The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) annual district meetings concluded in October, providing a forum for members to discuss key issues facing their counties and receive updates from the association, regional partners, and affiliates.
AOC staff and members of the executive committee traveled across the state to meet with county leaders in each district. Reflecting on the meetings, AOC Executive Director Gina Nikkel highlighted the importance of county collaboration.
“Our association’s strength comes from counties uniting to share ideas and advocate for our communities, and we are grateful for the active engagement and dedication of our members.”
Hot topic discussions were primarily focused on revenue and unfunded mandates, with deeper conversations on funding for deflection programs, behavioral health, and district attorneys. Topics in some districts also covered ambulance service districts, regional infrastructure, wildfire management, County Financial Assistance Agreements, Oregon State Hospital restructuring, Community Care Organizations, and the Statewide Solid Waste Taskforce.
Executive Director Gina Nikkel presented an overview of the proposed budget for the upcoming year which will be considered for adoption by the full membership at the AOC Annual Business Meeting during the 2026 Annual Conference later this month.
AOC department directors provided updates on key accomplishments and outcomes for AOC member counties:
- Member Services Director Jill Rees highlighted initiatives designed to enhance membership engagement and celebrated the growth of the business partner program.
- County Road Program Director Brian Worley highlighted ongoing technical assistance and advocacy conducted in partnership with the Oregon Association of County Engineers and Surveyors, and provided an update on the Integrated Road Information System, used by county road departments for asset management, cost accounting, and maintenance tracking.
- Legislative Affairs Director Mallorie Roberts recapped key outcomes from the 2026 legislative short session and provided a preview of what to expect in the 2027 legislative session.
Members also had the opportunity to hear presentations from county staff, business partners and local government affiliates:
- County staff provided briefings on local deflection programs and state funding for behavioral health.
- OSU Extension Services shared updates highlighting the ongoing educational and community programming collaboration between OSU Extension and counties.
- Representatives from affiliate organizations delivered reports highlighting shared administrative hurdles and opportunities for cross-jurisdictional cooperation.
AOC extends our sincere appreciation to host counties for their hospitality and to all members for their valuable feedback and engagement throughout the district meetings. We look forward to seeing everyone at the upcoming annual conference.
Visit our website to access all materials and recordings from the district meetings.
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator