91视频

Rebecca Esau has been appointed permanent director of Portland’s Bureau of Development Services, Commissioner Chloe Eudaly said Wednesday.

Esau had served as interim director since April. Her permanent role took effect Wednesday.

In a statement, Eudaly said she offered Esau the job because she 鈥渂rings a high level of competence, diligence, passion and dedication to this position at a critical time for the city.鈥�

Esau’s appointment comes as little surprise. In a June interview, Eudaly said she was 鈥渞eally pleased with the work Rebecca Esau has done and would expect her to be a strong candidate if she chooses to apply.鈥�

Eudaly decided against conducting a national search for candidates.

鈥淒oing a national search when we have already identified the best candidate would be a waste of taxpayer dollars at a critical time,鈥� she said.

Esau previously served for 14 years as division manager of BDS‘ Land Use Services.

The Bureau of Development Services is a key agency for the Portland building industry. Project designs and permits go through the agency, and wait times can delay major projects. BDS this year has approved multifamily projects totaling $502.4 million, Eudaly stated.

BDS employees have been buffeted by a record flood of permits and turnover at the agency. Eudaly acknowledged the difficulties in a memo to staff, telling them she’s 鈥渃ommitted to doing whatever I can to help make your jobs secure and fulfilling.鈥�