Meet Ken

Growing Up In Oregon

I grew up in Oregon with a deep appreciation for our diverse and beautiful natural spaces. After graduating from high school in the city of Bend, I went on to attend Willamette University and earn a BA in History and Political Science. After a couple years working as a baker, I returned to Willamette University College of Law to earn my JD. During law school, I started my land use career by clerking for the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals.

Helping to Shape our Community

In 1997, I took a position with the land use staff at Metro, the regional government in the Portland area that manages the urban growth boundary. I was responsible for defending Metro's first urban reserve decision in the late 1990's. During that same time, I shepherded a landmark regional riparian protection ordinance through Metro's process and later defended that decision. In the early 2000's, Metro expanded the urban growth boundary and I was again tapped to write findings supporting that decision. Through my work at Metro, I feel privileged to have participated in shaping how we can best grow our economy and create jobs, while also preserving farmland and green spaces. I believe in standing up for our shared priorities: creating opportunities and passing on our natural legacy to future generations.

Running a Small Business

Prior to joining the Oregon Legislature, I established and ran my own solo law practice. One of my primary practice areas included serving as a land use and code enforcement hearings officer for cities and counties around the state. I worked to ensure that all of my land use decision were thoughtful, fair, and legally sound, and I take pride in the nearly perfect record of my decisions being affirmed by Oregon courts. As an attorney, I have also worked with local residents to stand up to development projects that would hurt our community, including helping clients to oppose an influx of Walmart stores.

We Want to Hear From You!

Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me, my background, and my love for our community. I look forward to hearing from you about your own interests and priorities. Please reach out to my office at any time with comments, questions, or requests.

Contact Representative Helm

Ken@KenHelm.com

Join Our Email List