Budget and Business

At the outset of the recent Budget Committee meetings, each member was given the opportunity to speak about his or her concerns as we entered consideration of the the budget. Concerns ranged from eliminating staff positions, to proper use of transient room tax revenue, to replacement of the ambulance, to how much control the council has over the budget. Now that the budget committee has made their recommendation to council, my question is, "What are your concerns about next year's budget? Is there anything you would like the council to change? What do you see as our biggest financial challenges in the coming year?

There have been several business ventures proposed for starting up or moving to Cascade Locks (Casino, Nestle, Foundry, etc.). In most cases, there has been support and at least some level of opposition. What other kinds businesses would you like to see start up or move to Cascade Locks? What can the city or port do to help make this happen? What would be the advantage of having this kind of business in town?