city, which had long fought with the site's Old town landlord but quickly came to respect the work of R2DToo's board members in helping dozens of people each night find a safe place to sleep, and even get some of those people into housing and jobs. The push for a deal came when Fritz took over the city's code enforcers, in the Bureau of Development Services.
I'm awaiting confirmation from the attorney representing both R2DToo and the current landlord, Michael Wright—as well as more information about the tradeoffs Wright might have made. Wright had wanted to put up either another homeless camp or a food cart pod—and had even asked the city to buy his land. I'm also waiting for confirmation from Fritz.
Pearl neighbors also reportedly weighed in. Sources have said Fritz spoke with neighbors this week. I'm also waiting to confirm that with her.
Update 8:45 PM: Seems Willamette Week has been in touch with Kramer, who told them a deal was in place and that the deal could involve the Portland Development Commission buying Wright's land at 4th and Burnside.
Update 9 PM: Fritz tweeted a statement suggesting Kramer is jumping the gun. She says the city attorney's office won't sign off on the deal until Monday.
