Volunteer (Non-Paid) Position - Planning Commission

About the Role

The Planning Commission makes recommendations to City Council on the City’s long-range goals, policies, and programs for land use and planning. In making recommendations, it considers the economic, environmental, and social well-being of the city in an integrated fashion. The Commission has specific responsibility for guiding, developing, maintaining, and updating the development and maintenance of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and zoning code. The Commission deliberates using a climate and equity lens and is committed to effective public involvement and leadership in its work.

The Planning Commission consists of nine members, none of whom may hold public elective office. Members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. The membership aims to include a broad representation of Portland’s community and reflect the dynamic nature of this changing city.

Total number of Commission seats: 9
Number of seats available: 5 (4 in March 2027 and 1 in June 2027), including one 2-year youth position, aged 18-25 at the start of the appointment.

Responsibilities

• Guide, develop, maintain, and update the City’s Comprehensive Plan and zoning code.
• Deliberate on long-range land use planning issues using a climate and equity lens.
• Attend and participate in full Commission meetings (hybrid format).
• Prepare for meetings by reading staff reports and public testimony on your own time.
• Participate in occasional work groups beyond regular meetings.

Requirements

• Must live, play, worship, work, or do business in the city of Portland.
• No more than two members may be engaged in the same occupation, business, trade, or profession.
• No more than two members may be individuals, or members of any partnership, or officers or employees of any corporation that engages principally in the buying, selling, leasing, or developing of real estate for profit.

Qualifications

The City seeks members who represent the diversity of the city and bring professional expertise or lived experience to inform deliberations on land use planning issues. Applicants are encouraged even if they have not previously held a position on a City board or commission.

Youth Commissioner Position

One position is reserved for a community member aged 18-25 upon appointment. Current students, new graduates, young professionals, and members of community organizations are encouraged to apply. The Youth Commissioner appointment is a 2-year term.

Schedule

• Full Commission meetings are held on the 2nd Tuesday of the month (12:30 p.m.) and the 4th Tuesday of the month (5:00 p.m.).
• Meetings typically last 3-4 hours, with additional preparation time required.
• Occasional work groups may require extra time.

Terms

Members generally serve a 4-year term and may apply for a second 4-year term. The Youth Commissioner serves a 2-year term.