Serena Cruz resigns as Multnomah County's Chief Operating Officer, effective September 20.

Serena Cruz has resigned as Multnomah County's Chief Operating Officer, effective September 20. Appointed in May 2021, her departure comes amid challenges, including delays in opening a drug possession deflection center. Deputy COO Travis Graves will serve as interim COO while the county conducts a nationwide search for a replacement, utilizing a diversity-focused recruitment firm. Reasons for Cruz's resignation remain undisclosed.