The Hillsboro City Council meeting on December 3, 2024, featured a significant update from Washington County Sheriff, Pat Massey, who provided insights into the operations and future plans of the sheriff's office. This meeting highlighted key issues surrounding public safety, mental health services, and the challenges faced by the county jail system.

Sheriff Massey, now nearing the end of his first year in office, emphasized the sheriff's office's commitment to ensuring Washington County remains the safest major urban county in Oregon. He outlined the office's core values and strategic goals, which include providing essential services such as court security, search and rescue operations, and managing the county's only jail.

A major concern raised during the meeting was the current state of the county jail, which has been operating at reduced capacity due to staffing shortages. Sheriff Massey reported that the jail, which typically has 572 beds, is now limited to 388 available beds, impacting the overall capacity to manage bookings. In 2023, the jail recorded over 14,000 bookings, highlighting the pressing need for solutions to address these challenges.

The sheriff's office is also working on a new courtroom and upgrading the jail's infrastructure, including a new roof and HVAC system, to ensure a safe environment for both staff and inmates. These improvements are part of a broader strategy to enhance public safety and operational efficiency.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the sheriff's office's collaborative efforts with local police departments through specialized teams, such as the Mental Health Response Team and the West Side Interagency Narcotics Team. These teams aim to provide comprehensive support for individuals in crisis and combat the ongoing opioid crisis in the region.

Sheriff Massey also discussed the importance of community engagement, particularly with historically marginalized groups. He highlighted ongoing dialogues with the Latino Advisory Commission to address community concerns and ensure public safety services are equitable and effective.

Looking ahead, the sheriff's office is preparing for a public safety local option levy in November 2025, which aims to secure funding for essential services and address the growing needs of the community. The sheriff emphasized the importance of community input in shaping future public safety strategies.

In conclusion, the Hillsboro City Council meeting underscored the sheriff's office's commitment to enhancing public safety through strategic planning, community engagement, and addressing the challenges posed by the current jail system. The discussions set the stage for future initiatives aimed at improving the overall safety and well-being of Washington County residents.