County asks Brown for local control of racial equity funds
By Terry Murry on Thursday, February 4th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
PENDLETON – Officials from Umatilla County are reaching out to Gov. Kate Brown regarding her commitment to setting aside $250 million for programs designed to bring about racial equity and combat systemic racism. Umatilla County Board of Commissioners Chairman George Murdock said they’ve written a letter urging the governor to make sure the money is not just used for a statewide program.
“Our concern in Umatilla County is whether or not that will just become $250 million that will be used for a one-size-fits-all state effort that doesn’t really work too well out here, Murdock said.
The letter points out that Umatilla County is one of the most diverse counties in the state, but its rural roots don’t fit the mold of state programs that are being discussed.
“In order to get a true community buy-in, true community participation, and to truly make a difference, then we’re going to have to have the tools and the resources at the local level,” Murdock said.
