September 16, 2026 · Ordinance · 2026-306

Create new non-represented classification of Council Public Information Officer and establish a compensation range for this classification

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Plain-language summary

City creates new spokesperson job for the City Council

Creates a new city job called Council Public Information Officer. This person will speak for the City Council, handle news media, share public information, manage messaging in emergencies and help with community outreach. The job is "non-represented," meaning it is not part of a union.

Decision: Passed, 11 to 0. Councilor Smith was absent.
Who it affects: People who get news and information from the City Council, and the staff of the Office of Council Operations.
Money: Pay range is $102,856 to $133,619.20 a year full time ($49.45 to $64.24 an hour). The city says creating the job title itself has no direct cost.
Next: The pay range takes effect now that the Council has passed it.
Official record

Written by AI from the official record and checked automatically. September 16, 2026

Full title: Create new non-represented classification of Council Public Information Officer and establish a compensation range for this classification
Status: Passed
Document number: 2026-306
Introduced by: Mayor Keith Wilson
City department: Human Resources
Requested council date: September 16, 2026
Purpose and background: This classification is created to perform professional communications and public affairs work in support of the City Council and Council Operations. The position serves as a spokesperson and communications resource, managing media relations, public information activities, strategic messaging, and crisis communications. The position will also have a role in supporting community outreach activities.
Financial and budgetary impacts: There is no direct cost to create the new classification. The Council Public Information Officer has a range of $102,856.00 annual full time to $133,619.20 annual full time.
Economic and real estate impacts: Not applicable.
Community impacts and community involvement: This action is largely internal to City government processes.
100% renewable goal: This action is largely internal to City government processes.

Full text

The City of Portland ordains. Section 1. The Council finds: In accordance with the policies established by the City Council based on a classification and compensation review, the Bureau of Human Resources is creating one new non-represented classification and establishing a compensation rate, effective upon passage by Council. NOW, THEREFORE, the Council directs: The following classification is being created:Job ClassPay RangeCouncil Public Information OfficerAnnual Effective upon ratification: $102,856.00 - $133,619.20 Hourly Effective upon ratification: $49.45–$64.24 The recommended compensation range is aligned with the City's existing Central Public Information Officer classification and will be working in the interest of City Council within the Office of Council Operations.