Washington County Board of Commissioners PM Work Session, 10/20/26 (Part 3)

Washington County Board of Commissioners afternoon work session, October 20, 2026 (Part 3): Commissioners reviewed edits to a letter concerning an OSU proposal, adding that the county would seek feedback as well as support from affected taxing districts; the revised letter received general thumbs-up support. The board also discussed statewide transportation improvement fund priorities for FY 2027–29. Staff presented an anticipated budget including about $935,000 in formula funds for areas outside the TriMet district, approximately $6.44 million through TriMet’s regional coordination program, about $1 million in carryover, and up to $750,000 in reserve capacity. Proposed uses include continuing transit and shuttle services through Ride Connection, rural demand-response and SPOT pilot service, stop improvements, planning, technology, and marketing. Commissioners expressed general support for advancing the recommendations, asked staff to explore additional shuttle opportunities and provide SPOT program updates, and discussed forwarding the projects for state consideration. The project list and budget had previously been approved by the board on September 24; no new contract award or vendor selection was made at this session.

The board also discussed a proposed resolution on data centers in unincorporated Washington County, including the state’s temporary rules and permitting pause, local land-use authority, and proposed amendments. Commissioners did not reach a final decision; staff were asked to assess legal and operational implications, and the resolution’s next consideration was left for further scheduling. No other procurement action was identified.