Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cornelius public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
7 issues in public safety with high priority
Washington County Police Services Contract Costs
Chief Coley reported steady crime numbers for the first four months of 2026 — 761 traffic stops, 1,213 public-demand calls, 260 arrests — and credited the sheriff's office for 400 hours of investigative help after last year's tragedy. DHS reports dropped 20% countywide.
Family Peace Center services and survivor support
The Family Peace Center served 3,479 people in its first eight months in its new Hillsboro building, including 109 Cornelius residents — a 137% increase. The biggest gaps are permanent housing for survivors and dedicated elder abuse services. Cornelius residents can walk in 8:30–4 weekdays or call the 24-hour line.
Sanctuary law compliance and immigration enforcement
Council members spoke emotionally about ICE arrests in the community and elsewhere, urging residents to stay safe, use the city's resource website, consider signing up with Equity Corps of Oregon, and call 988 in a mental health crisis.
Youth gun violence and community violence reduction
The sheriff's community violence reduction team pulled over 210 guns off county streets in a year, including 11 from juveniles, with adults arming kids to dodge harsher penalties. Councilors asked how the city can partner, including e-bike safety outreach and school-based youth services officers.
Geographic equity of homeless services in Washington County
Mayor Dalin pressed county officials on why western Washington County — Cornelius, Hillsboro, eastern Forest Grove — hosts a dense cluster of homeless services while affluent areas like Bethany and Cedar Hills have none. He asked what Cornelius's 'fair share' is and floated restructuring a future supportive housing measure to distribute funds directly to cities.
911 Connectivity Failure Concern
A resident said police are minimally staffed and Forest Grove Fire often answers Cornelius calls, and 230 more homes will strain both. Staff noted the city's public facility plan is outdated and will be revisited in the comprehensive plan update.
Traffic safety at 26th Avenue and Beach Street near Free Orchard Elementary
Vice Chair Owens flagged morning traffic near Free Orchard Elementary as a safety hazard for students, and staff confirmed they're working on the 26th and Beach intersection as the short-term priority.