Who May File a Complaint

This Grievance Procedure is established to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ("ADA"). It may be used by anyone who wishes to file a complaint alleging discrimination on the basis of disability in the provision of services, activities, programs, or benefits by Multnomah County.

For employment-related complaints of disability discrimination, please refer to Multnomah County's Personnel Policies.

How to File a Complaint

The complaint should be in writing if possible, though alternative means may be used as necessary upon request, such as an oral interview or tape recording with written or oral affirmation. The complaint should include the name, address and contact information of the complainant and specific information related to the alleged discrimination, including the location, date, nature and description of the action(s) and identity of any individuals involved.

Complaints should be filed as soon as possible, but no later than sixty (60) calendar days after the alleged discriminatory conduct. To file a complaint with Multnomah County, please fill out our online complaint webform or send a written complaint to:

Civil Rights Administrator

Office of Diversity and Equity, Multnomah County

501 SE Hawthorne Blvd Suite 600

Portland, Oregon 97214

diversity.equity@multco.us

What Happens After a Complaint is Filed

Step One: Interview and Inquiry

The Civil Rights Administrator or designee will make every effort to meet with the complainant within fifteen (15) days of receipt to discuss the details of the complaint and explore options for resolution. The Civil Rights Administrator or designee will discuss these options with relevant and appropriate County program staff to determine the extent to which requests for accommodation are reasonable.

Step Two: Determination

Within fifteen (15) calendar days of meeting with the complainant, the Civil Rights Administrator will respond in writing, and where appropriate, in a format accessible to the complainant, to explain the County’s position and offer options for substantive resolution of the complaint, if any.

Step Two: Resolution and Right to Appeal

If the complainant is satisfied with the proposed resolution, they should indicate their acceptance of such to the Civil Rights Administrator, in writing if possible or in a format accessible to the complainant.

If the complainant is not satisfied with the proposed resolution, they may appeal this determination by notifying the Civil Rights Administrator within fifteen (15) calendar days of receiving this response. Any appeal will be heard directly by Multnomah County’s Chief Diversity and Equity Officer. The appeals process will be similar to the original complaint process, concluding with a final resolution of the complaint.