The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) released its 2021 Annual Report, highlighting its successes over the last year. The report reflects on member engagement, financial health, and key programs and services of the organization that help support counties and its members.
During the year, AOC was able to provide critical services to members, and pause and reflect on how AOC can be a better agent for its member counties and their communities.
AOC President and Coos County Commissioner Melissa Cribbins said of the dynamic year, “Commissioners, judges, and chairs coalesced to address key issues, navigate unprecedented times, and have a unified voice in our advocacy efforts.” Through two years of a continued pandemic and other state emergencies, Cribbins reflected, “A shining star from this year was our ability to safely convene in-person and rebuild our relationships.”
AOC members were heavily engaged in the association’s work and with one another through a number of activities. Topline engagement stats include:
- Membership of 100 percent of counties in the state.
- Over 125 communications to members on emergent issues.
- Over 400 attendees at the AOC Annual Conference with all of Oregon’s 36 counties represented.
- 85 AOC member meetings.
- 8 district meetings.
- 28 graduates from County College.
AOC provides a number of services to members including advocacy and education. The organization strives to serve its members by uniting its 36-member counties to advance county issues, foster trust in county government, and develop programs and services that support the success of counties into the future.
During 2021, AOC legislative affairs staff were instrumental in advocating for county needs during the regular Legislative Session and monitored the Legislature’s two special sessions.
“At AOC, county leaders gain a unique opportunity to connect with peers, share resources and information, learn from one another, and act as a united body in our advocacy efforts. It is through AOC that we can strengthen the voice of Oregon’s 36 counties and our partnerships,” Benton County Commissioner Xan Augerot said of the value AOC creates for its members.
One of AOC’s foundational programs, County College, held partnership with Oregon State University’s Extension Service, provides a one-year course to new commissioners, judges, chairs, and county staff that covers everything from legal provisions of county government, to leadership and management skills, to the many services delivered by counties. “In addition to AOC’s robust education and networking programs, County College offered a critical engagement opportunity for me and my fellow commissioners to explore key issues and forge strong relationships with one another,” said Umatilla County Commissioner Dan Dorran of the program.
Of note in 2021, AOC’s membership completed a process to ensure an equitable, simple, and sustainable long-term structural adjustment to the AOC’s dues structure. The new structure was developed over several years through the AOC Membership Committee, Budget and Finance Committee, Board of Directors, and with input from all of AOC’s membership.“Our membership has done significant work to support a more sustainable dues structure that will help AOC thrive into the future,” said Morrow County Commissioner Melissa Lindsay of AOC’s fiscal health.
Finally, to close out a successful year, AOC was able to acquire a new building at 1212 Court Street, where there will be adequate space to allow all staff and departments to operate under one roof.
“I am so proud of the work each of our members have done over this past year and look forward to a fruitful 2022. In the next year, together, we will begin visioning for AOC’s future to better serve our counties, our members, and Oregonians,” remarked AOC Executive Director, Gina Firman Nikkel on the year.
Contributed by: Megan Chuinard | Public Affairs Associate