The Building Tomorrow’s Jobs forum held Feb. 1 featured many ways the Portland metropolitan region can better position itself to be an attractive and competitive job market. Tuesday’s speakers, experts in developing economically and ecologically sustainable employment, highlighted clear opportunities for local employers to improve their triple bottom line, as well as tips for cities and counties that want to attract and retain business. Bert Gregory, an expert in developing resource-efficient structures and communities, noted that communities with ambitious objectives are doing great work in the region. "Employers are looking to locate in areas that are hip, urban and green," he said. 

Metro Council President Tom Hughes talks about using Portland's natural assets as a tool to lure companies to the Portland region. He says he'll begin recruiting potential employers next month. Councilors Carlotta Collette, Shirley Craddick and Kathryn Harrington and Auditor Suzanne Flynn also take oath of office.