Michael Jordan Joins Port of Portland Commission

On February 17, the Oregon Senate approved Governor Kotek’s appointment of Michael Jordan to the Port of Portland Commission.

Jordan, a lifelong Oregonian, has dedicated more than 40 years of his career in service to the public in elected and executive appointments at city, county, regional and state governments. His work frequently focused on establishing and sustaining economic, environmental, and organizational infrastructure essential to the health of the region.

"No one brings more know-how to the work of administering large, complex institutions than Mike Jordan," says Port of Portland chief executive officer, Curtis Robinhold. "Alongside his deep governing insights, we’ll benefit from his vast knowledge of the levers that move our region’s economy, including the critical importance of the Willamette River."

Most recently, Jordan served as Interim City Administrator for the City of Portland during Mayor Keith Wilson’s first year in office. This role built upon the expertise, relationships, and trust Jordan earned in his tenure leading the City Transition Team as it prepared and facilitated the City’s transition to a new form of government.   

"I am grateful to the Governor for the appointment and the Senate for their confirmation," said Commissioner Jordan. "I look forward to working with the Commission and the Port staff."

Jordan previously served as chief operating officer for two different government organizations, first, Metro, greater Portland’s regional government, and later, the state of Oregon’s executive branch. While distinct, in both of these roles Jordan led large, complex, government institutions in the delivery of public services, implementation of public policy, and advancement of economic development priorities. Jordan also previously served as Director of the Bureau of Environmental Services for the City of Portland, where he gained extensive knowledge of the lower Willamette River superfund site and clean up.   

Jordan fills the vacancy left by Sam Johnson. Other members of the Commission are Katy Coba, Commission president, Richelle Luther, Commission vice president; Ketan Sampat, Commission secretary; Katherine Lam, Commission treasurer; Mike DeVaughn; Rukiyah Adams; Meg Niemi; and Stuart Strader. 

The nine-member Port Commission meets monthly. At least two commissioners must each live in one of the three counties in the Port district (Multnomah, Washington and Clackamas counties). The remaining members may live in any part of the state. Commissioners are unpaid volunteers who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. They serve four-year terms and can be reappointed for an additional term. Commission presidents are selected by and serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Commission appoints the Port's executive director.