By Carol McCracken  (Post # 2,633)

The public is invited to attend and offer comment at the Economic Development Committee meeting tomorrow Tuesday, November 22 at 5:00 pm., Room 24, at city hall.  The Committee is chaired by Councilor David Brennerman.

The Committee will focus on whether or not the city should establish an office focused on integrating immigrants into our local economy in order to “ensure that Portlanders have access to job skills development, career counseling and job placement services necessary maximize individual potential and ensure a robust workforce,” according to a press release issued by the city today.

The Committee has held six public hearings and met with numerous parties over the past eight months that this clearinghouse has been under consideration.

There would be a Director overseeing the office, with a Program Manager implementing the Immigrant Integration efforts and a Program Manager implementing the Inclusion and Equality efforts focused on people of color.

As mentioned previously, public comment will be taken and a recommendation either way to the full City Council.