FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

AOC CONTACT: Megan Chuinard

PHONE: 503-400-3235

January 29, 2020

SALEM –Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) swore in a new executive committee during the 2019 AOC Annual Conference in Eugene, Ore. at the association’s annual business meeting.

Morrow County Commissioner Jim Doherty now serves as the association president. Doherty is joined on the AOC executive team by first vice president, Coos County Commissioner Melissa Cribbins; second vice president, Umatilla County Commissioner George Murdock; treasurer, Columbia County Commissioner Alex Tardif; and immediate past president, Clackamas County Commissioner Martha Schrader.

The executive team will work together during 2020 to lead the organization to success and ensure AOC meets its core mission of uniting Oregon’s 36 counties by:

  • Advocating with a collective voice on statewide and national policy;
  • Exchanging ideas, building new leadership, and exercising exemplary leadership in public service; and
  • Enriching the public’s understanding of county government.

The executive committee’s work also encompasses supporting the work of the president. Each year the AOC president selects a focus area to implement through their service to the organization. Doherty announced his initiative is arts, culture, and community. “The impact of arts and culture on our lives can be significant. It preserves heritage, gives a platform for expression, and builds strong communities,” said Doherty of his initiative.

Doherty plans to bring arts and culture to AOC through experiences, bridging communities in AOC’s 36 member counties. He will invite members to engage in events across the state that showcase the best each county has to offer, allowing members to learn about one another’s communities.

In his inaugural speech, Doherty serenaded the audience bringing smiles and applause, “a little music can bring life to any situation,” said Doherty of the experience.

In addition to launching his initiative, Doherty has already locked in his steering committee co chairs and vice chairs, led two AOC board meetings, and is activating AOC membership in advocacy efforts at the Oregon State Legislature. 

From the start of his service to the Morrow County Board of Commissioners in 2017, Doherty has been active in AOC meetings and advocacy efforts at the state and federal levels. Doherty, graciously commented to his peers, “I have watched and listened as amazing county commissioners, judges, and chairs have passionately moved mountains for the needs of counties in this state. I am humbled that such a group would allow me to take up the mantle.”

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