After a series of discussions and public feedback sessions through August, the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners voted to maintain the current tax thresholds for their Preschool for All (PFA) initiative, deferring the consideration of inflation indexing to future board meetings. This move follows a comprehensive analysis and testimony involving the economic benefits and the pathway to achieving universal preschool coverage. According to Multnomah County's news release, the Board has committed to reconvene and further discuss other proposals for program improvement after additional public input and in-depth review by program staff and county economists.
The Technical Advisory Group (TAG), engaged in reviewing the program's financial framework, could not reach a consensus on recommending to index the tax thresholds at this time, prompting the board to decide not to adjust the tax. In light of this decision, TAG is set to conduct a broader evaluation of the tax structure and its implications on regional economic competitiveness and demographic trends related to universal coverage. The findings are expected to be published in early 2026. As reported by Multnomah County, the program utilizes its initial surpluses to strategically fund expansion efforts necessary to reach its goal of universal access.
Now in its fourth year, PFA has been a pivotal element of the county's early education landscape, readying to enroll nearly 4,000 children - a 70% increase in Preschool for All seats since last year. This increment contributes to making preschool available to over 40% of the 3- and 4-year-olds in Multnomah County.
Initial enrollment data revealed that PFA has been successful in reaching its priority populations. Figures show that 71% of participating children come from families with incomes at or below 350% of the Federal Poverty Level, and 65% of children identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color. Additionally, 30% of families involved in the program speak a language other than English. The program not only supports the children but also provides a safety net for preschool providers amidst other service reductions.
