Multnomah County Health Department, Multomah County, OR

The Multnomah County Strategic Plan for fiscal years 2026-2028 unifies county departments and programs into a single operational plan, defining high operational priorities. Grounded in refreshed Mission, Vision, and Values, the plan prioritizes equity, efficiency, and resilience to advance resident well-being, support vulnerable communities, and strengthen the local economy. It focuses on six key areas: Support Community Health and Wellness, Create a Safe and Just Community, Strengthen Community Vitality and Resilience, Be Accountable, Collaborative, and Transparent, Improve Operational Excellence, and Invest in Our Future.

The meeting centered on a progress report regarding the Climate Action Plan, with discussions focusing on sustainability efforts, health impacts, and community engagement. Key topics included reducing carbon emissions, addressing climate change impacts on the community, and promoting health equity and social justice. The board also discussed green roofs, biking and transit infrastructure, green jobs, and collaboration with other jurisdictions to encourage broader participation in climate action initiatives.

The Multnomah Building's Board of Commissioners meeting addressed senior housing for the homeless, focusing on the Kaiser Permanente "Portland Metro 300" project, a tricoounty effort. Discussions covered the Regional Impact Fund, flexible funding for housing navigation, moving costs, and rental assistance. NARA Northwest presented their services for Native Americans, emphasizing support for elders. Northwest Pilot Project highlighted their work with seniors facing housing crises. The board also discussed Here Together's initiative to address homelessness across the region, including research, public education, coalition building, and plans for a ballot measure in November 2020.

The WESP Renewal Steering Committee met to discuss restructuring, focusing on how county structures and reporting relationships can support the Workforce Equity Strategic Plan (WESP) and achieve racial justice and equity. Discussions included the current structure of the County, key challenges, missing roles and resources, and how white supremacy characteristics are embedded in current practices. The committee also explored an ideal model for the County's structure, considering all levels of the organization and the relationships between them. The session resulted in recommended actions related to investing in equity teams, clarifying equity roles and responsibilities, enhancing structural collaboration, and ensuring countywide accountability for equity.

This document summarizes the work sessions of the Workforce Equity Strategic Plan (WESP) Renewal Steering Committee held in October 2023, focusing on Training and Data. The committee is tasked with designing training for county employees on equity topics and developing data practices to ensure centralization, transparency, and accessibility. Key strategic areas include comprehensive manager onboarding and support for equity practices, mandated countywide equity training, and mechanisms for all employees to demonstrate equity commitment. Data recommendations focus on improving and standardizing exit and stay interview processes, implementing inclusive data practices, and establishing a data council for transparent data sharing and analysis. The overarching goal is to achieve Racial Justice and Equity, improve employee retention and growth, and foster a fair and inclusive workplace environment.