Mid-Columbia Economic Development District held its first meeting overseeing public transportation planning in Wasco, Hood River, Sherman, Gilliam, and Wheeler counties.  MCEDD is taking over services handled by the Mid-Columbia Council of Governments, which is being dismantled.  The Dalles Mayor Steve Lawrence was named chair of the new transportation panel.  Lawrence noted the meeting included an Oregon Department of Transportation representative who explained the new state transportation package includes in excess of a half-a-million dollars for public transportation in Wasco County, and he’s excited about the possibilities, including having some fixed routes, transportation to Columbia Gorge Community College, and special routes to larger employers.  Other possibilities included expanded bus service between Hood River and The Dalles, and more connections into Klickitat County.