The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners voted to adopt a resolution consenting to the chair’s appointment of Stacy Cowan as director of government relations.

Chair (recorded in the minutes using the chair’s title) introduced the resolution and praised Cowan’s experience. The chair said Cowan has been with the county since April 2022 and served as interim director of the office of community relations for about eight months. The chair described Cowan as having “sharp political instincts” and “over 15 years of experience driving legislative and budgetary victories.”

Stacy Cowan addressed the board and said she uses she/her pronouns and is honored to be considered for the permanent role. Cowan said her priorities include deepening connections with elected and agency partners and elevating community voices in policy discussions.

Commissioners offered supportive remarks on the record. Commissioner Brim Edwards lauded Cowan’s credibility and coalition building; Commissioner John Sickson said he appreciated hearing Cowan’s “why” during a recent meeting; Commissioner Moyer said she had worked with Cowan for several years and expressed confidence in her leadership. Public testimony included comments from two speakers who both urged the board to support effective government relations; one speaker also urged robust oversight of related public programs during their remarks.

A roll‑call vote was taken. Commissioners recorded “yes” votes (transcript records: Commissioner Moyer — yes; Commissioner Singleton — yes; Commissioner Brim Edwards — yes; Commissioner Jones Dixon — yes; Chair Vega Peterson — yes). The resolution was adopted.