John, representing the recently formed Estacada Economic Development Commission (EDC), proposed combining this year’s National Night Out with an open‑house event at the industrial park so residents can meet local businesses and learn about job opportunities.
"We have a good group of business folks ... and we could have some stations around there," John said, describing interest from companies such as Northwest Technologies and Timber‑related manufacturers. He suggested combining demonstrations, food vendors and public‑safety displays to connect residents with industrial‑park employers.
Committee members agreed to form a subcommittee to assist with planning and outreach. The committee recorded the subcommittee membership as "Karina, Shirley, and [a third committee member]." The committee discussed vendor interest, noting that Christie’s Smash Burgers and Pam Pittman (trails and kettle corn) had committed to participate.
Committee members confirmed the event date listed in meeting materials as Aug. 5 and discussed an approximate time of about 5–8 p.m. for National Night Out. Participants said they expect 5–10 businesses to open booths and suggested adding music and food to encourage attendance.
Why it matters: Hosting National Night Out in the industrial park would be an effort to bridge residents and area employers and could increase community awareness of local job and training opportunities while keeping the traditional public‑safety focus of the evening.
What’s next: The subcommittee will meet with John and EDC members to develop an itinerary, confirm vendors and logistics, and return to the committee with a plan.