Almost 5 years ago, Commissioner Hardesty’s pathway to City Hall began when then State Director of the Oregon Working Families Party, Karly Edwards, cold called Jo Ann to ask for a meeting over coffee. During that meeting Karly convinced Commissioner Hardesty to run for Portland City Council. After serving as Campaign Chair for Commissioner Hardesty’s historic 2018 campaign, Karly went on to serve as Chief of Staff since the transition to City Hall first began. During these last 3 years, Karly has served the City of Portland with deep dedication and passion. Amongst her many accomplishments, Karly had a pivotal role in bringing about transformative change including:
· Developing Portland Street Response pilot and steering its citywide expansion
· Negotiating new accountability & transparency requirements in the latest Portland Police Association Contract
· Serving as liaison to Portland Fire & Rescue as a constant advocate to increase the safety & wellness of our Fire Fighters
· Championing local efforts to protect abortion rights and increase access
· Developing a ballot measure supported by 82% of Portlanders that will establish a new system of independent police oversight
· Stabilizing the Office of Community & Civic Life
“Karly has been with me from the beginning. Together we have accomplished so much working side by side through an unprecedent global pandemic, a racial justice uprising, massive forest fires, and so much more." said Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty. "It is with sadness that I say goodbye to Karly in this specific role. However, I am excited and looking forward to her next steps as she continues her life’s work of fighting for working families. Thank you Karly Edwards for your service to the City of Portland.”
“I would like to thank Commissioner Hardesty and her office for the opportunity of a lifetime to serve in this role," said Karly Edwards. "Leaving is a difficult decision and I will continue to root for Team Hardesty and be inspired by the Commissioner’s leadership. Public service is a privilege, and I have given this position my all, especially during the last two years. With so many accomplishments behind us I feel I can take time for rest, and to enjoy Summer before finding a new way to serve with strength.”
Karly Edwards last day will be Friday, June 10th