Twenty-five elected city officials from thirteen cities joined with sponsors and speakers to share experiences, information, ideas and common interests. More than 80 potential progressive city elected officials were identified in Oregon, including those newly elected. To bring together 25 unpaid or minimally paid officials on a beautiful Saturday was quite an accomplishment. As follow up, Eben Fodor initiated an e-mail list serve for those attending so as to continue the exchange of information. Our thanks to Eben and to the attendees who demonstrated their dedication and interest in an Oregon that is not focused on continued growth.
Sustainability requires simultaneously meeting environmental, economic and community needs.
The executive order was created with an initial focus within State government on centrally coordinated functions such as building construction and procurement, and promoting a range of efforts to enhance sustainable practices and products in Oregon's economy. The executive order also created a sustainability work group comprising members of the Legislative Assembly and State, business and community leaders. The purpose of the Governor's Sustainability Work Group is to help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of State efforts, and to recommend options for additional steps the State might take. This report represents the first of two reports by the Work Group to the Governor and the Legislative Assembly. The Sustainability Work Group met on August 11, November 8 and December 13 to receive updates from the State and to provide recommendations regarding current and potential actions.