More than 100 people attended the Jan. 24 forum of the Westside Economic Alliance, featuring Mayor Charlie Hales.

The allianceis a non-profit organization that advocates for a healthy economic environment on the Westside of thePortland metropolitan region, including Washington County. The forum took place at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Tigard.

Hales discussed land-use issues; his priorities for the first six months in office; river cleanup projects; and the ways businesses relate to city government.

He took audience questions on issues ranging from the Columbia River Crossing to Portland’s form of government. He also renewed his call for Congress and the Oregon Legislature to address common-sense gun control laws to stop the spread of the illegal use of firearms.

Council Executive Director Pam Treece said she believes Hales to be the first Portland mayor ever to address that organization’s main meeting.

http://www.westside-alliance.org/