The Clackamas County Policy Session on December 3, 2024, focused on two key policies: the County Cost Recovery Policy and the Budget Development Framework Policy. Finance Director Elizabeth Comfort and Project Manager Cindy Becker presented revisions to the existing cost recovery policy and introduced a new budget development principle policy.

The cost recovery policy, originally adopted in April 2020, has undergone minor revisions since its last review in July. A significant change includes the establishment of a cap on annual fee increases, set at a maximum of 3%, which aligns with the consumer price index. This adjustment aims to provide predictability for both the county departments and the public, ensuring that fee increases remain manageable. Commissioners expressed support for this change, noting that it would help alleviate the burden on those subject to these fees while allowing departments to adjust for rising costs.

Commissioner Savas raised concerns about the applicability of the 3% increase to all fees, questioning whether some fees might not correlate with the consumer price index. Comfort clarified that the 3% guideline serves as a general framework for fee adjustments, allowing for flexibility. If a specific fee is deemed excessive or unnecessary, the board can revisit and potentially reduce it.

The session concluded with the board approving both policies unanimously. The revised cost recovery policy and the new budget development principles were each passed with a 4-0 vote, marking a significant step in the county's financial management strategy. These policies are expected to enhance budgetary planning and ensure that cost recovery practices remain fair and transparent for Clackamas County residents.