The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners confirmed Nathaniel VerGow as the new permanent director of the Homeless Services Department on April 9. VerGow, who previously served as deputy chief program officer at the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, will begin his role on May 4.
VerGow’s appointment comes after an extensive search that included over 100 candidates from both local and national pools. Chair Jessica Vega Pederson said, “Nathaniel was selected to fill this important role for the county and our community after an extensive search that drew over 100 local and national candidates. While there were many qualified candidates, Nathaniel stood out because he brings substantial expertise from his time at the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, or LAHSA.” She added that VerGow understands a range of services including prevention, shelter, and housing.
Sara Morrissey, a deputy chief operating officer for Multnomah County, said that VerGow’s previous work included managing new funding streams and increasing shelter beds. Morrissey also highlighted his focus on data-driven decision making: “[His] work strengthened capacity by managing new funding and increasing shelter beds, improving performance management and oversight, and fostering a culture of data-driven decisionmaking, including the introduction of new progress dashboards.”
During his remarks to commissioners, VerGow acknowledged challenges ahead due to budget constraints but committed to working with department staff and partners “to both increase efficiency and improve oversight.” He also pledged collaboration with Portland and East County cities “to coordinate outreach services, and ensure equitable access to services across the County.”
The board approved VerGow’s appointment in a 3-2 vote. Commissioner Julia Brim-Edwards questioned him about accountability issues related to a service provider funded by LAHSA. In response VerGow said: “It was our agency that uncovered the issues and brought it to light,” adding that LAHSA had cut ties with the provider in question.
Commissioners Vince Jones-Dixon and Shannon Singleton voted against confirming VerGow; Jones-Dixon cited concerns about fit while Singleton pointed out upcoming leadership changes in county government as her reason for voting no. Despite dissenting votes, other commissioners voiced confidence in VerGow’s experience handling complex homelessness systems.
Chair Vega Pederson recognized Anna Plumb for serving as interim director since June 2025 following Dan Field’s retirement. Plumb will return to her role as deputy director when VerGow assumes office.
Vega Pederson concluded her remarks by saying: “One of the things that struck me when talking to you was that you really understood the importance of that system – a system that really works to meet people where they are, to be data-driven, and ultimately to have the impacts we want to have and the community expects us to have.”
