Commissioner Danielle Bethell Elected President of the Association of Oregon Counties
Marion County Commissioner Danielle Bethell has been elected as the president of the Association of Oregon Counties (AOC), a significant role she assumed following the organization’s annual conference on Thursday, November 16. Her election to this position marks a continuation of her progressive leadership roles within the AOC, having previously served as second vice chair and first vice chair.
Commissioner Bethell’s new role as AOC president will involve a one-year term where she will lead the AOC’s board of directors. Her responsibilities include representing the interests of county governments throughout Oregon. Upon her election, Commissioner Bethell expressed her dedication to the position. “I am honored to be elected president of the Association of Oregon Counties,” she stated. “I am committed to working with and learning from my fellow commissioners across Oregon to improve our counties and the communities we serve.”
The AOC, a non-profit entity, functions as a representative body for Oregon’s 36 counties. It offers a range of services to its members, which include advocacy, training, technical assistance, and policy level education. Additionally, the organization plays a critical role in advocating on behalf of county governments to the Oregon State Legislature.
Commissioner Bethell’s tenure as president commenced on November 17, 2023. She has outlined key areas of focus for her term, which include enhancing collaboration, resources, and outcomes in critical sectors such as behavioral health, housing, and public safety initiatives. Her leadership is expected to be pivotal in shaping the approach of county governments in these areas.
Throughout 2024, Commissioner Bethell will collaborate with other county commissioners to formulate policies to present at the 2025 Oregon legislative session. The goal of these policies is to establish a more service-oriented system of care, tailored to meet the unique needs of each county in Oregon and the residents they support. This focus aligns with the AOC’s broader mission of serving the diverse needs of county governments and enhancing the quality of life for all Oregonians.
Commissioner Bethell’s election as president of the AOC is seen as a step forward in addressing the pressing issues faced by counties across Oregon. Her leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective and renewed vigor to the organization’s efforts in advocating for the needs and interests of county governments at both the state and local levels.