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2025-75-Minutes for Meeting February 26,2025 Recorded 4/2/2025vT ES C0 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 1300 NW Wall Street, Bend, Oregon (541) 388-6570 Recorded in Deschutes County C J2025-75 Steve Dennison, County Clerk Commissioners' Journal 04/01 /2023 4:13:34 PM 025 BOCC MEETING MINUTES 1:00 PM WEDNESDAY February 26, 2025 Barnes Sawyer Rooms Live Streamed Video Present were Commissioners Anthony DeBone, Patti Adair and Phil Chang. Also present were Nick Lelack, County Administrator; Kim Riley, Senior Assistant County Legal Counsel; and Angie Powers, BOCC Administrative Assistant. This meeting was audio and video recorded and can be accessed at the Deschutes County Meeting Portal website www.deschutes.org/meetings. CALL TO ORDER: Chair DeBone called the meeting to order at 1:00 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE CITIZEN INPUT: • Sarah Provencio, co-owner and veterinarian at Riverside Animal Hospital, spoke about the unintended consequences of the City of Bend's "road diets" which reduce vehicle capacity and increase emergency response time. Additionally, she expressed concerns for evacuation time during wildfire events. She believes the city can improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians with a balanced approach that doesn't harm small businesses. She wants a transportation plan that meets the needs of everyone in our community. • Debbie Putnam, co-owner and veterinarian at Riverside Animal Hospital, spoke about the Olney Road project. She supports the project but has requested a gap in BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 1 OF 11 the proposed median so that westbound customers can access their main entrance off Olney. She fears that her business will lose clients due to the impacted access from the east due to the Olney Road project. She has testified before the city council regarding the Olney Road project. Commissioner Adair commented on the Greenwood Avenue road diet's impact to local businesses. Judy Trego, a delegate for the Homeless Youth Civic Assembly, provided testimony. The assembly worked for five days to come up with recommendations, using a bottom -up approach. They spoke to young people in various stages of homelessness. She suggested the Board consider flexible spending opportunities. CONSENT AGENDA: Before the Board was Consideration of the Consent Agenda. Approval of a Notice of Intent to Award a contract for the paving of Powell Butte Hwy: McGrath Road to US20 and Nelson Road: Powell Butte Hwy to Dickey Road 2. Consideration of Board Signature on letters reappointing Ted Wise, Kris Knight, Shaun Pigott and Lori Faha, for service on the Deschutes River Mitigation and Enhancement Committee 3. Consideration of Board Signature on letter thanking Melissa Brewster, for service on the Public Health Advisory Board 4. Consideration of Board Signature on letters changing Tamara Kuntz and Greg Brady from alternate to regular members on the Dog Control Board of Supervisors 5. Consideration of Board Signature on letters reappointing Steven Curley, Arron Curtis and Bill Kuhn, for service on the Deschutes County Fair Board 6. Approval of minutes of the January 27, 2025 BOCC Annual Retreat 7. Approval of the minutes of the February 14, 2025 BOCC Legislative Update Meeting ADAIR: Move Board approval of Consent Agenda as presented CHANG: Second VOTE: ADAIR: Yes CHANG: Yes DEBONE: Chair votes yes. Motion Carried 3 - 0 ACTION ITEMS: BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 2 OF 11 8. Audit Committee By -Laws Elizabeth Pape, County Internal Auditor, presented the Audit Committee By -Laws to the Board for consideration. The committee developed the by-laws and adopted them unanimously. These by-laws reference County Code in many parts, and the Committee was seeking more formality for those items not mentioned in Code. Chair DeBone spoke about member removal, citing page 5 of 7 of the by-laws which indicates that a committee member may be removed by a two-thirds majority vote by the committee. He noted that members are appointed by the Board of Commissioners. Commissioner Adair noted her appreciation for the professionalism of the current committee. Responding to Chair DeBone, Pape said there is no formal review cycle for the by-laws but as County Code is reviewed every other year, review of the by-laws may coincide or alternate with the Code review. CHANG: Move approval of Board Signature of Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws ADAIR: Second VOTE: CHANG: Yes ADAI R Yes DEBONE: Chair votes yes. Motion Carried 3 - 0 9. Consideration of first and second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-002 approving Clear and Objective Housing Text Amendments - Definitions, Dimensional Standards, and Accessory Uses, and adoption by emergency Kyle Collins, Associate Planner, said that a Public Hearing and deliberations for this item took place two weeks ago. He referenced his memo dated February 19, 2025. He recommends adoption by emergency, due to a time constraint. They have until July 1 to adopt as many Clear and Objective amendments to their development code related to housing. Any discretionary language submitted after that date can be appealed by the applicants and ignored. Additionally, several packages are ready for review by the Planning Commission to go before the Board so this first package needs to be in place so the subsequent packages can proceed. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 3 OF 11 iae recommends adomior, by emergency, with first and second readings today. CHANG: Move approval of first and second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-002 by tide only ADAIR: Second VOTE: CHANG: Yes ADAI R: Yes DEBONE: Chair votes yes. Motion carried 3-0 At 1:19 p.m., Chair DeBone conducted the first reading of Ordinance No. 2025-002. At 1:20 p.m., Chair DeBone conducted the second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-002. ADAIR: Move adoption of Ordinance No. 2025-002 by emergency, with an effective date of 30 days after adoption CHANG: Second VOTE: ADAIR: Yes CHANG: Yes DEBONE: Chair votes yes. Motion carried 3-0 10. Discussion and Possible Action on Recommendations from the Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness Erik Kropp, Deputy County Administrator, provided background information on the Civic Assembly, noting that Josh Burgess was unable to attend this meeting due to illness. In early January, the Civic Assembly presented their findings to the Board. 30 participants spent 30 hours discussing the topic of youth homelessness and came up with a series of 23 recommendations. Kropp referenced the agenda packet which includes the 23 recommendations, noting a numbering error making it appear there are only 22. Another document outlines the Civic Assembly's suggestion for the County's role in these recommendations, as well as County Staffs proposal for the County's role in each of these recommendations. Kropp said this discussion is a starting point for the Board's consideration, and the Board can advocate for any topic they choose. Chair DeBone referenced a draft letter from the Board to the Civic Assembly, which is a starting point, and the content may change. Chair DeBone highlighted recommendation #12, to create another civic assembly focused on the housing affordability crisis, noting that housing affordability is the crux of all these items. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 4 OF 11 Commissioner Adair promoted the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, as it relates to recommendation #3. It is critical for foster children to have advocates, and she asked to add this advocacy effort to the letter. Responding to Commissioner Chang, Lelack said that CASA is one of the County's service partners. Responding to Commissioner Chang, Kropp said that J Bar J Youth Services is one of the County's service partners and receives approximately $15,000 in annual funding from the County. Additionally, J Bar J receives community justice reinvestment grant funding. Commissioner Adair promoted J Bar J's annual horse show as a fundraising event for the community to support. Commissioner Chang asked that this investment in J Bar J be added to the letter. Commissioner Adair highlighted item #8, expanding public transit in Deschutes County. As a Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) Board member, Chair DeBone noted some upcoming changes to public transit in Central Oregon including new buses, route optimization, and charging fares. Kropp added that the Board's involvement in its approval of the annual Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) budget. Commissioner Chang spoke about recommendation #2, the central hub concept, noting that the County operates The Drop with locations in Bend and Redmond. The Drop is a center that serves at -risk youth and young adults and is meant to be a safe and supportive place where youth can make connections having a positive impact on their lives. The Civic Assembly has tasked Bend Park and Recreation District (BPRD) with taking the lead on this project. Commissioner Chang suggested the County could have a role beyond advocacy and might consider partnering with BPRD on the design and operation of a hub. Commissioner Adair suggested the County consider promoting The Drop on social media (related to social media/public awareness recommendation #7) and expanding their hours of operation. Chair DeBone distinguished between design and advocacy versus operation. Kropp noted The Drop is very different from a teen recreation center. Commissioner Chang would like to offer the County's experience in operating The Drop to the central hub effort and play a partner role in the design or operation of a hub and requested this be added to the letter. Related to childcare recommendation #5, Commissioner Chang spoke of the County's investments in Morning Star Family Relief Nursery, as an annual service partner. Additionally, the County supports Neighbor Impact, and their Head Start programs. Commissioner Adair noted the region's large financial investment in childcare. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 5 OF 11 Related to recomi-nendation #14, providing education on homelessness and human trafficking, Commissioner Chang noted this ties in with the County's Health Schools program. This program educates youth on other topics such as substance use, suicide, bullying, and teen pregnancy, and as such are youth homelessness prevention programs. He'd like to add these efforts to the letter. Commissioner Adair noted that the Healthy Schools program is in Bend La Pine schools only, and not in Redmond. Related to Judy Trego's earlier comments and recommendation #19, the Board was supportive of flexible spending opportunities. Kropp said that Staff will update the draft letter and come back before the Board next Wednesday with an updated letter. 11. Courthouse Expansion Project Update Lee Randall, Facilities Director, Eric Nielsen, Facilities Capital Improvement Manager, Wayne Powderly, Cumming Group and Cory Lumis, Pence Contractors, were in attendance. Nielsen provided a brief project overview, noting this expansion will meet the growing needs of our community. The 50,933 square feet expansion will include two new courtrooms, improved security screening, improved in -custody, holding and transport facilities. A tower crane is currently on site, allowing for the movement of materials during concrete work. Nielsen summarized work completed to date. He shared photos of the concrete cores for elevators and stairwells. Responding to Commissioner Adair, Loomis said that 5 or 6 geotechnical borings 15 feet in depth were completed. Soil compactions are tested onsite before concrete work commences. Loomis spoke about ongoing and upcoming work. Project completion is estimated for August 2026. Responding to Commissioner Adair, he said the roof will go on in late summer to early fall 2025. Wayne Powderly discussed the budget, with a $2.9 million budget adjustment added last month for a total of $46.8 million. The construction budget currently sits at $47.4. He noted that approved change orders are included in the packet. The owner contingency has been replenished. Pending cost changes are discussed weekly, and they have a risk log. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 6 OF 11 Randall thanked die Boars; fcir their suppc.rt. T'hev are 501/,6 through the overall schedule and 27% of the overall project spending is completed. Responding to Commissioner Adair, Powderly said there is a 30-day delay in the payment of invoices, and there is a multi -step review process for all invoices prior to payment. Chair DeBone asked about the lead time and materials, Powderly said most materials have already been procured but they are closely tracking tariff impacts on materials and supplies. Loomis noted they've had meaningful conversations scope to scope, related to materials and storage. Powderly said they analyze potential extra costs related to additional materials costs and storage weekly. 12. Department Performance Measures Updates for FY 25 Q2 Jen Patterson, Strategic Initiatives Manager, noted the County's objective of safe communities is the focus of these department performance measures for fiscal year 2025, quarter 2. Judge Charles Fadeley and Krystal Cozine from Deschutes County Justice Court were in attendance to update the Board on their department's performance measure. Their objective was to reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement. Their measure was to collect 50% of their fines within 90 days of judgement. Judge Fadeley said they are far exceeding this goal, with a 78% collection rate within the defined time period. Cozine said clients are given an additional 90 days beyond the original 90 days before being sent to collections, and payment plans are offered. Chris Perry, 9-1-1 Operations Manager, was in attendance. His department's first objective was to provide safe and secure communities through coordinated public safety and crisis management services. This measure was to support and enhance the call taking triage processes for mental health crisis calls in partnership with the Community Crisis Response Team Program (CCRT). The CCRT identified a need to transition some of their calls to the State 9-8-8 mental health crisis line and this went into effect February 3, 2025. So far, 16 first party mental health crisis calls have been transferred. Most of the mental health calls they receive are second- or third -party callers, those who call on behalf of someone else. 9-1-1's second objective was to collaborate with partners to prepare for and respond to emergencies, natural hazards and disasters by increasing Deschutes Alerts subscribers. At the end of Q2, there were 63,000 subscribers for Deschutes Alerts and their goal was 53,000. Perry noted that 2,000 people have been identified as needing assistance during evacuations. Two annual campaigns are BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 7 OF 11 coming up. In mid -March, they will send out a reminder to this vulnerable population, reminding them to update their information. In May, a test message will go out to all subscribers. They typically see a spike in subscribers following a test event. 9-1-1 and the Emergency Management team meet twice monthly to collaborate. Everbridge, the platform used by Deschutes Alerts, will fine tune the system in late March. Commissioner DeBone stated fine-tuning is necessary to ensure that people pay attention to the Alerts that matter. Tanner Wark, Community justice Deputy Director, joined the meeting via Zoom. His department's objective was to reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement by Parole Officers ensuring that those under supervision have active and updated Behavior Change Plans. Their target is 75% and they are currently at 71 %. With some staff at the academy or on vacation, this metric fell a bit short. Responding to Commissioner Adair, Wark said that he has not worked with those participating in Deer Ridge Correctional Facility's welding program. Commissioner Adair believes this skill is making a difference in their reintegration into society. County Administrator Nick Lelack shared that he recently attended the event "Understanding Homelessness in Central Oregon" at Westside Church. It featured testimony from a former Adult Parole and Probation (P&P) client. He told a compelling story about how his P&P Officer changed the trajectory of his life. He also spoke about services he received from Deschutes County Behavioral Health. Community justice Director Deevy Holcomb was also in attendance. Kathleen Meehan Coop and Mary Overman, Management Analysts at the District Attorney's Office, spoke about their department's measures to reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement in the Veterans Intervention Strategy (VIS) and Emerging Adults Programs (EAP). Related to VIS, Overman said their measure was for VIS participants' recidivism rate to be lower than 20%. The program began in 2020, and the first participant enrolled in 2021. Of the 28 enrolled individuals of VIS since its inception, they've experienced a 4% incarceration (prison) recidivism rate. Additionally, they've had a 5% post -graduation recidivism rate and a 21 % jail/arrest recidivism while still in the program. Commissioner Adair spoke about the success of Veteran's Village. Chair DeBone spoke about the difference that relationship -building makes for participants of these programs. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 8 OF 11 Meehan -Coop spoke �ibout the Emerging Adults Program, with a measure of maintaining a two-year arrest recidivism rate of 25% or less for all participants. EAP participants have had a 10% recidivism rate. Meehan -Coop said that EAP is a community -based program, held at Central Oregon Community Solutions and at the Lotus Building. EAP has 15 community volunteers who work with the participants. 13. Deliberations: Application to authorize commercial activity in conjunction with a Farm Use (Winery) in the Multiple Use Agricultural Zone —Lava Terrace Cellars, 20520 Bowery Lane At 2:41 p.m., Commissioner Chang recused himself from deliberations and left the room. Nathaniel Miller, Planning Manager and Stephanie Marshall, Senior Assistant Legal Counsel, were in attendance. Counsel Marshall said there has been a development in this matter as the applicant wishes to reopen the record with the current application and submit a modification of application. She noted this will help streamline the process. It is a procedural request, and if approved, they hope to have it back before the Board as soon as possible. Commissioners Adair and DeBone were supportive of granting the applicant's request. The record can be reopened if the Board does not commence deliberations. Staff will prepare an Order and come back before the Board in one week for Board signature. At 2:50 p.m. a break was taken, and the Board reconvened at 2:54 p.m. and Commissioner Chang re-entered the room. OTHER ITEMS: • Due to the Board's travel plans to the 2025 National Association of Counties Legislative Conference in Washington, D.C., the Legislative Update meeting on Friday, February 28 was cancelled. • Jen Patterson, Strategic Initiatives Manager, presented a letter of support for SB 702 banning flavored tobacco and inhalant delivery products. ADAIR: Moved approval of Board signature of the letter supporting SB 702 CHANG: Second VOTES: ADAIR: Yes CHANG: Yes DEBONE: No. Motion passed 2-1 Patterson provided the letter to the Board and Commissioners Adair and Chang signed the letter. • Due to the Board's return travel schedule, the Wednesday, March 4 Board meeting start time was shifted to 11:00 a.m. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 9 OF 11 • Patterson spoke oi` the format of the Bill Tracker report. The Board supported including bill sponsorship and legislative delegates' committee participation to the bill tracker report for weeks in which the legislative delegation will join. Additionally, the blue highlight color has been eliminated as it's been difficult to read. • Commissioner Adair met with the new Chair and Vice Chair of the Behavioral Health Advisory Board (BHAB) yesterday, noting that Chair DeBone is the new BOCC representative on the BHAB for 2025. • Kim Riley, Senior Assistant Legal Counsel, received an opinion letter issued by the Oregon Ethics Commission regarding public officials and a potential conflict of interest related to wildfire hazard maps. Out of an abundance of caution, she asked Commissioners DeBone and Adair to disclose if they have property in the high -risk category and in the wildland-urban interface. Commissioner Adair responded that she does live and own property in a high -risk area, but it didn't affect her vote on Monday, February 24. Chair DeBone said he lives in a high hazard rural area in the wildland-urban interface, but this did not impact his vote on Monday. • Chair DeBone submitted an appeal form from his County email account, to the Oregon Department of Forestry, related to properties in Deschutes County classified as high risk per the Wildfire Hazard Maps. • Chair DeBone joined a Redmond High School writing class this morning, and heard presentations on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and Policy for Funding a new pool facility for Redmond Area Park and Recreation District. • Commissioner Chang attended a Regional Housing Council (RHC) and Coordinated Houseless Response Office meeting on Monday. RHC is almost ready to weigh in on legislation. CHRO allocated $80,000 to the Stepping Stone Shelter for replacement heating and cooling units. • Commissioner Adair said last week, Oasis Village had 4 open spots, with 14 people living there but Central Oregon Villages is nearly full. • Commissioner Chang said that the Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO) strategic planning session was held today. • Commissioner Adair reported The Lodge in Sisters, a senior living community, is reevaluating its operations and some residents have been asked to leave. EXECUTIVE SESSIONS: At 3:13 p.m., the Board entered executive session under ORS 192.660 (2)(e) Real Property Negotiations and ORS 192.660 (2)(d) Labor Negotiations. At 3:40 p.m., the executive session concluded, and the public was invited to return to the room. The Board then directed staff to proceed as discussed during the executive session. BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 10 OF 11 ADJOURN: Being no further items to come before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 3:42 p.m. DATED this Day of 11 XM 2025 for the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners. ATTEST: -RECO DIN'GJSECRETARY ANTHONY DEBONE, CHAIR PATTI ADAIR, VICE CHAIR PHIL CHANG, G&missioNER BOCC MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2025 PAGE 11 OF 11 Z E S coG�-A BOARD OF I COMMISSIONERS BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING 1:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 2025 Barnes Sawyer Rooms - Deschutes Services Building - 1300 NW Wall Street - Bend (541) 388-6570 1 www.deschutes.org MEETING FORMAT: In accordance with Oregon state law, this meeting is open to the public and can be accessed and attended in person or remotely, with the exception of any executive session. Members of the public may view the meeting in real time via YouTube using this link: http://bit.ly/3mminzy. To attend the meeting virtually via Zoom, see below. Citizen Input: The public may comment on any topic that is not on the current agenda. Alternatively, comments may be submitted on any topic at any time by emailing citizeninput@deschutes.org or leaving a voice message at 541-385-1734. When in -person comment from the public is allowed at the meeting, public comment will also be allowed via computer, phone or other virtual means. Zoom Meeting Information: This meeting may be accessed via Zoom using a phone or computer. To join the meeting via Zoom from a computer, use this link: http://bit.ly/3h3ogdD. • To join by phone, call 253-215-8782 and enter webinar ID # 899 4635 9970 followed by the passcode 013510. • If joining by a browser, use the raise hand icon to indicate you would like to provide public comment, if and when allowed. If using a phone, press *9 to indicate you would like to speak and *6 to unmute yourself when you are called on. • When it is your turn to provide testimony, you will be promoted from an attendee to a panelist. You may experience a brief pause as your meeting status changes. Once you have joined as a panelist, you will be able to turn on your camera, if you would like to. Deschutes County encourages persons with disabilities to participate in all programs and activities. This event/location is accessible to people with disabilities. oilIf you need accommodations to make participation possible, call (541) 388-6572 or email brenda.fritsvold@deschutes.org. Time estimates: The times listed on agenda items are estimates only. Generally, items will be heard in sequential order and items, including public hearings, may be heard before or after their listed times. CALL TO ORDER PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE CITIZEN INPUT: Citizen Input may be provided as comment on any topic that is not on the agenda. Note: In addition to the option of providing in -person comments at the meeting, citizen input comments may be emailed to citizeninput@deschutes. org or you may leave a brief voicemail at 541.385.1734.. CONSENT AGENDA 1. Approval of a Notice of Intent to Award a contract for the paving of Powell Butte Hwy: McGrath Road to US20 and Nelson Road: Powell Butte Hwy to Dickey Road 2. Consideration of Board Signature on letters reappointing Ted Wise, Kris Knight, Shaun Pigott and Lori Faha for service on the Deschutes River Mitigation and Enhancement Committee 3. Consideration of Board Signature on letter thanking Melissa Brewster for service on the Public Health Advisory Board 4. Consideration of Board Signature on letters changing Tamara Kuntz and Greg Brady from alternate to regular members on the Dog Control Board of Supervisors 5. Consideration of Board Signature on letters reappointing Steven Curley, Arron Curtis and Bill Kuhn for service on the Deschutes County Fair Board 6. Approval of minutes of the January 27, 2025 BOCC Annual Retreat 7. Approval of the minutes of the February 14, 2025 BOCC Legislative Update Meeting ACTION ITEMS 8. Audit Committee By -Laws 9. Consideration of first and second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-002 approving Clear and Objective Housing Text Amendments - Definitions, Dimensional Standards, and Accessory Uses, and adoption by emergency 10. Courthouse Expansion Project Update 11. Department Performance Measures Updates for FY 25 Q2 February 26, 2025 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING Page 2 of 3 12. Deliberations: Application to authorize commercial activity in conjunction with a Farm Use (Winery) in the Multiple Use Agricultural Zone --Lava Terrace Cellars, 20520 Bowery Lane OTHER ITEMS These can be any items not included on the agenda that the Commissioners wish to discuss as part of the meeting, pursuant to ORS 192.640. EXECUTIVE SESSION At any time during the meeting, an executive session could be called to address issues relating to ORS 192.660(2)(e), real property negotiations, ORS 192.660(2)(h), litigation; ORS 192.660(2)(d), labor negotiations, ORS 192.660(2)(b), personnel issues; or other executive session categories. Executive sessions are closed to the public, however, with few exceptions and under specific guidelines, are open to the media. 13. Executive Session under ORS 192.660 (2) (d) Labor Negotiations ADJOURN February 26, 2025 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS MEETING Page 3 of 3 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING o -c REQUEST TO SPEAK Citizen Input or Testimony Subject: Date: Name Address 7() Phone #s E-mail address n Favor Neutral/Undecided Opposed Submitting written documents as part of testimony? Yes No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. SUBMIT COMPLETED REQUEST TO RECORDING SECRETARY BEFORE MEETING BEGINS • Citizen Input can be given regarding any topic that is NOT on the agenda • Public Testimony can be given during Public Hearings only Topic of Input or Testimony: 5 ( rl" Is this topic an item on today's agenda? ❑ Yes (please see description of Citizen Input above) 0, Name `, > ` : y v Date: r` ' 3 tIX _ Address ; q,S ( 0 0 010 y f , Phone #s :; _l S Pi(A. � E-mail address THIS FORM IS TURNED IN TO RECORDING SECRETARY BEFORE MEETING BEGINS Are you submitting written documents as part of testimony? ❑ Yes �q`No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING REQUEST TO SPEAK • Citizen Input can be given regarding any topic that is NOT on the agenda • Public Testimony can be given during Public Hearings only Topic of Input or Testimony. Is this topic an item on today's agenda? ❑ Yes (please see description of Citizen Input above) Name Address l.S_ I 1� �)W Wok �A w O ew\-d .- rol Date: ✓ P .�° T �r` " Phone #s `-1,4 i - 3,10 - T�0 '� � �I i �. � `� �,�t E-mail address es os� ��r� �a_ t0 -� ��- �e- k-cL6 ..-- bVIJ a� �:v,�.._ THIS FORM IS TURNED IN TO RECORDING SECRETARY BEFORE MEETING BEGINS Are you submitting written documents as part of testimony? 14Yes ❑ No If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record. i Ivallerga@bendcable.com From: IaIlerga@bendcable.com Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2025 8:05 PM To: council@bendoregon.gov Cc: Lois Vallerga Subject: Olney/Wall Intersection To: Bend City Council Mayor Kebler Bend City Manager — Eric King From: Lois Vallerga Bend resident since 1979 Former Bend Planning Commissioner 1991-1994 Client of Riverside Animal Hospital and Deschutes Veterinary Clinic since 1980 Subject: Opposition to Planned traffic ntedian on Olney/Wall Street intersection 1 am writing to voice my opposition to the planned median on Olney Ave impacting east to west travel that will block the left turn into Riverside Animal Hospital. I was not able to attend the Council meeting last week but watched the video of the meeting prior to writing this letter. As a fonner member of the Bend Planning Commission, I can fully appreciate the challenges that city infrastructure improvements can create for both residents and city leadership. The improvements to Olney present these challenges. There is also a need to balance compromise and common sense in the planning and implementation of such changes. As a person who has been a cyclist and pedestrian in Bend, I can appreciate the desire to make both safer. However, we must balance that desire with recognition that the numbers of cyclists/pedestrians to motorists is hardly equal and cannot be ignored when making common sense decisions for the city of Bend, which is your leadership challenge and charter. In listening to the meeting discussion, it sounded as if a compromise could be possible when City Manager Eric King mentioned that, in case of an emergency, clients could cross the median to reach Riverside Hospital. However, after the meeting Chief Krantz of the City of Bend Police informs us that such a turn would be considered illegal, and drivers would be cited if they attempted it. Telling clients of Riverside to use an illegal traffic move is not a viable option. The other options of turning left on Wall Street and then left again on Norton is problematic itself and may be even more dangerous than what you are currently concerned about on Olney. I'm not sure if it is even legal to make the left turn onto Norton. Will your decision regarding the left turn on Olney only create another left turn issue on Wall? We have other intersections where medians have been installed to block left turns. This happened at the intersection of College Way and Newport. However, a roundabout was installed that only requires the driver to go all the way around the roundabout and they can easily see how to get into the gas station or other businesses the left turn median now blocks. If a roundabout was going to be installed at the Olney/Wall intersection that would take care of the left turn problem, but it does not seem to be the plan. Is it a possibility? The access issue for Riverside is a greater problem than trying to access a gas station or a convenience store. Riverside does serve as an emergency hospital during its hours of operation and animal emergencies are important just as human emergencies are. As a former St Charles caregiver, I'm aware a situation blocking access to the hospital in a similar fashion as to what is proposed for Riverside's access would be quite problematic and a compromise would have to be found. I urge the City Council to reconsider the plans for the median that will block the left turn access to Riverside Animal Hospital. I hope you will respect the needs of a long-time small business providing urgent and emergency clinical care to a vulnerable animal population and the humans, often under stress, who will be driving and transporting them. I respectfully ask for demonstration that concerns voiced have been taken into consideration and a compromise has been looked for. Thank you for this opportunity to speak to proposed planning concerns. Respectfully, Lois Vallerga City Council Members, I am writing today in regards to the Olney Avenue project design. I applaud the City's efforts to improve traffic, bicycle and pedestrian safety as well as the continual effort to improve our infrastructure that lies beneath our roadways. Most of the time these projects are at Least inconvenient for people traveling in the area. This project in particular has definitely proved the challenges we face to move traffic through town. I know you have received enough complaints and concerns regarding this so I won't add to that pile. My concerns with this project are with the final design and specifically one piece of it. The median on Olney that stretches from the railroad crossing, west to just beyond the Olney access to Riverside Animal Hospital. I understand the intent of the median which is to prevent accidents from vehicles attempting to turn into this access road or exit onto Olney westbound. Perhaps the intent really is to just keep traffic moving smoothly along Olney. Either way I don't ever recall any incidents at this location. I routinely see County vehicles using this access to and from the County services building. I am a client of Riverside Animal Hospital and have been since 1978, when they were Deschutes Veterinary Clinic. The westbound Olney access is the route I use every time. Closing westbound access to this entrance would force me to either do a U-turn at Wall Street (probably not allowed) or travel through to Wall St and turn left onto Norton and use the access road on the east side. The only other option is to use Greenwood to Bond/Wall to Olney or Greenwood to Hill and cut through the County services lot to the access road. Additionally, a portion of the access road is owned by the County and therefore could be closed at anytime leaving only one way in and out. In the event of an animal emergency these traffic changes will only add to the time it takes reach Riverside. This closure on Olney will also affect anyone leaving Riverside and needing to travel south or west. Accessing Wall St from Norton will not be an option if you need to travel south on Wall as that intersection is right in and right out only. This will force those people to travel through the County Services parking lots. The code normally requires travel lanes to be no less than 20' and I see on the drawings the Lane width has been reduced to 18' which has been quite a common request throughout town. This lane width combined with the median will impact emergency response (Fire, Police & EMS) to Riverside Animal Hospital and any incident response to the south including a fire response to the back side of Wall Street Suites. The same issue applies to any emergency responses to the commercial businesses along the north side of Olney. I encourage you to reconsider this design with respect to the median and maintain access from Olney to businesses both north and south. Respectfully, Andrew Hood hood@ykwc.net From: Joanne Bulley <islesannie@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2025 9:42 AM To: Riverside Vet Info <info@riversidevetbend.com> Subject: Olney rd construction While I did attend the council meeting 2/19/25, 1 wasn't able to arrive in time to sign in to comment. 1, along with my cat, have been clients at Riverside Animal Hospital for over 7 years. My daughter's family and their 2 pets living in NE Bend since 2014 also use Riverside. Living in NE bend, near Ensworth School, the access via a left turn from Olney has been great. With the only ways across the railroad and 97 being Revere, Olney, Greenwood, and Franklin and with Greenwood currently severely congested due to the reduction from 4 lanes to 2 lanes, removing the left turn from Olney severely affects our access to the Animal Hospital. If we use Revere, we have to then use 97 to Lafayette, which is not a great choice since it is just a turn lane and not a real exit and people regularly drive over the 45 mph speed limit. If we use Greenwood, we then get stuck in the Greenwood backup. Certainly during the construction, we will need to deal with that, as well as meandering through the "Norton" access via the parking lots around the Deschutes County Offices. However, if no longer allowed to turn left from westbound Olney, then even after the construction, the need to access via those parking lots is really untenable. I assume a U-turn at Olney and Wall to come back for a right turn into the Animal Hospital is out of the question. As I stated earlier, I have been accessing the Riverside Animal Hospital via Olney from NE Bend for nearly 8 years. I have never once been in a line of cars, blocking any traffic while waiting to turn left, and I have rarely had to wait for more than a few cars heading East from Portland onto Olney. As others said at the Council meeting, I agree that creating safety for pedestrians and cyclists is good. From the left turn area for Riverside there is excellent visibility and their safety would not be compromised by retaining the left turn option. Removing that left turn access will create a problem where there has not been a problem before. Please reconsider and include that left turn in the construction plans. Thank you for listening to this input from Bend citizens and patients of Riverside. Joanne Bulley and big of Cedric. 2/20/2025 Mayor Keebier Bend City Council _ . . , . ........"k _.._s . ._. Re. Long-term Access to Riverside Animal Hospital at Olney I would encourage the City Council and the City of Bend to allow customers to make a left turn from Olney into Riverside Animal Hospital. am not a customer of Riverside Animal Hospital. I simply saw the story on the local news. My career has been in business as a manager and an educator. I was the Department Chair for the Business / Culinary programs at COCC while teaching there from 1990 to 2014. 1 taught a variety of Retail Operations, Consumer Behavior and Marketing courses. Prior to working at the College i was a sales manager at a wood products company selling cabinets, doors, and windows to consumers and contractors across the northwest for ten years. So I write this simply as one who believes in and wants to support the small businesses that are the life blood of Bend. 1 believe removing the left turn option at Riverside Hospital puts the business and its success at risk. I don't make that statement lightly. Forty years of working with businesses and their different consumer groups has shown me they are ever more demanding of their time and less likely to put up with inconvenience. Often decisions which appear to seem small have impacts greater than originally imagined. I have lived in growing communities of Anchorage, Houston, Eugene and Bend. Time and again I saw small changes in traffic that made big impacts on the bottom line. I'll use an example from here in Bend. In 2001 the City of Bend was in the early stages of building roundabouts. This included one at Century Dr. and Simpson. That roundabout was going to close part of the access to the Powder House Ski Shop by removing the left turn lane. Dave McGee, the owner of the Powder House, asked me to testify at a public hearing about his concerns. The City felt that removing the left turn on Century Drive when approaching the roundabout from the Mt. Bachelor side would not be a big deal. They commented the customer would just go around the roundabout heading back towards Mt Bachelor and then make a right turn into the Powder House. Based on our own business experiences David and I disagreed with that belief. Once the customers have driven past your business, it becomes much harder to get them back. Businesses thrive when these problems are prevented in the beginning. They are less likely to thrive and survive when the problems have to be dealt with after the fact. Around then Ray's Grocery built their store at that roundabout on the north east corner. Given the number of SUV's in Bend, Ray's opted to make their parking spaces six inches wider to make it easier for people to park. They felt that even something as small as the additional space in a parking spot gave them a competitive advantage to the Safeway that was across the street. I know for a fact that to be true because my Retail and Marketing classes regularly evaluated businesses to determine which touch points were most important to customers when shopping. (That building collapsed under heavy snow in 2017.) In the end, the City decided to install a left turn lane in the median to provide access to the Powder House. Seldom are there multiple cars in that turn lane. They got creative in how to manage bikes through that area. (See the attached pictures) I still shop at that Safeway and at the Powder House and frequently think what might have been. I saw on the news where the City suggested customers from Olney could go left on Wall St and then left on Norton. After driving that route this morning it appears that a left turn onto Norton would be an illegal turn. I know how hard a left turn is there on Wall St because I have to make one regularly when I access First Interstate Bank. It would be worse at Norton because that has two lanes of opposing traffic. In the end I believe you will see some of those people actually making u-turns on Wall Street to get back to the Olney access point creating safety problems. I encourage the City to once again become creative in finding a solution that accommodates auto, cycling and pedestrian traffic needs as well as assisting a thriving business to stay open in Bend. Respectfully Jim Kress COCC Professor of Business, Retired 541-647-0311 (Photos attached) Showing location of Powder House, bike crosswalks, left turn lane provided to PH Crosswalk closest toroundabout atSimpson and Century Drive =^/ ^ —r� Left turn lane to Powder House across from entrance to Safeway on Century Drive Creative adjustment made to bike crosswalk before left turn lane to Powder House Az I do not offer these as suggestions for the Olney project but as examples where the City became creative in making accommodations for all types of traffic From: Jeff Carmody <carmodyinbend@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, February 18, 2025 11:07 AM To: council@bendoregon.gov <council@bendoregon.gov> Cc: mkebler@bendoregon.gov <mkebler@bendoregon.gov>; mperkins@bendoregon.gov <mperkins@bendoregon.gov>; mnorris@bendoregon.gov <mnorris@bendoregon.gov>; gfranzosa@bendoregon.gov <gfranzosa@bendoregon.gov>; splatt@bendoregon.gov <splatt@bendoregon.gov>; amendez@bendoregon.gov <amendez@bendoregon.gov>; mriley@bendoregon.gov <mriley@bendoregon.gov> Subject: Olney/Wall Street Improvements You don't often get email from carmodyinbend@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Mayor Kebler, Bend City Council Members; I write this note as a resident and fellow small business owner regarding the Olney/Wall Street improvement project. Unfortunately I am unable to attend the hearing in person, thus I find myself having to write this note. The proposed Olney/Wall Street project will include a median that blocks access to the Riverside Animal Hospital ("Riverside") for those traveling from the East. I urge the City Council to reconsider this decision and alter the final project design, so that it would remove or alter the median to allow for eastbound traffic flow into the Riverside driveway. Blocking access to Riverside could affect many of your constituent's pet's well-being, and is incongruent with many of your stated goals of making Bend a business -friendly city. Blocking this access limits customers/patrons from entering the Riverside driveway and will likely cause confusion and potentially traffic hazards/accidents. Additionally, the proposed project removes an existing access point for eastbound traffic, which will ultimately reduce the company's ability to service their customers. While I fully support efforts to make our roads safer for everyone, it's vital that the City maintains clear access to Riverside for the well-being of their clients and their pets. Please let me know if you have any question regarding this email. Sincerely, Jeff Carmody 19979 Alderwood Circle Bend, OR 97702 805.448.6671 carmodyinbend@gmail.com From: Cat Finney <beatrice.cat@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2025 1:52 PM To: Riverside Vet Info <info@riversidevetbend.com> Subject: copy of email to city council Hello! I'm writing to encourage you to re -think the Olney/Wall Street project that will block access to Riverside Animal Hospital for those traveling from the East. I live on the east side of Bend. All of my dogs since 1992 have been life-long patients at Riverside Animal Hospital --dating back to when it was known as Deschutes Vet Clinic and was owned by Dr. Susan Loomis. For 32 years, this veterinary clinic has provided compassionate, professional and top-notch medical care to my succession of dogs (all black labs): Henrietta, Samantha, Chloe, and Dana. I urge members of the city council to alter current plans for this project so that Riverside can be accessed from Onley for folks and their sick pets arriving from the east. Current plans will require westward vet clinic patients (and their driver/owners) to enter the clinic parking lot by using a U turn at the Onley/Wall Street intersection, or by using a complicated route through parking lots and alleys around the back of the clinic. This will cause unnecessary traffic complications and unnecessary additional stress on ill animals and their (already stressed) owners. The city of Bend professes to support small businesses. Please support this exemplary small business --Riverside Animal Hospital --and make sure clients can access its services easily from Olney Avenue approaching from the west AND from the east sides of Bend. Thank you so much, Cat Finney From: Chris Stewart <mellamokrees@yahoo.es> Subject: Concerns Regarding OlneylWall Street Project and Access Impacts Date: February 19, 2025 at 2:15:47 PM PST To: council@bendoregon.gov Dear Members of the Bend City Council, I am writing to express my concerns about the planned median installation at Olney and Wall Street, which will limit left - turn access into the Riverside Animal Hospital parking lot. While I recognize the intent behind infrastructure improvements, this particular change raises significant concerns regarding traffic congestion, business accessibility, and overall neighborhood impact. Key Concerns: 1. Access to Local Services: The proposed median will require eastbound drivers to reroute through an already congested area to reach Riverside Animal Hospital. While not a human medical facility, timely access to veterinary care is important to many residents. 2. Increased Congestion in Adjacent Areas: Redirecting traffic to Greenwood and Wall will likely worsen congestion, adding delays and forcing more vehicles into nearby residential streets. This could create new traffic challenges rather than alleviating existing ones by also forcing people to cross Wall into the adjacent neighborhood and park area. 3. Impact on Local Businesses: Businesses in the affected area rely on direct access for their customers. If traffic flow becomes too cumbersome, some patrons may choose to go elsewhere, negatively impacting these businesses. I have already stopped eating and frequenting many of my local favorites in Bend due to the congestion and traffic flow issues citywide. 4. Traffic Safety and Visibility Issues: A significant factor in left -turning challenges at this location is the limited sightline for drivers exiting onto Olney. Due to the angle of the parking lot relative to the bridge, visibility is restricted, making it difficult to gauge oncoming traffic. Rather than blocking access entirely, a more effective solution would be to improve visibility and traffic controls at this intersection. Alternative Solutions: Improve sightlines through adjustments to signage, road markings, or minor modifications to the parking lot exit. Put a flashing light or speed bump in. Conduct a traffic study to assess the true impact of the median installation and explore alternatives that better balance safety and accessibility. Request for Reconsideration: I encourage the City Council and planning team to reassess this project with direct input from impacted businesses, residents, and commuters. There may be more effective ways to address the safety and congestion concerns without forcing unnecessary detours. Thank you for your time and consideration. I appreciate the city's commitment to responsible planning and hope for a solution that serves all stakeholders. Sincerely, Chris Stewart 1183 NW Summit Dr Bend, OR 97703 480-205-0825 mellamokrees@yahoo.es X\v1 E S CO L G BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING DATE: February 26, 2025 SUBJECT: Audit Committee By -Laws RECOMMENDED MOTION: Move approval of Board signature of the Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws. BACKGROUND AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS: The Deschutes County Audit Committee is established in Deschutes County Code Chapter 2.15. Its purpose is to advise the Board on fulfilling its responsibilities for financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance with laws, regulations, and ethics within the County. The Audit Committee provides oversight to auditing (external and internal) for the County, receiving and reviewing information on: • The County's financial condition; • The accuracy of its financial recordkeeping; • Compliance with applicable laws, policies, guidelines, and procedures; and • Efficiency and effectiveness of operations. The Audit Committee strengthens the independence of auditing by serving as a transparent third -party review body. The Audit Committee voted 9-0 at its meeting on February 14, 2025, to recommend these By -Laws to the Board of County Commissioners for approval. The By -Laws reference authority, composition, meeting schedule, and responsibilities established by County Code and also include sections regarding officers, subcommittees, meeting procedures, and conflicts of interest. BUDGET IMPACTS: None ATTENDANCE: Elizabeth Pape, Internal Auditor BY-LAWS Article I Name and Address The name of this body shall be the Deschutes County Audit Committee (Committee). The permanent address for the Committee will be 1300 NW Wall St. Bend, Oregon 97703. The Committee shall carry out its responsibilities consistent with Deschutes County Code 2.15. Article II Purpose Consistent with DCC 2.15.001, the Committee is established to advise the Board on fulfilling its responsibilities for financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance with laws, regulations, and ethics within the County. The Audit Committee provides oversight to auditing (external and internal) for the County. The Audit Committee receives and reviews County information on: A. financial condition; B. the accuracy of financial record keeping; C. compliance with applicable laws, policies, guidelines, and procedures; and D. efficiency and effectiveness of operations. The Audit Committee strengthens the independence of auditing by serving as a transparent third -party review body. Article III Authority Consistent with DCC 2.15.010, the Audit Committee is an advisory committee. The Committee shall advise the Board and County Administrator on significant audit matters including, but not limited to: A. The selection, compensation, and removal of external auditors hired to audit the financial statements for the County and its related entities; B. Consultation with the County Administrator or Board regarding the appointment or dismissal of the County Internal Auditor should include a consultation with a majority of the public members of the Audit Committee; PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 1 of 7 C. Increases and decreases to the requested budget for the internal audit program; and D. The work plan for internal audits performed under DCC 2.14.040. Article IV Responsibilities Consistent with DCC 2.15.040, the Audit Committee is responsible for: A. Overseeing the independent audit of the County's financial statements, including: 1. Overseeing the selection, renewal or removal of the independent external auditor by making a recommendation to the Board for final approval; 2. Meeting with the external auditors during planning of the audit, presentation of the audited financial statements, and discussion of the letter to management on recommendations; and 3. Overseeing the resolution of audit findings in areas such as internal control, legal and regulatory compliance, and ethics. B. Working to assure coordination between the internal and external auditors, management, the County Administrator and Board. C. Ensuring the Office of County Internal Audit performs its function. The Committee shall: 1. Review the internal audit ordinance (DCC 2.14) at least every other year; 2. Review proposed internal audit work plans and make recommendations concerning internal audit projects; 3. Review the budget and staffing levels of the Office of County Internal Audit (DCC 2.14.050); 4. Review internal audit reports and other communications developed for the County; 5. Review and provide input on Office of County Internal Audit goals; 6. Review any quality assurance reviews created pursuant to DCC 2.14.090; and 7. Perform the County Internal Auditor's performance review each year. D. Making appropriate recommendations concerning the Office of County Internal Audit based upon the reviews that it conducts pursuant to subsection C of this section. PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 2 of 7 E. Making an annual report to the Board summarizing the Committee's activities and recommendations. The report may be delivered at an Audit Committee meeting attended by the Board or may be scheduled for a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board. F. Performing other activities related to this chapter as requested by the Board. Article V Meetings Section I. Meeting Schedule: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, the Audit Committee shall meet as the Committee deems necessary. All Committee meetings shall be open to the public. Public meeting law requires public notice of the meeting at least 24 hours before the meeting. Meetings will be announced on the Deschutes County public meeting web page and Committee members will receive email announcements. The goal is to have meeting materials posted five business days before scheduled meetings. From time to time, the Committee may meet in Executive Session upon motion by any member of the Committee for a reason outlined in ORS 192.660. When an Executive Session is called, the Chair will announce the reason for the Executive Session and all non - Committee members will be excused. Upon close of the Executive Session the public will be invited back into the room. Section II Quorum: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, a quorum shall constitute a majority of the members appointed. Vacant positions shall not be considered in determining whether a quorum exists. Section III Minutes: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, minutes shall be prepared in accordance with the Oregon Public Meeting Law. Section IV. Voting: Each regular Committee member shall have one vote. Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, a department head Audit Committee member shall not vote on an issue relating to an audit directly pertaining to their department. If there is any question as to whether Audit Committee members should recuse themselves from a vote, the Committee should vote to determine whether the member should recuse themself. PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 3 of 7 Article VI Membership Section I. Composition: Consistent with DCC 2.15.020, the Audit Committee shall be comprised of not less than seven or more than nine members appointed by the Board. Each member shall be appointed to serve a term of two years. Upon initial formation of the Committee, the Board may appoint any member to a shorter term. A member may be appointed to more than one term. The Board may remove a member of the Committee at any time. In the event of a vacancy on the Committee the Board shall, as soon as practicable, appoint a person to serve the unexpired portion of the former member's term. The Committee shall consist of one (1) member county commissioner, two (2) county department head members, and four (4) to six (6) public members. The County Administrator shall be an ex-officio nonvoting member. An elected official who is not a department head or county commissioner, for example the treasurer, may occupy one of the department head positions. A public member shall be a registered voter within Deschutes County. The chair of the Committee shall be a public member and shall be selected by a majority of the public members. The chair shall serve a one-year term and may be selected for additional terms. If the public members cannot decide upon a chair, the larger Committee shall decide. The chair shall preside over meetings, as well as provide input on topics for the agenda. Section 11. Nominations: When there are vacancies, the Committee may make nominations for membership to the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners for consideration and appointment. Section III. Attendance: Committee members shall endeavor to attend all meetings. Two (2) consecutive unexcused absences, without prior notice to the Chair, shall constitute grounds for removal. Section V. Removal: Any member may be removed whenever the best interests of the Committee are not served. Grounds for removal include without limitation, taking a position that is in conflict with PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 4 of 7 the mission of the Committee or having two (2) consecutive absences from Committee meetings without prior notification to the Chair. The member whose removal is placed in issue shall be given prior notice of his/her proposed removal and a reasonable opportunity to appear and be heard at a meeting of the Committee. A member may be removed pursuant to this section by a two-thirds majority vote of the total number of members then serving on the Committee, or by majority vote of the Board of County Commissioners. Article VII Officers Section I. Officers: The Committee shall elect a Chairperson and Vice -Chairperson each to serve a one-year term. In Addition, The Vice -Chairperson shall be eligible for election to the Chair after Chairperson's term ends or they resign. If no other candidates come forward expressing interest in the Chair position, the Vice -Chair may become Chair upon the consent of the Committee. In the event of a Chair resignation, the Vice -Chair may assume the Chair position upon consent of the Committee and finish the resigning Chair's term of office or request a full two-year term. Section II. Elections: Elections of new officers shall take place prior to the end of the calendar year with the new term beginning prior to the first regular meeting of the year in February. Terms will begin and end January 1, unless the election takes place after such date, in which case the term will begin immediately or when feasible. In the event that nominations for Officer positions are not received by the scheduled election, a six (6) month extension will be offered to the current officer. In the event that only one nominee is available for an Officer position, the Committee may elect that nominee through consensus. Section III. Duties: Duties of the officers are as follows: A. Chair: 1. Shall assist the Internal Auditor in preparing the agenda. 2. Shall conduct the meeting in accordance with parliamentary procedure and comply with the rules and regulations of County and State with regard to public meetings. 3. May call special meetings of the Committee as are necessary. PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 5 of 7 4. Shall serve as an Ex-Officio member of all subcommittees. 5. Shall sign off on advocacy position letters and present to the Board of County Commissioners when needed. B. Vice -Chair: 1. Shall assist the Chair as needed. 2. Shall serve as Chairperson during such time as the Chair is absent or unable to serve. 3. Shall sign off on advocacy position letters and present to the Board of County Commissioners when needed. Article VIII Subcommittees Subcommittees may be established by the Committee as needed. Only members of the Committee may serve on subcommittees. Potential subcommittee tasks could include leading the internal Auditor's annual performance review and participating in the selection of contract external auditors. Once a subcommittee has completed all assigned tasks and reported to the Committee, it shall expire. Article IX Conflict of Interest Any member's business or personal relationship that may affect impartiality must be disclosed to the Committee. Department head members will recuse themselves from votes involving their departments, including the adoption of the audit work schedule. Article X Parliamentary Authority Meetings shall be conducted using the general guidelines of Robert's Rules of Order. Article XI Adoption, Amendment The Committee shall review, revise, and recommend approval and adoption of these By - Laws. After Committee approval, the By -Laws shall be delivered to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval and formal adoption. PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 6 of 7 APPROVED BY ### DATE. PROPOSED 2-14-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 7 of 7 Article I Name and Address The name of this body shall be the Deschutes County Audit Committee (Committee). The permanent address for the Committee will be 1300 NW Wall St. Bend, Oregon 97703. The Committee shall carry out its responsibilities consistent with Deschutes County Code 2.15. Consistent with DCC 2.15.001, the Committee is established to advise the Board on fulfilling its responsibilities for financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance with laws, regulations, and ethics within the County. The Audit Committee provides oversight to auditing (external and internal) for the County. The Audit Committee receives and reviews County information on: A. financial condition; B. the accuracy of financial record keeping; C. compliance with applicable laws, policies, guidelines, and procedures; and D. efficiency and effectiveness of operations. The Audit Committee strengthens the independence of auditing by serving as a transparent third -party review body. Consistent with DCC 2.15.010, the Audit Committee is an advisory committee. The Committee shall advise the Board and County Administrator on significant audit matters including, but not limited to: A. The selection, compensation, and removal of external auditors hired to audit the financial statements for the County and its related entities; B. Consultation with the County Administrator or Board regarding the appointment or dismissal of the County Internal Auditor should include a consultation with a majority of the public members of the Audit Committee; ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 1 of 7 C. Increases and decreases to the requested budget for the internal audit program; and D. The work plan for internal audits performed under DCC 2.14.040. Article IV Responsibilities Consistent with DCC 2.15.040, the Audit Committee is responsible for: A. Overseeing the independent audit of the County's financial statements, including: 1. Overseeing the selection, renewal or removal of the independent externa auditor by making a recommendation to the Board for final approval; 2. Meeting with the external auditors during planning of the audit, presentation of the audited financial statements, and discussion of the letter to management on recommendations; and 3. Overseeing the resolution of audit findings in areas such as internal control, legal and regulatory compliance, and ethics. B. Working to assure coordination between the internal and external auditors, management, the County Administrator and Board. C. Ensuring the Office of County Internal Audit performs its function. The Committee shall: 1. Review the internal audit ordinance (DCC 2.14) at least every other year; 2. Review proposed internal audit work plans and make recommendations concerning internal audit projects; 3. Review the budget and staffing levels of the Office of County Internal Audit (DCC 2.14.050); 4. Review internal audit reports and other communications developed for the County; 5. Review and provide input on Office of County Internal Audit goals; 6. Review any quality assurance reviews created pursuant to DCC 2.14.090; and 7. Perform the County Internal Auditor's performance review each year. D. Making appropriate recommendations concerning the Office of County Internal Audit based upon the reviews that it conducts pursuant to subsection C of this section. ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 2 of 7 E. Making an annual report to the Board summarizing the Committee's activities and recommendations. The report may be delivered at an Audit Committee meeting attended by the Board or may be scheduled for a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board. F. Performing other activities related to this chapter as requested by the Board. Article V Meetings Section I. Meeting Schedule: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, the Audit Committee shall meet as the Committee deems necessary. All Committee meetings shall be open to the public. Public meeting law requires public notice of the meeting at least 24 hours before the meeting. Meetings will be announced on the Deschutes County public meeting web page and Committee members will receive email announcements. The goal is to have meeting materials posted five business days before scheduled meetings. From time to time, the Committee may meet in Executive Session upon motion by any member of the Committee for a reason outlined in ORS 192.660. When an Executive Session is called, the Chair will announce the reason for the Executive Session and all non - Committee members will be excused. Upon close of the Executive Session the public will be invited back into the room. Section II Quorum: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, a quorum shall constitute a majority of the members appointed. Vacant positions shall not be considered in determining whether a quorum exists. Section III Minutes: Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, minutes shall be prepared in accordance with the Oregon Public Meeting Law. Section IV. Voting: Each regular Committee member shall have one vote. Consistent with DCC 2.15.030, a department head Audit Committee member shall not vote on an issue relating to an audit directly pertaining to their department. If there is any question as to whether Audit Committee members should recuse themselves from a vote, the Committee should vote to determine whether the member should recuse themself. ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 3 of 7 Article VI Membership Section I. Composition: Consistent with DCC 2.15.020, the Audit Committee shall be comprised of not less than seven or more than nine members appointed by the Board. Each member shall be appointed to serve a term of two years. Upon initial formation of the Committee, the Board may appoint any member to a shorter term. A member may be appointed to more than one term. The Board may remove a member of the Committee at any time. In the event of a vacancy on the Committee the Board shall, as soon as practicable, appoint a person to serve the unexpired portion of the former member's term. The Committee shall consist of one (1) member county commissioner, two (2) county department head members, and four (4) to six (6) public members. The County Administrator shall be an ex-officio nonvoting member. An elected official who is not a department head or county commissioner, for example the treasurer, may occupy one of the department head positions. A public member shall be a registered voter within Deschutes County. The chair of the Committee shall be a public member and shall be selected by a majority of the public members. The chair shall serve a one-year term and may be selected for additional terms. If the public members cannot decide upon a chair, the larger Committee shall decide. The chair shall preside over meetings, as well as provide input on topics for the agenda. Section II. Nominations: When there are vacancies, the Committee may make nominations for membership to the Deschutes County Board of Commissioners for consideration and appointment. Section III. Attendance: Committee members shall endeavor to attend all meetings. Two (2) consecutive unexcused absences, without prior notice to the Chair, shall constitute grounds for removal. Section V. Removal: Any member may be removed whenever the best interests of the Committee are not served. Grounds for removal include without limitation, taking a position that is in conflict with ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 4 of 7 the mission of the Committee or having two (2) consecutive absences from Committee meetings without prior notification to the Chair. The member whose removal is placed in issue shall be given prior notice of his/her proposed removal and a reasonable opportunity to appear and be heard at a meeting of the Committee. A member may be removed pursuant to this section by a two-thirds majority vote of the total number of members then serving on the Committee, or by majority vote of the Board of County Commissioners. Article VII Officers Section I. Officers: The Committee shall elect a Chairperson and Vice -Chairperson each to serve a one-year term. In Addition, The Vice -Chairperson shall be eligible for election to the Chair after Chairperson's term ends or they resign. If no other candidates come forward expressing interest in the Chair position, the Vice -Chair may become Chair upon the consent of the Committee. In the event of a Chair resignation, the Vice -Chair may assume the Chair position upon consent of the Committee and finish the resigning Chair's term of office or request a full two-year term. Section II. Elections: Elections of new officers shall take place prior to the end of the calendar year with the new term beginning prior to the first regular meeting of the year in February. Terms will begin and end January 1, unless the election takes place after such date, in which case the term will begin immediately or when feasible. In the event that nominations for Officer positions are not received by the scheduled election, a six (6) month extension will be offered to the current officer. In the event that only one nominee is available for an Officer position, the Committee may elect that nominee through consensus. Section III. Duties: Duties of the officers are as follows: A. Chair: 1. Shall assist the Internal Auditor in preparing the agenda. 2. Shall conduct the meeting in accordance with parliamentary procedure and comply with the rules and regulations of County and State with regard to public meetings. 3. May call special meetings of the Committee as are necessary. ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 5 of 7 4. Shall serve as an Ex-Officio member of all subcommittees. 5. Shall sign off on advocacy position letters and present to the Board of County Commissioners when needed. B. Vice -Chair: 1. Shall assist the Chair as needed. 2. Shall serve as Chairperson during such time as the Chair is absent or unable to serve. 3. Shall sign off on advocacy position letters and present to the Board of County Commissioners when needed. Article Vlll Subcommittees Subcommittees may be established by the Committee as needed. Only members of the Committee may serve on subcommittees. Potential subcommittee tasks could include leading the Internal Auditor's annual performance review and participating in the selection of contract external auditors. Once a subcommittee has completed all assigned tasks and reported to the Committee, it shall expire. Article IX Conflict of Interest Any member's business or personal relationship that may affect impartiality must be disclosed to the Committee. Department head members will recuse themselves from votes involving their departments, including the adoption of the audit work schedule. Article X Parliamentary Authority Meetings shall be conducted using the general guidelines of Robert's Rules of Order. Article XI Adoption, Amendment The Committee shall review, revise, and recommend approval and adoption of these By - Laws. After Committee approval, the By -Laws shall be delivered to the Board of County Commissioners for final approval and formal adoption. ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 6 of 7 Final adoption: The Board of County Commissioners approved these By -Laws at its meeting of February 26, 2025. ADOPTED 2-26-25 Deschutes County Audit Committee By -Laws Page 7 of 7 vT E S COG BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS MEETING DATE: February 26, 2025 SUBJECT: Courthouse Expansion Project Update RECOMMENDED MOTION: N/A; information only. BACKGROUND AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS% The Facilities Department will give a presentation to update the Board on the status of the Courthouse Expansion project. The update will include the work completed to date, upcoming work, and the project budget. Presentation materials to follow. BUDGET IMPACTS: None ATTENDANCE: Lee Randall, Facilities Director Eric Nielsen, Facilities Capital Improvement Manager Wayne Powderly, Cumming Group Cory Loomis, Pence Contractors b.A c CU V) CU O .V) .E E O U +j D O U 4- 0 O m N O N N L a) Ll- Ln w —J� Q 4) �u u 4) O L 4) O 4-1 4-0 O WOMMIN CL E O u O ru 0 0 4) O s L 0 J O t�0 s u O m L LU Ell • J 41 TO • • u L. u .-. LU ca X ♦'' u tin -� 'j 4fl UJ y® u C. N N a a ._ ® ® O E a a y„ L.G Lm u �= N u. to G� �'' vA CA LU ui Ln cel O Y LLJ J 0 0 N. 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Performance Measure: Support and enhance where needed the call taking triage processes for mental health crisis calls in partnership with the Community Crisis Response Team program. Target: True Q2 Update: True Objective: Safe Communities - Collaborate with partners to prepare for and respond to emergencies, natural hazards and disasters. Performance Measure: Coordinate with 9-1-1 and DCSO to increase the number of web - registered Deschutes Alerts subscribers. Target: 53,774 Q2 Update: Actual value: 62,748 Community justice: Objective: Safe Communities - Reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement. Performance Measure: Adult PO's ensure supervised adults have active and updated Behavior Change Plans. Target: 75% Q2 Update: Actual value -71 %. District Attorney's Office: Objective: Safe Communities - Reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement Performance Measure: Goal is to maintain a number of no greater than 20% of the VIS veterans' recidivism resulting in sentence of incarceration. Target: 20% Q2 Update: Actual value - 3.6% Objective: Safe Communities - Reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement. Performance Measure: Maintain a two-year arrest recidivism rate for all enrolled EAP participants (18-24 year -olds) of 25% or less. Target: 25% Q2 Update: Actual value - 10% ,Justice Court: Objective: Safe Communities - Reduce crime and recidivism through prevention, intervention, supervision and enforcement. Performance Measure: Rate of collections on fines 50% or above withing 90 days of judgment. Enforcing payment of fines and fees holds defendants accountable and promotes compliance with traffic laws. Timely collection and distribution of fines and fees support law enforcement programs and court functions. Target: 50% Q2 Update: Actual value - 78.2% BUDGET IMPACTS: No anticipated budget impacts. ATTENDANCE: Jen Patterson, Strategic Initiatives Manger Chris Perry, Manager, 9-1-1 Operations Tanner Wark, Deputy Director, Parol & Probation Kathleen Meehan Coop, District Attorneys Office Mary Overman, District Attorney's Office judge Charles Fadeley, justice Court Kristal Cozine, Court Administrator, justice Court BOARD OFCOUNTY C II I E S February 28, 2025 Re: Support for Senate Bill 702 - Ban on flavored inhalant delivery system products and flavored tobacco products in Oregon Chair Reynolds, Vice -Chair Anderson, and Members of the Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health: The Deschutes County Board of County Commissioners strongly support Senate Bill 702, as flavors, including menthol, continue to be a key component in making inhalant delivery systems attractive to youth. Among Oregon high school students who use inhalant delivery systems exclusively, nearly 90% use flavored products. In Deschutes County, 80% of our 11th graders, who have used tobacco before, reported having used a flavored tobacco or vaping product their first time. The use of inhalant delivery systems presents a significant health risk to young people, particularly because adolescents are especially vulnerable to nicotine's addictive effects because their brains are still developing. Nicotine can have other long-lasting effects on adolescent brain development, making it more difficult to concentrate, learn, and control impulses. There is strong evidence linking the use of inhalant delivery system use among youth to an increased risk of them eventually using combustible tobacco products, such as conventional cigarettes. Prohibiting the sale of flavored inhalant delivery systems is an effective strategy to reduce the youth nicotine use and prevent other potentially lifelong health consequences. Deschutes County urges the committee to support SB 702 and any additional amendments that would support comprehensive tobacco prevention strategies to help protect the health of our youth. Sincerely, The Deschutes County Board of Commissioners Anthony DeBone Chair Patti Adair Vice Chair Phil Chang Commissioner CC: Senators Andrew Broadman, Diane Linthicum, and Mike McLane Representatives Vikki Breese Iverson, Jason Kropf, Emerson Levy, E. Werner Reschke, and Mark Owens 1300 NW Wall Street Bend, Oregon 97703 (541) 388-6572 board@deschutes.org ®www.deschutes.org MEETING DATE: February 26, 2025 SUBJECT: Discussion and Possible Action on Recommendations from the Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness RECOMMENDED MOTION: TBD BACKGROUND AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS: On January 8, 2025, Central Oregon Civic Action Project Director Josh Burgess presented to the Board recommendations from the Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness. The Board asked staff to schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss the recommendations and the County's role. Attached are "Key Recommendations" from the Civic Assembly. There is also a document listing the Key Recommendations along with two columns: "Proposed Deschutes County Role" (filled out by County staff) and the Civic Assembly's recommendation for the County's role. Noted below are several recommendations from the Civic Assembly which have current/ recent County involvement: Recommendation 2 - A central hub with a recreation center run by Bend Parks and Recreation; a safe place for at -risk teens. designated space for programs and non- governmental organizations that would allow teens to access benefits at one central location. o Comment: Health Services operates The Drop, a center that serves youth and young adults in Deschutes County ages 14 - 27. Located in Redmond and Bend, The Drop is meant to be a safe and supportive place where people make connections that could have a positive impact on their life. • Recommendation 5 - Childcare support for families with young children to help break the cycle of poverty. o Comment: the Board has invested millions of dollars to increase regional childcare and early learning capacity. Also, in 2020, the Board amended Deschutes County Code to allow childcare uses as a permitted outright use in designated zones. • Recommendation 16 - Prioritize funding for inpatient psychiatric care for minors. o Comment: this recommendation has been a long-standing goal for the Board and the Health Services Department and is a Deschutes County priority for the 2025 Legislative Session. • Recommendation 21 - Direct Deschutes County and the Coordinated Homeless Response Office to dedicate funding to partner with J Bar J and other non- governmental organizations to educate the general public about youth homelessness and prevention. o Comment: CHRO oversight is transitioning to COIC. The CHRO budget remains a County fund. Attached is a draft communication to the Citizen Assembly outlining the County's role in specific recommendations. The draft letter is intended to be a starting point for Board discussion. BUDGET IMPACTS: TBD ATTENDANCE: Erik Kropp, Deputy County Administrator Josh Burgess, Central Oregon Civic Action Project Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness Key Recommendations October 14, 2024 The following Recommendations Were created and prioritized by the Delegates of the 2024 Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness, The Assembly addressed the following question: What should our priorities be for building community solutions to prevent and end youth homelessness? The Recommendations below were written by the Assembly after more than 30 hours of in -person information gathering and deliberation between Sept. 14 and Oct. 6. Recommendations that achieved supermajority (75%+) support from among all voting Delegates are included in this report. Recommendations with lower levels of support will be included in the project's later comprehensive report. In addition to their primary text, some Recommendations also include additional Rationales and Implementation Notes. With the exception of this explanatory text in italics, this report is composed exclusively of the words of Delegates themselves, with no additions, deletions, or edits by staff Official recipients of these Recommendations include the Central Oregon Youth Action Board, Deschutes County, the City of Bend, and the Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council. Representatives of these entities have committed to receiving the results, thoroughly considering them, and issuing a public response. Additional governmental and nongovernmental bodies are expected to receive and consider the Assembly's Recommendations on an unofficial basis. This project was a partnership between the Central Oregon Youth Action Board, the Central Oregon Civic Action Project, the Laboratory for the American Conversation at OSU-Cascades, Healthy Democracy, DemocrocyNext, and MIT's Center for Constructive Communication. It was funded by contributions from dozens of local individual donors and foundations - including the Ford Family Foundation, the Roundhouse Foundation, the Wade Family Foundation, and Brooks Resources - as well as by national foundations, including the Rockefeller Foundation, Omidyar Network, and Quadrivium. Delegates were randomly selected from across Deschutes County, reflecting a microcosm of the county in terms of age, gender, race%thnicity, geographic location of residence, political party, housing status, and educational attainment. A preliminary demographic profile of the Assembly has previously been released. Healthy Democracy will release a subsequent comprehensive report, which will include a final demographic profile of the Assembly, notes related to Delegate selection, in -room process details, and the rest of the Assembly's work; a prioritized list of Guiding Principles and all Proposed Recommendations that did not receive supermajority support. This comprehensive report, as well as all further communication related to the Assembly, will be posted at cocap. us. Recommendations in this report were ordered first by their total score, based on: 2 points for "Strongly Agree" 1 point for "Somewhat Agree" o points for "Neutral / Don't Know" -1 point for "Disagree" In the case of ties, Recommendations were then ordered by their level of agreement ("Strongly Agree" + "Somewhat Agree'), and then by the number of Delegates who marked "Strongly Agree." Note., Recommendation 22 did not achieve 75% agreement from the Assembly, despite receiving a higher total score than Recommendation 23; hence, Recommendation 22 is not included in this report. Recommendation 1 95% Agree Strongly Agree SorneWhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16 5 1 0 37 Develop programs to help 18-year-olds transition out of the foster care system, Teach life skills, inform of available resources, assist With finding housing, incorporate Work/trade options. Rationale: Reduces likeliness of being homeless for 18+ age bracket. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 2 95% Agree Strongly Agree SorneWhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 6 1 0 36 A central hub that Would have the following; -A recreation center that Would be run by Bend Parks and Recreation. -A safe space for at -risk teens. -Designated space for programs and non -governmental organizations that Would allow teens to access benefits at one central location. Would increase availablity of resources and foster awareness and involvement With the community. Bend Parks and Recreation has an extensive volunteer core that would be a valuable resource to tap into. Rationale: Implementation Notes: Recommendation 3 gi% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 4 2 0 36 Improve foster care system. The foster care system needs to provide more resources for those exiting the foster care system to access housing, jobs training, and education. Rationale: -Youth literally run away from the system. -There is not help with transitioning out of the system as they age out. -There is currently no access to life skills training within the system. Implementation Notes: The lawsuit settlement from Wyatt B. vs. Kotek in Federal District Court is intended to improve the system. K Recommendation 4 gi% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score .......................................................................-.............................................................................................................................................................-......................................................... i5 5 2 0 35 Schools to follow up on students intentionally who are protected under the McKinney-Vento Act if student is not present in school for Zo days. Follow-up should be on a case -by -case basis, Rationale: A school district policy that automatically drops McKinney-Vento students after so days of unexcused absence, with no regard for the causes of the absences, the impact of homelessness, or interventions to support attendance, is a serious violation of the McKinney-Vento Act. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 5 86% Agree Strongly Agree ........................................................Somewhat Agree .....................Neutral / Dona Know .................................Disagree .............................................. Total Score ...................... 16 3 3 0 35 Childcare support for families with young children to help break the cycle of poverty. Creating a Co -Op and utilizing COCC, RPA, and high school students who are studying Early Childhood Education. Rationale: Parents can't go to work if they can't leave their small children somewhere safe. Implementation Notes: Engage community and community assets, contacting school Early Childhood Education Directors, churches, and city officials. Recommendation 6 86% Agree Strongly Agree .............................. Somewhat Agree.....................Neutral / Don't Know .................................Disagree ............................................... Total Score ...................... 14 5 2 0 33 Allow overrule to the io-day-drop rule. Allow school staff to overrule the 10-day-drop rule on a case -by -case basis. Rationale: Implementation Notes: Recommendation 7 86% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know„ Disagree Total Score ....... ....... 14 5 2 1 32 Use social media advertisements and posters in public spaces to increase public awareness of available services and indicate Who to contact for more information. Rationale: Public awareness is Lacking. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 8 86/ Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13 6 2 0 32 Expand public transit in Deschutes County. Rationale: Public transportation services help homeless youth. Implementation Notes: Recommendation g 82% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree TotaL Score ............. ................ ................................ .............. .. ....... ... ......... ........ 15 3 3 1 32 Provide permanent and dedicated funding to J Bar J. The goal is to provide youth homeless services and prevention, including administrative, staff, and marketing funding. Rationale: J Bar J is a successful umbrella organization in our area. Implementation Notes: 4 Recommendation 10 86% Agree Strongly Agree .............................. Somewhat Agree .....................Neutral . / Don't Know.................................Disagree............................................._Total .................. Score.... 11 8 3 0 30 Allow Family Access Network advocates to give hotspots and/or internet access to families with students, and to provide funding for this. Students can use the internet to do their homework and access services available through the internet. Rationale: Students will have equal access and be more likely to stay in school. Implementation Notes: Collaborate with internet providers. Recommendation 11 82% Agree lly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score . ........................................ ..... ........ ...... .... ............ �3 5 4 1 30 Redefine the Oregon Department of Human Services objective of reunification of families with the goal of incorporating the voice of the youth affected. Youth should be allowed to have input about their futures and that input should be prioritized. Rationale: Family reunification is not always in the best interest of the child. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 12 82% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 7 3 0 �9 Create another civic assembly in the future, dedicated to the housing affordability crisis. The housing affordability crisis is the core of not only youth homelessness, but a host of other issues in the community, and if not addressed, can render all other efforts moot. Rationale: Implementation Notes: 5 Recommendation 13 82% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ........................................................... ... ...... ............... ............ ........ ........ 11 7 3 0 29 Vocational schools and/or programs Currently there are very few, and they are hard to get into or they are designated specifically for adjudicated youth. Rationale: Many kids, especially if they are homeless, are not college bound. They need job skills that can transfer to strong wages to help them transition out of homelessness and maintain it. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 14 86% Agree dy.Ag'.ee............................._Somewhat Agree .....................Neutral . / Don't Know .................................Disagree ............................................._Total Score 10 9 2 1 28 Provide education on homelessness and human trafficking, starting as early in the education process as school districts deem appropriate and feasible throughout Deschutes County, Rationale: Implementation Notes: Recommendation 15 82% Agree ly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ... ........... ...................... .............. . ............... ...... ............... 11 7 3 1 28 Provide specified training for adults Who interact with unhoused youth to help with identification of youth in need. This training would be focused on parents, school faculty, officers, Oregon Department of Human Services staff, and others. Rationale: This trains those who are most in contact with unhoused youth. This is a good way to educate the public. Implementation Notes: A Recommendation 16 86% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ........................ .... ......... ............................................................................................................................... 10 Q 1 2 27 Prioritize funding for inpatient psychiatric care for minors. Deschutes County to prioritize funding and seek healthcare partners, such as St. Charles and Mosaic Medical, to provide local access to inpatient psychiatric care for minors. Rationale: There is a lack of inpatient psychiatric care for minors in Central Oregon. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 17 82% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ................ .............................................. .......... ...................................... ......... ............. 10 8 3 1 27 Education requirements in school districts to include mandatory financial Literacy and critical thinking education courses. Options to partner in senior year with finance sector for credit options? Rationale: "Prepare the child for the road; not the road for the child" Lowering standards (Senate Bill 744) doesn't improve overall community health in short or long term. This is the preventative measure that helps support what we kept hearing from those who came through the foster care system. Young adults are not prepared and do not have the necessary life skills, especially if they are lacking the family support to provide these transitional buffers. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 18 77% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 10 7 4 1 26 Social media marketing reaching caregivers, letting them know they can access resources without jeopardizing their families. Rationale: Implementation Notes: 7 Recommendation ig 77% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ....... ... ....... ........... ................................................................................... .... .... ..... ............... ...... .... 10 7 2 2 25 Give non -governmental organizations the ability to be flexible with how they spend their funds. Flexibility in areas not directly related to housing, including personnel, nonpersonnel, and administration, with increased transparency. Rationale: Reducing restrictions on funding will allow organizations the freedom to spend funds as they deem to be effective. Implementation Notes: Recommendation 20 77% Agree Strongly Agree Sornewhot Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ............................................................. .................. ....... .. ...... .. ................................ ...... ..... .......................................................................... 9 8 3 2 �4 Reform local housing policy to serve local community members and foster sustainable growth for all, Examples; taxes on second or additional properties, tax on non -owner -occupied properties, allow for the creation of tenants' unions, promote rent -to -own programs, restructure incentives to serve residents over developers. Rationale: Implementation Notes: Recommendation 21 77% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score .... .. ......... .................. .... .. ......................................................................... 8 9 4 1 24 Direct Deschutes County and the Coordinated Homeless Response Office to dedicate funding to partner with J Bar J and other non -governmental organizations to educate the general public about youth homelessness and prevention. Rationale: Community awareness leads to more resources. Implementation Notes: E: Recommendation 23 77% Agree Strongly Agree Somewhat Agree Neutral / Don't Know Disagree Total Score ......... .............. ...... ...... .... ..... .......... .. ......... R Q '1 2 23 Create a government mechanism/process/service that would allow the homeless to quickly get government identification, and/or birth certificate, and/or social security card. Rationale: Access to identification and/or documentation has been cited as a major barrier to access government services and participate in society, especially for homeless youth. Implementation Notes: Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness Key Recommendations - "County Role" Discussion with the BOCC Note -The 'Proposed Deschutes County Role" column was filled in by County staff as a starting point for discussion with the Board. In general, the following categories were applied. • Advocacy - there is a potential role for County advocacy n/a - the County has historically not weighed in on topic or there is a clearly defined lead agency that is not the County or the recommendation is broad with an undetermined lead agency • TBD -most appropriate for Board discussion to determine County role • Leadership role - fits in with County primary work/role # Civic County staff Recommendation Assembly Proposed Proposed Deschutes County Deschutes Role County Role 1. Develop programs to help 18-year-olds Advocacy Advocacy transition out of the foster care system. 2. A central hub: rec center run by Parks and Rec; safe place for at -risk teens; designated space Advocacy n/a for programs and non -governmental organizations to allow teens to access benefits at one central location. 3. Improve foster care system. Advocacy Advocacy 4. Schools follow up on students intentionally if Advocacy n/a not present in school for 10 days. 5. Childcare support for families with young Advocacy Advocacy children to help break the cycle of poverty. 6. Allow overrule of the 10-day drop rule (schools Advocacy unenrolling students who have 10 consecutive n/a days of unexcused absences). 7. Public awareness of available sources and Education n/a who to contact for more information. 8. Expand public transit. Action TBD 9. Provide permanent and dedicated funding to J Advocacy n/a Bar J. 10. Allow FAN advocates to give families hotspots/internet access and provide funding Advocacy n/a for this. 11. Redefine Oregon DHS objective of reunification of families and incorporate the Advocacy n/a voice of the youth affected. 12. Create another civic assembly dedicated to the Action Advocacy housing affordability crisis. 13. Vocational schools and/or programs. Advocacy n/a 14. Provide education on homelessness and Advocacy Advocacy human trafficking. 15. Training for adults who interact with Action n/a unhoused youth. 16. Prioritize funding for inpatient psychiatric care Action Leadership role for minors. 17. Mandatory financial literacy and critical Advocacy n/a thinking classes for students. 18. Marketing to caregivers letting them know they can access resources without Education n/a jeopardizing their families. 19. Give non -governmental organizations the Advocacy n/a ability to be flexible with how they spend their funds. 20. Reform local housing policy to serve local community members and foster sustainable Action Advocacy growth for all. 21. Direct Deschutes County and the CHRO to dedicate funding to partner with J Bar J and Action TBD other non -governmental organizations to educate the general public about youth homelessness and prevention. 22. N/A (this number was skipped). -- -- 23. Create a process/service to allow people who are homeless to quickly get government Advocacy n/a identification, birth certificate, social security card. **DRAFT** February 19, 2025 Deschutes Civic Assembly on Youth Homelessness c/o Healthy Democracy P.O. Box 18104 Portland, OR 97218 Dear Deschutes Civic Assembly: Thank you for your time and work studying the issue of youth homelessness. We appreciate the civil discussions and thoughtful deliberations that led to the twenty-two recommendations. Many of the recommendations fall under the purview of the State of Oregon, school districts, or other entities. While we are supportive of many of these recommendations, we would like to focus on recommendations that directly relate to Deschutes County's core services: Recommendation 2 — A central hub with a recreation center run by Bend Parks and Recreation; a safe place for at -risk teens; designated space for programs and non -governmental organizations that would allow teens to access benefits at one central location. o Deschutes County role: Health Services operates The Drop, a center that serves youth and young adults in Deschutes County ages 14 — 27. Located in Redmond and Bend, The Drop is meant to be a safe and supportive place where people make connections that could have a positive impact on their life. i Recommendation 8 — Expand public transit in Deschutes County. o Deschutes County role: the County is not a transit provider but does approve the Deschutes County Statewide Transportation Improvement Fund (STIF) Plan which funds transit services. Deschutes County will continue to evaluate how best to meet the transportation needs of the community as it reviews and approves STIF Plans. Recommendation 16 — Prioritize funding for inpatient psychiatric care for minors. o Deschutes County role: this recommendation has been a long-standing goal for the Board and the Health Services Department and is a Deschutes County priority for the 2025 Legislative Session. We will continue to advocate and lead the effort for inpatient psychiatric care for minors. 1300 NW Wall Street Bend, Oregon 97703 (541) 388-6572 board@deschutes.org ® www.deschutes.org Recommendation 21 — Direct Deschutes County and the Coordinated Homeless Response Office to dedicate funding to partner with J Bar J and other non -governmental organizations to educate the general public about youth homelessness and prevention. o Deschutes County role: TBD (CHRO oversight is transitioning to COIC. The CHRO budget remains a County fund). Thank you again for your time serving on the Civic Assembly and the recommendations for addressing youth homelessness in our community. Board of County Commissioners, Anthony DeBone, Chair Patty Adair, Vice Chair Phil Chang, Commissioner