In the early morning hours of November 21st, 2006, Portland's city council narrowly voted to approve a new "Formula Business" ordinance for several sections of the city's commercial district.
THe purpose of the ordinance, as stated by the city council of Portland, was to "regulate the number and location of formula businesses in order to maintain the city's unique character, the diversity and vitality of the city's commercial districts, and the quality of life of Portland residents". (Continued on PDF)