By Abigail Cermak

After five years with the Brownfield Program, I am leaving to take a position with the Bureau of Environmental Services Pollution Prevention Plan Review team. While I am excited for this new chapter in my life, my heart is a little heavy. Working for the Brownfield Program has truly shaped who I am as a professional, a public servant, and as a community member. I am proud to be part of an incredible network of brownfield redevelopment supporters, all of us playing our part to correct the mistakes of the past and improve the environment and human health. We are helping to build great communities.

Over the years, I had the opportunity to engage a diverse stakeholder group, encourage hard conversations about environmental justice, gentrification, and displacement issues, and educate Portland youth about the importance of protecting our water and land resources. I will miss these meaningful connections the most. Thanks to all of you for making my time at the Brownfield Program a great experience.

Here are some highlights from my days with the Brownfield Program.

If you have any questions about our program services, scheduling a brownfield class/tour, or collaborating on a brownfield event, please contact Program Coordinator Jenn Bildersee at jenn.bildersee@portlandoregon.gov.