Supporting a strong local economy, creating good jobs, and making it faster and easier for people and businesses in the region to get where they need to go takes strong leadership and cooperation. But getting any of that done takes good relationships.
The strategy has worked well for Metro Council President Tom Hughes in his former roles, and it's one he's using now as he visits chambers of commerce throughout the region to build relationships with local businesses and community leaders. Hughes has spent time with owners and managers of businesses large and small, discovering the challenges they face and how Metro might be able to help. Hughes' tours were organized by the chambers' presidents, and include conversations about transportation and land use as well as economic development.
Understanding what businesses need, hearing it directly from owners or managers and touring in person is the best way to get a full perspective on their challenges and opportunities, Hughes says. During his Wilsonville visit on April 13, Hughes toured Sysco food service and the Rite Aid and Coca-Cola distribution centers, where he spoke with managers about traffic and congestion problems the companies deal with that cost them time and money.
Hughes’ Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce visit on March 11 focused on industrial businesses. With the Eastside Economic Alliance in Gresham on April 22, Hughes discussed land use while touring sites for possible economic development, including Townsend Farms and the Troutdale riverfront. Hughes' visit with the North Clackamas Chamber of Commerce on May 2 will focus on commercial businesses. In Damascus, he'll meet the owner of a small home décor and furnishings store, Terra Casa, before traveling to meet the manager of Clackamas Tire and Brake. Hughes also plans a visit with the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce on May 4.
Hughes plans to continue and even expand his visits to chambers of commerce throughout the region. "You can't build a relationship in just one visit. I plan to go back and stay in touch to be able to better understand how Metro can help," he said. "We're going to make a great place together, and we're in it for the long run."