Portland Ombudsman’s Review of Shelter Evictions Finds Documentation Issues

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Portland Ombudsman’s Office recently reviewed evictions, or “exits” as the city terms them, from alternative shelter sites run by Urban Alchemy, the city’s largest homeless services provider. The review stemmed from appeals alleging a lack of proper documentation supporting the reasons for removing residents. While the city initially paused evictions following the Ombudsman’s recommendation, evictions have resumed after the city deemed them justified, with the Ombudsman’s Office set to review the city’s findings in the coming weeks.

120-Day Engagement Rule and Concerns Over Documentation

Evictions from tiny homes and RVs have been occurring due to the city’s 120-day engagement rule. This rule stipulates that residents who are not actively engaging with their caseworker and working towards permanent housing are asked to leave. However, the Ombudsman’s review revealed concerns about the documentation used to support these evictions.

City Ombudsman Jennifer Croft stated that the review identified “serious fairness concerns” regarding the documentation provided by Urban Alchemy. Specifically, caseworkers did not consistently document meetings, failed to record instances where residents missed appointments, and, in some cases, provided outdated or inaccurate information. Croft similarly noted a lack of adequate warning to residents about potential eviction due to a lack of engagement.

City Response and Process Improvements

Following the Ombudsman’s request, the city suspended evictions from Urban Alchemy sites for two weeks to review cases and improve processes. A work session was held with Urban Alchemy care coordinator managers and leadership to address the concerns raised.

The city has recommended improvements to Urban Alchemy’s processes, including refining documentation and retention protocols and enhancing communication with program participants regarding expectations and potential risks of eviction.

Eviction Numbers and Policy Implementation

As of February 19, 2026, 34 guests across Urban Alchemy sites had been notified of potential eviction under the 120-day rule, and 26 individuals had been evicted. Across other shelter sites, 37 individuals received notice, and 12 were evicted. The 120-day policy was implemented in September 2025, with the initial engagement deadline at the end of January 2026.

Urban Alchemy and Shelter Services

Urban Alchemy manages 540 individual units across four of Portland’s eight alternative shelter sites, significantly more than the 148 units managed across the remaining four sites.

Rob Lane, a spokesperson for Portland’s Shelter Services Department, declined an interview but provided information via email.

Urban Alchemy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.