Gorge Commission emphasizes economic development beyond urban areas

During the recent Columbia River Gorge Commission meeting on April 2, 2025, a significant focus emerged on the need to enhance economic development efforts within the Gorge, particularly in areas outside urban boundaries. Commissioners expressed concerns that the current messaging and purpose statement of the Commission do not adequately reflect the importance of economic issues to residents, especially in Skamania and Klickitat Counties.

Commissioner Ulrich emphasized that the Gorge Commission has two primary mandates, yet the economic aspect is often overshadowed. He pointed out that the Commission's website has not updated its purpose statement since 2016, which fails to communicate the relevance of economic development to taxpayers. He argued that without a clear focus on economic growth, it becomes challenging to justify funding for the Commission when competing with other critical areas like mental health and education.

The discussion highlighted the need for the Commission to engage more effectively with the community, moving beyond mere updates to foster meaningful conversations about economic development. Ulrich suggested that economic considerations should be a regular agenda item in future meetings, reinforcing the Commission's commitment to balancing resource protection with economic growth.

Commissioner Bissell echoed these sentiments, noting that the perception of the Commission among residents is not favorable. He pointed out that many community members feel the Commission's regulations are overly stringent, which hampers collaboration and trust. This sentiment underscores the importance of improving the Commission's relationship with the community to foster a more supportive environment for economic initiatives.

As the Commission looks ahead, addressing these concerns will be crucial in aligning its goals with the needs of the residents in the Gorge. By prioritizing economic development and enhancing community engagement, the Commission aims to strengthen its role and relevance in the region, ultimately benefiting the local economy and residents' quality of life.