Audit flags problems with Portland’s environmental agency

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) – A new audit finds problems with how the city of Portland is managing environmental restoration projects and “green streets” designed to control stormwater.

OPB reports that the Bureau of Environmental Services is spending millions on projects aimed at improving water quality, restoring wildlife habitat and preventing flooding, but auditors with the City of Portland found the bureau often can’t prove those projects are meeting their goals.

This year, the bureau invested $13 million in restoration projects and green streets. Auditors say the agency needs a better system for measuring the benefits of those investments.

Kaitlin Lovell, science integration division manager for the Bureau of Environmental Services, said the bureau has plenty of evidence that its restoration projects have been successful.