Council confirms Michael Jordan as city administrator through Jan. 2, 2026 after heated public testimony over Zenith land-use decision

Portland City Council confirmed Michael Jordan as city administrator on Feb. 5, 2025, adopting an amendment that sets Jan. 2, 2026, as the end date for the appointment. The vote followed more than two hours of public testimony focused on the city’s recent land use compatibility statement for Zenith Energy and broader demands for transparency and oversight.

The council approved the amendment to the mayor’s resolution to add the Jan. 2, 2026 end date, then voted to adopt the resolution as amended. Mayor Ted Wilson introduced Jordan’s reappointment and proposed the end date to allow a nationwide search for a permanent city administrator this summer. Jordan addressed the council and said he would assist with designing a transparent recruitment process for the permanent hire.

Why it matters: Testimony from scores of residents, tribal leaders and environmental advocates urged the council to delay or investigate the Zenith action. Commenters said the administration’s handling of Zenith’s land-use matter lacked transparency and omitted past violations that environmental regulators had investigated. Multiple council members said they shared constituents’ concerns and supported a formal investigation; Mayor Wilson said he supported a council-led investigation as well.

Council discussion focused on balancing continuity in city operations during a major budget year and the need for a robust, community-informed search for a permanent administrator. Several council members said Jordan’s experience would help lead an urgent reorganization of bureau structure and the difficult budget reductions ahead. Council members also pressed for clearer, consistent communication from the executive branch when major administrative actions occur.

Public testimony: Speakers included tribal leaders and representatives of the Portland Harbor Community Coalition who described the Willamette River as culturally and ecologically significant and urged more scrutiny of Zenith’s record. Several speakers called for the administration to rescind the Zenith land-use compatibility statement or to pause implementation pending a council inquiry. Others urged the council to prioritize transparency and accountability in future dealings with private companies that affect public health and the river.

Related votes at the meeting: Council also confirmed Robert Taylor as city attorney (12-0) and approved a demolition review and findings for 118 SW Porter Street in the South Portland Historic District (findings adopted; one abstention accepted). The council approved the consent agenda (minutes) by roll call earlier in the meeting.

What happens next: The amendment sets a deadline of Jan. 2, 2026, for Jordan’s appointment and Mayor Wilson said a national search would begin this summer to find a permanent city administrator. Councilors said they would pursue a formal investigation into the Zenith land-use matter and urged clearer protocols for notifying council about high-profile administrative actions.

Votes at a glance: Michael Jordan, city administrator confirmation (as amended) — outcome: adopted as amended; recorded final tally 11 yes, 1 no. Robert Taylor, city attorney confirmation — adopted 12 yes, 0 no. LU 204770225 DM, demolition review for 118 SW Porter Street — findings adopted (abstention recorded). Consent agenda (minutes) — adopted (12 yes).