CEDS March 31st Meeting

On March 31st, 2021, community members gathered virtually for the kick-off meeting to update the region’s comprehensive economic development strategy. The strategy will outline a five-year plan for the regional economic development covering Hood River, Wasco and Sherman counties in Oregon and Skamania and Klickitat counties in Washington. This strategy is updated every five years and serves as a guide to understand the local economy, strengthen partnerships, and improve overall quality of life.

This March 31st event featured presentations by Tim Duy and Robert Parker, researchers at University of Oregon’s Institute for Policy, Research, and Engagement on COVID-19 impacts to the region and the prinicples of a resilient economy, as well as a presentation by MCEDD staff member, Jane Allen, who shared findings from a regional needs assessment conducted earlier this year.

The meeting also included breakout sessions centered around themes of equitable recovery and regional resilience. A summary of those conversations, along with featured presentations can be found below.

March 31st Presentations:

COVID-19 Economic Impacts Mid-Columbia – Tim Duy, University of Oregon

Mid Columbia Needs Assessment – Jane Allen, MCEDD Project Coordinator

Economic Resilience – Robert Parker, University of Oregon

SummaryofBreakoutDiscussions_MarchCEDSMeeting

Information gathered at the monthly events will be pulled together with secondary research to develop the final plan, the Mid-Columbia Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for 2022-2027.