Portland seeks seven volunteers to shape city architecture

The City of Portland is recruiting seven new members for its Design Commission, a body that exercises authority over major building projects in designated areas. Two specific vacancies are scheduled to open in the coming year, with one seat becoming available on May 14, 2027, and another on July 1, 2027. Applicants must submit their materials by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, December 13, 2026.

The commission operates in design overlay zones, which are neighborhoods where architectural style and public space are prioritized. Its members review large developments and advise the Planning Commission and City Council on design guidelines. They also recommend the creation or removal of these overlay zones. The group provides guidance to various city bureaus and regional partners on design matters.

Prospective members must live, work, worship, or conduct business in Portland. No member may hold elective office. The composition of the group is fixed by rule. One seat is reserved for a person with public art experience. Another is for a representative of the public at large. The remaining five positions require experience in urban planning, architecture, landscape architecture, natural resource management, sustainable building practices, or land development. No more than two members can come from any single professional field.

The mayor appoints nominees, and the City Council confirms them. Each term lasts four years, and a member may serve no more than two consecutive full terms. The city explicitly seeks applicants who have not previously participated in government processes. It wants individuals who can collaborate with diverse groups and respect differing opinions. Applicants are asked to be specific in their responses regarding their ability to work with applicants and agencies.

Service involves a specific time commitment. The commission traditionally meets on the first and third Thursdays of each month at 1:30 p.m. These sessions occur virtually via Zoom. Most meetings last between two and four hours, though some can extend to six hours. A third meeting may be scheduled in a month if the volume of reviews requires it. Members must prepare for these sessions on their own time. Materials are typically distributed one week before the meeting.

Applicants are considered public officials and must follow Oregon government ethics laws. They must disclose any potential conflict of interest where they or a relative might financially benefit from a recommendation. Disclosure does not disqualify a candidate. If hybrid meetings resume, in-person attendees can receive parking validation at the garage at 1900 SW 4th Avenue. Tim Heron serves as the staff liaison for this opportunity.

The city collects voluntary demographic information to ensure appointments reflect the community. This data is kept confidential and is not used during the selection process. Applicants who need assistance can contact Heron at tim.heron@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-7726. General questions about the advisory program can be sent to AdvisoryBodies@Portlandoregon.gov. The current Design Commissioners are listed on the commission's website.