During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the funding and implementation of the Preschool for All program in Multnomah County. Commissioners raised concerns regarding the allocation of funds for facilities, which were not explicitly included in the original ballot measure approved by voters. Commissioner Brim Edwards highlighted the substantial investments made in creating preschool facilities, questioning whether these expenditures align with the intentions of the voters who supported the measure.

The conversation revealed a critical point: while the ballot measure emphasized the need for universal preschool access by 2030, it did not mention facilities as part of the funding strategy. This omission raised concerns about transparency and voter understanding, as many may not have been aware that facilities were a key component of the broader plan presented to the Board of County Commissioners.

Commissioners discussed the necessity of a technical advisory group, mandated by the measure, to assess the sufficiency of a proposed tax increase for the program. Questions arose about the delay in convening this group, which was intended to provide recommendations ahead of a potential tax increase in 2026. The board acknowledged that the group would now be formed to prepare for a revised timeline extending to 2027, prompting further inquiries about the timing and urgency of these actions.

Additionally, the role of the county auditor in overseeing program expenditures was clarified, with assurances that the technical advisory group would not perform auditing functions, which remain the responsibility of the county auditor. This distinction aims to maintain the integrity of the auditing process while allowing for program evaluation.

As the meeting progressed, public testimony was invited, indicating ongoing community engagement in the discussions surrounding preschool funding and implementation. The board's commitment to addressing these concerns reflects a broader effort to ensure that the Preschool for All program meets its goals while remaining accountable to the taxpayers who support it.