Humboldt Bay Energy, a corporation registered in Nevada but operating out of Eureka, Calif., has come forward as interested in buying the site, and the bankruptcy court trustee charged with selling Blue Heron's assets said the company is furthest along in the process of buying the property.

Commuters in the Portland metro region who ride public transportation instead of drive vehicles save an average of $844 each month, which adds up to $10,131 annually.

Metro invites comments on the updated Regional Travel Options (RTO) Strategic Plan. The comment period begins Tuesday, February 21 and runs through 5 p.m., Wednesday, March 21.

In its ruling, the court says political realities were a valid reason for Metro approving the Land Use Final Order. But it also said Metro overstretched its authority by approving the project beyond the urban growth boundary.

The program, which periodically polls nearly 11,000 of the region's residents, has been pitched by Metro staff as a way to get more input from the public, which traditionally have been reluctant to offer thoughts on the agency's policy goals. It also could be used for scientific polling if enough people sign up and participate.

Project vision statement, crafted by Southwest Corridor steering committee members, talks about "livable and prosperous places." Cities in the corridor want to make sure they have flexibility for future growth.

A proposal in Congress would undermine the Portland area's ability to build a balanced transportation system that provides travel options and protects air quality, Metro Council President Tom Hughes said today.

Metro's Active Transportation Plan will identify a main network of on- and off-street bicycling and walking facilities, as well as develop policies that support active transportation. The plan will also prioritize projects and recommend a funding and implementation strategy.

Local policies designed to preserve farmland and make livable neighborhoods have made the Portland area well prepared to reduce emissions related to climate change, but more work will be needed to meet state targets and maintain the quality of life the region is striving for.

I was recently interviewed on the radio about the prospects of Metro Council work for this new year of 2012, so I thought I'd share that same information with you here, in my monthly newsletter. As your Metro Councilor, along with my six colleagues on the Council who lead your regional metropolitan services agency, I continue my focus on increasing the local jobs base and economy as well as supporting vibrant communities and your quality of life.