Portland names Bob Cozzie as deputy city administrator for public safety

Longtime public safety leader Bob Cozzie will serve as Portland's deputy city administrator for public safety, City Administrator Michael Jordan announced today. Cozzie has served as the service area's interim deputy administrator since June 16. The position oversees Portland's Public Safety Service Area, including police, fire, 911, emergency management, Portland Street Response, and other programs.

Cozzie brings over 30 years of public safety experience, including time in several 9-1-1 positions at the El Paso County Sheriff's Office in Colorado Springs, Colo., training manager at the Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications, and director of Clackamas County 9-1-1. He has served as the director of the Portland Bureau of Emergency Communications since 2018. Cozzie also participates in leadership positions on several committees with a direct impact on the 9-1-1 industry and public safety, including the State Interoperability Executive Council, Oregon Next-Gen 911 Steering Committee, Oregon Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials, and Portland Dispatch Center Consortium.

Through the interview process, Cozzie demonstrated his commitment to our City'score values of anti-racism, equity, transparency, communication, collaboration and fiscal responsibility. He is a values-driven leader who has earned trust through transparency and genuine care for his staff.

"Bob is a longtime public safety leader with over 30 years of experience," said City Administrator Michael Jordan, who made the hiring decision. "He also brings the deep trust and respect of our public safety staff, a heart for public service, and a compelling vision for public safety. He has expressed - and demonstrated - his eagerness to serve as a bridge between community, staff, elected officials and administrative leadership here at the city."

In recent years, the City of Portland has taken steps to expand alternative public safety models, reduce gun violence and other crime, and achieve a safer Portland for all. In a recent national report, Portland showed the biggest decline in violent crime, with homicides dropping by 51 percent compared to the same period in 2024.

"Bob Cozzie is a trusted leader with decades of experience and a strong commitment to public service," said Portland Mayor Keith Wilson. "I'm confident he will help move Portland's public safety efforts forward and continue to build strong connections across our city."