The last year has been a challenge for counties, for the state, for the nation, and across the world. While the COVID-19 pandemic, emergencies, political strife, and other challenges continued to mount under unprecedented circumstances, counties in their unique role on the ground, were unwavering in continuing to deliver critical services to Oregonians.
Thankfully, with this new year, we are seeing the vaccine roll-out moving along bringing a sign of hope and relief for many. While it feels slow, and distribution challenges are being sorted, it is quite remarkable that multiple vaccines have been approved and distribution has begun in less than one year from the onset of the pandemic. We now can catch a glimpse of better times on the horizon.
Throughout the pandemic, the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC) has been walking hand-in-hand with our members to ensure that information and resources are available to counties as soon as possible, and that our partners at the state and federal governments understand the important role counties play across service areas, and especially in public health.
While we are continuing to advocate for direct needs of our members in response to the pandemic regularly, AOC will be in front of legislators during the 2021 Legislative Session elevating key issues for counties.
With the direct and regular feedback of our members, the AOC developed a significant list of priorities– critical issues that we, AOC staff in partnership with our members, will advocate for during the 2021 Legislative Session. Because counties are the key point of service for many Oregonians, we will highlight issues beyond the pandemic, including revenue, strengthening county-based human service systems, wildfire policy, natural resource funding, police reform and public safety measures, transportation funding and community development policies to name a few.
AOC is greatly honored to serve our members in the Capitol and with state and federal government partners to help them continue outstanding service to Oregonians.
Contributed by: Gina Firman Nikkel, Ph.D. | Executive Director