City of Troutdale prepares for police department transition amid contract negotiations

The Multnomah County Board held a briefing on June 24, 2025, focusing on the transition of policing services in Troutdale as the city prepares to establish its own police department. The meeting addressed the implications of a three-year agreement with Troutdale and the ongoing collaboration with the county sheriff's office.

The discussion began with an acknowledgment of the upcoming changes in city leadership, including the retirement of the current city manager. This transition is expected to influence the direction of policing services, with the sheriff's office emphasizing the need for continued dialogue to determine the best path forward. The sheriff noted that the timeline for establishing a municipal police department is tight, requiring careful planning and coordination.

A key point raised was the financial aspect of the agreement. While the new contract will increase annual revenue for the county, it does not fully cover the costs associated with providing services to Troutdale. The sheriff's office has worked to streamline services during this transition period, allowing Troutdale time to develop its own police capabilities.

Commissioners expressed concerns regarding the data presented on police response times and the nature of calls. The sheriff clarified that while self-initiated calls have decreased, this is due to the increasing danger associated with certain incidents, necessitating a more focused approach to policing.

Additionally, the board discussed the collection of demographic data related to public safety missions, with assurances that such data could be made available for future analysis. Language in the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) was also scrutinized, with suggestions to update terms to be more inclusive and gender-neutral.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to follow up on outstanding questions before the upcoming vote on the agreement. Overall, the discussions highlighted the complexities of transitioning policing services while ensuring effective public safety and financial accountability.