Board meetings, strategic plans, and buyer signals from Derek Bliss’s organization
Jul 21, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
Metro Council Council Meeting
The Council focused on the approval of $26 million in grant awards for various community nature and capital projects, including bond-funded nature and neighborhood capital grants, community choice grants, and large-scale community vision awards. Presentations were held regarding specific projects such as the Kellogg Dam removal at Mount Hood Community College, Evergreen Park nature play area, Milwaukee Bay Park enhancements, Clacket Park restoration, and the World Forestry Center Plaza renovation. The Council also reviewed public testimony procedures and discussed the required matching funds for these grant initiatives.
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The council held a business meeting to interview two candidates for an open counselor position in District 4. The candidates, Josh Manis and Miles Palasios, provided personal statements and answered questions regarding their vision for Metro's role in the region over the next 10 years, their experience and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and their approach to communicating with constituents.
Jul 7, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
Metro Council Work Session
The council held a work session focused on economic development as part of an ongoing series regarding regional prosperity and opportunity. Presentations were provided by partners from Business Oregon and Greater Portland, Inc., covering strategies for business recruitment, retention, and the role of regional economic development organizations. Key topics included the importance of collaboration between state and local entities, the ecosystem supporting business growth, and efforts to address economic inequities through targeted interventions and long-term planning.
Jun 30, 2026·BoardMeeting
Board
Metro Council Work Session
The Metro Council work session featured a presentation on the 2025 Affordable Housing Bond annual report, highlighting significant progress in unit production, with the program exceeding initial goals through committed funding for thousands of new affordable homes. Key discussion topics included the economic impact of bond-funded construction, affirmative marketing efforts to serve priority populations, and the integration of on-site resident services in new developments. The council and presenters also addressed ongoing industry challenges, including rising construction and operating costs, inflation, and high interest rates. Additionally, the oversight committee provided reflections on property management needs, resident experience, and how current market conditions are impacting the feasibility of the remaining housing pipeline.
Extracted from official board minutes, strategic plans, and video transcripts.
