Posted
At the Board of Commissioners meeting, the Board issued proclamations recognizing Building Safety Month and Public Works Week, both of which highlight the essential work of Land Use & Transportation (LUT) employees.
Each proclamation was read by county staff who represent these efforts in their daily work. Carol Johnson, Planning and Development Services Manager, and Sarah Don, Senior Building Permit Technician, presented the Building Safety Month proclamation. Ed Meeuwsen, Operations Superintendent with LUT, and Joe Gall, Chief Utility Relations Officer with Clean Water Services (CWS), presented the proclamation for Public Works Week.
Building Safety Month
Building Safety Month, founded by the International Code Council, is celebrated each May to raise awareness about critical building safety issues, building codes and the officials who enforce them. LUT Building Services staff help ensure that homes and other structures across Washington County are built to meet safety standards that reduce the risk of injury, loss of life and property damage.
The 2026 theme, “Built to Last!”, highlights the importance of planning for safety long before construction begins. Throughout May, LUT will focus on applying professional safety standards and using new tools and methods that support safer, more resilient buildings throughout the county.
Public Works Week
National Public Works Week, May 17-23, honors our employees who plan, design, build and maintain the infrastructure communities rely on every day. LUT public works staff, along with partners such as Clean Water Services, support transportation, stormwater services, emergency response and other essential operations across the county.
The 2026 theme, “Rooted in Service, Powered by Community,” recognizes that public works professionals are deeply connected to the communities they serve. Some of their work, such as road construction, is highly visible. Other contributions, including the maintenance of water and sewer systems, are less visible but equally vital. Together, these efforts create safe, connected and thriving communities.
Public Works Fair
Community is invited to celebrate Public Works Week at the Public Works Fair on Saturday, May 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Beaverton City Park next to the Beaverton Farmers Market.
The event will feature activities, fun prizes for all ages, and opportunities to meet LUT staff and learn about the work they do.