Final plan selected for changes to Washington County commissioner districts

After considering five boundary proposals developed by the Population Research Center at Portland State University, as well as public comments and engagement, the Washington County Board of Commissioners has agreed to redraw district boundary lines according to one of those proposals. Proposal 5 seeks to maintain consistency with city and urban planning area agreements (UPAAs). This proposal would minimize city splits and take planned growth of cities into account. A further change was approved for proposal 5 during the October 25th work session. The change is for the area north of West Union Road, from Jackson School Road to Jackson Quarry Road, which would shift out of District 2 and into District 4.

Washington County staff has begun drafting an ordinance establishing commissioner district boundaries in accordance with the Washington County Charter. A first reading of the ordinance will be held on November 1, 2022, followed by a second reading and public hearing on November 29, 2022.

Washington County is realigning the boundaries of its four commissioner districts based on the results of the population changes identified in the 2020 census. As a result of population shifts, boundary lines are redrawn so that districts are of roughly equal populations. Read PSU’s report here.

Washington County worked with Portland State University's Population Research Center to provide recommended options for changing the commissioner district boundary lines. An online survey was conducted from August through early September that allowed community members to review each plan and share their preferences and feedback. Several community events were also held both in person and online. Read the community engagement report here.

Stay up to date on the Commissioner District Reapportionment process at http://wcor.us/reapportionment. Visit the Board of County Commissioner agenda webpage for all upcoming public meetings or watch the livestream on our Washington County YouTube channel.