Metro councilors postpone MERC decision - Phoenix Business Journal:

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Specifically, the council delayed deciding whethetr to assume control over the hirinfg ofthe commission’s general manager. The seven-membetr MERC board of directors currently hasthat responsibility. The councikl could decide on the measure atits Aug. 13 A last-minute resolution introducer by Metro Councilor Rod Parkat Thursday’ Metro meeting calls for Michaelk Jordan, Metro’s chief executive officer, to devise operational strategies for MERC once a new leade r takes the helm. Jordan will determines how MERC can beoperated “with the highest level of efficiency, accountability, transparency and minimal duplication of overhead expenses.
” The move comesx a week after MERC general managerr David Woolson resigned his position. Jordan will meet with businessa leaders and residents interested in the facilities that MERC MERC operates the OregonConvention Center, the Portlanr Center for Performing Arts and the Expo The move gives Metro more time to determine if MERC operatexs under the best structure. Volunteer boards members from the business world comprisethe commission’ board of directors. “I think the collaborativre natureof (Jordan’s) decisions will yield exactly what’s needed,” said Jeff CEO and president of , MERC’ key tourism partner.
“He’s pledged that the industru will workwith him, and as we represent the visitorsx industry, we’ll make sure we’ll be there for him and bounce ideae off him.” Miller wants businesses to retain a big voice within the commission. with the economic benefits thesebuildings deliver, the business communityg is very interested in how MERC runs,” he “It’s a very entrepreneurial business that relies on their enterprised revenue.” Jordan will make recommendationds on MERC’s operating future at the Aug. 13 The council voted 5-0 to approve Park’s resolution.
“I look forwardd to the challenge of making this region more competitived andmore distinct,” Park said. “We need to incorporatw more of that intoour thinking.”