Dear Community Members,
Voter-approved changes to Portland’s elections and city government are taking shape! Keep reading for updates about how we’re preparing to host the city’s first election using ranked-choice voting and geographic districts in 2024 – and officially launch a new government model in January 2025.
Apply now to serve on the Government Transition Advisory Committee
Do you want to make sure this transition is effective, efficient and aligned with the city’s values? Apply by this Sunday, Feb. 12, to serve on the Government Transition Advisory Committee. Mayor Wheeler will nominate 15 community members to this advisory group, which will serve as the main public engagement body for Portland’s transition.
Download our social media toolkit to share this opportunity
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Independent District Commission kicks off work to establish geographic districts
In Portland’s new form of government, three people will be elected to represent each of four new geographic districts on the city council. The work to establish those districts officially kicks off next Wednesday, Feb. 15 from 6-8 p.m., when Portland’s Independent District Commission hosts its first meeting. The District Commission must adopt the district plan by Sept. 1. Community members are invited to provide input as criteria and districts are proposed; submit public comment here. Be on the lookout for future community engagement and public testimony opportunities.
Learn about the Independent District Commission.
Auditor to propose Transparency Advocate charter amendment to City Council
As part of its phase II work, the Charter Commission recommended creating a Transparency Advocate in the Auditor’s Office. The Transparency Advocate would investigate transparency and records complaints and recommend best practices to improve transparency. At 4 p.m. next Wednesday, Feb. 15, City Council will consider a proposal from the Auditor’s Office to refer the charter amendment to voters for the May 2023 special election.
Learn how to sign up and submit written testimony here.
City Council takes steps to prepare for new form of government
Portland’s future government includes a city administrator, who will oversee day-to-day services under the direction of the mayor – while city councilors focus on setting policies and connecting with constituents. To prepare for this shift, City leaders are taking steps to improve service delivery and support a successful transition. The City’s two dozen bureaus are now grouped in “service areas” that work together to serve the community. This month, the City Council passed a resolution establishing 90-day action plans for each service area and delegating leadership and responsibility for the transition to Chief Administrative Officer Michael Jordan. Bureau directors will work with CAO Jordan to develop an organizational structure that makes the most of Portland’s new form of government.
Read the resolution or watch the City Council meeting.
Share your ideas
Share your ideas about the transition by using this online comment form or calling 3-1-1.