Portland, Ore. — Commissioner Carmen Rubio today announced organizational changes aimed at streamlining efficiencies and leveraging existing resources of staff and budgets. With these changes, the Office for Community Technology’s (OCT) staff and programs will join the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS).
“These changes will bring staff working in similar fields together, increasing capacity and allowing for more innovation and community support in communications technology,” said Commissioner Rubio. “Not only does this change improve efficiencies; it demonstrates our commitment to being good stewards of taxpayer funds and to bring more meaningful benefits to the community.”
OCT staff lead three major program areas: Digital Equity, Franchise and Utility, and the Mt. Hood Cable Regulatory Commission.
“My staff and I are excited to join the BPS group and continue our shared work to consider how changing technologies will impact our future and shape application and adoption of those technologies through advocacy and public policy,” said OCT Director Elisabeth Perez. “Our staff have worked closely together for years and we’re looking forward to a smoother process to make meaningful progress in promoting equity-focused technology policy and programs.”
Among other notable initiatives, BPS leads several programs that will work closely with incoming OCT staff including Smart City PDX, land-use Planning and policy, and several volunteer commissions.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Elisabeth and her staff to BPS,” said BPS Director Donnie Oliveira. “Combining our efforts will accelerate implementation on these important programs and initiatives and strengthen our citywide partnerships. We’re looking forward to sharing our successes with the community for many years to come.” Formal dissolution of the OCT bureau was approved by Council today as part of the Fall supplemental budget ordinance. Official transfer of staff, positions, and budget will be complete later this year.
About Commissioner Rubio
Commissioner Carmen Rubio joined the Portland City Council in January 2021. She oversees Portland Parks and Recreation, the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, the Office for Community Technology, and the Office of Equity and Human Rights; has liaison responsibilities to the Mt. Hood Cable Regulatory Commission, League of Oregon Cities, Metro Policy Advisory Committee, and Portland Community Media; and serves as Portland’s Arts and Culture Commissioner.
About the City of Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability
The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) develops creative and practical solutions to enhance Portland’s livability, preserve distinctive places and plan for a resilient future. BPS collaborates with community partners to provide comprehensive land use, neighborhood, district, economic, historic, and environmental planning, and urban design; research, policy and technical services to advance green building, energy efficiency and the use of solar and renewable energy, waste prevention, composting and recycling, and a sustainable food system; and policy and actions to address climate change.