Councilor Loretta Smith Champions Increased Public Access with New Weekly Council Meeting Schedule

Today, Portland City Council unanimously approved legislation to expand its meeting schedule, a move aimed at increasing transparency, accessibility, and civic engagement. The ordinance includes a key amendment introduced by Councilor Loretta Smith, which increases the number of Council meetings from two to four per month and ensures that one meeting each month will be held in the evening.

"This change is incredibly important because it means more opportunities for residents to get involved, ask questions, and have their voices heard," said Councilor Smith. "Having our meetings every Wednesday will give us the continuity the community needs to access Portland City Council. With this new schedule, we can spend more time discussing the issues that matter most to our community and make better informed decisions."

Under the new schedule, Council will meet at 9:30 a.m. on the first, second, fourth, and fifth Wednesdays of each month, and at 6:00 p.m. on the third Wednesday. Evening meetings will adjourn by 9:00 p.m., with any recessed items resuming the following Thursday at 2:00 p.m.

Councilor Smith's amendment was a direct response to community feedback calling for more accessible meeting times, especially for working families and residents who are unable to attend daytime sessions. "I truly believe this will help us serve you even better and create a more transparent, accessible government," Smith added. "This is just the beginning. Together, we're making Portland an even better place to live."

The legislation was co-sponsored by Councilors Candace Avalos, Jamie Dunphy, and Sameer Kanal, and reflects a broader commitment by the Council to center community involvement in decision-making and ensure adequate time for public testimony and legislative debate.

Councilor Smith extends her gratitude to colleagues and community members who supported the amendment and looks forward to seeing how more frequent and inclusive meetings will strengthen civic engagement across Portland.