Erica Gallucci

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.

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.

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.

The council conducted a work session focusing on the region's economic landscape. The session served as the start of a series of presentations regarding the intersection of land use and economic development. Key discussion topics included regional demographic trends, labor force participation rates, unemployment, and wage disparities among different demographic groups. The council explored the impact of current economic factors on regional competitiveness and discussed the importance of leveraging local talent to address economic challenges.

The meetings covered multiple strategic foresight activities aimed at developing a 50-year regional vision. Key topics included reflecting on drivers of change such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and regional demographics. Discussions involved the refinement of a Future Vision Call to Action, analysis of public polling on regional values and sentiments, and the coordination of a future Youth Summit. Additionally, the commission explored research trailheads related to the future of human settlement, governance, social cohesion, and learning and work.