MHCC BOND OVERSIGHT

The Mt. Hood Community College District Board of Education approved two high-value contracts and appointed seven community members to the newly formed Bond Oversight Committee during its Nov. 19 meeting.

These decisions move the college into the next phase of work connected to the $136.4 million general obligation bond measure approved by voters earlier this year.

Project management contract approved

MHCC completed a competitive solicitation for project management firms to support the planning and execution of upcoming bond- and grant-funded construction projects. Six proposals were submitted.

The Mt. Hood administration recommended awarding the contract to R&C Management Group, based in Vancouver, Washington, with an initial spending cap of $200,000 for Phase 1. Once this phase is completed, the administration will bring back a total project fee proposal for final Board approval.

In addition, the Board approved a long-term fresh produce contract for MHCC’s Child Development & Family Support (CDFS) program. After receiving four bids, the college selected Seattle-based wholesale firm Charlie’s Produce, with costs not to exceed $500,000 through June 30, 2029.

Board appoints members to bond oversight committee

In a stated effort to ensure transparency and community accountability, the Board approved the appointment of seven local residents to serve on MHCC’s newly created Bond Oversight Committee. The panel will monitor spending, review audits, and report annually to the board.

The appointed members include:

• Diane McKeel – 2-year term (also selected as Committee Chair)

• Douglas Lee Walker – 1-year term

• Heather Coleman-Cox – 2-year term

• Bill Kassing – 1-year term

• John Lindenthal – 2-year term

• James K. Hiu – 1-year term

• William J. Ohle – 2-year term

Each member brings extensive professional experience, ranging from government leadership and construction project management to nonprofit work, education administration, and law.

Several appointees have long histories with MHCC – including McKeel, recently the District Board chair – or strong ties to East County community organizations.

The committee also will include a current MHCC Board member, not yet named, who will serve a two-year term as the Board’s representative.

Committee purpose and role

The new panel follows voter approval in May 2025 of the $136 million bond measure to modernize career education facilities, improve safety, expand student access, and update aging infrastructure at the Mt. Hood campus.

The committee’s responsibilities include:

· Ensuring bond revenues are spent only as authorized

· Reviewing program performance and financial audits

· Monitoring integration of additional funds, such as state matching grants

· Reporting to the Board and community on progress and expenditures

While not making financial decisions directly, members are meant to serve a critical advisory role designed to keep the community informed and maintain trust through several years of construction work, the college said.

MHCC is now moving forward into the early phases of bond project planning and execution. Community members can expect regular updates as the committee begins its work and as Phase 1 project management planning gets underway.