"The city government underwent other structural changes, including greater separation between the executive and legislative branches. The mayor is no longer part of City Council and has a more prominent role in overseeing city staff and operations. Now, a city administrator has a lot more power-some argue more than the mayor. That appointed position manages day-to-day operations with the help of deputy city administrators who oversee the city's service areas."
"Aside from overseeing the city's budget, councilors are now responsible for bringing legislation forward. The old form of government didn't bar councilors from introducing policies or code changes for consideration, but it didn't hinge as heavily on councilors setting policy. The city operates a bit more like a state legislature and a governor now, and with the expanded legislative body, it appears more work can be done more quickly for constituents."
2025 was the first year under Portland's new government, which expanded City Council from five to 12 members and introduced district-based elections. The mayor was removed from City Council and gained a clearer role overseeing city staff, while an appointed city administrator assumed greater authority over daily operations with deputy administrators managing service areas. Councilors now carry responsibility for bringing legislation forward, shifting more policy-setting to the legislative body. The new structure led to growing pains and operational tweaks, but enabled faster action, with the mayor and new Council approving over 150 ordinances and resolutions in 2025.
#portland-government-reform #city-council-expansion #executive-legislative-separation #city-administration
Read at Portland Mercury
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