The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) wrapped up its 2024 district meetings in Curry County on Friday, Oct. 11, following a month-long tour across Oregon that began in Washington County in September.
These in-person meetings are held every fall in AOC’s eight regional districts and are hosted by a member county within each district. District leaders, who serve on AOC’s Board of Directors and legislative committees, play a key role in ensuring regional representation in the major organizational decisions and policy positions for the association.
“AOC extends its gratitude to the member counties that hosted us this year, as well as to all the members, affiliate organizations, and partners who joined us,” said Executive Director Gina Nikkel. “Our organization is stronger when everyone participates, enabling us to achieve even better outcomes for our counties and communities.”
At the 2024 district meetings, Nikkel presented an in-depth overview of the proposed budget for the upcoming year and reviewed proposed AOC bylaws amendments. Both items will be considered for adoption by the full membership at the AOC Annual Business Meeting during the 2024 Annual Conference in November. These meetings also provide an opportunity for AOC staff and district chairs to gather feedback, which is shared with the AOC Board of Directors. The Board then makes recommendations on both the budget and bylaw amendments to the full membership.
AOC department directors also joined district meetings this year, providing updates on key accomplishments and outcomes for AOC member counties.
- AOC Member Services Director Kristen Paul celebrated the hard work and dedication of the AOC membership committee, highlighting their significant contributions in the growth of the partner program and in charting a long-term path and opportunities for the program to continue to support AOC’s membership.
- AOC County Road Program Director Brian Worley previewed the 2024 County Road Needs Study and discussed advocacy efforts in preparation for the upcoming negotiations on the transportation package during the 2025 legislative session.
- AOC Legislative Affairs Director Mallorie Roberts reviewed the department’s successful advancement of AOC policy priorities during the 2024 legislative session and presented the AOC’s 2025 Policy Priority Platform.
In addition to AOC business and information, district meetings hold time for a “hot-topics” discussion on key issues facing the region’s counties. This year the major themes discussed at district meetings included public safety and health (particularly opioid and deflection programs); infrastructure and energy development; property tax issues; and workforce challenges. These topics reflect common priorities across multiple regions, with local variations based on regional needs.
Meeting information, recordings, and materials can be found here.
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator