November 2, 2006

MCCI is Metro’s citizen’s involvement committee chartered by the voters when Metro was formed.  Its purpose is to distribute information from Metro and to Metro about citizen’s views, concerns and ideas.  It does not advocate for or against any particular position.  It attempts to facilitate a discussion with the hope that better and more representative decisions can be reached for the betterment of the community as a whole.

Councilor Robert Liberty spoke on two topics urging increased citizens’ involvement in town center and transportation planning.  He returned from a planning meeting where other communities are exploring the use of computer based interactive planning technology as a way to increase public participation.     He is looking for groups who might like to be involved in the feasibility and interest in these new techniques.     

Councilor Liberty also spoke on the need for citizens now, more than ever, to be involved in the transportation planning for the region.  There are significantly more projects requesting funding than funds available for the foreseeable future.  Citizens are needed to help prioritize and coordinate this effort so that community’s plan meets multiple needs and goals.  Councilor Liberty can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Sue Gemmell spoke on Metro’s plan to upgrade and improve its web site.  If you have ideas or suggestions, contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

Mike Hoglund spoke on Solid Waste and Recycling, citing both accomplishments and concerns to be faced in the future.  Recycling continues to be one of Metro’s important areas of service to the community but it faces a number of challenges.  If interested in further information and involvement, contact Mike at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Metro continues to seek ways to increase its outreach to under represented communities in the area.  Increased representation from these communities is the primary goal of this effort.  If you have ideas or contacts, please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

If you have outreach ideas or concerns about communications between Metro and your community, please contact me at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it and I will pass along you comments.

Mark Knudsen