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Purpose of the Charter Review Committee
Every six years, a Charter Review Committee convenes for the purpose of making a comprehensive study of the Multnomah County Home Rule Charter and, if the committee chooses, submitting to the people of Multnomah County amendments to the charter.
The charter is the local version of a constitution, essentially creating the structure of Multnomah County government. The charter addresses issues including the powers of county government, the responsibilities of the County Chair and commissioners, and the elections of county leaders.
Past Charter Review Committee have proposed amendments on issues such as term limits of county commissioners, handling vacancies on the Board of County Commissioners, and salaries of elected officials.
The committee reports to the Board of County Commissioners and the public its findings and recommendations, including any amendments the committee proposes to the county charter. All amendments proposed by the committee are placed on the ballot for the primary and/or general election.
Committee Member Responsibilities
- Attend regular committee meetings and subcommittee meetings. Meetings will be held in accordance with public health guidance, which may require meeting virtually.
- Study the County charter by all appropriate means, including the consideration of public testimony at meetings and hearings, conducting research and consulting subject matter experts.
- Contribute to the development of the committee’s final recommendations and report to the Board and the public
- Comply with applicable County personnel rules and State of Oregon ethics laws
Committee members can opt to receive a stipend to help offset the costs of participation, such as transportation and childcare.
Time Commitment
The Charter Review Committee is expected to meet once a month, with additional meetings as needed. Committee members will also be expected to attend subcommittee meetings, as well as review materials, conduct research, and help draft recommendations outside of meetings.
Meetings will be held on weekday evenings, or as determined by the committee membership. Committee members should expect to spend 4 to 6 hours a month in meetings, and an additional 3 to 5 hours a month on committee work outside of meetings.
Timeline
Committee members will be selected by mid-August 2021.
The next Charter Review Committee will begin meeting in September 2021 and conclude its work by August 2022.
Eligibility & Member Selection
Only Multnomah County residents are eligible to serve on the Charter Review Committee.
Charter Review Committee members are appointed by state senators and state representatives who represent districts in Multnomah County.
How to Apply
The deadline to apply for the Charter Review Committee has passed. Check the Charter Review Committee website starting in September 2021 for updates on the work of the committee. You can also sign up for the Office of Community Involvement's email list to receive notifications about openings on other advisory boards and committees.
