Note:  These updates are informational only.  It is not legal advice.  
If you have questions about the information in any update, please contact us so we can properly assess
your situation and discuss a resolution that best suits your government.

The Budget Process in Four Simple Steps

It is already the beginning of February and budget season is upon us! Many of you are already off and running. This article explains the budget process in four simple steps.

Public Contracting Tips and Traps

Although the 2024 legislative session did not mandate any particular public contracting rule updates, here are some emerging trends, basic public contracting reminders, and an explanation of one change to standard engineer and architect contract terms required by legislation that took effect on January 1, 2025.

EEOC Updates Workplace Harassment Guidelines

In April 2024 the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) published its updated guidance on workplace harassment, This guidance intended to serve as a resource on legal standards and employer liability for harassment claims under EEOC-enforced federal discrimination laws and will be explored in this article.

Union Bargaining Preparation for 2025

Executive sessions can be useful tools to allow governing bodies to discuss confidential matters not yet appropriate for general public knowledge. Be sure that your board or council is familiar with the allowances and limitations of ORS 192.660 and related statutes and rules before calling an executive session. When in doubt, check with legal counsel before noticing the meeting to ensure that all requirements are properly met.