I have been in office as the District 1 Metro Councilor for almost two months. I ran for this position because of my interest in economic development, the environment, recycling, smart land use planning, and public green spaces, which are all part of Metro's diverse portfolio. This confluence of my interests and passions makes it easy for me to promise I will dedicate all my focus to serving the public and representing the voters of my district.

I promised the people in my district that I would work to bring them a better place to live, more jobs, active town centers and a healthy environment. I will do this by working with the Metro Council, and all of Metro's partners, to make sure the right investments are made in all parts of the region.

So what are some of my plans to get us closer to achieving these larger goals?

1. Metro District 1 desperately needs jobs. I want to help create an environment that will bring more jobs to the area.
   
   I fully support the Metro Council's effort to develop a community investment strategy that will help both the private and public sectors make innovative investments in public structures, ensure safety and provide jobs. We need to find a way to invest in what is most important to us, eliminate inefficiencies, and promote economic development.
   
   
2. At the completion of the East Metro Connections Plan, I want the cities in District 1 to have worked together to identify and prioritize a set of transportation projects that will contribute to each jurisdiction's economic development aspirations. One city's project may be the key to the next city's economic prosperity.
   
   The goal of the East Metro Connections Plan is to begin a discussion to develop an integrated community strategy that will help all the jurisdictions achieve their aspirations. Each jurisdiction has a role in the vitality of this district.
   
   
3. I want to have an engaged community that is aware of the role Metro plays and is active in the discussions. Apathy destroys communities; engagement promotes prosperity.
   
   My job is to do my best to make sure you are aware of the discussions at Metro, and have a means to give input. I will communicate with you frequently to keep you updated and allow you the opportunity to give input, but I also want to get you active in Metro forums. One way to do that is to join Opt In, Metro's new online opinion panel. Opt In is a new way to let decision-makers know what is important to you. Complete two or three short online surveys each month about topics that affect you and your community. Contribute your ideas about schools, housing, sustainability, parks, community centers, clean drinking water and more. Your opinions can help guide decisions that strengthen your community. Share what you want, and when you want - Opt In is quick, easy and confidential, and your private information stays private.
   
   Join Opt In today 
   
   
4. I want this district to have an enhanced voice at Metro. For too long, Metro policy has been heavily driven by leaders from other parts of the region.
   
   I want to work with you to develop a forum where we can identify a set of common goals to promote together, so we all achieve our aspirations. This increases the opportunity to get what we want and need. We must speak as one voice.

Some specific projects that are already in the works in the east part of the region that you might want to get involved in:

• Request to be added to the distribution list for the East Metro Connections Plan to stay informed of the discussions.
• Give input to the Glendoveer Golf Course master plan update. The facility is well regarded by residents in the east part of the region; more than 5,000 people walk the perimeter trail weekly and it is a popular golf course. We need to make it even better.
• Continue the effort to promote the construction of a new Lake House at Blue Lake Regional Park that can be used for community forums and public events. We need a facility in the east part of the region that can host large groups and bring events to this district.
• Engage in the discussion of bringing a remote elephant site to the east part of the region. These majestic animals need a site where multiple generations can live together to pass on social behaviors from one generation to the next. 
• Participate in The Intertwine discussion, a regional effort to find ways to service and support our parks and natural areas.

Please respond to this message. I would like to know your thoughts. You can reach me at shirley.craddick@oregonmetro.gov or 503-797-1547.

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