Washington County Board of Commissioners PM Work Session, 06/02/26 (Part 2)

The Washington County Board of Commissioners held a work session on June 2, 2026, focusing primarily on the implementation and funding of a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program led by the Sheriff's Office. The presentation detailed the pilot program's success, including 719 drone flights and significant cost savings estimated at $57,000 by reducing unnecessary deputy responses. The board discussed expanding the program with five drone "hives," each housing three drones, to improve coverage countywide, including partnerships with Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue (TVF&R) to share costs and enhance public safety response. The estimated annual cost for the full 15-drone program is $1 million, with funding proposed to be split among the Assessment Services Board (60%), the general fund (20%), and the levy (20%). The board expressed strong support for the program and directed the county administrator to develop a financial plan for implementation by August 2026. Additionally, the board received an update on vehicle registration fee outreach as a potential transportation funding source, noting community concerns about affordability and the need to monitor state legislative developments before proceeding. No immediate fee changes were approved, but the board emphasized the importance of future advocacy and legislative engagement to address transportation funding needs.