PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) - Charles Jordan, the first black city commissioner in Portland, Ore., has died at age 77.
The cause of death has not been released, but city parks spokesman Mark Ross says Jordan died at home Friday after a long illness.
Jordan was appointed to serve in 1974 and was subsequently elected in 1976. He spent a total of 10 years on the council.
He later spent 14 years as director of Portland Parks & Recreation before retiring in 2003. He oversaw 44 new parks and natural areas during his tenure.
Portland Mayor Charlie Hales has ordered all city flags to fly at half-staff from Friday through Saturday, April 12.
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