Washington County reviews nominees for multiple advisory committees; consent agenda item planned

Washington County commissioners on Nov. 4 reviewed applicants for several advisory committees and heard staff recommendations that will be brought forward on a future consent agenda for formal approval.

Mr. Steyer, who presented the appointments, recommended reappointing Karen Bolin to the county Budget Committee, noting she chaired the committee last cycle and expressed willingness to continue. He also introduced applicant Ryan Tockelson, described in staff materials as a Washington County District 4 resident with a master—s degree in public administration and experience as a principal budget analyst at the Port of Portland. Mr. Steyer said other interviewed candidates included Katherine Denang and Fernanda Lyra, and that one applicant declined due to overcommitment.

For the enhanced air patrol/urban road maintenance district, Mr. Steyer described three current members (Scott Harnraft, Bob Zarkowski and Anthony Mills) and said Spencer Hatch applied to fill a vacancy; staff said Hatch has a background in commercial real estate and credit analysis. On the North Bethany advisory body, staff noted three midterm vacancies and that Bruce Young has reapplied.

Mr. Steyer said he will continue recruiting for remaining vacancies and will bring the recommended appointments to a future consent agenda for the Board of Commissioners to consider. He also thanked several community members for consistent participation, specifically noting Fernando Lara—s regular engagement with advisory processes.

The work session did not include a formal vote on the appointments. Commissioners did not record final action during the work session and were expected to consider the nominations in the upcoming business meeting consent agenda.