Polk County 9/29/2026 Tuesday Work Session

The Polk County Board of Commissioners’ Tuesday work session on September 29, 2026, featured an economic development update from SEDCOR. Representatives discussed business retention and recruitment projects, including manufacturing businesses locating in or expanding within the region, and SEDCOR’s short-term contract with the Oregon Department of Agriculture to provide business and technical assistance to food and agriculture businesses. The pilot uses remaining USDA Regional Food System Infrastructure Program funds, must spend its funding by year-end, and has no confirmed continuation. SEDCOR also reported active site-readiness contracts with Silverton, Independence, and Sheridan to assess industrial properties and development constraints.

Discussion also covered industrial land availability, wetlands and mitigation challenges, potential future funding for site preparation, and regional economic development and innovation initiatives, including Oregon FAST, which was described as having $15 million in its first year. Commissioners expressed interest in follow-up on semiconductor-related opportunities and possible wetlands or site-preparation funding advocacy. No procurement awards, spending approvals, or related votes were identified; the only motions recorded were approval of the agenda and September 22 minutes.