Planning Commission seeks candidates for open positions

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The Planning Commission is seeking five community members who are enthusiastic about long-range planning issues and urban solutions to fill positions effective March 2027 and June 2027. The Commission is a nine-member volunteer group that advises on projects and proposals that significantly affect the built environment and quality of life in Portland. Planning Commission membership represents the increased diversity of Portland. Applicants from under-represented and under-served communities with varied lived and professional experience are strongly encouraged to apply.

What is long-range planning?

Long-range planning sets strategic guideposts for how Portland will look, feel, and function now and into the future. Guided by the Comprehensive Plan, long-range planning utilizes land use tools - such the zoning code and map - to ensure that land is being used in the best way possible to meet Portland's long-term housing, economic, and environmental needs.

What is the Planning Commission's role?

The Planning Commission is a public body that holds public hearings to hear community feedback on long-range planning projects and makes formal recommendations to City Council. Updates to the City's Comprehensive plan, zoning map and zoning code are within the Planning Commission's purview. Planning Commissioners advise on a broad array of topics including housing, transportation, urban design, equity, economic development, environmental protection, resource conservation, and other policies of citywide interest.

Some significant projects planned for the Commission in the coming years include rezoning parts of inner East Portland, updating the 20-year plan to guide transportation policies and investments, and environmental planning along the Willamette River.

The Commission provides a forum for community members to learn about principles, policies, and programs that promote sound land use planning. In all its work, the Commission strives to build community and advance urban solutions that make Portland a thriving, livable city for all.

Do I need to be an expert in long-range planning to apply?

No! New Planning Commissioners will receive orientation and training on long-range planning topics. We encourage anyone with lived or professional experience on related issues, and a desire to learn and serve your community to apply.

To be eligible, applicants must live, play, worship, and/or do business in the city of Portland.

Youth Commissioner Position

Due to the long-range, future-oriented planning projects the Commission reviews, a youth perspective is especially important. One Commissioner position is reserved for a community member aged 18-25 upon appointment, which will open in June 2027. Current students, new graduates, young professionals, and members of community organizations are all encouraged to apply.

Terms and Time Commitment

Commissioners serve a 4-year term. The Youth Commissioner serves a 2-year term.

The typical time commitment for Commission members is approximately 8-10 hours a month, including two 3-4-hour monthly meetings, preparation time prior to each meeting to read staff reports and public testimony, as well as occasional additional time on work groups. Full Commission meetings are generally held on the second Tuesday of the month at 12:30 p.m. and the fourth Tuesday of the month at 5:00 p.m. Commission meetings are held in a hybrid format; Commissioners and staff are encouraged to attend in person, and the public may attend in person or via Zoom (or watch via YouTube)

Application Process

Applicants should have a strong personal interest and commitment to the work the Planning Commission is responsible for. Please review the position posting

Apply here

Applications will be accepted until Monday, September 14, 2026, at 5 p.m.