5.14.26 Budget Work Session #13

The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners held their 13th budget work session on May 15, 2026, focusing extensively on the Department of Community Services (DCS) budget and related divisions including animal services, elections, land use, transportation, sustainability, and preschool early learning. Key procurement and budget discussions included restoration and funding of critical positions in animal services, such as dispatch and client services roles, and investments in transportation staffing and capital projects. The board reviewed fee increases in land use permits and one-time funding for zoning code improvements. The elections division highlighted the need for ongoing GIS support to ensure accurate voter mapping, with budget proposals including one-time additions for rank choice voting outreach. The sustainability office discussed grants for energy justice projects and electric vehicle infrastructure, while preschool early learning presented a significant budget increase to support nearly doubling preschool seats and related staffing. Several budget amendments were proposed, including funding for clinical supervision partnerships and security services contingency. The session also addressed challenges such as rising costs, staffing vacancies, and the impact of federal and state funding changes. The board planned follow-up sessions to finalize budget decisions and amendments.