Portland is gearing up to simplify its permitting process as the city edges closer to the launch of a new bureau designed to streamline services previously scattered across various city departments. Set to be operational by July 1, this yet-to-be-named bureau aims to be a one-stop shop for issuing permits for various community projects, ranging from the construction of affordable housing units to simple home improvements such as deck installations.

City Commissioner Carmen Rubio, spearheading the reform, expressed her dedication to efficiently meeting the community's housing needs. "The great need for more housing, at all income levels, is what prompted me to call the question and deliver a better way of serving those who literally build and shape Portland every day," Rubio said in a statement obtained by Portland's official news release. She further emphasized, "By bringing all of our development permits under one authority, we can reduce the cost and time it takes to quickly get a project done. That’s good for Portlanders – and the economy."

Last year, the Portland City Council passed a resolution, initiated by Rubio, which directed the restructuring of permitting services. A project team has since been collaborating with customers and city staff to chart a course forward. The proposed merger would combine the Bureau of Development Services with select teams from the Parks and Recreation, Transportation, Water, and Environmental Services bureaus.

Details about the new structure are being conveyed to city staff through a series of managerial meetings occurring over the next fortnight. Additionally, the staff has been involved in brainstorming a name for the new bureau and will vote on final options using a new ranked-choice ballot. Following the reveal of the name and structure, a May 22 vote by the City Council will aim to quickly confirm the changes ahead of the July 1 inauguration.

The formation of this bureau is seen as an essential step toward improving Portland's permitting process. Terri Theisen, strategy manager of the Permit Improvement Team, highlighted the projected benefits of this change. “City staff have been working hard to improve turnaround times for Portlanders who need building permits," Theisen stated. “Creating this new organization will further support our ability to provide robust customer service and customer communications. This lays a foundation for Portland’s permitting organization to reach its full potential.”