Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) invites everyone to attend the 2023 Columbia Gorge Annual Economic Symposium on Friday, November 3rd at the Pavilion at the Port of Cascade Locks Marine Park from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The event brings together leaders across the region in the areas of government, economic development, workforce development, and business to learn together and network.

Jeff Rahier, 38, spent months living in his pickup and then with friends before securing a rental home here in The Dalles. He’s not alone. A recent survey by CCCNews found a total of 22 units available in Wasco County. A boom in housing prices and a lack of buildable land are not making things easier. Locals can spend years trying to find a home and then struggle to come up with the entrance fees. Read more.

Local businesses hurting from the pandemic may see some financial relief in the form of grants in weeks to come. That may be good news for businesses such as restaurants or gyms that have seen a vast drop in revenue or even forced to temporarily close such as in the case of athletic clubs. Grants to be available as early as next week.

Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) will be hosting the 2020 Columbia Gorge Economic Symposium virtually on Friday, November 6. Considering recent impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic on our regional economy and community, this year’s event will focus on economic and employment trends, as well as the road ahead for recovery and resilience.