Overview

Multnomah County is the local government for Oregon communities that include Portland, Gresham and rural areas along the Columbia River. It runs a safety net health system with primary care, dental and behavioral health services for residents, including people without insurance. Its public services also cover libraries and elections, while county agencies handle community justice and maintain roads and bridges. A nonpartisan elected board governs the county, with commissioners representing districts and a countywide chair acting as chief executive. The county was created in 1854 and has its government headquarters in the Multnomah Building in Portland, Oregon.