The City of Portland created the Office of the Ombudsman to assist the public with complaints and concerns about city agencies. The goals of the Ombudsman are to safeguard the rights of the people and promote higher standards of competency, efficiency and justice in the provision of city services. We are a part of the Office of the City Auditor, independent from the Mayor and City Council.

The Ombudsman can conduct an independent, impartial investigation of administrative acts of city agencies and recommend appropriate changes. We try to resolve conflicts between the City and the public fairly, on a timely basis, and in a non-adversarial manner. The services of the Ombudsman are free and confidential.

First try seeking help from the staff of the city agency where the problem occurred. Often they will be able to help you more quickly than we can. If you are not sure which office you should call, we can give you a referral. If you cannot resolve the issue with the agency on your own, then contact the Ombudsman.

We only handle complaints against the City of Portland. We cannot investigate complaints against Federal, State, Metro or County agencies. We do not have jurisdiction over elected officials--City Commissioners, the Auditor, or the Mayor. There is a separate Office of Independent Police Review to handle complaints against the Police.

 

The Ombudsman does not have the authority to change an agency determination or policy, or to bring legal actions. However, many complaints can be resolved by the agency voluntarily.

If we decide not to investigate your complaint, we will tell you why. We will also do our best to provide advice, information, or a referral to someone who may be able to help.