5.7.26 Regular Board Meeting

The Multnomah County Board held a regular meeting on May 7, 2026, which included significant discussions on public health and safety policies, particularly the proposed ordinance to establish safe school zones prohibiting mobile syringe service programs within 1,000 feet of K-12 schools. The board heard extensive public testimony both in support of and expressing concerns about the ordinance, focusing on balancing harm reduction efforts with community safety and enforcement challenges. The health department outlined the complexities and resource needs for implementing and enforcing the ordinance. Additionally, the board ratified a collective bargaining agreement with the Oregon Nurses Association for 2025-2028, detailing wage increases, benefits, and work-life balance improvements for county nurses. A budget modification was also approved to allocate $1 million in contingency funds to shelter providers to support transitions as some shelters close by June 30, 2026. The meeting concluded with board members sharing community updates and acknowledgments.