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West PDX Today

Saturday, April 19, 2025

Meet Rahim Harji: Assistant City Manager

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Tell us more about yourself. 

I was born in Gainesville, Florida, but I grew up in Kenya (I can speak Swahili from my time living in Kenya, although not so well anymore). 

I went to college in Canada, then came back to Florida and moved to Oregon almost three years ago. I’m a professional engineer in the State of Oregon and have an Executive MPA from Portland State University. 

My wife Emily and I, and our dog, really enjoy the outdoors like hiking, visiting the coast and, of course, soccer. 

I began my career as an engineer designing subdivisions, but I transitioned over to public service early in my career because I was looking for a way to use my skills in service to my community. 

My initial focus in the public sector was as a Stormwater Engineer, but then I went on to lead teams as a Stormwater and Vegetation Division Manager and Public Works Director. 

Before I came to Oregon, I was an Assistant County Administrator at Pinellas County in Florida, overseeing the Public Works, Utilities, Solid Waste, Parks and Conservation Resources departments, and the Office of Asset Management. 

In my current role as Assistant City Manager, my portfolio includes five departments: 

Public Works 

Water 

Parks & Recreation 

Information Services 

Economic & Community Development 

I am fortunate to work with amazing Department Directors who oversee these departments, helping them achieve their objectives.  

My true passion is working with people — internally and externally — being able to make a positive difference in others’ lives, especially in our historically and currently marginalized communities. 

Original source can be found here.

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