Jul 29, 2025 | AOC News
During the 2024 Annual Conference, the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) President John Shafer (Umatilla County) announced his 2025 presidential initiative to focus on behavioral health. Shafer’s presidential initiative kicked off in January with a series of monthly challenges.
- January: Read this short primer on local mental health governance in Oregon, authored by Malheur County CMHP Director Steve Jensen, and hear a brief presentation by Greater Oregon Behavioral Health (GOBHI) CEO Ann Ford at the AOC Legislative Committee meeting, held on Monday, Jan. 13. (presentation slides)
- February: Whether you know your CMHP director well, or will be meeting them for the first time, your February challenge is to invite them to lunch, say ‘thank you,’ and listen. You’ll be glad you did. Our community mental health program directors are among the most dedicated, hardworking public servants in Oregon and a tremendous resource to the local mental health authority — you! Strong relationships are the bedrock of mental wellbeing and of good governance.
- March: Tour your community mental health program
There is no substitute for being physically present and able to use all five senses. Make some time with your director this month to walk through your local facilities, meet the staff, and learn more about your program’s current strengths and challenges that you can help champion at AOC, the Local Government Advisory Committee, and with our state and federal partners.
- April: Join this year’s County College class virtually on Thursday, April 17, at 4:30 p.m., for a discussion with AOC President and Umatilla County Commissioner John Shafer. Shafer will discuss his presidential initiative, including best practices for prioritizing behavioral health to equip counties to exercise their local mental health authority and foster healthy, vibrant, and safe counties across Oregon.
- May: It’s Mental Health Awareness month! Partner with your Community Mental Health Program during the month of May to promote mental health in your county. Engage with your congressional delegation, publish a letter to the editor, or pass a resolution recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The National Association of Counties (NACo) provides templates for a press release, letter to your members of Congress, social media post and more in their outreach toolkit.
- June: Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs) partner with local mental health authorities to ensure that their communities get the most value from their Medicaid and county services. CCOs are responsible for managing Oregon Health Plan (OHP) members’ medical and behavioral health care by maintaining an adequate care network, providing care management, and paying providers for covered services. This month, schedule lunch with your local CCO director(s) to find out what’s top of mind for them and discuss coordination in the year ahead.
- July: If you want a full picture of what does and does not work in public behavioral health care, talking to people in your community who have been in and out of services is essential. Some of these individuals may also have the talent and training to be part of our life-changing peer workforce. This month, have coffee with a person with lived experience and get an invaluable perspective on what contributes to the well-being of people with mental health or addiction challenges and what gets in the way. If you do not already know a member of your local peer community, reach out to your Community Mental Health Program (CMHP) director for an introduction or attend the next meeting of your local advisory committee.
- August: An important part of your duty as the Local Mental Health Authority includes working with your local public safety coordinating council (LPSCC) to develop your comprehensive local plan for the delivery of mental health services. See below what that coordination should entail, attend your local LPSCC meeting if possible, and check in with a LPSCC member about how it’s going and what they think could use your attention. According to ORS 430.630, when developing a local plan, a local mental health authority shall coordinate services among the criminal and juvenile justice systems, adult and juvenile corrections systems and local mental health programs to ensure that persons with mental illness who come into contact with the justice and corrections systems receive needed care and to ensure continuity of services for adults and juveniles leaving the corrections system. The LPSCC should comprise a police chief, sheriff, district attorney, state court judge, public defender, director of community corrections, county commissioner, juvenile department director, health director, citizen, city councilor or mayor, Oregon state police representative, and Oregon Youth Authority representative. “In developing the part of the local plan … the local mental health authority shall collaborate with the local public safety coordinating council to address the following:
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- Training for all law enforcement officers on ways to recognize and interact with persons with mental illness, for the purpose of diverting them from the criminal and juvenile justice systems;
- Developing voluntary locked facilities for crisis treatment and follow-up as an alternative to custodial arrests;
- Developing a plan for sharing a daily jail and juvenile detention center custody roster and the identity of persons of concern and offering mental health services to those in custody;
- Developing a voluntary diversion program to provide an alternative for persons with mental illness in the criminal and juvenile justice systems;
- Developing mental health services, including housing, for persons with mental illness prior to and upon release from custody.”
- September: Regional coordination adds tremendous value to county governance and services, especially in the area of our behavioral health programs. Your upcoming AOC district meeting is a perfect opportunity to strengthen that regional partnership. Meet up with your district colleagues and Community Mental Health Program directors at your district meeting. Make a plan for a tour of your host county’s program or just for some dedicated time to check-in on regional challenges and solutions over breakfast or coffee.
Jul 1, 2025 | AOC Advocacy, AOC News, Legislative Committee
The 83rd Legislative Assembly adjourned sine die on Friday, June 27, at 11:50 p.m. after five long months that turned chaotic in the final weeks.
The 160-day legislative “long session” was marked by efforts to secure sustainable long-term funding for the statewide transportation system and wildfire response and mitigation, a bipartisan focus on increasing housing development efficiency, and comprehensive compromise legislation on behavioral health service improvements for some of the most vulnerable Oregonians.
The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) and counties played a key role in all policy discussions. Together, county commissioners, county staff, and the AOC Legislative Affairs Department made significant progress on our policy priorities this session. We communicated a consistent message of solutions-oriented partnership, maintenance of local control, and the importance of considering on-the-ground implementation.
Unfortunately, significant work was left undone ─ the Legislature chose not to fully fund the community corrections cost study, legislative leadership could not find the votes to pass a transportation package, and the assessment and taxation funding modernization conversation was moved to the 2026 short legislative session. AOC will spend this summer and fall recalibrating our message on these key priorities and working with the Legislature in solutions-oriented partnership to ensure progress in the 2026 short session.
A record 3,400+ bills were introduced this session. The AOC Legislative Affairs team lobbied for/against over hundreds of bills and analyzed and submitted fiscal impact statements on nearly 600 bills with a potential impact to county budgets. Details on every bill on which the AOC Legislative Committee took a position will be included in the 2025 Legislative Summary, published in the coming weeks.
Please join the AOC Legislative Committee’s virtual meeting on Monday, July 7, to hear a comprehensive recap of the 2025 legislative session.
Contributed by: Mallorie Roberts | AOC Legislative Affairs Director
Jul 1, 2025 | AOC News
The 2025 County College class recently celebrated completing the six-month program offered by the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC), designed to equip new county leaders with training on governance, roles, and responsibilities. The curriculum featured expert-led sessions on topics including county finance, health and human services, veterans affairs, public safety, natural resources, transportation, and leadership development.
Participants also gained valuable hands-on experience through visits to the WAVE Lab at Oregon State University, the Oregon State Hospital Museum, the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, and Marion County Public Works.
During the final session, county commissioners, judges, and chairs shared their personal reasons for running for office. While their priorities varied — from tackling homelessness to expanding mental health services, they shared a common goal — to make a positive impact on their communities.
As the program wrapped up on the last day, participants reflected on key takeaways, including a deeper understanding of the historical relationship between state and county governments and the vast services counties provide. Many remarked that while they may not have all the answers, they’ve gained the knowledge and resources to find them.
Although the program’s primary focus is providing a comprehensive overview of county governance, the class agreed that one of the most valuable outcomes was the sense of connection and support developed among peers. The camaraderie will serve as a lasting network, offering ongoing support as they continue their public service.
Executive Director Gina Nikkel commended the participants’ dedication to learning and serving their communities. “You are the future of Oregon. Our counties are in good hands with you at the helm, and I look forward to seeing the positive changes you’ll continue to bring to your communities.”
In November, the County College class will come together again for a formal graduation ceremony as part of the AOC Annual Conference Opening General Session at the Graduate Eugene.
Congratulations to the 2025 County College Class!
- Baker County Commissioner Michelle Kaseberg
- Benton County Administrative Manager Maura Kwiatkowski
- Benton County Commissioner Gabe Shepherd
- Clackamas County Chair Craig Roberts
- Coos County Commissioner Drew Farmer
- Crook County County Manager Will Van Vactor
- Crook County Commissioner Susan Hermreck
- Curry County Commissioner Patrick Hollinger
- Gilliam County Judge Cris Patnode
- Gilliam County Commissioner Grant Wilkins
- Grant County Commissioner Mitch Wilson
- Harney County Commissioner Rob Frank
- Harney County Executive Assistant to the County Court Holly York
- Hood River County Public Works Director Cori Wiessner
- Hood River County County Administrator Allison Williams
- Jefferson County Commissioner Seth Taylor
- Josephine County Commissioner Chris Barnett
- Klamath County Commissioner Andrew Nichols
- Lincoln County Commissioner Walter Chuck
- Morrow County County Administrator Matthew Jensen
- Morrow County County Commissioner Gus Peterson
- Morrow County Executive Assistant Valerie Ballard
- OSU Extension Service Associate Vice Provost for Partnerships Jeff Sherman-Duncan
- OSU Extension Service Administrative Office Manager Jen Melo
- OSU Extension Service Extension External Relations Director Heidi Luquette
- OSU Extension Service Regional Director Jamie Davis
- Tillamook County Commissioner Paul Fournier
- Union County Commissioner Jake Seavert
- Wallowa County Commissioner Lisa Collier
- Wasco County Commissioner Jeff Justesen
- Washington County Commissioner Jason Snider
- Yamhill County Commissioner Bubba King
- Yamhill County Treasurer Paulette Alexandria
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator
Jun 2, 2025 | AOC News
County leaders from across Oregon came together in May for the fourth session of County College, a program by the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) designed to equip new county leaders with training on governance, roles, and responsibilities.
Held at the AOC office in Salem, the three-day training focused on the county’s role in public safety and natural resources. Earlier sessions covered topics such as health and human services, veterans’ services, community development, and county governance.
“The work counties do in public safety and natural resources is foundational to the well-being of our communities,” said AOC Executive Director Gina Nikkel. “From protecting our communities through law enforcement and emergency services to stewarding Oregon’s abundant natural resources like forests and water, counties are on the front lines, ensuring a safe and sustainable future for all Oregonians.”
Participants received a comprehensive look into Oregon’s criminal justice system, beginning with an overview of the state’s judicial department and its interactions with county governments. They learned about the role of district attorney offices, the responsibilities of county sheriffs, and the importance of community corrections in maintaining public safety. A highlight of the session was a visit to the Oregon Office of Emergency Management, where attendees toured the Emergency Coordination Center and learned about grant programs, disaster response, recovery operations, and support services for county emergency managers.
“County College is immensely valuable,” said Hood River County Administrator Allison Williams. “As a new county leader, the sessions are packed with information that is critical for understanding our statutory responsibilities. Combined with the learning that happens across those participating, partnerships have been created which advance the cause of counties on the local, state and federal level. The latest session focused on courts, the office of the Sheriff, natural resources, and emergency management which are everyday topics in our county. I am so pleased to be attending.”
AOC Legislative Affairs Manager Branden Pursinger led a discussion on the role of the Council of Forest Trust Land Counties, which helps uphold the trust and contractual relationships tied to county forest trust lands. Attendees also heard from the Oregon Department of Forestry on timber protection and ecosystem management strategies, and learned some fun facts about Oregon — nearly half of Oregon is forestland, and Oregon is the top producer in the U.S. of softwood lumber and plywood.
The session also covered state policy development regarding water and public lands, and featured a presentation from the Oregon State Fire Marshal on wildfire response coordination through the Fire and Conflagration Act. Additionally, participants learned about the state’s commitment to protecting fish, wildlife, and their habitats, and ensuring sustainable water supplies for future generations.
To round out the training, AOC Legislative Director Mallorie Roberts presented an overview of statutory duties required of counties under Oregon law. These include establishing emergency management agencies, conducting elections, regulating solid waste collection, and creating county juvenile departments, among others.
Special thanks to OSU Extension Services and CIS Oregon for their financial support that helps make County College possible, and to all our guest speakers for sharing their time and expertise.
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator
May 23, 2025 | AOC News
The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) is pleased to announce the hiring of Julie Oke as its new office administrator.
Julie brings extensive experience in local government and association support. Her background includes a broad range of expertise in office operations, event coordination, digital communications, and member services. Julie’s deep understanding of the needs of local governments and commitment to public service will be a valuable asset to AOC and its members.
“We are thrilled to welcome Julie to the AOC team,” said Executive Director Gina Nikkel. “Her proven experience and dedication to supporting Oregon’s communities make her an excellent fit for this role.”
Julie’s first day was Monday, May 19.
Contributed by: Erin Good | Communications Coordinator
May 1, 2025 | AOC Advocacy, AOC News
The Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) Legislative Affairs Department had a productive month advocating for AOC’s priority bills. Most of the bills supported by AOC advanced through the first chamber deadline in April, while several bills opposed by AOC have been amended to mitigate our concerns or will not move forward this session.
Adding to a strong month of engagement, AOC members joined legislators on the Senate floor on April 14 to receive courtesies of the Senate. Senator David Brock Smith, a former Curry County commissioner, highlighted the wide range of public services that Oregon counties deliver to all Oregonians. This event took place amid a particularly intense legislative session. A record 3,400+ bills were introduced this session. After an oftentimes chaotic and reactive 12-week sprint, and only about half of those bills survived the first chamber deadline and the potential to move forward this session.
About 500 budget bills and policy bills with a funding component await action in the Joint Committee on Ways and Means. Following the May 14 revenue forecast, legislative budget writers will start to narrow that universe significantly, making difficult decisions about how to allocate the state’s general fund. The second chamber work session is just around the corner — policy bills must be posted for a work session in the second chamber policy committee by May 9, or they will not be able to move forward this session.
Below are updates on AOC’s 2025 session top policy and budget priorities. A comprehensive bill list is available on AOC’s Legislative Committee webpage and is regularly updated throughout the session.
Assessment and Taxation Funding
Conversations and negotiations around House Bill 3518, AOC’s Assessment and Taxation Funding proposal with members of the House Committee on Revenue and stakeholders are ongoing – an amendment is expected soon. The Senate Committee on Finance and Revenue held an informational meeting on county assessment and taxation last week and the presentation garnered productive conversation with the committee. AOC remains optimistic that a solution for this long-time priority issue will move forward this session.
Community Corrections Funding
The April corrections population forecast showed a substantial decline in the projected population for individuals on community supervision. This is both good and bad news. The baseline budget is substantially smaller, and the cost study is more affordable. However, because funding is allocated per person, it becomes even more critical to fully fund the study. AOC continues to be engaged with the co-chairs of the Ways and Means Public Safety subcommittee and have received positive feedback about fully funding the cost study.
Health and Human Services
AOC is advocating for funding to meet counties’ statutory obligations for behavioral health, public health, and intellectual and developmental disabilities services; adequate statewide funding for effective deflection programs; and maintenance of homelessness response infrastructure and local coordination.
The following AOC priority bills have been referred to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means with “do pass” recommendations:
- House Bill 2056 allocates $64.8 million to Community Mental Health Programs to ensure they can deliver the critical crisis intervention, civil commitment, and aid and assist services required by law.
- House Bill 2015, requiring OHA to study and report on ways to make residential treatment facilities operations more sustainable;
- House Bill 2059, allocates $90 million to continue to build residential addiction treatment capacity; and
- House Bill 3916, allocating $5 million for local health workforce development – also moved out of policy committees to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means with do pass recommendations.
AOC’s county deflection program cost survey yielded a statewide projection of $47 million base funding needed for both counties and tribes, which is $7 million more than the governor’s recommended budget. Bills to further refine Ballot Measure 110-related programs, including improved transparency and coordination of Behavioral Health Resource Network grantmaking with the local behavioral health system, are being negotiated by legislative leadership. The suite of civil commitment reform bills under consideration were moved to the Joint Committee on Addiction and Community Safety Response for ongoing negotiation apart from the chamber deadlines.
State Forest Harvest Revenue
The Council of Forest Trust Land Counties testified in strong support of House Bill 3103 at its public hearing earlier this month. This bill would require a sustainable harvest in the state forests, providing a level of certainty to the trust land counties that rely on these harvest revenues. HB 3103 was moved to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means with unanimous support.
Transportation Funding Package
The co-chairs of the Joint Committee on Transportation released the much-anticipated transportation package framework last week, now known as the Oregon Transportation ReInvestment Package (TRIP). The initial framework includes increases to existing funding mechanisms and several new mechanisms. Total projected funding from the proposal equates to a 70% increase to counties over current projected revenues. AOC staff will continue to advocate for the principles and priorities set by our Legislative Committee in negotiations on a final package.
Water
All of AOC’s priority water bills, including place-based water planning, were referred to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means for further consideration.
Wildfire
A series of bills have been introduced based on Wildfire Funding Workgroup recommendations: HB 3940, HB 3947, SJR 11, SB 1177, and SB 1132. All of the bills moved to committees not subject to the first chamber deadline without recommendation for further discussion and negotiation.
Wolf Depredation Grants
Senate Bill 777 A makes updates to the Wolf Depredation and Compensation Grant Program housed at the Oregon Department of Agriculture – a longtime priority of AOC. Counties took the lead on the wolf depredation legislative concept, which will help bring additional deterrence to the landscape and more ranchers into the program. After over a decade of failed attempts at updates to the program, SB 777 passed out of the Senate 28-1 and had a positive public hearing yesterday in the House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water.
