Join Better Portland members for a casual coffee meetup to connect with our community and support local businesses in the Portland area.
This month, we’re in District 1 with City Council President Jamie Dunphy. He will join us to chat about what’s happening on the east side, his priorities, and to hear from you about your needs as a small business.
Parkrose Coffee Shop
4826 NE 105th Ave
Portland, Oregon 97220
Jamie Dunphy is a seasoned public policy professional with 14 years of experience navigating complex governmental systems to deliver real results. He has served in key roles, including five years with U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley and another five years as Senior Policy Director for former Portland City Commissioner Nick Fish. His deep understanding of Portland’s governance has enabled him to drive meaningful change at both the policy and community levels.
Jamie’s commitment to public service began while studying at Portland Community College and Portland State University, where he majored in Political Science. During that time, he worked in the David Douglas School District on gang prevention and crime reduction at the newly opened Ron Russell Middle School. His passion for policy led him to an internship with Senator Jeff Merkley’s office, where he was later hired to advocate for Social Security benefits, foreclosure prevention, veterans’ food assistance, and expanded access to Pell Grants for students with Modified Diplomas.
Though he initially thought his time in public service had come to a close, Jamie saw a unique opportunity to help revitalize Portland under its new form of government. He believes that in times of crisis, bold leadership is essential to enact transformative change—and he is ready to help restore and strengthen the city he loves.