Multnomah County Chair Deborah Kafoury announced today that Kimberly Melton, the senior policy advisor who has transformed county investments in culturally specific services, will take over Feb. 16 as Chief of Staff.
Since Kim joined the Chair’s office in 2015, she has been focused on youth and family issues, public health, immigration and deepening partnerships with underserved communities.
“Kim is the rarest combination of analytical thinker and policy wonk with a strong dose of heart,’’ said Chair Kafoury. “At a time when county residents are facing so many issues, she brings a powerful intellect and perspective to my leadership team.”
A graduate of Stanford University, Kim is an award-winning statehouse and education journalist who reported for The Times-Picayune in New Orleans and The Oregonian. She joined Stand for Children in 2011 where she spent two years as Communications and Policy Director and another two years as Policy and Community Organizing Director for the Multnomah County area. Kim’s work on children, public health and equity include efforts with Early Learning Multnomah, the Portland Children's Levy, and the SUN Service System.
Melton replaces Nancy Bennett, who leaves the county Feb. 15 to become the Department of Environmental Quality’s new Policy and External Affairs Manager. “Nancy will be greatly missed. She has been a key advisor to me for the past nine years and the state will benefit from all her skills and incredible passion for the environment,’’ Chair Kafoury said.
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