About

"I believe in Portland People Power; The people who drive our community aren't just elected officials and political insiders" - Paul van Orden

On May 18th, a groundbreaking candidate will have his name on the ballot. Paul van Orden is running for Multnomah County Commissioner Seat #2 (North and Northeast Portland).

At the heart of Paul van Orden’s agenda: promoting sustainability and environmental green job opportunities, improving the local education system and social services such as mental health, continued reform of the sheriff’s office, and working with small businesses strengthen our economy.

Paul has served the City of Portland for most of his 19 year career as an Environmental Law Officer; Working with businesses and neighbors to keep Portland livable and safe.

He was appointed by the Office of Neighborhood Involvement (ONI) to serve the community on Master Planning concerns with the Port of Portland; has written innovative environmental regulation; and has been a long-time community organizer.

“It comes down to local food security and most peoples’ desire to be pro-active in their community and self-sufficient. These efforts prove my concept that ‘Portland People Power,’ is alive and well – we just need to harness that energy and give more of the reins to citizens to solve problems.”
- Paul van Orden

Living these values, van Orden created a nationally recognized Chicken Coop Tour event in Portland to catalyze healthy and local urban chicken raising; known locally as the Tour De Coups. He has served on the Board of Growing Gardens for the last six years.

District #2 has been Paul’s home for 13 years.

OCCUPATION: Environmental Law Enforcement, City of Portland Noise Control Officer

OCCUPATIONAL BACKGROUND: 19 years in the Environmental field, specializing in air pollution and noise issues

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND: Stockton State College, Environmental Science B.S.; Graduate Environmental studies at Portland State University

PRIOR GOVERNMENTAL EXPERIENCE: Airport Land Use Advisory Committee; Multnomah County Animal Services Task Force; Initiated the North Portland Noise Study focusing on resolutions to Portland International Raceway and Train Noise