Tillamook County renews marine enforcement agreement amid statewide funding cuts

The Tillamook County Board of Commissioners approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Oregon State Marine Board to fund recreational boating enforcement, but presenters said cuts to federal funding mean the county may only be able to sustain one full‑time marine deputy and possibly a seasonal position.

Matt Kelly presented the agreement and described the duties marine deputies perform: enforcing boating laws, investigating accidents and violations, conducting safety outreach and coordinating removal of obstructions from waterways. Kelly said reductions in federal funding routed through the Marine Board have forced many sheriff’s offices across the state to cut positions.

“Our budget has been reduced to where we can really only support one Marine deputy and maybe a seasonal position at this point,” Kelly said. He and commissioners noted that seasonal marine positions often serve as recruitment pathways into full‑time public‑safety careers.

Commissioners expressed support for the program and concern about statewide funding pressures. One commissioner recalled beginning a law‑enforcement career as a seasonal marine deputy and highlighted the recruitment value of the seasonal role. The board voted by voice to approve the intergovernmental agreement.

The agreement funds marine patrol and related public‑safety work; presenters said they will continue to monitor federal and state funding as the Marine Board seeks compliance with federal requirements and attempts to restore funding levels.