MCEDD Recent News Items

Notice of Funding Opportunity: Biglow Ag Mitigation Fund

October 5, 2026 – Notice of Funding Opportunity Date Issued: October 5, 2026 Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) on behalf of Sherman County (County) and PGE as operator of the Biglow Solar Project (Project Sponsor) announce the availability of $980,800 in grant funds for projects that uplift the Sherman County agricultural economy. This fund was established in June 2026 under the Biglow Solar Community Investment Plan (CIP), approved in March 2026 by the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council (EFSC) as an amendment to Portland General Electric Company’s existing Biglow Canyon Wind Farm Site Certificate. The Biglow Solar approval provides reasons upon which EFSC may grant an exception to Oregon’s Statewide Planning Goal 3 and authorize the removal of up to 1,445 acres from dryland wheat production for the life of the Solar Components. The Project Sponsor performed an agricultural economic impact analysis to evaluate the direct, indirect, and induced impacts from removing up to 1,445 acres of land from dryland wheat production. As a result, a fund was established to support the agricultural economy in Sherman County with Mitigation Projects that advance priorities of the local agricultural community as identified in the CIP as Mitigation Selection Criteria. The CIP also established a Selection Committee to review grant applications and make funding recommendations to the Sherman County Court. The Committee is designed to represent a range of agricultural, community, government, research, and wildfire perspectives. Committee members were identified through a combination of designated representation, an open public recruitment process, and appointment. The CIP lists pre-screened projects that were developed based on outreach and coordination with key stakeholders from the Sherman County agricultural community, as well as state-wide agricultural-related organizations. Funding is available to both pre-screened and non-pre-screened projects that address at least one of the five Mitigation Selection Criteria identified in the CIP, which include: 1. Improving resiliency and efficiency of Sherman County’s agricultural economy; 2. Improving agricultural wildfire protection and risk management capacity; 3. Investing in research to further agrivoltaics for dryland wheat lands; 4. Investing in agricultural education for next-generation farmers; and 5. Subsidizing the price of wheat produced in Sherman County. Who Can Apply • Individuals and organizations/entities may apply. • An individual may apply as the sole project lead or as the lead applicant for a collaborative project with other community members. • Organizations/entities may also apply and may include project partners or collaborators. • One individual or organization/entity must serve as the lead applicant and will be responsible for the grant award, including the grant agreement, management of funds, and required reporting. • Collaboration is encouraged but is not required. Project Requirements All proposed projects must: • Demonstrate how they will help mitigate the impact of the Biglow Solar Project on Sherman County’s agricultural economy; and • Address at least one of the Mitigation Selection Criteria above. Project Readiness Projects may be at any stage of development when applying. A project does not need to be fully designed or ready to begin; however, applicants should have a clear project concept and be able to describe the steps, timeline, and resources needed to move the project forward. Selection Committee & Review Process The Selection Committee reviews eligible applications and makes funding recommendations to the Sherman County Court, which makes final funding decisions. The Committee includes the following perspectives and areas of representation: • Sherman County government representative • Academic institution engaged in agricultural research in Sherman County or an agricultural-related nonprofit in Sherman County • Dryland farm producer in Sherman County • Oregon Wheat Growers League representative • Community member in Sherman County • Representative with expertise in wildfire as it relates to agricultural lands in Sherman County • Statewide or regional agricultural subject matter expert selected by the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council (non-voting) Following its initial review of applications, the Selection Committee may choose to identify finalists for further consideration. Finalists will be invited to participate in a Q&A discussion with the Committee about their proposed project before final funding recommendations are made to the Sherman County Court. Links to CIP & Grant Application  • Community Investment Plan (CIP)  • Grant Application Award Timeline Applications must be submitted by January 31, 2027. Applications will be reviewed by the Selection Committee within 90 days. The Committee’s funding recommendations will be submitted to the Sherman County Court for a final decision. The Court will announce awards within 60 days of the Committee’s recommendation. Questions & Assistance Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact MCEDD with questions about potential project ideas, eligibility, or the grant application process. Contact: Jill Catherine, MCEDD Project & Grants Manager at jillc@mcedd.org 541-296-2266 ext. 1006   [Continue Reading]

Committee Members Needed to Help Shape the Future of Sherman County Agriculture

July 30, 2026 – Sherman County is seeking volunteers to serve on the Biglow Ag Mitigation Fund Selection Committee. This is a unique opportunity to help guide investments that will strengthen Sherman County’s agricultural economy for years to come. The Biglow Solar Project is being added to the existing Biglow Canyon Wind Farm. Because a portion of agricultural land will be converted to solar energy production, a Community Investment Fund has been established by PGE as the project’s sponsor to invest in projects that offset potential impacts while strengthening the long-term resilience and vitality of Sherman County’s agricultural community. This fund is guided by a Community Investment Plan that was part of the Oregon Energy Facility Siting Council’s approval of the solar project. The Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) will administer the fund and manage the application process while supporting the Selection Committee throughout the review process. The Selection Committee will review and evaluate eligible funding proposals using the criteria established in the approved Community Investment Plan and make funding recommendations to the Sherman County Court, which will make the final funding decisions. Sherman County is currently seeking applicants for three voting positions: One dryland farm producer in Sherman County One community member One individual with expertise in wildfire as it relates to agricultural lands Committee members can expect to contribute a total of approximately 8–15 hours, including a review of the Community Investment Plan and funding materials, application review, and two or more committee meetings. The committee may also support future agricultural mitigation fund opportunities. Applications for the Biglow Ag Mitigation Fund Selection Committee will be accepted until August 24, 2026 and are available here: Sherman County Citizen Volunteer Interest Form. You may also contact project manager Jill Catherine at jillc@mcedd.org for an application or for answers to your questions. Completed applications should be emailed to her at jillc@mcedd.org. If you’re passionate about Sherman County’s agricultural future and want to help ensure these funds create lasting benefits for our community, we encourage you to apply. For more information, please contact: Jill Catherine Project Manager Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) jillc@mcedd.org 541-296-2266 ext. 1006   [Continue Reading]

Sherman County Housing Incentive Funds Available

July 29, 2026 – Grant funding is available through Sherman County for eligible housing projects. A summary of the available grants is below. Applications are available on the Sherman County website. The County Court approves all grant awards. Grants are reimbursement-based, so recipients receive the funds after their project is completed. Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) administers these programs on behalf of Sherman County. Jill Catherine is available to answer questions about the grants at jillc@mcedd.org and 541-296-2266 ext. 1006. Prospective applicants are encouraged to review the application requirements and contact Jill before beginning their project. Completed application packets should be emailed to Jill. New Rental Housing Development Grant Grant amount: $10,000 per newly constructed rental housing unit. Development of a new rental housing to stimulate growth in the rental housing market. Units must be stick-built or new manufactured homes (at least double-wide on a permanent foundation). Each qualifying rental unit constructed must be self-contained. The grant recipient must agree to keep the new unit(s) as a long-term rental for at least 5 years. New Housing Construction Grant Grant amount: $10,000 per newly constructed housing unit. Construct a new stick-built or install a new manufactured home (at least double-wide on a permanent foundation).Housing must be sold or occupied by the owner within 30 days of project completion and cannot be used as a second home or short-term rental. Housing Rehabilitation Grant Grant amount: Up to 20% of the eligible project budget, not to exceed $20,000. Rehabilitate rental units or newly purchased homes (must submit application prior to owner moving in) by improving or fixing aging or deteriorated structures to increase the amount of habitable housing. The dwelling must meet HUD habitability standards once the rehabilitation is complete. Housing Property Preparation Grant Grant amount: Up to 50% of the eligible project budget, not to exceed $20,000. Responsible demolition of dilapidated structures (non-owner-occupied) or abatement of lots with hazardous materials to support construction or installation of new dwelling units. The grant recipient must put the lot up for sale or start construction on a new housing unit on the lot within 90 days of project completion.   [Continue Reading]

Building the Future: Brick City & Games Announces New Permanent Home and July Grand Opening in The Dalles

June 30, 2026 – Brick City & Games, the beloved community hub for tabletop gaming and LEGO® enthusiasts in The Dalles, is officially moving into a permanent home that offers a larger, more accommodating space tailored to their growing needs. Thanks to crucial funding from the Oregon Investment Board, administered by MCEDD, the store’s owners, Jay & Leslie Wilson, have successfully purchased their own building, securing Brick City & Games owners Jay & Leslie Wilson smiling proudly in their new space a vibrant future for local gamers, builders, and hobbyists alike. To celebrate this monumental milestone, Brick City & Games will host a grand opening at their new location on Saturday, July 11, 2026. From a Lifelong Dream to a Community Hub Brick City & Games is the brainchild of Jay and Leslie, two lifelong LEGO® enthusiasts who grew up fueled by imagination and plastic bricks. Their adult dream of opening a local LEGO® shop took a massive leap forward when the opportunity arose to purchase Gameopoly, a local gaming staple. Since Brick City & Games officially opened in downtown The Dalles in September of 2023, Jay and Leslie have made it a priority to listen closely to what their customers wanted. Through that community feedback, the shop rapidly expanded from LEGO® sets into a full-scale gaming sanctuary. Today, the store specializes in new and used LEGO, tabletop games, trading card games (TCGs) like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon, miniatures like Warhammer, role-playing games (RPGs) like Dungeons & Dragons, and video games- all while providing an inclusive play space and organized events for all ages. Securing a Foundation with MCEDD As the store’s community grew, so did the need for a space they could truly call their own. The business’ previous rental space severely limited their event capacity, community play access, inventory, and overall accessibility. To overcome these hurdles and scale their vision, the Wilsons partnered with MCEDD. The new home of Brick City & Games, located at 409 E 2nd Street in The Dalles Oregon Investment Board (OIB) funding supported the purchase of the commercial building located at 409 E. 2nd Street, The Dalles. While this new building has the square footage and layout Brick City needs for their expansion plans, the transition required significant renovation. Immediate improvements funded by the project included vital work on the roof, floors, windows, HVAC, and plumbing. Partnering with MCEDD provided the critical financial bridge needed to transition Jay and Leslie from renters to property owners, anchoring a vital, locally-owned small business right here in the heart of The Dalles. The Grand Re-Opening: July 11, 2026 The new building will allow Brick City & Games to lean even further into its mission of bringing people together. The expanded layout and improved accessibility will better accommodate community favorites, including birthday parties, open game nights, local tournaments, and collaborative community events. The public is invited to come out on July 11th to explore the new space, check out the updated inventory, and celebrate a homegrown success story. Whether you are a master builder, a TCG competitor, a roleplayer, or a family looking for your next favorite board game, the new Brick City & Games is built for you. Stay tuned to their website at www.brickcitygames.com and follow their social media pages for sneak peeks of the new space, grand opening festivities, and upcoming event schedules!   [Continue Reading]

MCEDD Loan Helps Historic Balch Hotel Refresh Guest Experience in Dufur

April 23, 2026 – Since its construction in 1907, the Balch Hotel has stood as a beacon of hospitality in the heart of Dufur, Oregon. Originally built by local chemist and rancher Charles P. Balch, this historic brick landmark has served as a central gathering place for the community and travelers for over a century. Today, that legacy continues under the passionate leadership of Christina Engle.  Christina Engle, owner of the historic Balch Hotel in Dufur. A MCEDD Loan Helps Christina Engle was able to fund the refinance of the business purchase and some minor property improvements with a loan from the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD). This infusion of capital ensures that the Balch Hotel remains a vibrant destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat, a scenic wedding venue, or a gateway to the outdoor adventures of the Columbia River Gorge.  Enhanced Guest Experience Under Christina’s ownership, the hotel continues to blend its rich history with modern comforts. Recent improvements have enhanced the guest experience while preserving the authentic charm of the 20-room boutique property. From the signature mountain views to the meticulously maintained grounds and cozy common spaces, the Balch remains a beautiful retreat for its guests.  The hotel’s philosophy centers on historic charm, heartfelt hospitality and space to breathe. Upon arrival, the Balch invites visitors to unplug and reconnect with nature and history. The property features an on-site bistro offering local wines and seasonal fare, as well as expansive lawns perfect for summer concerts and community events.  Christina Engle and family How to Book or Follow the Balch Hotel Follow the Balch Hotel’s journey on Instagram @balchhotel or on Facebook at facebook.com/BalchHotel. For the full experience, book a stay and discover the magic in person. Located at: 40 S. Heimrich Street, Dufur, OR 97021. Phone number: (541) 467-2277. www.balchhotel.com.        The MCEDD Loan Program is available to entrepreneurs, start-up businesses, and existing businesses operating within the six-county Mid-Columbia area (Sherman, Hood River, Wasco, Gilliam, Klickitat, and Skamania). This loan program is a key component of MCEDD’s mission to strengthen and support the regional economy by providing accessible capital to local business owners.   [Continue Reading]

MCEDD Now Includes Gilliam County

April 1, 2026 – For the first time in its 57-year history, the boundaries of Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) have been amended and now include Gilliam County, Oregon. MCEDD was established in 1969 by Klickitat and Skamania Counties in Washington and Hood River, Sherman and Wasco Counties in Oregon. The five original counties created the organization in recognition of the close connections between their economies. MCEDD promotes the creation of family-wage jobs, the diversification of the economic base, and the growth, development and retention of business and industry. Regional Economic Development Districts bring communities together to benefit from better access to economic development loans and grants, pooled technical assistance, marketing, and administrative resources, and a regional approach to economic development efforts. Over the years MCEDD’s membership has grown to include counties, cities, ports and chambers of commerce within the region. Economic Development Districts (EDDs) were created by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) through the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965 to foster regional, multi-jurisdictional planning in distressed areas. Originally focused on infrastructure, EDDs evolved to lead regional strategy, utilizing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies to boost competitiveness, and now number nearly 400 nationwide. MCEDD is unique among that number in its bi-state coverage. Because MCEDD is designated as a district by the US EDA, modification of the boundaries to add Gilliam County culminated in an official approval from the EDA received in late March 2026. The move to add Gilliam County began in 2015. The MCEDD Board wanted to carefully consider the request to ensure any change could only benefit the organization. The process stalled several times as a result of leadership changes among the many local and federal organizations involved in the official request, hence the 11-year process. “The MCEDD Board supported adding Gilliam County because we recognize how similar they are to some of our other counties, especially Sherman and Klickitat Counties,” noted Judge Joe Dabulskis, Sherman County Judge and MCEDD Board Chair. “We have benefited by being a part of MCEDD and wanted to share those benefits with Gilliam County.” “Gilliam County is excited to join such a dynamic organization and is looking forward to better connecting with the other five counties to help benefit our communities and economy,” added Judge Cris Patnode, Gilliam County Judge. MCEDD is currently governed by a 22-member board of directors representing the counties, cities, ports, chambers and private sector representatives. As part of the boundary modification, the MCEDD Board will add a seat for Gilliam County at their next meeting.  MCEDD’s economic development-focused staff of 13 will begin more fully serving Gilliam County immediately. “I see opportunities for working with the governmental partners in Gilliam County,” said MCEDD Executive Director Jessica Metta, “With project management, grant writing and grant administration support to help move their infrastructure projects forward. Our small business lending programs could also make an impact.” The five-year update of the region’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy is slated to begin later this year, with the inclusion of Gilliam County in that process already planned. “The official boundary modification now just makes the process cleaner,” noted Metta. The larger community will be invited to participate in the meetings for the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy update with details announced in the next few months.   [Continue Reading]

Mount Hood Economic Alliance Funds The Clay Commons Studio Expansion in Hood River

February 25, 2026 – We are pleased to highlight MHEA Loan Client The Clay Commons as Women’s History Month begins this March! The Clay Commons, LLC., is a community ceramic studio that offers classes and workshops, as well as memberships for those who have clay experience and are looking for a space to work. Professional potter Dyana Fiediga founded the Clay Commons, LLC., when she moved to Hood River in 2018, to create space where she could continue her own production work and expand into her vision of a communal studio space offering memberships, classes, and community and team-building events. Clay Commons moved into downtown Hood River’s Big 7 Building at 616 Industrial Street almost a year ago and will be celebrating their one-year anniversary on April 8th.  To expand the studio’s facilities and equipment, and to acquire the capital needed to meet the match funding requirement for Business Oregon’s small business sustainability grant,  Dyana applied to the Mount Hood Economic Alliance for financial assistance.  More information about the founder and the studio’s offerings can be found on the Clay Commons website and in the Gorge Magazine article beginning on page 26. Website: The Clay Commons Email: info@theclaycommons.com Social: Instagram @theclaycommons   [Continue Reading]

Lyle Gains New EV Charging Stations Through Collaborative Effort

December 23, 2025 – The Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) is pleased to announce the completion of Lyle’s first electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, made possible through our administration of a $359,000 grant from Washington’s Electric Vehicle Charging Program.  Conveniently located in the parking lot of Lyle Mercantile off Highway 14, the installation includes two fast chargers (Level 3, 180kW dual-port DCFC) and one slow charger (Level 2, 10kW, 40A dual-port AC5500-G). These stations offer reliable charging options for EV drivers traveling through Klickitat County, helping bridge the infrastructure gap between White Salmon and Goldendale. This project succeeded thanks to strong collaboration among dedicated partners: thanks to Community Enrichment for Klickitat and Skamania County (CEKC) for securing the grant and providing support, to the site host the Lyle Mercantile, and to the contractor LED Trail for their quick turnaround and commitment to quality. We hope these new chargers will encourage more travelers to stop in Lyle, bringing increased patrons to local businesses and contributing to the economic vitality of this rural community. MCEDD remains deeply committed to supporting infrastructure projects that strengthen small rural areas across the Mid-Columbia region, fostering opportunities that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike.                     Photos and story by Wendy Luisi, MCEDD Economic Development Specialist     [Continue Reading]

The Link Public Transit Offers New Annual Dial-a-Ride Pass

November 19, 2025 – Effective December 1, 2025. The Link Public Transit will offer an Annual Dial-a-Ride Pass for $80, that will provide unlimited Dial-a-Ride service within Wasco County, including The Dalles, Dufur, Mosier, Celilo, and unincorporated areas between these communities! In addition to Dial-A-Ride service within Wasco County, passholders may use also this pass as a regular GorgePass to ride all fixed-route services provided by Columbia Area Transit, The Link Public Transit, Mt. Adams Transportation Services, and Skamania County Transit. The pass is open to all riders and is especially beneficial for seniors and people with disabilities. Rides are booked on first-come, first-served basis. Riders are encouraged to book at least one day in advance, with same-day requests allowed if possible. Expect a 30-minute pickup window, and that trips may be shared with other passengers for routing efficiency.   Our new Annual Dial-a-Ride Pass offers the community a reliable, affordable, and accessible transportation option for both local and regional trips. As operator of The Link Public Transit service in The Dalles, Oregon, Mid-Columbia Economic Development District (MCEDD) is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in or denied the benefits of its programs and services on the basis of race, color, sex, or national origin, as protected by Title VI in Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Circular 4702.1.B. If you have any questions regarding the new Dial-A-Ride pass or Title VI, contact the Link’s Transportation Operations Manager, Jesus Mendoza, at (541) 296-7595, or by email at Jesus@mcedd.org, with questions or concerns.   [Continue Reading]

New Ownership Brings the Historic Hotel Moro Into the 21st Century

November 19, 2025 – Hotel Moro originally opened in 1920 as a thriving 50-room hotel at 101 Main Street in Moro.  It was the town’s main economic cornerstone, located directly on Highway 97. After 50+ years, the hotel changed hands and was converted into an antique store that operated for the next 45+ years. The antique shop owners sold the property to Travis and Amanda West in 2020, who have embarked on converting the building into a multi-use facility that includes studio and multi-room apartments, commercial spaces, and hotel rooms. Travis and Amanda live in the hotel’s penthouse with their children. Since they purchased the property in 2020, they have successfully renovated and leased out five apartments and they are now in the process of renovating the ground floor commercial spaces into a coffee shop/lobby space, a separate retail space, and an event space. Their plan projects that the retail and event space will be ready for lease in 2026, and once these are completed the renovations on the remaining 13 hotel rooms and the coffee shop space will resume. To meet the needs of this large and complex project, MCEDD partnered with the bank of Eastern Oregon to meet the total cost for refinancing the promissory note and the balloon payment in the original purchase contract plus the costs covering the renovations that have been completed to date. MCEDD was pleased to support this project and thereby help revitalize Moro’s economy and benefit the whole community.   101 Main Street Moro, OR 97039   Website: hotelmoro.com                     Email: life@hotelmoro.com                    Facebook: Hotel Moro   [Continue Reading]