9.10.26 Regular Meeting

The Multnomah County Board held a regular meeting on September 10, 2026, conducted virtually due to building construction. Key procurement-related discussions included a budget modification reducing 1.2 FTE in the Preschool for All fund by $210,000, reflecting a transition of nursing services to the Multnomah Education Service District for efficiency. The board approved an ordinance aligning county zoning codes with the City of Portland's amendments to support affordable housing opportunities and infrastructure improvements. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a real estate audit report reviewing 15 land and building purchases from 2019 to 2025, totaling over $50 million across departments such as community health, homeless services, and libraries. The audit found inconsistent stakeholder engagement, lack of comprehensive board approval policies for real estate acquisitions, and potential overpayments totaling $1.18 million due to absence of independent appraisals. Recommendations included establishing countywide policies mandating board approval for purchases over $1 million, requiring independent certified appraisals, and improving documentation of due diligence and stakeholder engagement. The board discussed these findings and expressed commitment to implementing the recommendations to enhance transparency and fiscal responsibility in future real estate transactions. Other agenda items included public testimony on animal shelter policies and community updates, but no additional procurement actions were taken.