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With the goal of reviewing and updating its set-aside policy for affordable housing, the city is holding hearings to gather public input.

The first meeting, held on July 9, consisted of an overview of the current policy and initial discussion on changes

A second meeting, from 4 to 5 p.m.聽 on Aug. 4, will include a presentation of the initial draft policy and program recommendations.

The third meeting, from 4 to 5 p.m. on Sept. 1, will have a presentation of the final draft policy and program recommendations.

Meetings are all being held during Portland Housing Advisory Commission meetings at 421 S.W. 6^th Ave., Suite 500.

The tax increment financing set-aside policy was created in 2006 as a permanent resource to meet the city’s housing goals for low-income residents

The set-aside funding policy was last reviewed in 2011, but it’s time to do it again, said Martha Calhoon, spokeswoman for the Portland Housing Bureau.

鈥淩eviewing the set-aside every five years is required in the policy,鈥� she said. 鈥淏eyond being a requirement it’s important that we revisit policies regularly to examine their effectiveness and make sure they are meeting the current program needs.鈥�

In the past, the set-aside policy provided capital resources for projects like the Bud Clark Commons (for low-income housing), Block 49 veterans housing on the South Waterfront, and preserved existing low-income apartments. According to the city, funds have also been used to help people get into home ownership through down payment assistance and has allowed others to pay for needed home repairs.