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Board approves alternative procurement path for Santiam Canyon alert system after hearing with no public comments
Summary
Marion County held a public hearing and then, sitting as the Contract Review Board, approved an exemption to use an alternative competitive solicitation process for the Canyon Alerts Project (a $1.8M COPS Technology grant funds audible sirens and off‑grid notifications); no public comments were received during the notice period.
Public Works staff presented a public hearing on an exemption request to Marion County public contracting rules for the Marion County Canyon Alerts Project, which aims to install audible sirens and notification systems in Santiam Canyon areas to provide alerts when cell service or power is unavailable.
Ryan Crowther explained that the project has a $1.8 million grant from the Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Technology and Equipment program that must be expended by March 31, 2026. The county requested the exemption to permit an alternative competitive solicitation process (performance-based, supplier-specific designs and manufacturer competition) permitted under county rules and Oregon law for certain procurements. Notice of the hearing was issued April 4, 2025; no public comments were received during the notification period. Commissioner Danielle Bethell closed the hearing.
The board then convened as the Contract Review Board and approved an order granting the exemption to use the alternative competitive solicitation process for the Canyon Alerts Project. The motion was made and approved by unanimous voice vote. Staff described the exemption as intended to accelerate the timeline and prioritize performance-based selection over lowest cost. The board adjourned at 9:58 a.m.
