Malheur County to end IGA for foodborne‑illness prevention services in Baker County; six‑month notice given

Malheur County provided Baker County six months’ written notice on Jan. 8 that it will terminate its intergovernmental agreement (IGA) to provide foodborne‑illness prevention and related environmental health services to Baker County jurisdictions. The notice sets June 30, 2025 as the end date for Malheur County’s contracted services.

Why it matters: the termination affects local permitting and inspection coverage for restaurants, food carts, RV parks and other regulated establishments. County staff said the termination was Malheur County’s operational decision and that Baker County must plan for alternative inspection coverage beginning July 1.

County response and options: Baker County staff said they have begun outreach to neighboring counties and state liaisons to identify alternatives. Possible options discussed with staff include contracting with another county, hiring county staff to cover inspections, or using private contractors where allowed. Planning staff noted that the county may face higher costs if it must recruit and staff an in‑house environmental health inspector; initial conversations flagged Harney County and other regional partners as possible sources for shared services.

Next steps: staff will continue discussions with Malheur County, county finance and health planners and state contacts to develop an implementation approach and identify funding and staffing options for food safety inspections beyond June 30, 2025. The board acknowledged the notice and asked staff to return with recommendations and cost estimates.