Exit Interviews: City Commissioner Dan Saltzman

In January, Dan Saltzman will leave the Portland City Council, a job he's held for two decades. At Friday Forum, we'll ask him to reflect on his time in office. What has he learned over the last twenty years that he thinks a new commissioner ought to know? What were the biggest challenges during his tenure? What would he have done differently if he had the chance to go back in time? And does the commission form of government work?

Join us for an insightful look into how Portland's government is run and the future of Oregon's largest city. 

About Dan

Dan Saltzman is about to complete his fifth and final term as a Portland City Commissioner. In his nearly 25 years of public service to Multnomah County and the City of Portland he has been the Commissioner in Charge of over 15 city bureaus and offices. He currently oversees Portland Fire & Rescue, Portland Bureau of Emergency Management, Bureau of Emergency Communications, Fire & Police Disability and Retirement Fund, Portland Children's Levy and the Gateway Center for Domestic Violence Services.

Dan was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. He graduated from Beaverton High School, received a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, and an M.S. from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He spent many years in the private sector as the principal in an environmental engineering firm. He also served as a staff assistant to Congressman (now Senator) Ron Wyden.

Dan served as Multnomah County Commissioner from 1993-1998 and has also served on the Board of Directors for Portland Community College. Dan's focus continues to be the well-being of our children and families, protecting Portland's natural and economic environment to achieve a more sustainable future, as well as enhancing public safety and opportunity for all Portlanders.

Moderator

Emerald Bogue has worked in local politics for more than a decade—including policy roles at the City of Portland and Multnomah County as well as managing multiple campaigns. Prior to this, she was a labor organizer. In her current role at the Port of Portland, Emerald is responsible for regional government affairs.