Sponsored content contributed by AOC Business Partner: CIS
(Photo: Captain John DeVaney of the Benton County Sheriff’s Office presented the top proposal, which was to add audio recording capability in select high-risk areas of the county jail.)
High satisfaction, practical education, and a prevention-first focus make the Annual Conference a sound investment in risk reduction and long-term financial stability.
For nearly 25 years, the CIS Annual Conference has been a signature event for Oregon’s cities and counties—bringing members together around a shared purpose: protecting public assets, strengthening organizations, and reducing preventable risk. For county and city leaders and their teams who manage risk, people, and operations, the 24th Annual Conference, held Feb. 25–27 in Salem, reinforced why this event remains central to CIS’ mission as a member-owned, not-for-profit risk pool created solely to serve Oregon cities and counties.
Participation reached a new high, with 696 attendees overall—466 in person and 210 participating virtually. The turnout reflected more than interest. It reflected trust in a conference designed around stewardship, with sessions focused on reducing exposure, avoiding costly claims, and supporting the long-term financial strength of the pool.
Feedback following the conference made that value clear. Participants rated their overall experience 4.7 out of 5, with 97 percent describing the conference as excellent or good. Comments consistently emphasized that sessions were relevant, well organized, and immediately usable. One attendee summed it up plainly: “This conference is always one of the most valuable events I attend each year.” Such satisfaction matters because it reflects confidence in CIS as a long-term partner that understands public-sector risk and delivers solutions built for local government—not commercial insurance markets.
That outcome is intentional. Sessions were built around real situations counties face every day, including claims, benefits, employment law, risk management, and public safety. The emphasis was practical risk reduction. Average session ratings reached 4.62 out of 5, with 91 percent rated excellent or good. Members frequently noted that CIS-led sessions, in particular, translated complex topics into tools they could use right away—helping reduce exposure and prevent issues from becoming claims.
Keynote speakers reinforced these themes by connecting wellbeing, leadership, and workplace culture to organizational outcomes. Attendees appreciated the continuity across the program, noting how the messages built on one another rather than competing for attention. One participant observed, “The thread of wellness and connection came through from all three speakers,” highlighting how culture and risk management are closely linked in today’s public organizations.
Equally important were the conversations that happened outside the sessions. Peer-to-peer exchange remains one of the conference’s most valued features. Members consistently pointed to informal conversations—between sessions, over meals, and in shared spaces—as a source of insight and reassurance. Hearing how others approach similar challenges often leads to better decisions and helps avoid costly mistakes.
Accessibility continued to be a strength. The hybrid format expanded participation while preserving a strong in-person experience. Virtual attendees praised the ease of access to materials and recordings, while in-person participants valued the opportunity to build relationships that strengthen collaboration across the membership.
Conference grants also remained essential. More than 70 percent of respondents indicated that reducing or eliminating grants would affect their ability to attend, particularly for smaller and rural members. Grants help ensure the conference remains accessible across the membership and support broad participation.
Taken together, the results affirm the role of the Annual Conference as a signature CIS event—one that supports practical learning, strong relationships, and long-term financial stewardship. Planning is already underway for next year’s conference, guided by member feedback and anchored in CIS’ shared commitment to helping Oregon’s cities and counties be safer, stronger, and healthier. Save the date: Feb. 24–26, 2027.
Sidebar: Shark Tank—Investing Early to Reduce Loss
Winning projects highlight how early, member-driven investments can prevent future claims and protect public assets across Oregon.
Few sessions illustrate the CIS model more clearly than Shark Tank.
Now in its sixth year, Shark Tank reflects the purpose of a member-owned and governed risk pool. Members bring forward practical ideas, ask tough questions, and invest collectively in solutions that reduce loss before claims occur.
At the 2026 conference, three finalist projects were selected in advance, with final placement determined through live audience voting following presentations and a moderated Q&A.
First place—Benton County ($7,500): Captain John DeVaney of the Benton County Sheriff’s Office presented a proposal to add audio recording capability to select high-risk areas of the county jail. Paired with existing video, audio provides important context during incidents, supports earlier intervention, and strengthens documentation—without the cost or complexity of a systemwide expansion.
Second place—City of Hillsboro Fire & Rescue ($5,000): Lieutenant Luis Mota, with support during discussion from the City of Hillsboro’s risk management team, presented the implementation of HAAS Alert’s Safety Cloud, which delivers real-time digital warnings to nearby drivers during emergency responses. The goal is straightforward: fewer collisions and safer conditions for responders and the public.
Third place—Lake Oswego Fire Department ($2,500): Firefighter Driver Engineer Ben Fox presented a similar digital alerting initiative aimed at improving driver awareness around emergency vehicles. Lake Oswego plans to expand the system and share lessons learned with other members considering the technology.
Together, the projects reflect what distinguishes CIS from commercial insurers: collaboration, early investment in prevention, and a collective focus on strengthening the pool over time.