Chandra Bettis

The committee meeting covered updates on the solid waste recycling program, including the status of administrative rules and staff recruitment efforts. Outreach activities, specifically regarding contamination reduction, were discussed. The agenda included upcoming calendar items such as a volunteer appreciation event, the annual rate review, and future presentations on franchise renewals, disaster preparedness, and recycling system overviews. An attorney provided a training presentation regarding Oregon public meetings, public records, and ethics laws.

The board discussed and formally adopted a proclamation designating April 2026 as Arab American Heritage Month in Washington County. The discussion emphasized the historical contributions of Arab Americans to society, the need to combat misconceptions and bigotry through education, and the importance of fostering an inclusive and diverse community.

The meeting included staff updates on council member recruitment and upcoming board of county commissioners actions. Discussions were held regarding federal HUD homeless services funding, potential changes to national funding priorities, and impacts of proposed rule changes on local households. Committee updates were provided for HACK and the McKinney-Vento liaison group, and the council reviewed financial planning strategies for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on sustainable budget adjustments, service provider contract increases, and housing throughput metrics.

The committee held a session that included a public comment segment focused on advocacy for the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) HUD program, specifically regarding funding and the need for more coordinators to support participant success. The Executive Director provided updates on federal issues, including HUD's proposed rule changes for mixed-status households, for which the committee authorized the chair to submit a formal letter of comment. Additional discussion topics included HUD's potential shifts in policy regarding homelessness programs, a documentary screening event concerning senior homelessness, and active recruitments for organizational staff positions and committee membership.

The community meeting focused on the planning and implementation of a new year-round homeless shelter in Hillsboro. Key topics included the presentation of homelessness data in Washington County, an overview of existing housing and support services, and the operational model of the future 75-bed shelter, which will be managed by Project Homeless Connect. Discussions also covered trauma-informed facility design, the integration of veterinary care and nutrition services, community safety protocols, and upcoming phases for shelter integration and coexistence.