The recent Secretary of State audit of DEQ’s strategic planning process confirms what we already knew: we need more resources to address climate change and protect human health and the environment in Oregon..
The good news is that the audit found our current strategic planning process aligns with what Governor Tina Kotek asked agencies to do and can be the first step in a long-term strategy to address these issues.
The audit states, “For DEQ to develop a robust agency-wide strategic plan that effectively guides their environmental work and embodies anti-racist principles, the agency will need to dedicate time and resources to the process for the foreseeable future.”
The report includes two specific recommendations, each of which has many parts. Director Leah Feldon sent a formal response to the auditors agreeing with their findings.
“DEQ strongly concurs with these recommendations and is committed to implementing its antiracist Strategic Plan and DEI Plan, and recognizes doing so will benefit all of Oregon and its environment,” Feldon said.
DEQ’s strategic planning team will present the draft plan to the Environmental Quality Commission for approval on Thursday, May 23.
Let’s work together to prioritize our environment and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.
-Lauren Wirtis, DEQ Communications Manager