This summer has been historic in many ways. Though its effects will impact us for a long time, the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and the worldwide racial justice movement are invaluable in planning and creating more equitable and resilient futures.
At the same time, the City of Portland launched a recruitment for the once-in-a-decade opportunity to serve on the Charter Commission. The Charter Commission is an opportunity to review the City’s charter, our most important legal document, and provide recommendations on how the City can be more efficient and better serve the community.
Since applications closed Sept. 14, I wanted to provide a few updates on the process.
Record Number of Applications
I’m proud to report that we received almost 300 applications – more than any other City advisory body application process in recent memory! To me, this means that Portlanders are truly engaged in this conversation and are enthusiastic about planning for the City’s future.
Though only 20 people will be appointed to the Commission, I hope we can maintain this momentum and level of engagement into our next phase of the process.
Updated Timeline
I want to thank everyone who applied for their commitment (I know this was a long application!) and for their enthusiasm to serve the community.
Over the next few weeks, City Council members will review applications and decide on the 20 commissioners. Our goal is to notify applicants of a decision by mid-November and formally confirm the commissioners at a City Council meeting in early December. Commission work will then begin in January 2021.
It’s important to remember this is only the beginning of this multiyear project. While Council makes their decisions, I’ll be drafting materials that support our Commission members and planning for future community involvement. In the meantime, I invite all applicants and community members to follow our progress, provide their expertise and get involved with our work by visiting our website or reaching out to me via email: CharterReview2020@portlandoregon.gov.