PORTLAND, OREGON – CITY HALL – On April 22, 2015, City Auditor Mary Hull Caballero will introduce legislation to ensure that all Portlanders have meaningful access to administrative justice.
The City’s administrative justice system is comprised of many avenues for the public to appeal government decisions. Those decisions involve important rights and interests that affect individuals and businesses every day, ranging from permit denials, property exclusions, vehicle tows, water shutoffs, property maintenance violations, sidewalk repair assessments, collection actions, utility bills, and contract awards, among others.
“The two key pillars of access to administrative justice are knowing about your right to appeal and being able to afford the cost of admission,” said Auditor Hull Caballero. “The City’s current system is the result of ad hoc development, and it is necessary to adopt some baseline standards to ensure equal access for everyone,” said Hull Caballero.
“I am hopeful that City Council will recognize that this legislation is a way for us to make good on our shared commitment to accountability and equity in City government,” said Hull Caballero.
The Auditor will introduce the legislation at 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 22, in the City Council chamber at Portland City Hall, 1221 SW 4th Avenue. The ordinance, exhibits, and letters of support can be found online.