County College
The County College program began in 2006 in partnership with the Oregon State University Extension Service, and for four years, ran every year. Since the 2009 class, it has run every other year in odd years. Designed primarily for new commissioners, judges, chairs, and high-level staff, the program offers a comprehensive overview of the responsibilities and authorities of a county, and a county commissioner, judge, or chair, including legal, government ethics, public meetings and records, parliamentary procedure, and much more. The class also covers the primary service areas of community and economic development, finance, human services, infrastructure and public works, and public safety, in addition to sessions on leadership and management (risk management, communications, emergency management, personal and courthouse security, etc.). The strong partnership between counties and the Oregon State University Extension Service is also explored.
With a class size of between 20 to 30 members, one of the most valuable benefits is the networking that takes place and the relationships that are built.
The next session of County College will begin January 2023. Contact AOC at events@oregoncounties.org with questions.