PURPOSE
WHEREAS, The Standards continue to meet the original 1974 mandate from City Council to "broaden channels of communication between the people of Portland and City officials on matters affecting neighborhood livability."
WHEREAS, The Standards and Guidelines endorse and continue to emphasize the self-determining structure and autonomy inherent in each Association for determining its own organizational structure, bylaws, leadership, and matters to address affecting neighborhood livability.
WHEREAS, The Standards continue as a tool for ensuring that Portland’s neighborhood system is accountable and transparent with the goal of building Neighborhood Associations that are accessible to all residents who want to improve the livability of their neighborhoods.
WHEREAS, the Standards continue to define the role of District Coalitions and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement to provide support and technical assistance to the development of Portland’s neighborhood system.
WHEREAS, more than 600 community members contributed to this highly participatory process through workshops, presentations at neighborhood meetings, and providing public comment.
WHEREAS, the 14 community leaders who served four years on the Guidelines Review Empowerment and Assessment Taskforce (GREAT) methodically reviewing and updating existing Code 3.96 and Guidelines recommend the adoption of these Standards.
POLICY
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Portland adopt the Standards for Neighborhood Associations, District Coalitions, Business District Associations and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement as non-binding City Policy attached as exhibit A; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that staff is directed to engage in activities aimed at implementing the changes described in the revised Standards for Neighborhood Associations, District Coalitions, Business District Associations and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council gratefully acknowledges the excellent work and dedication of the GREAT and other community members who participated in the planning process.