July 1, 2013 

Statement of Commissioner Nick Fish Concerning Baruti Artharee

I respectfully disagree with the mayor’s decision to issue a one week suspension to Baruti Artharee for violating the City’s anti-harassment policy.

The City has a zero tolerance policy against workplace harassment and discrimination. I served as Council sponsor of the City’s current policy, HRAR 2.02, which is intended to be stricter than state and federal law.

The investigative report released by the mayor today finds that Mr. Artharee violated HRAR 2.02 and 5.01(9) when he made sexually suggestive and demeaning comments about County Commissioner Loretta Smith at a public event held on June 6, 2013.

Mr. Artharee occupies a senior position of trust in the mayor’s office, serving as public safety coordinator. He was representing the mayor at the time that he disrespected Commissioner Smith in a public setting. The report finds that he engaged in a pattern of inappropriate conduct.

2.02 requires the City to investigate complaints and to issue appropriate corrective action. I believe a one week suspension fails to send a strong enough message that workplace harassment will not be tolerated, and that all employees of the city, regardless of their position, are required to conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.

July 2, 2013

The first six months of 2013 have been marked by big changes, new challenges, and much to celebrate.

First, the big news: Mayor Hales has asked me to lead two new bureaus – the Water Bureau and the Bureau of Environmental Services.  He has also asked me to serve as Council liaison to Venture Portland, Elders in Action, and the Regional Arts and Culture Council.

Last month, the Council approved a balanced budget that reflects our community's best values: preserving the safety net, investing in strong neighborhoods and healthy small businesses, supporting older adults and youth, collaborating with our public and private partners, and preserving our fire stations and patrol officers.

As I move to my new assignments, I’d like to thank our stellar community partners and the talented teams at the Portland Housing Bureau and Portland Parks & Recreation for five great years.

July 3, 2013

On the 4th of July, we gather with friends and family to celebrate America's Independence!

Portland Fire & Rescue Chief Erin Janssens reminds Portlanders to enjoy the holiday, but to remember to celebrate safely.

If you observe the holiday by setting off fireworks, remember that Oregon requires fireworks not to fly, explode, or travel more than one foot into the air, or more than six feet on the ground.

Whether you gather for a barbecue, watch a baseball game, or set off fireworks, have a safe and fun Independence Day!

2013 Mid-Year report

The first six months of 2013

Mid-Year Check-in: Portland Housing Bureau Director's Message

On Oregon Opportunity Network's website

Merkley "Taking His Cues" from Portland City Hall on Covering Reservoirs

Aaron Mesh in Willamette Week

Mount Tabor Occupiers Refuse to Meet with Cops

Aaron Mesh in Willamette Week

Operation 305 collects household goods to welcome veterans into permanent housing

Zoe Greenberg in The Oregonian

Can You Hear Me Now? It's Not that Amanda Fritz Wasn't Speaking Up. It's Just that We're Finally Listening.

Denis C. Theriault in The Portland Mercury

Mayor's response To Sexual harassment Charges criticized

Rob Manning on OPB.org

Mayor Hales Policy Advisor Baruti Artharee on Week of Suspension for Breaking City Policy

Helen Silvis in The Skanner News

Hales Hands One-Week Suspension to Public Safety Director Over Sexual Comments

Denis C. Theriault in The Portland Mercury

An Unsatisfying Answer

Denis C.Theriault in The Portland Mercury

Hales Suspends Baruti Artharee for One Week

Aaron Mesh in Willamette Week

Some question whether week suspension for Charlie Hales' adviser is adequate

Ryan Kost in The Oregonian

Baruti Artharee suspension is appropriate

The Oregonian Editorial Board

Statement of Commissioner Nick Fish Concerning Baruti Artharee

Saltzman promises a "fresh set of eyes" at housing bureau

Amanda Waldroupe in Street Roots

Visual Chronicle will portray the underrepresented parts of Portland

Zoe Greenberg in The Oregonian

Portland art tax upheld

In the Portland Tribune

Sources Say: Art tax alive and kicking

In the Portland Tribune

Paid Sick Leave Laws Generate Concern, but Not Much Pain

Robb Mandelbaum in The New York Times

July 5, 2013

Learn to be a “water wise gardener” at the Hazelwood Conservation Demonstration Garden in East Portland on July 10.

Portland Water Bureau’s Water Efficiency Team is hosting an Open Garden so community members can learn about water efficiency through proper plant choices, mulching and soil preparation, as well as irrigation methods for yards and gardens.

The Efficiency Team will be on hand to answer questions, discuss water wise features, and pass out free outdoor water efficiency kits.

Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn about water conservation for your home!

Open Garden

Hazelwood Conservation Demonstration Garden

1017 NE 117^th

July 10, 4:30 – 6:30 pm