To implement the charter changes Portlanders approved in November 2022, the transition team must revise city code to align it with the voter-approved amendments.
Over the last several months, members of the transition team have been working with city partners and experts from other cities to develop revisions to the City’s code on council organization and procedures to match the updated city charter and to guide council meetings starting in 2025. Now, it’s time for Portlanders to learn more about the process and provide input.
Why are these code revisions needed?
These code revisions will give the 12-member, district-based council the structure and formal guidelines they need to operate effectively starting in January 2025. They will also help clarify the changing roles for Mayor and City Council.
To develop these code revisions, the team studied and met with other cities to learn their best practices to prepare for this transition. In June, they hosted a panel for the City of Portland’s executive leadership team to hear about the lessons learned during these cities’ transitions and be better prepared for Portland’s transition.
The transition team will continue to research and learn from other cities but is also engaging city council and relevant city staff to guide recommendations to set up the new council for success.
What’s included in the code revisions?
The code revisions will impact City Code 3.02 on Council Organization and Procedure and will include these potential changes:
- Assignment of duties related to agenda setting and committee formation to either the Council President, City Council, or Council Committees.
- Adjustments to the regular council meeting schedule, such as requiring at least one evening meeting per month to increase accessibility to the community.
- Establishment of voting requirements not defined in the City’s Charter.
- Adjustments to council meeting management, such as voting order or how the Council President is elected annually.
What are the next steps and how can I get involved?
These proposed revisions will be presented to council for adoption in fall 2023. The timing of these code revisions will provide helpful information about the changing roles of elected officials before interested candidates file to run for office.
That’s why it’s crucial for Portlanders to learn more about the process and provide their input now. The transition team will be hosting a listening session on Tuesday, Aug. 8 from 6-8 p.m. to explain the process and key policy choices for updating City Code 3.02: Council Organization and Procedure and provide an opportunity for the community to give input on the draft update and suggestions for future recommendations.
Additional Resources
Register for the City Council Organization and Procedures Listening Session.
Review the changes in form of government.
Read the fact sheet (printed copies available in the Portland Building lobby).
Read the current City Code 3.02: Council Organization and Procedure and the draft update.
Learn more about the changing roles of the mayor and city council.