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Commissioner Bob Austin

  • Bob AustinTook office as Clackamas County Commissioner January 8, 2009
  • Mayor of Estacada from 1999-2008
  • Served on numerous local and regional committees including the League of Oregon Cities, Metro’s Reserves Process Steering Committee, Metro’s Policy Advisory Committee and the Mt. Hood Economic Alliance.
  • Undergraduate biology degree from King’s College, Pennsylvania and a master’s degree in biology from Central Michigan University. Graduate-level courses at Lewis & Clark College.
  • Extensive background in environmental awareness and protection. Former biologist at Everglades National Park, Florida, 1988-98; Deputy Director, Fish & Wildlife, Bonneville Power.

Bob’s Priorities

Bob has several priorities as Clackamas County Commissioner:

Promoting economic development and job creation

  • Ensuring that existing businesses stay strong and competitive.
  • Attracting new businesses providing family wage jobs.
  • Expanding access to workforce training, especially for veterans.
  • Promoting job growth, particularly manufacturing, high-tech, “green” energy and high paying jobs.

Building strong communities, ensuring efficient delivery of county services

  • Fiscally responsible, sustainable government that meets the needs of residents in urban and rural areas.
  • Easy and uncomplicated access to support and assistance for our veterans and their families.
  • Providing health care to our most vulnerable populations, particularly children in rural areas.
  • Promoting energy efficiency and assistance programs for low-income households.
  • Providing and expanding transportation alternatives for residents in urban and rural areas of Clackamas County.
  • Development of a strategic plan that best meets the needs of our residents.

Promoting environmental health and sustainability

  • Forward-looking planning for future growth while preserving farmland and open space for future generations.
  • Protecting our environment.
  • Development of programs that boost energy efficiency and promote “green” and renewable technology for households and businesses.

Bob’s Projects

  • Clackamas County Strategic Plan
  • Forest Practices Update
  • Biomass/Energy Renewables