What’s Metro?

The Metro government was formed almost 30 years ago by the Oregon state legislature and is the only directly-elected regional government in the United States.

Metro was created to provide region-wide planning and coordination to manage the growing population, transportation infrastructure needs and development challenges across the jurisdictions.  Since origination, Metro has been given additional region-wide responsibilities, such as solid waste and recycling management, preservation of natural areas, habitat restoration and operations of the Oregon Zoo and the Oregon Convention Center.

The Portland metropolitan area is a wonderful place with its natural areas, thriving cities, and economic vitality.  Metro plays a significant role in helping the region nurture, maintain and enhance these amenities that make the area such a great place.

Metro is governed by a Council President along with a six-board Council, who are elected from districts. The Council establishes policies and oversees the operation of Metro’s programs, working with local governments and leaders to accomplish the mission of the Metro charter.

The Metro region includes Multnomah, Clackamas and Washington counties.  There are 25 cities within the jurisdiction’s boundaries.  District 1 includes the cities of Gresham, Troutdale, Wood Village, Fairview, Happy Valley and Damascus, along with some of east Portland.

--synopsis of Metro information:  http://www.oregonmetro.gov/index.cfm/go/by.web/id=28