One Washington County Oregon

In honor of National Community Development Week (April 6–10), this episode spotlights how Washington County’s Office of Community Development strengthens local neighborhoods through Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Emergency Solutions Grant funding. As the CDBG program celebrates 52 years, we look at its impact here at home — from housing rehabilitation and emergency rental assistance to community facilities, small business support, and vital services. With more than $112 million invested in Washington County since the program began, we highlight how these resources advance its mission to support low‑ to moderate‑income residents and build vibrant, resilient communities. 

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In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Tara Olson, a program supervisor at Washington County who shares a personal story of how the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program changed the course of her family’s life. Tara reflects on her mother’s experience as a 19-year-old navigating pregnancy alone in the 1990s — working warehouse jobs, unaware of the support WIC could offer. It wasn’t until her second pregnancy that Tara’s mom discovered WIC. As a single mother of two, WIC became a lifeline — providing nutritious food, baby formula, and guidance during a critical time. Now, decades later, Tara leads the very program that once supported her family. She shares insights on how WIC continues serving families across Washington County. Whether you’re a parent, a neighbor, or simply someone who cares about community health, this episode is a reminder of the value of County services to the community.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

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Since opening in 2018, Washington County’s soon-to-be-renamed Family Justice Center has helped more than 21,000 survivors of violence and abuse. Hear how the unique partnership of nonprofits, law enforcement, and community agencies is changing lives across the County as they work together towards a shared vision: a world where no one needs its services. 

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Think you know your library? Think again! In this special game show edition of One Washington County Oregon, we’re turning up the volume on fun and facts. Join host Christian Aniciete and guest Lisa Tattersall, Washington County Cooperative Library Services Manager, as they challenge two unsuspecting County employees to see who has a better understanding of how WCCLS powers the county’s public library system. Spoiler alert: it’s tougher than your average trivia night — and a whole lot more fun!
 

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In this episode, Board of County Commissioners Chair Kathryn Harrington joins us to reflect on her 2025 State of the County address — celebrating progress, facing challenges, and looking ahead to what’s next for Washington County. We discuss affordable housing, innovation in public safety and mental health, and the upcoming Public Safety and Library Levies and what is at stake for the most diverse county in Oregon.

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When a mental health crisis happens, every second matters. Washington County’s Mental Health Response Team pairs a deputy with a clinician to bring safety, care and compassion to those in crisis. In this episode, we explore how this partnership helps de-escalate emergencies and link people to the support they need. With an average of 3,500 calls a year, MHRT is changing the way our community responds to mental health needs. 

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In this episode, we hear from the Westside Commons and Fair Complex Manager, Leah Perkins-Hagele about the Westside Commons and Wingspan Event and Conference Center’s wide range of events, spaces and offerings as well as the current excitement surrounding this year's Big Fair Fun at the Washington County Fair that’s taking place Friday, July 18, through Sunday, July 27.

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In this episode, we dive into Washington County’s bold efforts to expand broadband access and close the digital divide. From the findings of the 2023 Countywide Broadband Study to community partnerships, infrastructure investments, and innovating solutions, we explore how the county is working to ensure fast, reliable internet for all. Hear from the County’s Senior Broadband Investment Coordinator Cristian Salgado on what’s being done, why it matters, and how you can be part of the movement toward a more connected future. 

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In this episode, we hear from John Wheeler, Washington County’s Emergency Manager, about the County's ongoing planning efforts related to various potential hazards that put our community at risk. Learn how we’re preparing for everything from climate-related hazards to earthquakes, including our “Take 5 to Survive” program to help individuals and families be more resilient in a disaster. 
 

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In this episode, we hear from Health & Human Services Behavioral Health Division Manager Nicholas Ocon about the County's wide range of addiction and mental health services and ongoing collaborative efforts with state and local partners to meet the deep and complex needs of our community. 

Learn more about Washington County:

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• NextDoor