2023 Project Summary and Evaluation
In November 2022, Multnomah County voters approved Measure 26-233. The County Charter now states the County will use an application process to identify at least one volunteer member of the public to accompany the Board every calendar year, with preference for individuals who live in, work in or have demonstrated connections to Multnomah County. Volunteers should be independent of the County Auditor and the facilities they inspect, and given reasonable stipends and administrative support. The additional inspections — within reasonable measures for safety and security — provide access for the County commissioners and volunteer(s) to the facilities. After the inspection, volunteers issue public reports with findings and recommendations.
The first-ever additional inspection took place the following year in 2023. The County performed an evaluation following the completion of the 2023 process to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement to inform subsequent years. Information was gathered from people who were involved in the project, as well as other community members who wished to provide feedback.
The final Project Evaluation report can be found here:
- Document
According to those who participated in the evaluation, the first year of implementing the additional inspection was a positive experience overall. However, evaluation participants agreed on three areas for improvement moving forward:
- Providing more clarity about the purpose of the inspection and how it differs from a facility tour.
- Finding ways to expand the applicant pool through more robust outreach and updating the application process.
- Developing strategies that engage people most impacted by incarceration in the planning and implementation process.
2023 Final Volunteer Reports
The volunteers selected for the 2023 additional inspection submitted reports outlining their findings and recommendations:
- Document
- Document
Several County officials and departments submitted response and thank you letters:
- Document
- Document